Diablotin 1 session 2

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Summary

Festival Day 6 (Night of the Cat), 2195: Their first day off. People go and visit their families.

Logs

Session Start: Mon Sep 09 17:56:45 2002
* Logging #changeling to 'logs\diablotin2'
(Curtana) So, we can get started whenever, then.
(Elanya) hm?
(Elanya) we can?
* Elanya glances at the lack of Rob and terry
(Curtana) Rob's going to be late or absent due to work
(Elanya) oh, we have no terry
(Curtana) Terry wasn't going to be here..
(Elanya) ahh, poopy
(Curtana) Yes, but it will leave more time for you to get up to mischief ;)
(Elanya) oooh, mischief ^-^
(Elanya) sounds like fun :D
(Curtana) Cat, give me some sign that you're here, will you? ;)
* Longpig is now known as Belden
* Curtana is now known as Narrator
(Narrator) CAAAAAAAATTTTT!
* Elanya is now known as Kalman
(Belden) grr
* BalthCat is now known as Pavo
(Narrator) there we go :)
(Kalman) okay, n/m
(Pavo) I was at the radio station, was almost gonna be late :D
(Pavo) But I wanna reheat lasagna, so can I torture Hazel's withdrawn body for about five more minutes?
(Belden) what??
(Pavo) Where's Rob?
(Narrator) Sure, if you promise to catch up on some reading when you get in ;)
(Pavo) Oh late or absent
(Pavo) ok
(Narrator) Run along then, my little peacock ;)
(Narrator) I'll just explain how things are going to work tonight...
(Narrator) Basically, we'll be dealing mostly with people's individual plotlines, but I'll do it all in the main channel, so that everyone else can at least watch and be entertained.
(Narrator) (unless someone has an objection to that...)
(Kalman) nope, not I
(Narrator) Also, to save my own sanity, at least for this session I'm only going to deal with one person at a time
(unless you happen to be together).
(Narrator) So, it'll sort of circle around - say 20-30 minutes with one person, then 20-30 minutes with the next, and so on.
(Narrator) I hope you'll find everyone else's stories interesting enough to enjoy watching them. But feel free to continue chatting amongst yourselves in ooc.
(Narrator) Since Terry isn't here, and Rob may not be here
(certainly not until after eight at least), you'll each get more time than I had originally anticipated.
(Narrator) Which is nothing but good for you, this time ;)
(Narrator) Anyway, does all that sound reasonable?
(Kalman) sure
(Belden) k
* Kalman pokes Pavo into the ooc channel
(Narrator) Good, good. I know you're all the sort who like watching other people get up to stuff, so I hope it'll still prove entertaining.
(Narrator) If it doesn't, I'll have to figure out some other way of doing this, I guess.
* Kalman hopes she can get into character well enough with a new pc to have imnteresting one on one session :p
* Kalman notes it sounds kinda naughty
(Narrator) That's partly what this is for - to help you get your character more developed and such.
(Kalman) "Yeah, tonight we're all getting some one on one action from Julie. It's a bit differfent from the noral group stuff we do, but just as good!"
(Narrator) hee!
(Narrator) rrowr
(Narrator) well, I hope it will be good, anyway.
(Narrator) I'm gonna make a quick premptive trip to the bathroom, and then we'll be good to go...
(Pavo) (
(I'm here, I'm queer!))
(Kalman) (you want an engineer!)
(Kalman) (now if only Terry were around... ;D0
(Narrator) Okay, I'm back.
(Narrator) Let the gaming ensue...
(Narrator) In the city of Diablotin, the holidays continue. For the past five days, you have been busy breaking up fights, settling disputes, hassling drunks, and taking reports of minor crimes in Pearl City. It has been a stressful time for all of you, getting settled into something like a routine.
(Narrator) After the incidents of your first day on the job, you reported to Lt. Svodoba. She listened to your accounts with interest, and then calmly instructed you that your investigation into such matters was to stop. If there was a crime to be dealt with there, she said, it would be handled by more senior guards than you. She smiled, however, and told you that you had all done a good job.
(Narrator) Finally, you have earned a day off. For the last day of the festival period, you will be allowed to spend time with your families, or in whatever pastimes you best enjoy.
(Narrator) Tonight is the Night of the Cat, the eve of the new year, the occasion for the greatest amount of revelry and indulgences of all sorts. At midnight, there will be fireworks set off over the Ousel river, which is beginning to freeze solidly at last. Now, though, it is the early hours of the morning, and you have just awoken in your respective bunks or beds. From the sun already shining through the windows, you would judge it to be one of those crisp, bright days of mid-winter, the kind that make you squint from the glare on the newly-fallen snow.
(Pavo) (( :D ))
(Narrator) Other guards not as lucky as you are stirring, getting ready for a long day ahead.
(Narrator) You, however, have the chance to luxuriate in getting up slowly.
* NPC1 is now known as Dizon
* NPC2 is now known as Boden_
* NPC3 is now known as Loch_
(Belden) (we're all together now?)
(Narrator) (those of you who live in the barracks, yes)
* Kalman would probably be at home, to be fair ;)
* Belden gets up and neatly makes her bed.
(Narrator) (meaning everyone except Kalman ;)
* Dizon stretches lazily and runs her fingers through her tangled brown hair.
* Boden_ puts away the small table at the end of his bed that his feet rest on ;)
* Loch_ straightens out his bed and packs a small bag
* Pavo stretches languidly, then mumbles pleasantly and wraps the blanket around himself tighter.
* Belden then kneels quietly at the foot of her bed to pray.
(Loch_) Have a good day off, everyone.
(Pavo) You too!
* Pavo scratches his inner thigh while Belden prays...
(Loch_) Thanks, I will. Some of my family are in town, getting supplies for the farm. I'm going to spend the day with them.
(Pavo) (though the sheet)
* Loch_ nods politely to each of you, and departs with the small bag over his shoulder.
* Loch_ is now known as Trimmon
* Belden 's lips move soundlessly.
(Dizon) So, what's everyone's plans for the big day?
(Pavo) Oh, visit the folks and then hang out around town.
(Boden_) I'm going to go see my brother, I think. If he's not busy, at least.
* Kalman will wake up at home, get up lazily, and see about breakfast prospects.
(Narrator) Kalman, your waking is more leisurely, no doubt, and more comfortable ;)
(Kalman) (I'd expect. Possibly later, too, since I don't have the sounds of oither waking guards to make me get up ;)
(Narrator) (indeed)
(Boden_) I hope he gets the day off too.
(Boden_) If he doesn't, I guess I'll go celebrate on my own.
* Boden_ grins, showing that this wouldn't be such a bad thing...
* Pavo chuckles
(Belden) (how long do I have to pray for my spells and stuff each day, anyway?)
(Narrator) (well, I believe the book says an hour)
(Narrator) (but I think that could be divided up over the day, if you wanted)
(Belden) (aiight ;D)
(Belden) (I've barely done 5 minutes :/)
(Narrator) (that's okay... I'm going to deal with Kalman first ;)
(Narrator) Kalman: your house is warm and cozy on this cold day. Breakfast is some leftover soup from the night before, but it's still filling and tasty.
(Narrator) (I forget, Kalman, do you have any servants?)
(Kalman) (I was just wondering that, actually....)
(Narrator) (Let's say you have one, a maid of all work sort of dealie ;)
(Kalman) (Possibly he employs someone to keep house and stuff, but no live in servants, and they are probably off for the holidays. How does that sound?
(Kalman) (yeah)
(Narrator) (sounds good to me - off for the holidays she is, then)
(Narrator) So, you have to fend for yourself, but that's what this experience is all about, right?
(Kalman) (exactly!)
(Narrator) Learning to be more self-reliant, more independant, less ... less noble.
(Narrator) You burn the soup a little heating it up, but it still tastes okay, you tell yourself.
(Narrator) So, since you have no other committments for the day, did you have any plans?
* Kalman will enjoy his slightly burnt soup because, hey, it's probably a new experience ;)
* Kalman is planning on doing some practicing in the morning, because he hasn't had as much time for music stuff as he would like now that he is a guard.
(Kalman) . o O ( but that's the price of responsability, isn't it? )
(Narrator) You pass your morning quite pleasantly in practicing your musical arts, enjoying having a bit of time to yourself.
(Narrator) You're please to see you haven't gotten too rusty over the past week or so.
* Kalman was planning to go and visit his sister in the afternoon, maybe get her something from one of the festival vendors
(Narrator) You bundle up warmly to go out, and pass through the busy marketplace of the Place D'Iena, which is on the way to your parent's house.
(Narrator) (what sort of thing are you looking for?)
(Narrator) There are hawkers selling trinkets, ribbons, cheap jewelery, masks, fresh fruit (or so they claim), and many more goods and sundries.
(Kalman) (I'll get her two things... one really silly festival tat sort of thing, and maybe something nice from one of the more exotic traders that the festival probably draws)
(Narrator) You pick her up a colourful feathered mask
(the silly thing) and a small, delicate ivory carving of a mermaid you know she'll like.
* Kalman will have them wrapped, too
(Narrator) The traders are quite happy to wrap the good for a fine gentleman such as yourself.
* Kalman will thank and tip them
(Narrator) Having completed that piece of business, and received the thanks of the vendors, you proceed onwards to your family home.
(Narrator) The vak Andras home (well, the one in the city, anyway) is a large, beautifully-proportioned building of pale grey stone on the Street of Junipers in the Grand Vallon. The walk up to the front door is manicured but well-travelled, as though many visitors have passed this way.
(Narrator) The servants let you in, of course, smiling behind their hands at you.
(Narrator) Your parents will greet you in the Blue sitting room, the smaller one reserved for close friends and family.
* Dizon is now known as Corentin
* Boden_ is now known as Neima
* Trimmon is now known as Ivona
(Kalman) . o O ( should have picked somethign up for Mother... ahh well. At least she can leave the house and see the festival... )
(Narrator) Your father rises to shake your hand as you enter the opulent but tasteful room.
* Corentin is in his mid-forties, with dark curly hair now going to grey and a body leaning toward the comfortable bulk of middle age. He wears a crimson smoking jacket.
* Neima is somewhat taller than her husband, with light brown curls and blue eyes. She is dressed in a morning gown of pale yellow silk embroidered with pink flowers at the hems. She smiles warmly as you enter.
(Corentin) Well, how are they treating you in the Guards, son? Are you eating well? You look thinner.
* Kalman will shake his hand a little stiffly
(Neima) Oh, Corentin, he's only been gone a week. He looks just fine, don't you dear.
(Kalman) They're treating me fine
* Neima pats you on the cheek
(Neima) Come, come, have a seat and tell us all about your adventures so far.
* Kalman sighs
* Neima sits back in her comfortable loveseat and pats the cushion beside her, gesturing for you to sit down.
* Kalman will come and sit beside her, then
(Kalman) To be honest, I can't say its been particularly adventurous
* Corentin sits back in his armchair, listening
(Neima) Well, what have you been doing, dear?
(Kalman) breaking up the occasional drunken argument, that sort of thing
* Neima nods politely but a bit stiffly.
* Kalman watches his father, wondering if his little spy has already been in to report
(Neima) Well, I suppose that's important, wouldn't you say, dear?
(Corentin) Hmph. Yes, I suppose so.
(Kalman) It's only a beginning.
(Narrator) Your parents smile and nod, though you detect a certain glaze in their eyes which suggests they're not really paying attention to your words.
(Neima) Now dear, what are your plans for the day? Of course your father and I are off to the New Year ball at the Palace. I suppose you could come with us, though...
* Neima glances at your clothing
(Neima) ... you'd have to get cleaned up a bit first.
(Corentin) Or, if you don't want to go to the stuffy old ball, you could always spend some time with your sister. She misses you, you know.
(Kalman) That was what I had planned
(Neima) Whichever you'd prefer, dear. We understand.
(Kalman) . o O ( the hell you do )
(Neima) She's having her little friend Quirille Marcoux over for dinner tonight, as a special treat for the holiday, you know. You could stay and entertain them, I'm sure they'd love to have you around.
(Corentin) (m) And keep an eye on them. Girls that age get up to all sorts of mischief.
(Narrator) You think you catch a glance exchanged between your parents, but its meaning is uncertain.
(Kalman) oh?
* Kalman asks innocently
(Neima) She's upstairs in her room, of course, resting, but I know she'd wake up for you.
(Kalman) Well, maybe I'll go and check in on her, then, and see.
(Corentin) Well, maybe not that much... I suppose she can't, really...
(Narrator) As you leave the room, you think you hear your mother whisper the words "just a phase", to which your father grumbles something indistinct.
(Narrator) Your sister's rooms are upstairs, looking out onto the back gardens of the house. Because she has little else to do besides gaze out the window, she got the suite with the best views.
* Kalman rolls his eyes as he walks out
(Narrator) Ivona seems to be dozing as you enter, but she stirs and lifts her head slowly, then smiles as she sees who her visitor is.
* Ivona is fourteen years old, but looks younger because she is so small and delicate. Her long black curls are braided neatly, though a few tendrils escape to frame her pale face and large green eyes.
(Kalman) Hey there, how's my lazy little bratling today?
(Ivona) Oh, Kalman! I was so hoping you would come to see me today!
* Kalman grins at her widely
* Ivona laughs, then coughs slightly
(Ivona) I'm good.
(Kalman) I brought you some things, from the festival
(Ivona) Oh, really?
* Ivona sits up, excitedly
* Kalman says, as he enters the room
* Kalman produces the neatly wrapped packages
* Ivona bounces with anticipation
(Ivona) Thank you, thank you!
* Ivona opens the two packages and oohs and aahs over the contents.
(Ivona) Oh, they're lovely!
(Kalman) hey, don't wear yourself out... I hear Quirille is coming for dinner?
* Ivona leans over and gives you a peck on the cheek
(Ivona) Yes, I'm so excited.
(Ivona) It's going to be lovely!
* Kalman will give her a hug, carefully
(Ivona) I get to wear my best dress and everything!
(Ivona) Are you going to stay?
(Kalman) well, I could...
* Ivona says carefully, trying not to sound pleading
(Ivona) Really? You don't have to do anything more important?
(Kalman) I'd have to cancel all my pressinbg social engaments, thouhg
* Ivona laughs
(Ivona) You're just joking, I can tell.
(Kalman) Of course I'll stay, if you want me to.
(Ivona) I'm glad you're not going to the stupid ball with mother and father.
(Kalman) And so am I.
* Kalman sighs
(Ivona) What's wrong?
(Kalman) Oh, nothing, really.
* Ivona cocks her head at you, curiously
(Kalman) Just hoping that I can actually make something more of my life then they have.
* Ivona looks a bit confused, but nods.
(Kalman) ANyway, that's not important.
(Ivona) They worry about you, I know...
(Kalman) I know they do...
* Kalman shakes his head
(Kalman) But they worry about all the wrong things.
(Ivona) But I think it's very gallant, to go and join the guards, to be out there in the line of danger every day!
(Ivona) It must be exciting!
* Kalman thinks about the latrines
(Kalman) ...yes.
(Kalman) well, I'm sure it will be, but I'm still new at it
* Ivona smiles widely
(Ivona) You'll be the best guard there ever was.
(Kalman) They want us to have a bit more experience, I think, before we get to do anything *really
* exciting
(Kalman) well, I'll try :D
(Belden) (like mopping the sewers)
(Ivona) I guess that makes sense... but sometimes exciting things will just *happen*, I bet.
(Kalman) well... I hope so
(Kalman) I'll be sure to tell you if they do, of course
* Ivona smiles again
(Ivona) You must promise to tell me everything, just everything!
(Kalman) Well, I promise to tell you everything that I can...
(Kalman) I might not be *allowed
* to tell everything
* Ivona 's eyes widen and she nods seriously
(Ivona) I understand.
(Narrator) Just then, a maid comes bustling into the room, presumably to get Ivona dressed and ready for the day.
(Ivona) I'll see you soon, Kalman! You should get dressed into something nice for dinner too!
(Kalman) alright then
* Ivona smiles as the maid comes over to lift her out of bed
* Kalman smiles at her, and will go and see what he can find to dress up for his sister and her little friend
* Ivona waves a thin hand at you as you leave the room
(Narrator) (Okay, you'll be busy getting ready for a bit... I'll move on to Pavo now :)
(Pavo) (woo!)
* Corentin is now known as NPC1
* Neima is now known as NPC2
* Ivona is now known as NPC3
(Narrator) Back at the barracks in the early morning, Pavo is reluctant to get up, pulling the blankets over his head ;)
* NPC1 is now known as Dizon
(Pavo) *conserves warmth*
* Dizon pokes you with the toe of her boot, more or less gently
(Pavo) *grunt
*
(Dizon) C'mon, you don't want to waste your day off sleeping, do you?
* Belden continues to pray.
* Belden has been at it for a while now!
(Pavo) *pulls the sheet down slightly*
(Pavo) Not the whole day, of course.
(Dizon) I bet your family are waiting to see you and stuff.
* Dizon pretends to looks disapproving of your sloth, though she is laughing
* Pavo yawns... "Well I doubt they're going to skip town on me... but I suppose."
* Dizon grins
(Dizon) Just be glad that they're not dragging you to some society ball tonight...
(Pavo) They know better...
(Dizon) My folks'll probably try to set me up with some prancing nobleman in velvet tights, as usual.
* Pavo sits up, the sheet falling off of his CHA18 chest... (j/k)
(Dizon) Aren't you cold like that?
* Dizon jokes
* Pavo scritches...
(Pavo) A bit... but it's less laundry to do.
(Dizon) Very manly.
* Pavo has diamond hard nips.
* Pavo pulls himself out of bed and begins to get ready.
(Narrator) Boden waves goodbye to all of you as he makes his way out of the barracks.
* Dizon waves to Boden, then turns back to the rest of you
(Pavo) *returns the gesture lazily*
(Dizon) I'm off too... Have to get my hair done, I understand.
* Dizon screws up her face in a grimace and shakes her unruly curls
(Pavo) Done how?
(Dizon) Hope you have more fun than I'm going to, at least!
(Dizon) I don't know...
(Pavo) Don't you have a brush? -_-
(Dizon) They never manage to make it look like anything other than a poodle sitting on my head.
(Pavo) Nasty. Why do you let them?
* Dizon shrugs
(Dizon) One or two of these events a year keeps them off my case the rest of the time
(Pavo) Who, your parents?
(Dizon) My mother, and my sister, mostly.
(Pavo) Tell them to tie their tails in a knot!
* Pavo grins
(Dizon) Um, okay.
(Dizon) I'll remember that.
(Pavo) Anyway.. I'll find some fun for sure, hopefully some will find you.
* Dizon nods
(Dizon) Until tomorrow, then!
* Pavo nods, stifling another yawn.
* Dizon waves at the room at large, and departs
* Dizon is now known as NPC1
* Pavo stands, then turns to the remaining occupant... Belden.
(Belden) *mutter*
(Belden) (how long would you say I've been here?)
(Narrator) (probably a good 45 minutes by now)
(Belden) (cool :D)
(Kalman) (you can make up the other 45 min ;)
(Kalman) (err, 15)
(Belden) (15)
* Pavo resists the urge to poke or tip over Belden... he turns and grabs the last of his things.
* Pavo heads towards the door.
(Narrator) As you exit the barracks, an icy wind blows through you.
* Pavo curses and wraps his arms around himself.
* Pavo hurries to make his way towards the market areas
(Narrator) The market places are busy, despite the cold.
(Narrator) (are you buying stuff?)
* Pavo weaves through the people, looking for something for his mother... perhaps something for her hair.
(Narrator) You find a nice (but cheap-ish) tortoiseshell comb, she might like that.
(Pavo) .oO(How much?)
(Narrator) The seller is asking 5 silver.
* Pavo nods and sets it back into place, thinking of something more like a ribbon, something to weave into it.
(Narrator) You can find a nice colourful ribbon
(blue and red stripes) for 5 cp.
(Narrator) Ones in a single colour are only 2 cp.
(Pavo) .oO( Nothing fancier? Do people not know what vanity is any more? )
(Narrator) (m) There are a few more lacy ones for 8 cp a pop.
(Pavo) (Was the comb a coming-comb, or a decorative comb, to stick in your hair?)
(Narrator) (decorative)
(Narrator) (and it might be possible to haggle...)
* Pavo looks through the ribbons.
(Narrator) You find a very nice silver and gold ribbon for 1 sp.
* Pavo choses the the fancy ribbon, two lacy ones, and two each of the red and blue single-colour ribbons.
* Pavo looks to the merchant... "Three silver for the lot?
(Narrator) The seller congratulates you on your excellent taste, and agrees.
* Pavo heads back over to the comb table... looking for something that would match or combine with some of the ribbons.
(Narrator) There is a more simple comb, carved from a black but shiny wood.
(Narrator) The seller asks 1 sp for it.
(Pavo) Do you have a white one?
(Narrator) The seller looks through her table, and finds one made of ivory, which is 3 sp.
* Pavo takes it as well... *peruses over the table, wondering if any have cat designs*
(Narrator) (they all have simple abstract designs)
* Pavo hrmphs, and offers the merchant his 4 silver.
(Narrator) Having made your purchases, you turn to head across the river to your parent's home.
(Narrator) The Arsenios household is in a decent part of the Pavillion, on a narrow side-street called Juggler's Way. From the outside, it is fairly simple, but well-maintained. Its one distinguishing feature is a stunning stained-glass window above the door, depicting a robin in flight.
(Narrator) Inside the house is warm and inviting, and smells of cooking are already drifting into the main hall at this early hour. Several cats sit in various contented poses about the room.
* NPC1 is now known as Celesse
* NPC2 is now known as Guion
(Narrator) Your mother bustles out, wiping her floury hands on her apron.
* Celesse is in her mid-forties, but could easily pass for ten years younger. Her long dark brown hair has not a hint of grey in it, and she still has a thin, girlish figure.
* Pavo opens his arms wide to his mother.
(Celesse) Pavo, dear, I was hoping you could make it for dinner today. I made extra dumplings, I know how much you like them.
* Celesse hugs you warmly
* Pavo attempts to lovingly crack his mother in two... well not quite
(Celesse) Your brother is going to be here soon. All of us under the same roof again. Even your Aunt Deleanthe is coming over.
(Narrator) Your father emerges from his study, drawn by the sound of familiar voices.
(Pavo) She is? I haven't seen her in a while.
(Celesse) Oh yes, she'll be here for dinner.
* Guion is approaching fifty, with blond hair that is starting to turn to grey, and deep blue eyes. Still, he is fit, with a wiry frame used to hard work.
* Pavo smiles to his father.
* Guion nods at you in greeting.
(Guion) So, how are they treating you in the Guards?
(Pavo) Pretty good. I can't really complain.
(Guion) Well, I suppose it'll teach you the value of your education, if nothing else. You'll come to appreciate a job that lets you stay off your feet as you get a bit older.
* Pavo chuckles.
(Pavo) I've got a long time before I reach that point.
* Pavo pulls out the combs and ribbons.
* Celesse looks at the pretty treasures and smiles
(Celesse) Oh dear, you didn't have to do that.
(Celesse) But they're lovely.
* Pavo smiles.
(Guion) It's not too late to take up your art again, you know. Deleanthe would probably even be willing to take you on in her studio.
(Celesse) Now, love, there's no need to go into all of that again today. Can't we just have a pleasant family gathering?
(Pavo) Of course it isn't too late father, and it won't be too late for a long time.
* NPC3 is now known as Parus
(Pavo) I just need to know what KIND of art it is I want to do.
* Celesse nods in agreement
(Pavo) This will give me time. :)
* Guion grunts, but nods
(Pavo) Besides, if I'm studying all the time I won't be able to bring trinkets home for mother each time I visit.
* Celesse chuckles
* Guion does as well, a bit grudgingly
(Narrator) The door opens and your brother Parus enters, shaking some snow from his boots.
* Parus is tall and thin, almost gangly, with poker-straight dark brown hair which is now plastered to his head by snow. In this state, he bears a striking resemblance to a very unhappy scarecrow.
(Parus) Beat me here, did you?
(Pavo) Well if it isn't the blowhard :)
(Parus) Well, some of us still had real work to do today, before we could get the time off.
* Parus takes off his wet cloak and hangs it by the fireplace to dry.
* Parus says, only partly jokingly
(Pavo) I slept in too...
(Parus) Must be nice.
(Pavo) It was... *stretches dramatically
*
(Parus) Ma, Dad, anything I can do to help?
* Parus pointedly ignores your stretch.
(Celesse) Not me, dear, the dinner will take care of itself for now.
* Pavo claps Parus on the back friendly-like
(Pavo) Good to see you though... I was forgetting I had a family after seeing the same faces every day!
(Guion) Well, I was working on some new designs, thought you might want to take a look at them..
* Guion says to your brother
* Celesse smiles and give you another quick hug
(Narrator) Parus and your father retreat to the study to talk about the fine art of glass (and, you suspect, about you).
(Celesse) Don't mind your brother, dear, he's just ... well, he's just not as free-spirited as you. He's more like your father. You take after Deleanthe, you know.
(Pavo) I don't mind them. They could be even MORE stodgy.
* Celesse chuckles
(Pavo) So who are you like then?
(Celesse) Me? No one, I suppose.
* Celesse grins
(Celesse) I'm unique.
* Pavo chuckles.
(Narrator) The door opens yet again, and your aforementioned aunt Deleanthe enters the room, beaming.
* Parus is now known as Deleanthe
* Deleanthe is just forty, with long blonde curls and the same deep blue eyes as your father. She is quite short, and is dressed in a bright red gown whose slashed sleeves reveal a golden undershift.
(Deleanthe) Pavo, dear, I'm so glad you're here today!
* Deleanthe hugs you warmly
* Pavo hugs back.
(Pavo) I didn't think to pick you up something like I did mother... I wasn't sure you'de be here.
(Deleanthe) Oh, never mind about that, dear.
(Deleanthe) I'm just glad to see you.
* Celesse greets her sister-in-law and returns to the kitchen to tend to the dinner
(Deleanthe) How is life with the Guards?
(Pavo) Oh, it's life. Not too boring, not too exciting. And it pays.
* Deleanthe takes a seat near the fire and puts her feet up to dry out.
* Deleanthe nods
(Deleanthe) Like most jobs, then.
* Pavo takes the rest of his things off, and sets them in a messy pile near the door.
(Pavo) Yes... but not all let you strut your stuff all over town.
* Deleanthe chuckles
(Deleanthe) True enough.
(Deleanthe) Have you been keeping up with your art at all?
* Deleanthe changes the subject without batting an eyelash
(Pavo) ... not exactly.
(Deleanthe) You're very talented, you know.
(Pavo) So I hear.
(Deleanthe) It's not something you should just give up on.
(Pavo) I'm not giving up. I just need to know what it is I'm most interested in.
(Deleanthe) But hey, it's not my business. You'll live your life, and you'll be happy.
* Deleanthe nods at your last statement
(Deleanthe) I can wholeheartedly endorse that philosophy.
(Pavo) You say that like you stick to talking about your own business :)
* Deleanthe laughs
(Deleanthe) No, I don't.
(Deleanthe) But you're still young.
(Deleanthe) It's fine for you now to just want to have fun.
(Pavo) (q) You know, I really liked the theatre at the university... and not just for the other actors.
* Deleanthe nods
(Deleanthe) Maybe that's something to think about, then.
(Deleanthe) For the future.
* Deleanthe pats you on the shoulder
(Pavo) I think that maybe after some time away from it all, my true calling will ... call to me. It'll be the thing I yearn to do again the most
(Deleanthe) You've got plenty of time, though.
* Pavo nods
(Pavo) Exactly :)
(Narrator) Eventually, you will sit down to a big meal with your whole family. But now, turning to Belden...
* Pavo gluts himself
* Belden gets up after finishing her prayers, and looks around at the empty room.
(Narrator) Belden finishes her prayers in the now-empty and chilly barracks room
* Celesse is now known as Trimmon
(Belden) Hmm...
* Trimmon wanders back into the room
* Belden rubs her arms to keep the chill away.
(Trimmon) Hey, I was wondering if you'd ever finish!
* Guion is now known as NPC2
* Belden smiles at her brother.
(Belden) You have the day off too?
* Deleanthe is now known as NPC3
(Trimmon) Lucky me, huh?
* Trimmon is seventeen, with short, wavy dark brown hair and deep brown eyes. He is quite short, even a bit shorter than you, though he is still growing (at least, that's what he claims...)
(Belden) Have you any plans?
(Trimmon) I was gonna go over to Uncle Cleyt's. They're having a big dinner today, I guess.
(Trimmon) You're invited too, of course.
* Trimmon smiles
(Belden) I thought I might drop by...
(Belden) Since it's too far to go home, and all.
(Trimmon) Yeah..
* Trimmon looks a bit saddened at that, but smiles at you
(Trimmon) Should we get going?
(Belden) Sure!
* Belden says with a smile.
* Trimmon grins and wraps his cloak around him
* Belden picks up her cloak and whirls it onto her shoulders.
(Trimmon) It's cold, better bundle up!
(Belden) It's freezing, even in here.
* Trimmon nods in agreement
(Belden) No draftier than the dormitories were, though. :)
(Narrator) As you head outside, the sun is bright, but the wind is chill.
* Belden squints as her eyes adjust to the light.
(Trimmon) Yeah, I ran into Ganges the other day on patrol, and he told me we were both invited on our first day off, and I guess this is it.
* Trimmon squints as well at the glare off the snow
* Belden nods.
(Belden) Where did you run into him?
* Belden asks casually.
(Trimmon) Ah, in Rhenea.
(Trimmon) That's where they stuck me.
* Trimmon grins
(Belden) Lucky you..
(Belden) ;)
(Trimmon) Actually it's not that bad. There are so few people to get into trouble there.
(Belden) We drew Pearl.
* Trimmon chuckles
(Trimmon) You must love that...
(Belden) Except for one fellow who ended up in the latrines...
* Trimmon laughs
(Belden) Well, it is a trial. :/
(Belden) But the wheel turns on, you know.
(Trimmon) But really, how're you doing, sis? I haven't had much of a chance to talk to you...
* Trimmon seems concerned about you.
* Trimmon nods
(Belden) Well, I'm fine...
(Belden) I don't mind the barracks, or the work.
(Trimmon) So you're doing okay? Really?
(Belden) I sense I am going to need to develop a good deal more patience though, to deal with my teammates... :/
* Trimmon chuckles
(Belden) Some of them, anyway.
(Trimmon) Yeah, I guess that could be rough.
(Trimmon) Mine are all pretty nice, though.
(Belden) Any nice girls?
(Belden) ;D
* Trimmon blushes a bit
(Trimmon) Er.
(Trimmon) *cough*
(Belden) Already?
(Belden) I'm impressed...
(Trimmon) No...
(Trimmon) Not yet...
(Belden) Well, look out for spares, our mother still needs to fins Sholet a wife...
* Trimmon laughs at that
(Trimmon) Maybe...
(Trimmon) There's this girl named Coralie.. she's pretty nice.
* Belden nods.
(Trimmon) She's a bit older than me, though, so she probably will ignore me, as usual.
(Belden) Is she in your squadron?
(Trimmon) Yeah.
* Trimmon blushes again
(Belden) Well, it's going to be hard to ignore you, then!
(Belden) :)
(Trimmon) I guess so...
* Trimmon looks a bit heartened at that thought
(Narrator) You head towards your Uncle Cleyt and Aunt Mirza's house in the Pavillion. A tall, narrow house on Runaway Lane near the Ousel river, it always looks as if it would sway in a stiff breeze, but it is clean and cosy.
* Trimmon pushes open the front door and holds it for you
(Narrator) In the front room, your cousin Ganges lounges idly in front of the warm fireplace.
* Belden steps inside and looks around.
* NPC2 is now known as Ganges
* Ganges is twenty-two and very handsome, about 6'5" and slender, with wavy black hair bound back in a ponytail and eyes of cornflower blue.
* Ganges stretches, yawns, and smiles to greet you.
(Ganges) Hey, Pasith, how's things? Trimmon, good to see you!
* Trimmon nods in greeting, smiling
* Belden smiles in greeting.
* Ganges gives you a rough hug, then runs his hand over your stubbly head, teasing you.
* Belden tries to duck away.
(Belden) Did you get even taller?
* Ganges laughs
* Belden asks suspiciously.
* Ganges shrugs
(Ganges) Could be...
(Belden) It's hardly fair; I'm half your size as it is... :/
(Ganges) Aw, you're cute when you're bald.
(Belden) I bet you say that to all the girls...
* Ganges slaps Trimmon on the back and whispers something in his ear, and the two of them laugh.
(Belden) ...
(Narrator) Your aunt Mirza enters the room, a dusting of flour on her cheek.
* NPC3 is now known as Mirza
* Mirza is a tall, thin woman in her early forties, with a long black braid over her shoulder, shot through with a few white strands.
(Mirza) Oh, I'm so glad you both made it. I was beginning to think they might not let you off.
* Belden smiles at her aunt.
* Mirza smiles and gives both of you a hug
(Belden) Hello aunt Mirza. :)
* Trimmon hangs his wet cloak on a nail near the door
(Mirza) Hello dear, how are you doing?
(Belden) I can't complain.
* Belden answers cheerfully.
(Narrator) Ganges and Trimmon, still laughing with each other, go into the kitchen, no doubt to mooch some food and whet their appetites for the big meal yet to come.
* Trimmon is now known as Cleyt
* Cleyt enters the room, passing his son and nephew as they exit. He smiles broadly, crow's feet forming around his brown eyes.
* Belden steals a glance at her brother and cousin's receding backs...
(Cleyt) Pasith, it's good to see you.
(Cleyt) You're looking well.
(Belden) Uncle Cleyt! :)
* Belden runs a hand over her shaven head. "Thanks."
* Cleyt gives you a big hug, laughing
(Cleyt) How are they treating you?
(Belden) Not badly at all...
* Mirza will take your cloak from you and hang it up to dry.
(Mirza) Oh good, dear.
(Belden) Oh, thank you.
(Belden) How's the store?
(Cleyt) Business is good, though a bit slow this time of year
* Belden nods.
(Cleyt) But all in all, things are good.
* Mirza looks a little concerned, perhaps
(Belden) Aunt Mirza?
(Mirza) Oh, nothing... Just Ganges, you know.
* Mirza says quietly
(Belden) Oh...
* Cleyt nods, a bit sadly
(Cleyt) You know, we were all a bit worried when you said you were going back to the guards...
* Belden looks sympathetic, and concerned herself.
(Cleyt) But we worry more about him.
(Belden) Yes...
(Belden) So do I...
(Cleyt) We know you'll keep your nose clean, at least.
(Belden) And now Trimmon... well, I don't know.
* Mirza nods slightly
* Belden smiles a bit.
(Mirza) I hope Ganges isn't a bad influence on him...
* Mirza says wryly
(Belden) I'm hoping it's just a phase...
(Mirza) So are we, dear.
(Mirza) So are we.
(Belden) At least I can try and keep Trimmon out of trouble; I'm stil bigger than *he
* is!
(Cleyt) Sooner or later, something will happen to scare him straight, mark my words!
* Belden says, trying to lighten the mood a bit.
* Cleyt and Mirza laugh at that
* Belden silently hopes it won't be as dramatic as what happened to her.
(Cleyt) True enough.
(Belden) Something smells amazing, aunt Mirza...
(Mirza) It's roasted goose for dinner today.
(Mirza) I hope it will turn out well...
(Belden) It always does!
* Cleyt nods
(Cleyt) That it does!
* Cleyt pats his belly happily
(Belden) ... as long as those two boys don't eat it between the oven and the table.
(Mirza) Oh, I told Ganges to keep his fingers off of the main course
* Mirza jokes
* Belden laughs.
(Mirza) The rolls, however, might be missing.
(Mirza) Come into the kitchen and warm up, dear. It's positively frigid out there today.
* Belden follows her aunt to the kitchen.
* Cleyt will follow as well, just to be social
(Belden) It's really beautiful, though, despite the cold...
(Narrator) The kitchen is indeed warmer, with a whole goose roasting on a spit over the main fireplace
(Mirza) Really, dear?
(Mirza) I just find the wind off the river whips right through me.
(Belden) The air feels so cold and clean, not like the city usually does...
* Mirza tends to the goose
(Belden) You know how the air can.. cling...
(Cleyt) Well, that's true. The cold keeps down the smell a bit.
* Belden nods.
* Ganges chuckles, nibbling a buttered roll
(Ganges) You'll get used to the smell, really.
(Belden) I wonder if that is a good thing, or a bad thing...
(Belden) :/
* Ganges shrugs, not really caring either way
(Mirza) Well, it looks like this bird is just about ready to come off the heat...
* Mirza beckons Ganges over to help lift it
* Ganges obliges her
(Mirza) Now, we'll just have to wait until it cools long enough to carve well.
(Mirza) Torture, I know.
* Mirza grins
* Belden returns her smile.
* Mirza takes a seat at the large table
* Cleyt joins his wife
(Belden) Luckily my clerical studies have taught me discipline. :)
* Ganges lounges, leaning against a wall
* Belden jokes, as she sits down.
* Mirza smiles and nods
(Mirza) You're very much changed, you know, dear.
(Mirza) Much more... mature, I suppose it must be.
(Cleyt) "Sadder and wiser," as your grandmother would say.
* Cleyt agrees
* Belden smiles.
(Belden) I'd like to think you're only half right.
(Belden) :)
* Cleyt smiles as well
(Cleyt) I hope so too.
(Narrator) The dinner with your family will consume much of the afternoon.
(Belden) (how continental! :D)
(Narrator) And now, turning back to Kalman... :)
* Cleyt is now known as Ivona
* Ganges is now known as Quirille
* Mirza is now known as NPC3
(Narrator) Dinner at the vak Andras household is a formal affair, with a member of the Imperial family in attendance. Thick creamy leek soup, stuffed quail, pureed squash, and delicate, air-puffed loaves of bread, followed by small dishes of honey-glazed almonds for dessert.
* Quirille Marcoux is the Emperor's step-granddaughter, something of a dubious honour, but an honour nonetheless. Her father was married to the Emperor's daughter Herena before she died, and has since married (gasp!) a commoner, and a former member of the Imperial Guards, no less.
* Quirille is thirteen and slender, with long, fine brown hair and light blue eyes. She is dressed in a simple but elegant ivory dress with a large bow at the waist.
* Ivona is also dressed in her best, a pink dress with small white silk flowers at the neckline.
(Kalman) (I'm assuming I still have some clothes here?)
(Narrator) (yes, certainly)
* Kalman will have changed and cleaned himself up for the dinner, now wearing a midnight blue doublet with subtle silver highlights, and black breeches
* Kalman 's boots, also black, have silver buckles etched with with an abstracted bear's head
(Kalman) (The buckles match the silver buttons on the darker blue-black waistcoast.)
(Narrator) Both girls are very well-behaved throughout dinner.
* Kalman will be too
(Narrator) Afterwards, your parents, dressed in all their finest finery, depart in the coach for the Imperial Ball. Your mother waves goodbye to you as she leaves, with a last warning to "Be good, dear!"
* Kalman wonders what she expects he might do...
* Kalman smiles and nods at her
(Narrator) In the sitting room, Quirille and Ivona are sitting on a divan, the two of them giggling behind their hands as you enter. They stop abruptly and both smile up at you innocently.
(Kalman) ....
(Kalman) now, the parents are barely out of the door, and what are you two up to already?
(Ivona) Kaaalmaaan...
* Ivona says in the voice that lets you know she wants something. Probably something she's not supposed to have.
* Ivona smiles sweetly at you
(Ivona) We want to go out. Somewhere fun.
(Quirille) Do you know anywhere fun we could go?
(Kalman) ...
(Ivona) Somewhere where there are boys.
(Kalman) ...
* Ivona and Quirille giggle again. The sound is somehow ominous.
(Kalman) . o O ( gods save us all from devious fourteen year olds... )
(Ivona) Mother and father wouldn't have to know...
(Kalman) Oh you think?
(Ivona) And it *is
* the holidays, after all...
* Ivona blinks cutely
(Kalman) What boys do you want to be hanging around, that you don't think your parents would hear about it, hmmm?
(Ivona) Quirille heard about this tavern...
* Quirille giggles again
(Ivona) Where the men...
(Ivona) *giggle*
* Kalman raises his eyebrows
(Quirille) *giggle*
(Kalman) where the men what?
(Ivona) Dance around.
(Quirille) Naked!
* Quirille squeaks
(Narrator) Another flurry of giggles
(Kalman) ...
(Kalman) No.
(Ivona) But Kaaalmaaan...
* Ivona pouts prettily
(Kalman) you're too young for that sort of thing
(Ivona) I'm almost grown up, you know. I'll be fifteen in a few months.
(Kalman) Quirille won't.
(Kalman) And it wouldn't do your reputation a spot of good.
* Ivona sticks out her tongue at you
(Ivona) What reputation? For being sick all the time?
(Ivona) Anyway, Quirille's a real Imperial. She can do whatever she wants.
(Quirille) Well, not *whatever*...
(Kalman) . o O gah. )
* Quirille concedes
(Kalman) yes, and I'm certain her parents wouldn't have me hung for taking you to such a place, either.
(Ivona) Well then, if we can't go out, you should think of something fun for us to do.
* Ivona sits back, hands clasped on her lap, waiting and smiling smugly
* Kalman takes a deep breath and thinks for a minute
(Ivona) And if you can't, Quirille is going to practice kissing you.
(Kalman) WHAT!?
* Ivona says sweetly
* Quirille giggles and blushes
(Quirille) Shut up!
(Kalman) Hem.
* Quirille glares at your sister
(Kalman) That wouldn't be proper.
* Ivona smiles more
(Kalman) . o O ( mischief indeed! )
(Ivona) Neither was joining the guards, but you did that.
(Kalman) I'm an adult
(Ivona) Well, people have to practice to be adults, right? You don't just wake up on your fifteenth birthday and know everything, do you?
(Kalman) Adults are allowed to decide to do things that aren't proper if they are prepared to handle the consequences
* Ivona pouts a bit more
(Ivona) Then think of something, if you don't want us to kiss you or give you a makeover.
* Quirille giggles some more
(Ivona) And it had better be something fun.
* Kalman tries to remember what he thought was fun when he wqas their age
(Kalman) . o O
( ... oh, right. Girls. *sigh
* )
(Narrator) Kalman realizes he was never a girl ;)
(Kalman) (I'VE BEEN LIVING A LIE!)
(Narrator) (lol)
* Quirille fiddles idly with the bow on her dress
* Kalman tries to remember what Eglorine used to like to do that she considered fun that his conscience would let him let his sister do...)
(Narrator) (hmm... um, dressing up? Riding horses? Talking about her feelings? ;)
(Kalman) . o O ( damn. )
(Kalman) welll....
* Quirille sees you floundering.
(Kalman) Maybe I could take you see the fireworks later
* Kalman looks at Ivona
(Kalman) If you're not tired.
(Ivona) mmm...
(Ivona) No, I won't be tired!
* Ivona says indignantly
(Ivona) That would be alright, I guess.
(Ivona) What do we do until then?
(Quirille) We could just talk now. You know, like ladies and gentlemen do.
(Quirille) Are the Imperial Balls fun? I can't wait until I'm old enough to go to one...
* Quirille flutters her eyelashes inexpertly at you.
(Kalman) That all depends on who you're with, I think
(Kalman) . o O ( arg, wrong thing.... stupid foot in mouth )
(Kalman) Hem.
(Kalman) Friends, and whatnot
(Ivona) Is that why you didn't go with mother and father tonight?
(Ivona) Because it wouldn't be fun with them?
(Kalman) Not exactly
(Ivona) I'll get to go to one after my birthday...
(Kalman) But those types of social functions can be very tedious, after a while
(Kalman) It's always the same people, gossiping about the same things...
(Ivona) (q) .. if I'm well enough, mother said.
(Quirille) My mother doesn't like to go to them.
(Quirille) She says no one there likes her, and they're all just a bunch of stuffed shirts anyway.
(Kalman) Hmm, well, I don't really blame her.
* Quirille says, as if relating important information
(Quirille) But she has to go anyway.
(Quirille) Because father makes her.
* Kalman nods
* Ivona looks a bit shocked
(Ivona) You mean she can't choose to do what she wants?
(Quirille) No...
(Quirille) Not really, I guess.
* Kalman smiles sympathetically
(Ivona) I'll never marry a man who won't let me do whatever I want.
* Ivona says with conviction
(Kalman) ...
(Kalman) I hope not.
(Ivona) Do you know if mother and father are thinking about who I should marry?
* Ivona says curiously
(Kalman) ...
(Kalman) I'm sure they are.
(Ivona) They would tell you, right?
* Ivona waits expectantly for more information ;)
(Kalman) We've had some....discussions about the issue, I suppose...
(Quirille) Probably you'll get married first, though, right Kalman?
(Kalman) well, we'll see.
(Ivona) Ooh, yes, that would be fun! A wedding to go to...
(Ivona) And a new sister for me!
(Kalman) I can't imagine any noble ladies falling over their feet to marry me at the moment
(Ivona) Do you get to pick who you want to marry?
* Kalman says a bit dryly
* Quirille giggles at that
* Kalman chuckles
(Ivona) Or do mother and father decide for you too?
(Kalman) They can try
* Ivona 's eyes widen
(Ivona) You mean you would defy them?
(Kalman) Well....
(Kalman) I don't think they'd try to *force
* me to marry anyone
(Quirille) My father defied grandfather when he married my mother. Boys can get away with that sort of thing.
(Kalman) But you know what mother is like.
* Quirille says authoritatively
* Ivona nods a bit sadly
(Ivona) Yes, I know..
(Kalman) Well, I'm not planning on forcing you to marry anyone, if you don't want to.
(Ivona) Oh, that's good.
(Ivona) But I'm not sure how I'm supposed to meet any boys stuck in this musty old house...
* Ivona says a bit sulkily
(Kalman) Well, that's one thing about society fucntions, I expect
(Kalman) rooms full of boys ;)
(Ivona) Mother is already planning my party, you know. For when I turn 15.
(Ivona) I suppose there will be boys there...
(Ivona) Maybe your cousin Davilas?
* Ivona says to Quirille
* Quirille giggles some more
* Kalman makes a face
(Quirille) He's very handsome.
* Quirille defends him.
(Kalman) He is.... way too old for you to be interested in
(Ivona) Don't you like him, though?
* Kalman says with as much diplomacy as he can muster
(Ivona) He *is
* very handsome.
(Ivona) And Imperial, of course.
(Ivona) Mother would love that...
(Kalman) I think he'd be the kind of husband who would always want you to do what he wanted to do.
(Ivona) Do you think so?
* Ivona seems a bit disappointed
(Kalman) Imperials expect to get their way, most of the time
* Quirille looks a bit miffed
(Quirille) I hardly ever get my way...
(Kalman) Well, some Imperials
(Kalman) My apologies
* Quirille nods to show you're forgiven
(Kalman) But I don't think Davilas would be a good match for you, anyway, Ivona.
(Ivona) Well, I still think he might be at the party.
* Ivona says, sticking out her pointed chin
* Kalman frowns a bit
(Kalman) Has mother mentioned it?
(Ivona) Well, not to *me*...
(Ivona) But the maids told me.
* Kalman frowns a bit more
(Ivona) They tell me lots of things.
(Kalman) . o O ( that colossal asshole is *not
* getting anywhere near my sister. ):| )
(Kalman) oh?
(Kalman) Like what?
(Ivona) I think they feel sorry for me.
(Ivona) The maids, I mean.
(Ivona) Hmm...
(Ivona) Like what...
(Ivona) I heard that Eglorine Vaillancourt is in town again. They were talking about you when they said that.
(Kalman) what?
(Kalman) really?
(Ivona) They were giggling a lot, too.
* Ivona nods solemnly
(Ivona) They said that her father never forgave you for something? What did you do that was so bad?
(Kalman) erm....
(Kalman) . o O ( damnit! )
* Ivona and Quirille both look at you with innocent eyes ;)
(Kalman) It's been so long since I've seen any of the Vaillancourt's...
* Kalman sighs, but not really a sad sigh
* Ivona quirks an eyebrow
(Quirille) Were you in love with her?
* Quirille guesses
* Kalman blushes a bit
* Quirille 's eyes widen! She was actually right!
(Kalman) Well, we were young. I expect we've both changed a lot.
* Ivona looks impressed
(Ivona) I never knew that you were in love before.
(Ivona) Did she love you too?
(Kalman) Well... I like to think she did.
* Ivona and Quirille both sigh at how romantic that is.
* Kalman grins
(Kalman) As I said, that was years ago now...
(Kalman) . o O ( Only three years... )
(Narrator) The conversation continues in this vein, with you trying to keep yourself out of trouble from these two teenaged hellions ;)
(Narrator) Later, you will keep your promise and take them to see the fireworks.
(Narrator) But now, onwards to Pavo's night of debauchery!
(Narrator) After a more-or-less pleasant dinner with your family, you make your escape to The Likely Lord for some much-needed relaxation.
(Narrator) The weather has taken a turn for the worse, growing piercingly cold as the day wears on. The wind whipping off the river is chill, but still the streets of Pearl City are fairly crowded. People move quickly, though, and gather their cloaks around them for warmth.
(Narrator) Nevertheless, the Likely Lord is bustling at this time of night, full of young men with only one or two thoughts on their minds.
(Pavo) ( And a man on each arm! )
* Ivona is now known as Karolis
* Quirille is now known as Lyrias
(Narrator) You spot Karolis and Lyrias togther at a table across the room. Karolis waves to you and beckons you over.
* Karolis is about nineteen, short and thin, but handsome, with thick brown hair to his shoulders and green eyes.
* Lyrias is in his early twenties, tall and fit, though not particularly outstanding in the looks department, with short brown hair and brown eyes.
* Pavo waves and makes his way through the bar to the table.
(Pavo) Hello Boys!
* Lyrias pulls up a chair for you to join them, grabs a reasonably clean glass from another table, and pours you a drink from the pitcher of wine they're sharing.
(Lyrias) Hello there, stranger!
(Lyrias) Where have you been lately?
(Karolis) It's been so quiet here without you...
* Karolis jokes
* Pavo takes a drink from the glass before answering... "Worn out, most nights!"
* Karolis chuckles
(Karolis) Then I've decided I don't like you being in the guards, if it wears you out.
(Pavo) However tonight, the only burden I bear is a full tummy!
* Pavo grins coyly.
(Lyrias) Had a good dinner, did you?
(Pavo) I'll get used to it... then it'll just make me heartier, you know... build stamina.
* Karolis grins at that
(Pavo) Yes, mother prepared the family a big meal... much better than what I pick up from the stalls, or eat at the barracks.
(Lyrias) Me, my dinner has been... wine. Wine and more wine.
* Lyrias chuckles happily, though
(Karolis) So, how are your family taking this whole guard thing?
(Pavo) My mother accepts it, my father thinks it's a waste. My brother thinks picking up a craft would somehow be more practical.
* Pavo shrugs.
* Karolis nods sympathetically
(Pavo) I hear much worse in the way of disappointed parents from others. All is good.
(Karolis) My parents don't really understand the whole acting thing.
* Karolis nods in agreement
(Lyrias) I won't tell you what my parents think of my career choice...
* Lyrias jokes
* Pavo chuckles. I can't imagine having the guts to tell them!
(Lyrias) heh
(Lyrias) *I
* didn't tell them.
(Lyrias) They found out from a gossipy neighbour, I suppose.
(Pavo) Probably a girl next door who couldn't stand not having you.
* Lyrias smirks
(Lyrias) That must be it.
(Lyrias) Because I'm such a catch.
* Lyrias jokes
(Lyrias) Can't keep the women away from me, even with my ten-foot pole.
(Pavo) A much better catch than a 'fish' :)
(Pavo) Ho!
* Karolis laughs
(Pavo) Do you charge by the foot?
(Lyrias) For my friends, it's all or nothing.
* Pavo winks adorably!
* Lyrias winks back
(Karolis) Hey, look over there!
(Karolis) (w) There he is!
(Pavo) Hm?
* Karolis points to a man who just entered the bar, a well-dressed red-haired gentleman in his mid-thirties who carries himself like a warrior.
(Lyrias) Alcaraz, right?
(Pavo) Ah... yes. He's out shopping again, I see :)
* NPC3 is now known as Alcaraz
(Karolis) He's the one who ... scouts, shall we say? for the Count of Brissarthe.
(Lyrias) I wonder if he pays well...
(Karolis) Or for himself... I'm never sure.
(Pavo) Perhaps it's time to get caught, Lyrias :)
* Lyrias stretches casually, making eye contact with the red-haired gentleman.
* Pavo winks at Karolis... "Perhaps for both!"
* Alcaraz notices the three of you and starts to meander in your direction
* Karolis chuckles
(Karolis) Not for me, tonight.
(Karolis) No matter how well he might pay...
(Pavo) (w) I meant perhaps he shops for himself AND the Count :)
(Karolis) I'd hate for the count to see the ratty underwear I have on today.
* Karolis chuckles at your joke
(Pavo) The simplest solution is to tear it off quickly.
* Alcaraz finally makes it across the crowded room,
(Alcaraz) Hello, gentlemen.
* Alcaraz bows slightly, with a flourish of his cloak
(Pavo) Why hello sir... *turns his smile on*
(Alcaraz) May I join you for a drink?
* Lyrias will pull up another chair quickly
* Karolis chugs the rest of his drink, then fills it again to hand to the new arrival
* Alcaraz accepts the drink with a courteous nod
* Alcaraz raises the glass to each of you in turn
* Pavo raises his own...
(Alcaraz) "To the New Year"
(Pavo) ... and the night of the cat :)
* Lyrias clinks his glass with yours
* Alcaraz smiles at that
(Alcaraz) What brings you young gentlemen here this evening, may I ask?
(Pavo) Same thing that brings me most nights... friends and fun!
(Karolis) Amusement.
(Lyrias) Business.
* Lyrias grins.
(Alcaraz) Mixing business with pleasure, are we?
* Lyrias shrugs casually
(Lyrias) My business *is
* pleasure.
* Alcaraz looks amused
(Alcaraz) How charming.
* Alcaraz takes another sip of his drink
(Alcaraz) I do love a witty whore.
* Lyrias smirks, not embarassed
* Pavo stretches wide, unsure as to whether he should disapprove.
(Alcaraz) Well, another toast, then, to the young man whose business is pleasure.
* Alcaraz raises his glass again
* Lyrias smiles and raises his glass for the toast
* Pavo raises his own, a little less dubiously
* Karolis no longer has a glass, but he smiles as well
* Alcaraz drains the rest of his drink
(Alcaraz) I'll return this to you now, my young friend.
* Pavo takes a drink, then holds the glass to Karolis' mouth.
* Karolis takes a sip
* Alcaraz shoves the glass back across the table to Karolis
(Alcaraz) What is your name?
* Pavo finishes the rest of his glass.
* Alcaraz asks Lyrias. He now seems to have forgotten about the rest of you.
(Lyrias) Lyrias.
(Alcaraz) Well, Lyrias, I was just leaving, but I could use some company for the long walk home.
(Alcaraz) If you'd care to join me...
* Lyrias glances at the two of you, shoots you a wink and pushes back from the table
(Lyrias) Anytime, good sir.
* Pavo gives Lyrias a grin and a little wave.
* Lyrias takes Alcaraz's arm and leaves, waving at you over his shoulder
(Karolis) Well, I suppose the mystery will be solved, then.
* Karolis says once they are gone.
(Pavo) Which mystery?
* Karolis pours himself another drink
(Pavo) Oh...
(Pavo) Yeah, I suppose
(Pavo) And we can insist on sordid details
(Karolis) You know, about the count.
* Karolis nods
(Karolis) I intend to insist until I hear everything.
(Karolis) Every last drop.
(Karolis) Another pitcher?
* Karolis holds up the empty one
(Pavo) Certainly!
* Karolis flags down the bartender, then, and gets another pitcher of their cheapest, reddest wine
* Karolis pours you glass after glass ;)
* Pavo drinks glass after glass.
(Karolis) Good boy.
(Pavo) Haha, planning to pimp me off next are you?
* Karolis chuckles
(Karolis) Hardly.
(Karolis) I was going to keep you for myself.
(Karolis) Unless you had other plans...
* Karolis says in a sultry tone
* Pavo mmms quietly
(Pavo) I knew there was reason I missed going to the theatre in the Castalia
* Karolis laughs at that
(Karolis) You should come back, then.
(Karolis) They don't like me for the romantic leads.. not tall enough.
(Pavo) Perhaps in a little while.
* Pavo turns on his Seduction, even though it's clearly not needed.
(Karolis) (rrowr)
* Pavo grins... "Just means you fit easier into the romantic lead's lap" :)
* Karolis smiles at that
* Karolis snuggles a bit closer to you
* Pavo wraps one arm around Karolis, the other lifts the cup to his lips
(Pavo) We ought to make sure it's an even playing field.
* Karolis grins at that
(Narrator) The rest of the night passes most pleasantly for our two young men.
* Pavo returns to work the next day with a pair of ratty undies on...
(Narrator) (hehe)
(Narrator) Turning to Boden...
(Narrator) Boden passed part of his day off in carousing with the other revelers of the festival day, but decided to pop by and see his brother in the early evening
(if that's okay with you :)
(Boden) (yep)
(Boden) (I have a letter for mom and dad to give him for when he sends his next letter.)
(Narrator) The vak Andras household looks rather different from the point of view of the 'hired help.' You head around back of the luxurious mansion, towards the quarters where most of the servants who work outside the house live - a plain, functional brick building tastefully covered with ivy.
(Narrator) Franek sits with his long legs stretched out, whittling a piece of deadwood. He raises his blond head and grunts in greeting as you approach.
* Karolis is now known as Franek
* Boden grunts back and raises a hand in greeting.
* Lyrias is now known as NPC2
* Alcaraz is now known as NPC3
(Franek) How's it hanging?
(Boden) Not bad, this guard thing isn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.
(Franek) So, what're you doing here?
(Franek) Day off?
(Boden) yeah, thought I'd come by and see family during the festival season.
(Boden) how are things with you?
(Franek) I got a day off today too. Nice of 'em, I guess. Tomorrow I've gotta head out to the country place, get things opened up there for the boss's hunting party. Snowshoe hare season, ya know.
(Franek) Otherwise, I'm good.
(Boden) The boss's kid got latrine duty on his first day so he should be easy to keep out of trouble.
* Franek snickers
* Boden laughs
(Franek) Typical.
(Franek) You been up to anything today, or do you not want your big brother to know what kinda shit you get up to on your days off?
(Boden) nothing I didn't do while home, just here I get in less trouble for it.
* Franek nods
(Franek) You seeing anyone these days?
(Franek) Anyone serious, I mean.
(Boden) no, not at all, you?
(Franek) Me, I've met this girl... Her name's Demerise. She's a performer at this bar in Pearl City.
* Franek notices your look.
(Boden) "performer" eh?
(Franek) Not that kind of performer, you pervert. She's a singer.
(Boden) sure.
(Boden) what bar she work in?
(Franek) The place is called the Southern Stars. Pretty nice joint, for Pearl. I was gonna head over there and see if she's performing tonight. You could come along, if you wanted.
(Boden) sounds good.
* Franek shrugs, as if he doesn't care either way, but you can tell he's excited about this girl, whoever she is.
(Franek) Maybe she can hook you up with some friend of hers, eh? All the musicians there are good looking women. It's kind of their gimmick, I guess.
* Franek grins
(Boden) ok, just don't go telling any stories about me.
* Boden grins too.
(Franek) Of course not...
(Franek) So, catch a quick meal, and then off to the Southern Stars. Sound like a plan?
(Boden) yeah.
(Narrator) You and Franek, after catching a quick meal of meat and cheese at one of the many food carts that patrol Pearl City, head to the Southern Stars. Its sign, swinging in the cold wind, bears four large golden stars.
(Franek) This is it, let's get inside. I'm freezing my balls off.
(Boden) (is franek carrying any weapons?)
(Franek) (just a large hunting knife)
(Boden) (ok, boden will have his knife, and he is wearing his gauntlet, as allways.)
(Boden) ok
(Narrator) Inside, the Southern Stars is warm and intimate, with a small stage at the far end of the room. The place is crowded, though it is not the usual rowdy crowd you associate with taverns in Pearl City.
* Boden will step in out of the cold.
* Franek manages to grab two seats in the corner with a decent view of the stage.
* Franek flags down the barmaid and orders you two pints of ale.
(Franek) This round is on me.
* Boden smiles and nods.
(Franek) You can get the next one.
(Narrator) The lights on the stage area grow brighter, signalling the start of the show. A hush falls over the crowd.
(Narrator) Four women take the stage, bearing various instruments. They all look to be in their late teens or early twenties, and all are quite attractive.
(Narrator) One, barely five feet tall, with dark brown hair to her shoulders, steps forward. She is wearing a light green gown low-cut enough to show off her ample cleavage.
* Franek whispers "That's her."
* NPC2 is now known as Demerise
* Demerise smiles and bows slightly to the audience, who are now clapping.
(Demerise) Thank you. I know it's cold out there tonight, so let's try and make it a bit warmer in here, shall we?
(Boden) (w) she's cute, but isn't she kinda small for you?
* Franek gives you a glare
(Narrator) The girls begin to perform a rousing tune that sets toes tapping all around the tavern. Demerise sings the bawdy lyrics with a strong, earthy voice.
(Boden) I'm not trying to get your goat or anything, just an observation.
* Franek growls quietly at you
* Boden smiles when he hears the song.
(Narrator) As the performance goes on, you find your eyes are drawn repeatedly to the girl playing the small harp. She has long, straight blue-black hair and piercing blue eyes. She seems a little awkward, maybe nervous, but you think she plays well
(then again, what do you know about music?)
(Narrator) After what seems a short time, but is actually several hours judging from the darkness that has fallen outside, the women take their leave, to loud applause and cheers from the patrons.
(Boden) you know, after hearing her sing, I guess she can probably handle you.
* Franek applauds as well
* Franek grins at that
(Franek) C'mon, let's go to the back. I'll introduce you to Demerise.
* Boden will be claping loudly.
* Franek seems more animated and excited than is usual for him.
(Boden) ok, and the girl with the harp, *wink*
(Narrator) You wend your way through the crowd which is now starting to disperse, towards a door next to the stage. Franek pushes it open and enters.
(Narrator) The back room is a chaotic tangle of musical instruments, colourful costumes, and half-naked women who utter little screams when they see you and duck back behind the curtains of their small dressing-rooms.
(Franek) Oops, scuse us, ladies.
* Boden will nod to the ladies in greating.
* Demerise steps out, dressed in a simple cream-coloured shift that still manages to show off her curvaceous body to full effect.
(Demerise) Franek, sweetie!
* Demerise stands on tiptoes and purses her lips. Franek bends down the extra distance needed to give her a quick kiss, a bit embarassed.
* Boden will grin at his brother.
(Demerise) And this... let me guess, this fine specimen here must be your brother.
* Demerise looks up at you and smiles, showing a small gap between her front teeth.
* Franek actually blushes.
* Boden will bow with diplom.
(Franek) Yeah, that's Boden.
(Boden) I love to meet any woman who is a match for by brother.
* Demerise curtseys back
* Boden will wink at her.
* Demerise grins
(Demerise) Oh, he's just a big old kitty cat.
* Franek blushes again
(Boden) yeah,
* Boden gives him a punch on the arm.
* Franek snorts with laughter
(Franek) It was a really good show, wasn't it, Boden?
(Boden) That was a great set you did, yeah it really was.
* Boden is quite enthusiastic.
(Demerise) Why thank you!
(Demerise) That's so nice of you to say.
(Boden) I haven't been to such an upscale place in Pearl before.
(Demerise) It's nice here. Better than lots of places, that's for sure.
(Franek) So, um, Boden and me were thinking maybe you could... you know, introduce him to one of your friends?
* Franek cuts right to the chase - he also lacks subtlety ;)
* Boden will now blush a little (but just a little)
(Franek) 'Cause otherwise he'll just tag along with us all night, which I know I don't want...
* Demerise sizes you up with a glance, and nods.
(Demerise) Sure, you seem like a nice boy.
(Boden) (I am 2 feet taller than her.)
(Franek) (true enough ;)
(Demerise) Lygia!
* Demerise calls over her shoulder
(Narrator) The young woman you noticed on stage, the harp player with the amazing blue eyes, emerges from behind one of the curtains. She is brushing her glossy black hair, and is now wearing a simple violet gown, nothing too revealing.
(Boden) .oO(ooh, nice name)
(Demerise) This here is Boden. He really liked your part of the show, and he'd like to get to know you a bit better. You got some time?
* NPC3 is now known as Lygia
* Lygia sizes you up, and smiles.
(Lygia) Alright.
* Lygia looks younger than she did with all of her stage makeup and costume on, maybe even a bit younger than you.
* Boden will smile as well.
(Narrator) Demerise and Franek look like they'd rather be elsewhere...
(Franek) You gonna be okay?
(Boden) I think so.
(Franek) Okay, have a good time.
* Boden will look to Lygia for confirmation.
* Lygia nods
(Lygia) We'll be fine.
(Narrator) The couple depart hastily for somewhere back even further in the depths of the tavern, Franek doing his best to keep a ridiculous grin off his face.
(Lygia) So...
(Boden) .oO(nookie for him)
(Lygia) You're Franek's brother?
* Lygia pulls her long hair back into a pony tail as she talks to you.
(Boden) Yeah, he came to Diablotin first, then I came after he settled in a bit.
* Lygia nods
(Lygia) His *little
* brother, then.
* Lygia jokes
* Boden laughs at the joke.
(Boden) yeah, but only by a little.
* Lygia smiles
* Boden is in a constant state of smiling.
(Lygia) I'm Lygia. I guess you already heard that, though.
(Boden) True
* Boden nods
(Boden) Would you like to sit someplace?
(Lygia) Look, why don't we go somewhere a bit more quiet.... It's crazy back here.
* Lygia agrees with you
(Boden) my thoughts exaclty
(Boden) This is my first time here, so lead the way.
(Narrator) The main room is now much quieter, with the performance done. Lygia leads you there.
(Lygia) So, what do you do?
* Lygia pours you a drink of ale, and one for herself.
(Boden) I'm in the guard. I started out working for the Vak andras' but they needed me to join the guard.
(Boden) thanks,
* Boden accepts the ale with a nod.
(Lygia) Do you like being in the guard?
* Lygia sips her drink
(Boden) I really have only done it for five days so far, I'm really new here, but it seems like I'm going to like it better than I expected.
* Lygia grins
(Lygia) That's good, then.
(Lygia) Did you enjoy the show?
(Boden) I really really did, that was great music.
* Lygia looks a bit shy when you talk about the music.
(Boden) Have you been playing long?
(Lygia) Really?
(Lygia) I'm new at this...
(Boden) Yeah, really.
(Lygia) Well, new at performing in front of people.
* Lygia blushes a little
(Boden) How long have you been doing it.
(Lygia) Playing in front of people? Only about 2 weeks.
(Boden) .oO(remember Boden, whe she says performing, she is talking about the Harp.)
(Boden) but you must have been playing for a lot longer than that to be that good.
(Lygia) Oh, well, I've played the harp for years.
(Lygia) But I never thought I was good enough to get paid for it.
* Lygia smiles slightly
(Lygia) But it seems to be going well so far.
(Boden) Well, I think your group is better than a lot of the performers I've seen play at the festival.
(Lygia) Thanks.
(Lygia) Demerise is really great. She's the one that holds the whole thing together.
(Lygia) The rest of us just tag along, really.
* Lygia is a bit embarassed.
(Boden) Franek seems really interested in her.
(Lygia) Yeah... They've really hit it off fast.
(Boden) I'm usually the excitable one.
* Lygia chuckles
(Lygia) Are you excited now?
* Lygia says more quietly
(Boden) Yes, I think you could definitely say that.
* Lygia smiles over her drink at you
* Boden will return the smile.
(Boden) (also quiet) and you?
* Lygia lowers her eyes, blushing again
* Lygia nods
(Boden) I'm glad.
(Lygia) ...
* Boden will take a long drink of his ale, but keeps eye contact with her.
* Lygia looks at you again, and smiles
* Lygia finishes her drink and sets it on the table with a thud.
* Boden will finish his as well.
(Lygia) If you like...
(Lygia) I have a room here.
* Lygia says, blushing more than ever
(Boden) I think that would be great.
* Lygia stands, then
* Boden will reach out and hold her hand in his.
* Lygia will take his hand and squeeze it gently
(Narrator) Although she is not a small woman, her hand seems small in yours
* Boden will rise slowly from the table.
(Boden) Shall we?
(Lygia) I've never done this sort of thing before...
(Lygia) I'm a bit nervous.
(Boden) really?
(Boden) never?
(Lygia) Well, not this *precise
* thing, no.
(Lygia) Not with someone I barely know...
(Boden) well, it is festival, so its the right time of year for it.
* Lygia grins at that
(Lygia) True enough.
* Lygia will lead you back to her room, then, where you spend a delightful night together.
* Boden will be careful with her....nothing too ruff.
(Boden) (unless she turns into some kind of dynamo or something.)
(Narrator) (no, she's pretty shy)
(Narrator) And last but not least, back to Belden :)
(Narrator) Belden: The meal with your family is lovely, a whole roasted goose stuffed with turnips and scallions, fresh crusty brown bread and creamy butter, and a warm, lightly-spiced cider to drink.
(Narrator) Trimmon and Ganges do even more than their part in giving the goose a good home. How is it possible for them to eat so much? Boys...
(Narrator) The two young men snicker and nudge each other during dinner.
* Franek is now known as Ganges
* Demerise is now known as Trimmon
* Belden tries to hide her worried look.
* Lygia is now known as Mirza
* Mirza does as well.
(Narrator) Afterwards, Ganges stretches in satisfaction. Trimmon follows his lead.
(Ganges) Great job, ma, you really outdid yourself today.
(Trimmon) Yes, it was really great, thanks Aunt Mirza.
(Belden) Yes, thank you, aunt Mirza.
* Mirza smiles
(Mirza) Well, it was nothing, really.
(Mirza) It's just nice to have the house so full again.
(Ganges) So, Trimmon and I were going to head out for the evening.
(Mirza) Where, dear?
(Ganges) Just go to a tavern, I think. Have a few drinks to celebrate the day, you know.
* Trimmon nods in agreement
* Belden grows more worried...
* Mirza shoots you a worried look
(Belden) ...
(Mirza) Maybe Pasith would like to go along with you, dear.
* Mirza says hopefully.
(Belden) Yes, if girls are allowed.
(Belden) :)
* Ganges stifles a slight sigh, and nods.
(Ganges) Sure, of course.
(Belden) Of course, with this haircut... I could probably pass for a boy.
* Ganges chuckles at that
(Ganges) Why not? It'll be fun.
(Belden) Great!
* Mirza looks relieved
(Mirza) Okay, have a nice time, then kids.
(Belden) . o O (Probably less fun than you'd intended, but it's for the best.)
(Mirza) Just stay out of the Shambles, okay?
(Ganges) Yes, ma. I promise.
(Belden) We will.
* Ganges says with an exaggerated sigh.
* Trimmon nods swiftly
* Ganges gets his cloak on and gets ready to leave
* Trimmon follows suit
* Belden too.
(Narrator) Ganges leads the two of you through the cold, wind-blown streets to Rhenea, the Old City. A chill that has nothing to do with the weather passes through your body in this part of town, which is strangely deserted. In the distance, you can see the shadow of the Black Down, which looms over the ramshackle houses like a sleeping beast.
(Belden) I don't think I've been here before...
* Belden shivers.
* Ganges points to a swinging sign up ahead. It bears the likeness of a rather festive demon.
(Ganges) The Dreaming Demon. It's a good tavern, really. Totally on the level, I promise.
* Belden looks dubiously at the sign.
(Belden) Alright...
* Ganges notes your disapproving look and chuckles.
(Ganges) I promise.
(Narrator) Inside, the Dreaming Demon is half-empty. Perhaps the inhabitants of Rhenea aren't in the mood to celebrate this evening. Still, the fire in the hearth is warm, and it sends out a reassuring glow to all corners of the room.
* Ganges chooses a table near the hearth and calls for drinks. He eyes you to see if you want one or not.
* Trimmon definitely wants one ;)
(Belden) I'll just have some plain cider...
(Ganges) Okay. It's on me.
(Belden) Thanks.
* Ganges calls for two ales and a cider
(Narrator) A young blonde woman with a tired look in her eyes brings the drinks to your table.
* Belden smiles... but stil feels nervous.
(Ganges) See, it's not so bad here, is it?
(Belden) No, not here...
* Trimmon looks around the room
(Trimmon) No, this is a pretty nice place, really.
(Trimmon) I didn't think there were very many taverns in Rhenea.
(Ganges) Not many...
(Ganges) This is one of the few that are still here, I guess.
* Belden looks around at the few patrons in the place.
(Belden) Why do so few people live here now?
(Narrator) An old man sits snoring in one corner. Two young women chat over a shared drink in another corner. Other than than, there are mostly empty chairs.
(Ganges) Hard to say...
(Ganges) I guess partly it's just that it's not really close to anything.
(Ganges) And a lot of the buildings are not in really great shape.
* Ganges shrugs
* Trimmon pipes up
(Trimmon) I've been patrolling this district this week... it doesn't seem so bad to me.
(Ganges) I like it here, personally. You can get some quiet.
(Belden) That black hill gives me the creeps...
* Trimmon nods
(Trimmon) Yeah, that is a bit weird.
(Trimmon) After a while, you just don't notice it anymore, though.
(Trimmon) But at first, it seems like everywhere you go, there it is in the corner of your eye.
* Belden nods.
* Trimmon gives a little shake of his head
(Belden) It seems... I don't know, maybe unholy is too strong a word...
(Trimmon) It's not that bad, though.
* Ganges looks at you strangely
(Ganges) It's just a hill...
(Belden) I suppose maybe I'm being superstitious.
* Ganges takes a drink of his ale
(Belden) I should know better.
* Belden says self-reproachfully.
(Ganges) Maybe a bit. But then, most people around here are...
(Narrator) A cold blast of wind gusts through the room, as a young woman enters the tavern. She is tall, perhaps nineteen or so, and a hint of light brown hair peeks out from under her dark hood. She looks neither left nor right, but passes through the main room and pushes through a door into some back part of the tavern.
* Ganges seems to pay little attention to the woman, but a few moments later he rises from his seat.
(Ganges) Excuse me, I've gotta see a man about a horse.
* Belden looks up at him questioningly.
(Belden) Oh.
* Belden looks back down, and takes a drink of her cider.
* Ganges heads towards the same door.
(Belden) (... sense motive!)
(Narrator) (You think that he is lying about having to go to the bathroom)
* Belden watches him leave with a worried frown.
* Trimmon looks confused.
* Belden fixes Trimmon with a questioning look.
(Trimmon) What was that all about?
(Belden) Where's he going, really? Do you know?
(Trimmon) Maybe she's his girlfriend?
* Trimmon shrugs
(Belden) Why would he lie about that?
(Trimmon) He always has two or three, you know.
(Belden) (yeah, yeah, sense motive on trimmon)
(Narrator) (you think Trimmon really doesn't know)
* Belden bites her lip.
(Belden) Ganges worries me...
(Trimmon) Why?
(Belden) Maybe ... maybe you could go after him.
(Trimmon) Um...
(Belden) Oh, come on, you know...
(Trimmon) I wouldn't want to walk in on anything...
(Belden) You know he's always hanging out in the Shambles...
(Trimmon) Anything I didn't want to see.
(Trimmon) Yeah, I know that...
* Belden sighs exasperatedly.
(Trimmon) Okay, okay, I'll go check on him.
* Trimmon sighs and pushes away from the table
(Belden) Thank you.
* Belden says gratefully.
* Trimmon heads towards the back room.
* Trimmon returns a minute or so later
(Belden) ...
* Belden looksup questioningly.
(Trimmon) I think he's just talking to her. I think maybe she really is his girlfriend.
(Trimmon) He was saying something about how they can't go on meeting like this.
(Trimmon) But I couldn't hear what she was saying.
* Belden bites her lower lip and casts a glance toward the back room.
(Narrator) After perhaps three or four minutes, Ganges returns and resumes his seat.
(Ganges) So, I think I was just going to tell Trimmon that he should grow his hair longer.
(Ganges) Women love that sort of thing, you know.
(Trimmon) Really?
* Trimmon runs his hand over his head
(Belden) I don't know...
(Belden) But I'm a little out of the loop on that one...
* Ganges chuckles
(Ganges) Well trust me. They do.
(Narrator) About five minutes later, the same hooded woman re-enters the room. She heads directly for the door, again keeping her head down.
* Belden tries to get a look at her face
(Narrator) You catch a slight glimpse. She looks somehow familiar to you.
(Belden) (is it a *nice
* cloak?)
(Narrator) She leaves, and you suddenly remember where you saw her before - she answered the door at the house that may or may not have been the Langevin estate.
(Belden) (is it it that Bitchy McHo Lady, Noira?)
(Narrator) (no, but it is a nice cloak :)
(Belden) :o
* Ganges ignores her departure
(Ganges) Another drink, anyone?
(Trimmon) Sure, I guess.
(Belden) Alright...
* Belden nods.
* Ganges goes to the bar and gets you all refills.
* Belden hopes to the Centre that Ganges isn't mixed up in this whole Izaguirre thing...
* Ganges returns, balancing the full mugs carefully
* Belden nibbles her lip some more.
(Ganges) Here we go!
* Ganges puts down the drinks without spilling a drop.
(Belden) Like a pro!
(Ganges) Heh.
* Belden smiles, trying to hide her concern.
(Ganges) I'm hardly a pro, but I do have a lot of practice.
* Trimmon takes his drink and sips it
* Belden drinks some more cider.
(Narrator) The rest of the evening passes in pleasant conversation, with an undercurrent of tension.
(Narrator) As midnight draws closer, some people (including Kalman, Ivona, and Quirille) brave the bitter cold to see the fireworks over the river Ousel, which glides silently along under a now-thick sheet of ice. They are indeed spetacular this year, with brilliant purples, reds, whites, and greens that light up the sky.
(Narrator) For once the barracks stay open past midnight, to allow you to gain re-entry if you so desire.
* Kalman will keep a close eye on both girls
(Narrator) (they are very well-behaved :)
* Pavo might not find his way home tonight...
(Narrator) Or not, if you so desire.
(Pavo) (If I won't get in trouble... I'll not.)
(Narrator) (no, no trouble :)
(Boden) (I will most surely, NOT go back tonight.)
(Boden) (she wasn't a virgin or anything though was she?)
(Narrator) (no)
(Narrator) (you don't think so, at least)
(Kalman) (Not in his expert opinion, eh? ;)
(Narrator) (indeed :)
(Narrator) Belden pulls Ganges aside for a few words before they part company.
* Pavo and Boden tease the other guards cause they got nookie.
(Ganges) Problem, coz?
(Belden) Well, not really...
(Belden) I'm just - well, I'm worried, and so is your mother...
(Belden) That girl in the bar...
* Ganges raises an eyebrow
(Belden) I've seen her before, while I was... at work, you know?
(Ganges) Really?
* Belden bites her lip. "Yes..."
(Ganges) And?
(Belden) I think she's mixed up in something involving Izaguirre and I hope to the Centre that you aren't as well...
* Belden says earnestly.
* Ganges looks surprised
(Ganges) Her name's Althea. She's just a girl I know.
(Belden) (sense motive!)
(Ganges) (he seems to be telling the truth)
(Belden) ...
* Belden sighs.
(Belden) I worry too much!
(Ganges) If I was in any trouble, it would probably be from her father, or her boyfriend or whatever.
* Ganges grins
* Belden hugs Ganges.
* Ganges hugs her back warmly
(Belden) Just be careful, OK?
(Ganges) Don't worry about me.
(Ganges) I can take care of myself, really.
(Belden) Well, you know where to find me... I still owe you. :)
* Ganges grins
(Ganges) Okay, fair enough.
* Belden waves to her cousin as they go their separate ways.
* Belden is very relieved.
* Ganges waves and heads back towards his parents' house.
(Narrator) The holidays are once again over for another year, and a new year has begun. As you fall into sleep, you can't help but ponder over the things you have experienced tonight, and wonder what the coming year will bring.
* Pavo will probably ponder and repeat...
(Narrator) The End (for now).

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