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* Rhys walks in from the back room, unlocks the front door, and rests himself on a stool behind the bar. "Hall's open." * Jelarthna strides in, hanging his cloak and hat at a jaunty angle, and goes up to the bar. <Jelarthna> Good evening Rhys! <Jelarthna> How are you today? * Bai enters through the front/side door and approaches the bar. <Bai> Good evening Rhys, Jelarthna. <Jelarthna> Hello Bai. <Rhys> Evening, Jelarthna. I'm well, and you? Can I get you anything? * Tyl walks in, looking around. <Jelarthna> Two weeks in a row! I normally don't see you so much. ::smiles:: * Bai leans his staff against the wall and sits on one of the stools. <Jelarthna> Hi Tyl. * Lisl strides in through the front door, catching a glimpse of herself in the bar mirror and quickly wiping her mouth. <Bai> Good evening to you Tyl'gainia. <Tyl> oh, hello there Jelarthna... <Rhys> Bai, nice to see you. <Tyl> Bai, good evening. <Rhys> Can I get you some tea, Bai? <Jelarthna> ::to Rhys:: I'll have some meade Feywine tonight, Rhys. <Jelarthna> Hello, Lisl. * Lisl hangs up her cloak, the scent of the deep woods hanging on her clothing like perfume. <Bai> Yes please Rhys. Good evening Lisl. Settling in to life in Marsember again? <Lisl> Good evening, all. Who's working tonight? ::looking towards the bar:: <Rhys> Of course. ::selects a wineglass and a light-green wine bottle, uncorks the bottle, and pours Jelarthna a glass:: * Lion enters through the side/front door. He's wearing a gray, raw silk, Oriental style tunic. He is wearing it belted with a black sash over a pair of loose, trousers, tucked into mid calf height, split toe boots. * Rhys bows slightly to Lisl. "That would be me, lady. Rhys Altain. Can I get you anything?" <Lisl> 'Evening, Bai. Yes, I'm settling in quite well. It's amazing...all that dust, and yet not a single spider or cobweb in the whole apartment. It's uncanny. <Jelarthna> Thank you. ::sees Lion enter:: Hello Lion. How are you settling back in so far? <Lion> Not too badly. ::to Jel. Walks over to the bar and sits on a stool.:: <Lisl> ::smiling at Rhys:: Please, call me Lisl-- I'm certainly no lady. A mug of 'kick, please. * Zoya enters and looks around, grinning. She heads straight to the bar. "Ale, Rhys, if you would..." <Jelarthna> ::notices Tyl's looking around:: Is something wrong? * Lion chuckles at Lisl self deprecating remark. <Bai> So how did the matches go last week? <Lisl> Evening, Lion. ::grinning impishly:: I see the bruise is barely noticeable this week. <Jelarthna> Hi Zoya! ::smiles:: * Rhys blinks at Lisl. "I assume you wouldn't be ordering it unless you knew what it did. One mug, coming up." He selects a mug, carefully fills it with mulekick, and sets it in front of Lisl. "Here you are." <Tyl> ::to Jelarthna:: I'm... a little nervous. I was hoping Moon Dancer would be here... <Jelarthna> ::looks at Lisl:: How did that go? <Lion> Just because yours are better hidden. ::grins:: <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: Why? What do you need? <Tyl> Answers... I'm hoping he has them... * Rhys pours some steaming hot water out of one of the taps into a teacup. "Any specific brew you'd like, Bai?" <Lisl> ::smiling at Rhys:: What it does? You mean, like peel paint? Blow up city blocks? Taste like turpentine? Aye. But I drink it anyway. My thanks. <Jelarthna> Huh? What's going on? Are you in some kind of trouble? * Tyl grins <Bai> Surprise me Rhys. <Tyl> I'm always in trouble, Jelarthna... <Lisl> Better hidden? ::chuckles, rolling up her left sleeve as she talks:: You know very well I'm a fast healer. This is the only thing that hasn't gone yet. * Lion whistles softly. "Got you pretty good that time." <Jelarthna> ::grins at Tyl:: As long as it's nothing too unusual, then. * Lisl rolls her sleeve up over her shoulder, displaying a puckered, nasty-looking puncture scar in faded purple. <Jelarthna> ::sucks in his breath at the sight of the bruise:: Ouch. * Rhys looks slightly perturbed at Bai's request, but obligingly fishes out a packet from under the bar and plops it into the teacup. <Lisl> [It's not a bruise...it's a really nasty scar...old.] <Tyl> ::to Bai:: if that turns purple and starts smoking, just remember that you ASKED for it... <Rhys> ::to Lion:: Sir, can I get you anything? * Lisl smiles wryly at Lion. <Lion> Ah, yes, ::to Rhys:: an ale would be superb. ::smiles:: <Moon Dancer> ::Moon Dancer descends from the upstairs suite, dressed in workclothes and looking slightly winded. He smiles as he enters the Hall proper:: Good evening, all, Rhys... * Lion winks at Lisl. <Lisl> You were around when I got this one, but you didn't give it to me. <Zoya> ::piping up:: Ale! Yes! Me, too! <Tyl> Ah! Moon Dancer! Can I trouble you for a few minutes, please? <Moon Dancer> ::MD makes his way to Lisl, and smiles:: Evening, milady. Good to see you again... <Jelarthna> Hi Dancer! * Lisl smiles at MD and raises a hand in greeting. * Rhys pours mugs of ale for Lion & Zoya (one apiece, that is). "Here you are. Sorry for the wait." <Moon Dancer> ::turns to Tyl, eyebrow raised:: Trouble? No trouble at all. How can I help you? <Lisl> What is it with this "lady"? Everyone's determined to make me aristocracy tonight. * Lisl chuckles. * Tyl pulls out a small black book with silvered writing on it. <Lion> ::to Rhys:: Not at all. ::takes his mug and a generous sip:: <Moon Dancer> ::laughs:: If the suit fits, Lisl... <Tyl> I was sort of hoping you might know what this is. * Lisl rolls her sleeve back down, re-covering the scar. * Jelarthna stand and bows deeply to Lisl. <Jelarthna> At your service, milady. <Lisl> Hah! You're the *last* person I'd expect to be calling *me* a lady! You know better, whelp! * Lisl wrinkles her nose at Jel. * Bai takes the tea bag out of his cup and sets it on the saucer. He looks dubiously at the tea, then takes a sip. * Zoya takes her ale with a grateful grin and drains half of it in a single draught. <Jelarthna> ::grins:: <Moon Dancer> ::looking over his shoulder at Lisl:: Hey, even if the suit fits badly... <Jelarthna> ::blinks at Zoya:: Thirsty? <Lisl> I suppose I should be glad Jaret's not here.... <Jelarthna> ::chuckle:: <Moon Dancer> ::turns back to Tyl:: What's 'this', then? <Zoya> A bit. Working with psionics is tiring. * Lisl sticks her tongue out at MD's back. <Tyl> Well... I'm not sure exactly... * Tyl hands him the book * Jelarthna sips his meade. * Lion leans back on his stool, closes his eyes, and cracks every vertebrae in his back. * Lisl takes a draft of her mulekick. <Lisl> Ooooh...that sounded good. <Jelarthna> ::blinks at Lion:: Yow. <Moon Dancer> ::smiling at Tyl:: Well, let's see... ::takes the book and examines the cover:: <Lion> Yeah, ::to Lisl:: You try a three story dive into a canal in the middle of a thunderstorm, see if your back sounds better. ::winks:: <Jelarthna> The last time I heard noises like that, my arm was broken... <Lisl> You're getting old, friend. ::grinning:: <Zoya> ::to Jel:: Your arm didn't sound nearly that nice. * Lisl laughs at Jel. * Lion chuckles at Lisl's comment. <Lion> ::to Lisl:: Aw, don't say that--I'm just starting to have some _fun_. ::evil grin:: <Zoya> ::musingly:: Or look as promising as Lisl's scar, either. <Jelarthna> Well, it wasn't so bad on the initial break. It was the later parts that were so bad. <Lisl> Heh. You try living in wet, nasty sewers for a month...I'm *so* glad I don't get rheumatism! <Zoya> You're telling *ME*?!? <Lion> ::to Lisl:: No thanks, I'll pass. * Bai sips his tea. <Jelarthna> ::shakes head:: Hopefully I'll be able to laugh about it someday... but not yet. <Lisl> ::chuckling at Zoya's comment:: You call this promising? I got this eight years ago! ::sighs:: I don't think I'll ever be rid of it. <Moon Dancer> ::opens the book, and glances at a few pages, frowning at some of the pages. These he stops at, and actually smells them:: * Jelarthna flexes his left arm <Zoya> ::grins at Lisl:: Yeah, but it's not getting *bigger*, is it? <Lisl> That's alright, Jel. We'll laugh at it *for* you. ::grinning:: <Bai> Something up Moon Dancer? <Moon Dancer> ::he closes the book, and looks at its binding before handing it back to Tyl:: Where did you get this? * Jelarthna summons a slight half-grin <Lisl> ::to Zoya:: Aye...but I wouldn't put it past it... <Tyl> <shrugs> I've had it for years... picked it up from a caravan, as loot <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: I don't know, Bai. This is an ... odd artifact. <Tyl> I just came across it recently, while finishing up my unpacking <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: If it's one of those again, let's take care of it *now* before we wind up in front of another century of demons! <Jelarthna> Artifact? ::looks over:: <Rhys> ::to Tyl:: Tyl? Can I get you some rum? With ice, perhaps? <Tyl> Oh? Yes, thank you Rhys... * Zoya dips a finger in her ale and begins to absently sketch arcane symbols on the bartop. <Moon Dancer> ::to Tyl:: Interesting. It's old, and it smells like bound parchment. What little I know of languages places this as Latin, but I can't be sure... * Rhys coughs quietly at Zoya. <Tyl> Where's Latinia? <Lisl> ::to Jel:: It's alright lad. We've all had episodes like that. You won't believe it now, but with time it'll hurt less. <Lisl> The wound *and* the memory of getting it, both. <Bai> Can I see the book Tyl'gainia? * Rhys gets Tyl a tumbler of rum with a couple of ice cubes. "Here you are." <Zoya> ::glances up at Rhys:: Yes? ::notices her handiwork:: Oh. Sorry. ::fishes a rag from a pocket and wipes up the ale:: * Tyl hands book over to Bai <Jelarthna> ::looks at Lisl, eyes somewhat haunted:: I certainly hope so. <Tyl> Sure thing... * Lion sips his ale. <Moon Dancer> ::laughs:: Latina? No, it's the ancient language of Rome, lass. An empire long dead. <Tyl> <looks a bit embarrassed> <Jelarthna> But the wounds go further than flesh... ::trails off in though:: * Tyl sips her rum * Bai sets the book on the bar in front of him. Picks up his staff and holds it in his left hand while examining the book and turning its pages with his right. <Lisl> Aye, those too. ::nodding, as she picks up her mug and goes to sit closer to him:: <Zoya> ::eyes Jel thoughtfully, and then shakes her head and sighs:: <Moon Dancer> ::turns to Tyl, again:: Where did you say you got this? <Tyl> I found it in a wagon... <Tyl> When I met the first vampire... * Jelarthna shakes his head and takes a deep drink. <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: When you met a vampire? Odd... ::thinks for a few moments:: <Lisl> ::tapping her shoulder:: I got this the night Sealgair died the first time...and when Erdian died for good. <Tyl> well, maybe met isn't exactly the right word... he sort of jumped out on us... <Zoya> We'll have to go over that one again, Lisl. I'm still not sure I got all the details. <Jelarthna> ::to Lisl:: What did it? <Moon Dancer> ::waves dismissively:: No matter. It just makes me wonder... ::turns to Bai:: When you're finished, Bai, I'd like to look at that book again... <Lisl> A demon. One who wanted to destroy Sealgair and his progeny. <Moon Dancer> ::turns to Rhys:: An ale, Rhys, when you have the time... <Lisl> I was...::looks around the room, without really looking *at* the room::...crouched over there. ::points to a place a few feet past the fireplace. <Rhys> I have the time right now, Moon Dancer. ::pours Moon Dancer a mug:: Here you are. * Zoya rummages in her pockets for a moment, then comes up with a somewhat crumpled piece of paper. Another rummage produces a charcoal pencil, and she begins doodling on the paper. <Jelarthna> Ah, I think I've heard about some of that. Mine was from a demon-keeper in conjunction with an evil god that wanted to destroy everything I care about an consume my soul. <Moon Dancer> ::takes the mug, smiling hesitantly:: Thanks, Rhys. <Lisl> ::smiles without humor and nods:: Aye, they're like that, nasty buggers. * Lion sips his ale. <Jelarthna> ::nods:: <Lisl> As it was, though....look where it's ended. Erdian's a god, Sealgair and his daughter *didn't* die, all our current problems came to an end, and I...well, I'd say he did more good for me than harm, even if that wasn't his original intention. <Moon Dancer> ::MD turns to Lion, and smiles:: What are you doing this evening, my ever more intriguing blacksmith? <Jelarthna> ::smiles slightly:: That's good. I can't think of much good that came of mine. Except that I had a true demonstration of how good my friends are. ::glances at MD and Zoya:: * Lisl takes a swig of 'kick. * Lisl catching his look and smiling. <Tyl> <grins at Jelarthna> I always heard that whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger... <Lisl> Sometimes, that's enough. It was something I had great need of at that time, myself. <Moon Dancer> ::turns to Bai:: How're you doing on that book, Bai? * Lion sips his ale. <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: I've heard that, too. I wonder sometimes. <Tyl> Well, think about it - you've learned a lot more about magic, from Zoya, since then, right? <Jelarthna> ::to Lisl:: That lesson was one I actually did manage to learn a few years ago. I've managed to not forget it since. <Moon Dancer> ::MD shrugs, and takes a drink of ale:: * Bai closes the book and hands it to Moon Dancer. "Right now I'm thinking that Tyl wouldn't be having these problems if the two of us had been a bit more inquisitive several years ago. I'm also hoping that the prophecies in that book are a LONG way off. <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: True. I suppose that was pretty much because of that... incident. * Lion leans an elbow on the bar and his chin on his hand. <Tyl> ::turns to Bai:: HUH? <Lisl> ::makes a comical face:: Well, *lots* of people have tried to kill me, and look...::grips the base of Jel's chair firmly and hefts it-- and him-- a half-foot into the air. <Moon Dancer> ::raises an eyebrow to Bai:: What? What prophecies? <Jelarthna> ::blinks at Lisl:: I.. see. <Lion> Oh, ::to Lisl:: stop showing off. <Bai> It's not complete by any stretch of the imagination, and even the parts that sound complete assume you have knowledge I lack, but it sounds like some kind of vampiric vision of the end of the world. <Moon Dancer> ::looks oddly, disbelievingly at Bai:: You can read Latin? <Tyl> Oh, glory <Lisl> ::grins and lets the chair back down:: Yessir. ::sticks her tongue out at Lion when she thinks his back is turned:: <Jelarthna> My. Where do you hide all of that muscle? * Lion sticks his tongue back out at Lisl, when he thinks _her_ back is turned. <Lisl> ::grins:: I attribute it to good stock and plenty of milk growing up. <Bai> Mirgianne's shared a few useful gifts with me. ::Bai smiles:: * Lion slowly drums his fingers on the bar. <Zoya> [Can anyone say, "Comprehend Languages"? I knew you could.] <Jelarthna> Must be very good stock. And milk, for that matter... <Jelarthna> [comprehmb languaauges. dern it!] <Tyl> ::stares at Bai:: Wow. I wonder if this is what they've been looking for for the last few years... <Moon Dancer> ::smiles at Bai:: Evidently. Now, about this book... it's a vampiric legend, you said? * Bai shrugs and rests his staff back against the wall. "Don't know. We could try asking one of them though." * Tyl blinks at Bai <Tyl> Ask them? <Zoya> ::absently, still drawing on her paper:: Talking to vampires is bad for your health. <Bai> It's part legend part prophecy. Like I said, there's obviously a lot of missing information. * Jelarthna looks around at the people discussing the vampire legends with no expression. <Moon Dancer> ::to Bai:: Does it mention any vampires by name? <Bai> It mentioned several names. I got the impression they weren't all vampires. The name that seemed to crop up the most though was Kane. <Jelarthna> Kane? <Zoya> ::stops doodling on her paper long enough to speak a short spell that seems to have no effect, and goes back to drawing, much more carefully this time:: * Bai shrugs, "That's the closest I can get to pronouncing it." <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: Well, that makes sense. ::shrugs, and turns back to Tyl:: You found this book in Cormyr? * Jelarthna glances over at what Zoya's doing. <Zoya> ::Zoya seems to be drawing random lines over top of some arcane symbols. Very slowly.:: * Lion finishes his ale. <Tyl> <nods> A long time ago. It was in the "dead space" inside a wagon... <Bai> ::To Tyl:: As for asking the vampires. I was actually suggesting you, Moon Dancer, and I do so together. I know from personal experience that Moon Dancer and Kirianne make a pretty effective combination against vampires, and you can't be too bad at it if they've been hounding you for years. <Moon Dancer> ::nods, a little dejectedly:: I see. Not in the past few months, then... <Zoya> ::excitedly:: Hey, Tyl, when you get all tensed up like that I can almost locate you! <Tyl> Now I am really confused... <Moon Dancer> ::to Bai:: Aye, that could be a possibility. But, why? * Zoya has gone back to drawing. <Bai> To find out why they want the book so badly. And to find out what they're planning on doing with it once they get it. And maybe to convince them to leave the patronage, and for that matter, the rest of Marsember alone. <Jelarthna> ::glances between Zoya and Tyl:: * Lion rummages around in his belt pouch. * Lisl takes another sip of her 'kick. * Lion pulls out a parchment and lays it on the bar. <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: If it's the book I think it is, they want it for the same reason Christians covet pieces of the True Cross; why pilgrims travel weeks on pilgrimages to holy places... <Jelarthna> A holy Vampire book? <Jelarthna> Frightening thought. <Tyl> Somehow that seems a contradiction of terms, don't you think? * Lion puts the parchment away again. <Moon Dancer> ::to Jel, slightly amused:: What? Vampires can't have a cosmology? * Bai shrugs, "Okay, what do you think they're going to do with it if they get it?" * Lion sits up, looking glazed, and absently traces the lip of his empty mug with a finger. <Jelarthna> I just don't like the thought of them being organized about anything. * Jelarthna blinks a few times and fishes an eyelash out of one of his eyes, and examines it musingly. * Marta A young woman hesitates, framed in the doorway, taking a deep breath before coming in. She seems oddly excited and nervous, and there's something almost foreign about her mode of dress, even in this worldly seaport. <Moon Dancer> ::laughing:: Isn't that irrelevant? They're vampires; what would a horde of demons do when presented with a holy object? It's irrelevant - in either case, we kill them... <Tyl> Well, and this is the weird thing... Michelle says that these vampires are coming from her world... I am wondering how they are getting here... * Jelarthna glances at the newcomer at the door. <Jelarthna> Welcome, come on in. We won't bite. <Zoya> ::still doodling:: If you want the book kept away from the vampires, give it to me and I'll put it in the Tower's library. <Marta> ::smiles uncertainly:: Thank you, good sir. You're too kind. <Jelarthna> ::glances at MD and mutters with a slight grin:: hopefully not, anyway... * Marta crosses the threshold, shivering a little as she comes inside. * Lion blinks at the newcomer, than returns to contemplating his mug. * Jelarthna stands and bows. * Bai sips his tea, "Maybe we should just let them have it. I'd have to talk to Michelle about it, but unless they can do something foolish like actually end the world it's probably better that way." * Lisl sips her 'kick, looking up at the door momentarily. <Tyl> I dunno... I'd almost be willing to give it to them in order to get them to leave me alone... I can't be awake all the time, you know <Rhys> Good evening. I am the bartender for this evening, and my name is Rhys Altain. Can I get you anything to eat or drink? <Moon Dancer> ::to Tyl:: What makes you think they'd leave you alone then? <Jelarthna> I think Zoya's idea is the best one. They won't be able to get it from the Tower. <Tyl> Well, I suppose that *would* be expecting them to be logical... get what they want and leave... <Marta> Oh, yes, thank you. A cup of chamomile tea, perhaps? <Jelarthna> Evil beings rarely leave it at just that, though. <Zoya> ::distractedly:: Never say never, Jelarthna. But it would be awfully difficult. <Bai> This is true. I'd still like to know what their intentions are if they ever do manage to get the book. * Lion stands. "Well, I have things to attend to." Plunks a silver coin on the bar next to the empty mug. <Zoya> ::looks up at Bai:: They're *vampires*, Bai. What do you *think* their intentions are? <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: I don't think so, Jelarthna. If they don't get the book, they won't leave. They'll just increase their numbers. <Rhys> Of course. ::Rhys prepares a steaming cup of chamomile tea for Marta and hands it to her:: Here you are. <Tyl> Lovely... <Jelarthna> I distinctly didn't say never. ::grips sword handle:: I have a pretty good idea how hard it would be for them to get it. * Tyl drains the rest of her rum * Marta looking around the room, taking in faces, details. <Rhys> Good night, Lion, <Moon Dancer> ::looks over to Lion:: Leaving, old friend? <Lisl> Leaving so soon, Lion? More business? <Jelarthna> Good evening Lion. Luck in your investigations. <Bai> Goodnight Lion. <Lion> ::to Lisl, Dancer:: Mm-hm. Much business. I've only just started. ::sighs:: <Zoya> ::waves good night to Lion:: * Lion waves absently and heads for the door. <Lisl> Just don't do it all yourself. I need some excitement in this town. ::smiles:: <Jelarthna> I've only run into a couple of vampires. I don't know how they'd react. * Marta bumps into Lion briefly on her way to the bar. "Oh, pray pardon me!" <Bai> I don't really know that much about vampires. I've killed every one I've ever met. Moon Dancer has a valid point though. Somehow or other we need to find out how they're coming to this world, and how we can stop them. * Lion mumbles an apology to Marta and continues for the door. <Moon Dancer> ::nods:: My point exactly, Bai... <Moon Dancer> ::to Lion:: I'll drop by to see you in a day or two, Lion. We'll talk then, yes? <Jelarthna> Another planar portal of some sort, perhaps? I might be able to help with that. * Lion nods at Dancer over his shoulder. At the door he stops, gives Marta an odd look, and rubs his shoulder. * Lisl looks at Lion's departing back with concern. * Marta bites her lip and smiles uncertainly, still looking about, making her way to the bar. <Jelarthna> ::to Marta:: Just talk to Rhys here. He'll get you whatever you'd like. ::friendly smile:: * Rhys stirs Marta's tea with his special spoon, and lifts the teabag out and sets it on the saucer. * Marta nods her thanks and approaches the bar. I'd like a cup of chamomile tea, please. And...do you have a seat near the window open? * Lisl sips her 'kick. * Rhys peers at Marta. "Yes... I believe we do. I'll seat you, if you'll follow me" ::picks up Marta's tea and heads for a table near a window:: <Jelarthna> ::grins at Rhys' back:: <Marta> ::follows Rhys to the table, gathering up her long skirts gracefully in one hand.:: * Bai sips his tea. <Bai> So, what do we want to do about this book and our apparent vampire problem? * Jelarthna sips his Feywine. <Moon Dancer> ::MD takes another drink of his ale, and looks at Tyl and Bai:: <Jelarthna> Well, it is Tyl's book. * Lisl drains her mug. <Rhys> ::to Lisl:: More? <Jelarthna> She should be the one to decide what to do with it. <Moon Dancer> ::to Jel:: Well, technically. But I think she'd get some objections if she tried to claim permanent ownership. <Tyl> <grins painfully> I'm not really sure it's *my* book... it just happens to be in my hands. I'm quite sure it must have belonged to that first vampire <Jelarthna> Yes, Therein lies the problem. <Lisl> ::grinning at Bai:: JUST to show who's NOT an alcoholic here...tea, please. Kwan Yin, if you have any. <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: Fair spoils... * Bai smiles at Lisl and sips his tea. <Moon Dancer> ::to Jel:: Fair spoils are one thing. Outliving the current 'owner' is another altogether. * Marta sits at the table, her eyes straying to the window every odd moment or so. Her fingers play around the rim of her tea cup, but she doesn't drink, yet. <Rhys> Of course, Lisl. ::pours the refined lady some kwan yin in a fine teacup and hands it to her:: Here you are... <Jelarthna> I'm sorry, I'm not thinking very clearly tonight. Too much on my mind, I suppose. * Moon Dancer stands and stretches. He notices the newcomer, and raises a hand. "Well met, milady." He slowly walks over to her table, and motions to a chair. "Is this seat taken?" <Tyl> <rolls her rum glass back and forth between her palms> I am really not sure what to do about it... * Marta looks up, a little fearfully, at the big man. <Jelarthna> I suppose perhaps keep it at Zoya's Tower until we can think of something better to do? <Marta> No, no, it's not taken. I'm just...I'm waiting for someone. <Jelarthna> ::glances over to Marta:: Who are you waiting for, if you don't mind my asking? <Bai> Tyl, about how often do they attack you, or has it been fairly random? * Lisl takes her cup with a smile and a sidelong glance at Bai, sipping, pinky finger extended delicately. * Moon Dancer smiles his disarming smile, and nods. "Well, excellent. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Moon Dancer, and I'm the current proprietor of this establishment." Takes a seat, and his mug trots over to his side. <Moon Dancer> ::extends a hand to Marta:: And your name, milady?> <Zoya> ::glances up at Jel:: If we're going to keep the vampire book, I want you to modify the wards to trigger a light attack along with the other stuff... <Tyl> <shakes her head> well, there's usually a gap of a few weeks or months, but then there will be 2 or 3 of them within a week... then nothing for a month or so, then 1 or 2 more, like that * Marta blushes slightly, ducking her head. <Marta> I was to meet a young gentleman here. I'm afraid I'm a bit late...I do hope he's not come and gone already. <Jelarthna> ::nods to Zoya:: Alright. I'll get that set up tonight. * Marta widens her eyes at the sight of the walking mug. "Oh...oh, MY..." <Moon Dancer> ::nods:: What was this gentleman's name, if I may ask? Perhaps I've seen him... <Bai> So how long before you expect to be attacked again? <Tyl> Well, I had one pounce on me last week, but I only saw the one... perhaps very soon... <Moon Dancer> ::looks at the mug, and picks it up, smiling:: Aye, the Hall is a bit enchanted, milady. Don't let it bother you; you get used to it, after awhile... * Tyl glanced over at the newcomer. <Marta> ::extends her hand in the conservative fashion, as if to be kissed:: Yousef. His name is Yousef. ::blushes again:: <Moon Dancer> ::furrows his brow:: No... I can't say I've met him. Are you sure you were meeting him here? I'm familiar with most of the Patrons here... <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: Will you and your sister be okay, or would you like me to stay with you for a while and help keep watch? <Bai> How about if I spend the night at your place then. I'd like to talked to one of them, and I suspect it'll be easier to capture one if I'm present when it attacks. <Jelarthna> ::grins slightly at Bai:: <Tyl> ::glances at Jelarthna:: I'd be happy to have you stay over. And you as well, Bai... maybe I should be running the inn.... <laughs> <Marta> Yes, I'm certain it was here. I was just...I was delayed, and...::seems a little distraught:: Yousef is a fisherman, locally. I was to meet him here. * Bai shrugs and sips his tea, "You said you'd fought vampires before didn't you Jelarthna?" <Jelarthna> Only a couple of times. Long ago. * Lisl sips her tea, smiling slightly at the sight of a chatty MD. <Moon Dancer> ::turns to face Bai:: Don't leave too quickly, Bai. If you're planning on going over to Tyl'gainia's, I have a few things for you... <Bai> No problem Moon Dancer. This is one subject I know better than to doubt you on. * Lisl raises an eyebrow. <Moon Dancer> ::shrugs:: If you think you need the help, I'll join you... <Lisl> These aren't run-of-the-mill vampires, then? ::looks at MD:: friends of yours? <Bai> Shouldn't unless Tyl's attracted a brand of vampire that's immune to sunlight. <Moon Dancer> ::to Lisl:: You could say that, yes. <Tyl> Nope ::pats her sword:: I think that's why I'm doing so well against them... Sunblade seems to bother them a lot <Jelarthna> Heh. If you two are going to keep an eye on Tyl, I probably should help make sure the Tower is sealed up tight. * Tyl frowns slightly * Bai smiles at Tyl, "You have an aurum blade as well?" * Marta glances out the window, almost starting from her seat as the night guard walks past outside. She settles back when she sees it's no one she recognizes. <Jelarthna> Don't worry, they're *very* capable. I'll be sure to swing by and see how things are going. <Tyl> A what? <Moon Dancer> ::to Marta:: You seem preoccupied. Is there something I could get you? <Marta> ::sighs:: No, my thanks, sir. I suppose I'll simply have to wait...at least I finally made it here. <Marta> ::brow furrowing slightly in a frown:: But stay...you said you were owner of this establishment? <Bai> Oh. On my world pieces of the sun occasionally fall from the sky. The sun's made of a metal called aurum, which is similar to gold. A particularly skilled craftsman can forge the aurum into weapons which possess the power of the sun. <Jelarthna> ::walks over to where Marta and MD are sitting:: Excuse me, Miss. But how long ago was this engagement supposed to take place? <Moon Dancer> ::shrugs:: Well, if you need a place to stay... ::nods:: Aye, I am that, milady... <Tyl> ah... if you call it that... it was a gift from my teacher. * Marta looks up at Jel with a bit of trepidation, looks back down at her cup of tea, and mumbles something too quiet to hear. <Tyl> The vampires don't handle it too well when I stab them with it * Tyl watches Jelarthna out of the corner of her eye <Jelarthna> ::smiles gently:: I'm sorry, I couldn't hear you. We'll be happy to help you find your friend, if you can tell us a little more about him. <Moon Dancer> ::MD raises his eyebrow, and looks at Marta:: Sorry? That long? <Bai> That's good to hear. The first vampire I ran into was immune to sunlight. I even cut him with Kirianne and the wounds just healed right up. Finally had to shoot him with a bow. <Jelarthna> ::looks at MD quizzically: <Tyl> Pieces of the sun? That's rather poetic... <Marta> ::flushes a deep pink and nods at the table:: [btw...you note that she looks, perhaps, about 20 or so.] * Jelarthna mouths to MD "how long?" <Moon Dancer> ::MD looks at Marta, disbelievingly, and turns to Rhys:: Rhys, could you send a mug of water over here, please? <Marta> ::looks up at Jel, clearing her throat:: I said, fifty years. * Lisl raises an eyebrow at MD and points to herself, raising an eyebrow. <Marta> That is, if this is Monday the 12th. <Moon Dancer> ::MD nods, and motions to Lisl to come and join the group at the table:: <Jelarthna> Ah, I see. Might I ask why you were so delayed? * Rhys coughs, and glares at Jelarthna. * Lisl stands up, balancing her teacup carefully in one hand, and crosses to the table by the window. * Lisl bows slightly before sitting. "Lisl Ferinsdottir, milady." <Zoya> ::glances up again:: Jelarthna, for Erdian's sake stop pestering the child! <Bai> Jelarthna, why don't you come over here. We could use some help figuring out the right combination of spells to incapacitate a vampire without actually killing it. <Marta> I was....I was killed. Over there. ::nods to the building across the street:: * Tyl coughs and spills her half-melted ice cubes all over the floor <Moon Dancer> ::puts down his mug, and puts a hand on Marta's arm:: What? <Jelarthna> ::remorse:: I'm sorry if I offended... <Marta> That's why I asked....you are the proprietor, sir? Did you purchase that building recently? Or acquire a piece of it somehow? <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: No, the Hall's been here much longer than I have. I just picked up the pieces for the previous owner, after he had to leave... <Tyl> ::the rum glass sprouts arms and crawls around on the floor, picking up the ice cubes:: * Moon Dancer removes his hand from Marta's arm, flexing it, as if trying to wake it from sleeping... <Zoya> ::looks down at her paper, then back up again, startled, to Marta:: * Jelarthna looks out the window at the building across the street. <Marta> ::shakes her head at Jel:: I'm not offended, and really, I mean no harm to any here. <Jelarthna> I think I knew that already. ::smiles sadly:: Is there anything we can do to help you? <Marta> It's only that...well, I've been trying for so long to keep my appointment, and it was only last week that I realized I might cross. <Moon Dancer> ::to Marta:: Cross? Cross over? <Tyl> ::mutters very quietly to herself:: <Marta> ::smiles sadly:: Cross the street. It sounds silly, doesn't it? <Jelarthna> no, not really. <Moon Dancer> ::grins, slightly embarrassed:: Silly? No. If anyone's silly, it's me... <Marta> I've been trying for fifty years, but I've been tied to that building, where I...where I...I'm sorry. ::puts a hand to her face:: <Jelarthna> ::puts a sympathetic hand on her shoulder:: <Jelarthna> [or tries to...] <Marta> Are you sure nothing from that place has come to this one recently? I could have sworn... <Tyl> <turns to Jelarthna> the roof piece? * Jelarthna removes his hand and shakes it surreptitiously. * Lisl flares her nostrils slightly as she leans on the table. * Lisl shakes her head wonderingly. <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head:: I can't say for certain; I've been absent for a while, now... ::turns to Rhys:: Have you seen anything, anyone out of the ordinary, Rhys? <Jelarthna> Perhaps... ::pulls a piece of roofing from his belt pouch:: <Jelarthna> Is this it? * Marta looks up at Tyl, and turns to Jel as he takes the piece from his pouch:: * Bai shakes his head, "Jelarthna, your luck is as prone to extremes as Yb." <Marta> Oh, that's it! It must be, I can feel it! ::smiling happily, a small tear glistening at the corner of her eye.:: <Jelarthna> ::shoots Bai a dirty look:: <Tyl> I don't know whether to say you're welcome, or I'm sorry... I had Jel fetch that from the roof last week <Moon Dancer> ::looks at the piece of roof, and Jel:: Where did you get that, Jelarthna? <Jelarthna> From the roof of that building. It was so that Tyl could try to get impressions of the lurker I saw. <Marta> Oh, no, please...it is I who should be thanking you a thousand times! I've not been able to leave the place of my...death...::manages to get out the word, with difficulty:: and the building was mainly abandoned, soon after. <Moon Dancer> ::nods, absentmindedly:: Aye, the lurker... <Jelarthna> ::to Marta:: So you can go where this goes? <Marta> I...think so. <Tyl> ::mutter mutter:: <Jelarthna> Would you like me to leave it here, then? At least for now? <Jelarthna> Or keep carrying it around? <Tyl> Why don't you just give it to her? ::gestured to her tea cup:: she can pick things up, apparently... <Marta> ::turns a smile on Jel, looking quite pretty, now that she's happy:: Oh, yes, please. <Marta> Please, leave it here. * Jelarthna hands the piece of roof to Moon Dancer. <Bai> Not to be rude, but wouldn't you rather go to your final rest. Or possible Jelarthna could just give the shingle to you and you could go where you wanted to. <Jelarthna> Out that in a safe place. <Marta> This place...tho' it's changed...is the only way I have to find my Yousef. <Moon Dancer> ::takes the piece of the roof, and extends it to Marta:: Would it be easier if you kept it? <Jelarthna> ::mutters low to self, looking thoughtful:: Yousef... <Marta> Alas, I can't. ::extends her quite solid-looking hand for the shingle, ghosting out and passing through it at the last moment:: <Bai> Um...I hate to say this, but you do realize that Yousef's aged 50 years. <Rhys> Bai? <Marta> Anything else, I can. ::picks up the teacup:: But not the house. ::shakes her head:: <Moon Dancer> ::looks at Marta, quite taken aback:: Ah... I see. ::stands, reluctantly, and takes the piece of the roof back to his office:: <Marta> ::smiles sadly:: I know. And he probably wouldn't want me...I imagine he's a trifle angry at me for not having come. <Jelarthna> I wouldn't be so sure about that... <Jelarthna> Some memories never really go away. <Marta> We were going to run away together and be married.... <Jelarthna> ::thoughtful:: Where were you going to go? <Marta> Away, anywhere...I don't really know. We were going to take ship and go make a new fortune together. <Marta> My fiancée, however, thought that his fortune was one enough to buy me...and my father agreed. <Tyl> ::mutter:: <Jelarthna> Who was your fiancée? Not Yousef, I assume? <Marta> ::shakes her head:: The Viscount De Moncourt. <Jelarthna> I see. Who was your father? <Marta> Yousef is...was...::firms her chin:: IS only a fisherman, but he's good at his trade, and steady, and we would have been well off enough as long as we were together. <Marta> My father WAS Boris Kelchov. * Rhys gathers together the mostly-empty mugs that have been left at the bar & herds them into the kitchen. <Marta> ::smiles a trifle grimly:: I felt him die not two years after I did. A tavern brawl, I think. <Jelarthna> Well, I'm sure you'll feel a lot less lonely until Yousef shows up. <Marta> ::beams a smile:: Yes, I'm certain of that. I can't thank you enough. <Jelarthna> ::nods a bit, looking sure of something:: <Jelarthna> A mere chance, but I'm glad I could help. * Moon Dancer walks out of his office, looking at Marta's table before approaching Bai, and placing a hand on his shoulder. He holds his hand above Bai's, and looks at him. "If you need me, let me know. Don't get in over your head, my friend." <Bai> [Braz, are you still getting beer?] <Marta> ::looking up at MD:: You're certain it's alright, I may stay here? <Jelarthna> Well, if you'll excuse me, I must take my leave. There are several things I need to do tonight. <Tyl> It'll be fine, Moon Dancer... Bai and I will be fine, I'm sure. I've handled more then a few vampires on my own. <Moon Dancer> [ummm... well, that's a lifelong task, so in a way, yes.] <Rhys> Good night, Jelarthna. Watch your back. <Marta> Good night, good sir. ::blushing a bit:: My thanks for your timely rescue. <Jelarthna> ::takes a small pouch from his belt, and bouncing it thoughtfully, drops it on the bar:: <Tyl> Good Night, Jelarthna... * Zoya looks up from her drawing in time to notice the lamplighters outside the window. "Goodness; look at the time!" She starts carefully folding her paper, then begins looking frantically for her pencil, which is tucked behind an ear. <Jelarthna> ::to Rhys:: I will. <Bai> Goodnight Jelarthna. * Tyl watches him thoughtfully <Rhys> ::to Jelarthna: Keep the coin. We'll be fine. <Moon Dancer> ::MD drops a small bone charm in Bai's hand, and closes his hand on it:: Just break it, and I'll know. <Jelarthna> ::bows to Marta:: My pleasure. <Moon Dancer> ::turning to Tyl:: I'm sure you'll be fine. But, it never hurts to have reinforcements, if you need them. <Jelarthna> Goodnight Bai, but I'll be seeing you and Tyl a little later tonight. * Zoya finally finds her pencil, and heads toward the door. "Good night, my friends!" * Tyl perks up a little bit. <Tyl> I'll leave a light on for you, then. <Jelarthna> Goodnight Zoya, see you in a little bit. <Jelarthna> ::to Rhys:: It's okay, I don't really need it. <Zoya> Don't linger too long, Jelarthna. I don't want to turn in until those wards are modified. <Moon Dancer> ::walks over to Marta:: Now, I assume you need a place to stay... <Jelarthna> ::to Zoya:: That's my first stop. ::smiles grimly:: * Tyl stands and drops a few silver coins on the table <Marta> ::uncertainly:: Well, not to sleep, exactly... <Tyl> Well, Bai, shall we? <Jelarthna> Good night, everyone! ::grabs his cloak and hat and heads out:: <Marta> But if I have your permission to stay, I'll promise to stay out of the way. <Marta> I'll not be visible in daylight. * Bai slides the charm into the folds of his sash, then picks up his staff. "After you Tyl." <Marta> ::furrowing her brow:: Was there some talk before of a "lurker"? I could guard your door for you, if you wished. <Moon Dancer> ::shakes his head at Marta:: Don't be silly. Stay for as long as you need, and if I can get you anything, let me know. Honestly, I could use the company sometimes... * Zoya steps out into the night. * Lisl smiles at Jel's retreating back. "Jaret would be proud...." * Rhys grins. That one came here like that. <Rhys> But they are kindred spirits of a sort, indeed. <Lisl> ::standing and stretching, popping her back:: Time for me to head home as well...Sleep sweet, all. Best of luck, milady. <Rhys> Good night, Lisl. Take care. <Moon Dancer> ::laughs:: No, honestly, your company is enough. Perhaps, later on, we can talk about spirituality, but for now, have your pick of the available rooms... * Rhys crooks a finger at Moon Dancer. "Can we talk for a moment?" <Marta> ::smiles thankfully at MD:: Many thanks. And please, my name is Marta. <Moon Dancer> ::raises his hand to Lisl:: Goodnight, milady. Sleep well... <Moon Dancer> ::turns to Rhys:: Aye. ::to Marta:: Excuse me a moment please... <Lisl> 'Night, pup! ::flashing a smile at Marta:: To misquote the Bard...may angels haunt your rest. <Moon Dancer> ::walks over to the bar:: What's up? <Rhys> ::to MD:: Now, I know you've been very busy. And it's not your favorite task in the best of times, but I think this is something that really needs to be looked into, and soon. <Rhys> I mean, it *is* that time of year.... <Marta> ::smiles shyly at the departing Lisl:: <Moon Dancer> ::looks at Rhys:: That time of year? * Rhys walks over to the office, opens the mostly-closed door, and casts a despairing eye on the stack of the Hall's balance books, with receipts for bills paid and notices of amounts due strewn all over the desk. <Rhys> The tax man arrives in a few days, and we've got a *lot* of work cut out for us... <Moon Dancer> ::looks at the office, and sighs:: Aye, *that* time of year. ::shakes his head, and smiles impishly at Rhys:: I take it you're confining me to my room? * Marta clears her throat hesitantly. <Rhys> ::grins:: More or less. I'll help out, but raw figures aren't my chief talent. <Moon Dancer> ::looks back at Marta:: Yes? <Marta> Not to intrude, but...my father was a fairly successful merchant. <Moon Dancer> ::to Rhys:: Of course, I could use the help. I've been neglecting my work for far too long. Figure we could work on these tomorrow, a little after midday? * Rhys stares at Marta and a hopeful smile starts to creep across his face. "You didn't happen to deal with the books at all, did you?" <Marta> I was his only daughter, so I did learn some skills, before I...passed on. <Moon Dancer> ::raises an eyebrow:: Well, then, I seem to be in luck! Two hands will make this *much* easier! <Moon Dancer> ::to Rhys:: Tomorrow, then? <Marta> Granted, I'm sure I'll find the taxes they levy these days to be ruinous, but I'd be glad to assist. Your people have done so much for me already! <Rhys> Indeed. Until then... ::heads to the door and locks it closed:: ... good night! <Moon Dancer> ::nods to Rhys:: Excellent. I'll show our guest to a room, then. Many thanks, Rhys, and I'll see you tomorrow! <Marta> ::with what almost looks like a twinkle in her eye:: And...I've no need of sleep, either. <Moon Dancer> ::to Marta, motioning to the stairs:: And, milady, after you... <Marta> ::executing a curtsey the like of which hasn't been seen outside of High Court in at least twenty years:: <Marta> My thanks, sir. * Moon Dancer heads up the stairs, towards his room... * Marta drifts gracefully up the stairs, fading out quietly. |
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