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* Michelle unlocks the door and hangs a sign on it proclaiming, "Private Party" * Michelle returns to the bar and speaks to the old man sitting there, "Can I get you anything to drink?" * Michelle is wearing a blue silk kimono with white spiral patterns and a black sash. Her hair is bound in a high ponytail, held together by a strip of cloth matching the kimono. <Old_Man> ::looking somewhat put out, he shakes his head a bit unsteadily, and speaks curtly:: No, I have no thirst this eve. * Marta comes down the stairs, alerted by the noise. "Moon Dancer? Michelle? <Michelle> I'm afraid Moon Dancer still isn't back Marta. <Marta> Ahh, Michelle...I wasn't sure...the Hall isn't open tonight usually, is it? What's going on? * Old_Man looks blearily at the ghost, obviously not able to make out her features, but seeming bothered by something. <Michelle> It concerns the matter we discussed the other week. Though I'm going to have to have words with Jelarthna about letting me know what he's planning ahead of time. I hate having to rush my preparations. * Jelarthna comes through the door. He's somewhat forcefully bringing another figure into the Hall, who appears to be struggling weakly. Jelarthna has little discernable expression, but his features so seem to be in a state of almost forced neutrality. * Jelarthna brings the figure over to a table and motions to a chair. <Jelarthna> Have a seat, ::distasteful tone:: m'lord. * Viscount collapses into the chair, his breath hoarsely whistling in his throat. * Viscount is an ancient human male, dressed in an smoking jacket, faded satin pants, and slippers. * Michelle shakes her head, "I'm sure you'll explain your reasoning to me later Jelarthna." <Jelarthna> ::Looks up at Michelle and smiles tightly.:: Good evening, Michelle, Marta. * Old_Man looks quizzical at the name, as if trying to remember something. * Marta looks at the strange Old Man, wondering what's going on.... * Viscount wheezes for breath, nervously looking around the room. "Where... where have you taken me to?" <Jelarthna> ::looks down at the Viscount:: An important place. You'll know soon enough. * Marta looks closely at the Viscount, squinting, and suppresses a gasp, her hand in front of her mouth. * Jelarthna sets a small pouch down on the counter in front of Michelle. <Jelarthna> For later. * Temire comes down the stairs, she is a human in her mid-teens and is wearing black pants, soft leather boots, and an undyed shirt, "I think I'm done up there Mistress Michelle." * Jelarthna glances at the newcomer. * Viscount is still worriedly glancing around the room, his eyes occasionally stopping on the door, and measuring the distance to it. <Jelarthna> Who is your young friend, Michelle? <Michelle> I thought I told you to just call me Michelle. At any rate, have a seat, things are definitely going to be interesting. * Marta looks from Michelle to Jel, a small frown creasing her forehead. * Jelarthna keeps an eye on both of the oldsters, and carefully places himself between the Viscount and the door. * Viscount keeps looking around the room, from person to person, obviously confused by everything that's going on. <Michelle> ::To Jel:: I'll explain another time. For right now let's just say that she's my assistant. ::Making introductions:: Everyone, this is Temire, Yohko met her in Jaret's class. Temire, this is Jelarthna, Marta, and...I'm afraid I don't know the others. * Temire bows, "A pleasure to meet you." <Viscount> ::looking at Michelle, somewhat perplexedly:: You mean you kidnapped me at random, without even knowing who I was? <Jelarthna> Nice to meet you as well, as well. I only wish the circumstances were better. <Michelle> Would anyone care for something to drink? I have a kettle on in back if you care for tea, and of course the bar is open. * Marta curtseys in her old-fashioned way to Temire, looking a question to Michelle. <Michelle> I didn't kidnap you, Jelarthna did. I'm assuming he had some reason for doing so. <Jelarthna> ::motions to the old man he dragged in just now:: This is Viscount Guy Truesilver. ::looks at Marta:: And the man responsible for your death. * Temire perches on a stool at the bar, watching everything with a fascinated expression. * Viscount stares at Marta for a few long beats, before turning to Jelarthna. "You. Monster." * Old_Man looks shocked and tries to see the man on the stool, getting up and walking there slowly. * Michelle puts her head in her hand, "I should have known you'd do something like this. Well nothing to do about it now." <Jelarthna> ::points at the other oldster:: And this is Michael, her killer. * Marta takes a step back, her mouth forming a denial, her form flickering. "Him? All along...it was...him?" * Jelarthna nods grimly to Marta <Jelarthna> I'm afraid so, Marta. <Old_Man> It was only a job. And it was so long ago... * Temire squeaks in surprise, then covers her mouth with both hands, clearly engrossed in what is transpiring. <Old_Man> What right do you have to dredge this out of my past? Eh? That was a lifetime ago! <Marta> But...but...why? What did I...::tears starting in her eyes:: I only MET him once!! <Michelle> Let me guess, you were young and needed the money? <Marta> ::a hint of anger rising in her voice:: It was *my* lifetime ago!!! <Viscount> How dare you accuse me of such a thing? She disappeared a few days before our wedding. I was distraught! However you've convinced yourself that I had a hand in it is beyond me, but I can see no reason for me to spend any more time in this den of villains. ::determinedly stands, and begins to head for the door:: <Old_Man> Does it matter? I barely even remember. I do recall that I felt some regret, she was such a pretty young thing... ::trails off, and now closer to Marta, looks at her with shock and horror:: * Tyl walks into the Hall and looks around <Michelle> Tyl please close the door, I'll lock it in a moment. We really can't have anyone leaving before this is all over. <Jelarthna> ::firmly places his hand on the Viscount's chest and looks him in the eye:: You are not leaving just yet. ::there is steel in his voice:: * Viscount shoots a venomous look at Jelarthna. * Tyl shuts the door behind her, giving Michelle a curious look * Michelle gestures to Jel and the Viscount. * Jelarthna meets the Viscounts eyes without flinching <Viscount> ::to Tyl:: So, you take orders from kidnappers and burglars? <Tyl> ::peers at the Viscount:: Not especially. I usually do honor requests made by friends, however. <Jelarthna> ::glances at Tyl, and smiles just a little:: Tyl, it's good to see you. <Viscount> Hmph. <Tyl> Good evening, my dear... care to enlighten me? <Jelarthna> Why don't you sit back down and make yourself comfortable, sir? *** Old_Man is now known as Michael <Michelle> Rum and ice Tyl? <Viscount> I would be much more comfortable in my house, thank you very much. So let's not pretend that you care one whit for my comfort, you conniving rogue. <Tyl> <grins> I'd love a drink, Michelle... this is so much more interesting then staying at home watching my sister and Bluestar making lovie faces at each other ::makes a gagging noise:: <Jelarthna> ::actually grins slightly:: Nevertheless, you are not leaving this place until we are done with you. So -sit- -down-. ::there is a definite edge of restrained violence in the voice:: <Marta> ::looking back and forth between Jel and the Viscount:: How do you know it was him? He was betrothed to me, after all, he...::moving her gaze down to her empty finger:: ...he gave me his ring...::ending on a whisper:: <Viscount> ::to Jelarthna, a sly undercurrent to his voice:: Well, I can see with what respect you hold the law in, at least... ::trails off as he turns his back on Jelarthna, and shuffles back to a seat:: * Michelle gets a glass and puts a few ice cubes in it, "Couldn't talk her out of it then?" Michelle pours a few fingers of rum into the glass and sets it on the bar. "Oh Tyl, this is Temire. Yohko stole her from Jaret's class and has me keeping an eye on her this evening." * Michael keeps staring in shock at Marta. He recovers and attempts to reach out and touch her, jerkin his hand back and cradling it when it gets close. <Jelarthna> This is not about law, this is about justice. <Tyl> Nice to meet you, Temire - you get to take classes with that lovely looking Jaret? Lucky you... not only is he a wonderful cutie to look at, but very talented with a blade. <Jelarthna> Marta, do you know where that ring is now? <Viscount> Charming semantics, son. I hope they're a comfort for you when you hang from the gallows for kidnapping a member of the aristocracy. <Tyl> ::to Michelle:: does this idiot really think we'd let someone HANG Jelarthna? <Jelarthna> If that is the result, then so be it. I will see right done this night, and you will finally answer for your crime. * Temire blushes slightly, "Actually, I've stopped taking classes with Master Jaret. My parents said it wasn't very ladylike so I had to come up with the money myself. Once Master Yohko took me under her wing I stopped attending Master Jaret's classes." <Marta> ::putting a hand to her throat with a slight cry of pain when Michael tries to touch her, jerking back:: Don't! <Viscount> ::to Tyl, archly:: Oh, what is the punishment for kidnapping a member of the nobility from where you're from? * Michael backs up until his back is to the bar, and just seems to cease moving. <Michelle> ::To Tyl:: Probably. Though it could get messy. After all, when was the last time this place actually had to defend its reputation. <Marta> ::looking to Jel:: I...I don't know...it should still be on my...::swallowing hard:: on my corpse. It was in my pocket when I died. ::turning her face away from the Viscount:: I didn't want to wear it. <Tyl> ::grins at him:: You've called my friends thieves and kidnappers, and you don't think there's a place for them to be safe if they need it? ::makes a strange gesture with her hand:: * Viscount seems somewhat saddened by Marta's latest comment, looking into the tabletop. <Jelarthna> Marta, I obtained the contents of that pouch from the Viscount's home ::nods at the pouch he set on the counter earlier:: <Jelarthna> ::to Michelle:: Don't worry Michelle. ::grimly:: I'll take full responsibility for everything that happens here tonight. <Tyl> ::a little sternly:: Um, Jelarthna... that's what friends are for, you know. We like to *share* things... <Marta> ::moves over to the pouch, looking up at Jelarthna sharply as her hand hovers over it:: <Viscount> ::grimly, to Jelarthna:: It's not that easy, elf. Anyone here who doesn't go to alert the authorities that I've been kidnapped is an accomplice. You'll not swing along. <Jelarthna> :smiles slightly at Tyl:: <Tyl> ::looks around for her drink:: of course, I'm still floundering for an explanation, here <Michelle> I'll be back in a moment. ::Disappears into the kitchen.:: <Tyl> ::to Jel:: You see? We're all in trouble already anyway... might as well see it through... <Jelarthna> I'm sorry, Tyl. This is Viscount Guy Truesilver, the man behind Marta's assassination. That man over by the bar is the assassin. <Viscount> ::to Tyl:: Is your friend *usually* this delusional? * Tyl makes a strange gesture and mutters something in a strange language to the man by the bar * Temire looks worried at the Viscount's last statement, "Um...Should we be doing this?" <Michael> ::blinks for a moment, then responds to Tyl in kind:: It's been a long time, lass. <Viscount> ::to Temire:: Definitely not. Thank you, young one, for being wiser than your elders. * Marta unties the drawstring of the pouch, and, without looking at it, keeping her gaze on the Viscount, upends it on the bartop. The a crested ring set with a huge ruby, wound around with a lock of raven-black hair, tumbles out and clatters on the bar. <Tyl> ::to Temire:: Don't worry kiddo... we'll "restrain" you <Jelarthna> ::points at the Viscount:: You sought Marta's hand for her dowry and her father's wealth. When the spies you had set upon her discovered that she was going to turn you down for a fisherman, you were outraged. * Viscount sits back, waiting for Jelarthna to finish his Perry Mason impersonation. <Jelarthna> Unable to bear such an "embarrassment", you had her killed. And the proof of the deed was that ring! * Michelle returns from the kitchen, "Those lerts are so wonderfully helpful. I hope I haven't missed anything important." <Tyl> ::to Michelle:: well, we're restraining Temire from going to the guard... * Temire looks worriedly at Tyl, "Restrain?!?" <Michael> ::looks at the ring:: Aye, that was the deal. The life and the ring. ::softer:: the life and the ring... <Tyl> So she won't be involved in the mess, should it get messy... <Tyl> ::to Temire:: Figure of speech, mostly. You don't go for the guards, I won't have to restrain you. There, now it's a real threat and you won't be accused if this goes to any silly court. <Michelle> Oh, Temire wouldn't do that would you dear. ::smiles at Temire:: <Marta> ::her gaze still fixed unwaveringly on the Viscount, she shakes her head slowly:: He didn't need spies. My father knew perfectly well where I was going. Half the street knew, that night. * Temire visibly pales. <Viscount> ::to Jelarthna:: Are you finished reciting your fictions? <Tyl> ::turns to Michelle:: erps. I think I overdid it. Reassure your friend here that I don't usually hurt people, if you please... <Jelarthna> ::nods:: Exactly. I've spent some time tracing this. And I have the names of every one of your servants over the years. I have spoken with maids that worked for you then * Michelle pours some wine into a mug and hands it to Temire, "Drink this, it'll settle your nerves." <Jelarthna> I have tracked down their children, even! <Tyl> ::mutters VERY quietly to Michelle:: <Michelle> ::To Tyl:: Don't worry Tyl, this is her first time so I'm not really all that surprised. ::Looks at Jel:: I had thought it would be fairly simple. <Marta> If what he said was untrue, "Your Excellency," how do you explain this? ::holding up the ring in the palm of her hand, where it seems almost to glow with solid reality:: <Jelarthna> I know exactly where to find each one of them, and all that are still living will swear to this. You raged when she found out Marta would turn you down for a fisherman. <Viscount> ::to Jelarthna:: I hope you realize that you've obviously lost all sense of objectivity in this charade that you're classifying as an investigation. Let me try to clear things up. <Jelarthna> And this man that you hired and did the very deed is willing to do the same. <Jelarthna> ::to Michelle:: This man is not simple, I'm afraid. Nor this situation. * Michelle whispers back to Tyl. <Jelarthna> Please, do! I would *love* to hear how you try to explain this. <Michelle> I'd noticed. Next time, warn me when you're going to pull a stunt like this. <Viscount> ::begins to tick points off on his fingers, studiously ignoring any interruptions:: The ring is an old family heirloom. I had it sent to Marta for our wedding. It disappeared along with her. Some twenty years ago, I found it for sale in a fine jewelers shop. So I purchased it, so it would return to my family. <Jelarthna> I'm sorry, Michelle. <Tyl> ::grins at Michelle:: * Michelle grins back at Tyl. <Viscount> As for this... ::looking over Michael:: commoner. I'm don't know who he is, and I certainly never told him to kill anyone. <Viscount> And, now that both your ring and mysterious man have been uncovered as frauds, I would like to go home. <Michelle> Tyl, is testimony taken under truth spell admissible in the courts here? <Michael> ::chuckles loudly:: Is that right? Didn't hire me with yer own hand, eh? ::cough, cough:: <Tyl> Um, I don't believe so... something about being hard to trust mages... goddess, I am glad Zoya wasn't around to hear me say that... <Jelarthna> I suppose you just strolled down to the market and bought the ring yourself, hmm? Didn't bother to tell the other nobles that you still had your heirloom, which everyone though "disappeared" with Marta? <Viscount> I don't believe so, you twitching drunkard. ::to Jelarthna:: Is that what he is? Some alleyway winesot you've bribed with hard spirits for false testimony? <Tyl> But then, ::giving a cold glance to Viscount:: I've never been brought to trial. No witnesses. * Michelle shakes her head, "It never is that simple." <Marta> ::shaking her head, a dark, invisible cloud seeming to gather around her shoulders:: That man is no fraud. That man murdered me, and the hair twined about *your* ring is mine. <Michael> ::draws himself straighter for a moment:: I may not be much of a man, but I was the finest assassin in this city, and that is why you hired me, sir. I have not had a drink my entire life, not even to dull the pain of remembering. <Viscount> Why bring up old, horrible wounds? What good would it have done, to tell the populace that I'd found the ring again, some thirty years after she had disappeared? I'll tell you. None. <Jelarthna> Never mind the fact that you would have had to explain how you got it back, as well. <Jelarthna> You could not even sell it for the money you needed so badly back then. <Jelarthna> It's time to face the truth, Viscount, and to face your victim. <Viscount> ::to Jelarthna:: I told you already, you feebleminded fool. I purchased it from a jewelers. And accusations about my finances... I believe you've truly lost your head over this. It is truly terrible that Marta was killed, but in your search to find someone to blame, I think you've lost touch with reality, dear boy. <Viscount> For fifty years, I've ordered my servants to not whisper a word of her, it so grieved me to lose her so close to our wedding! And now you seem to think that you can stumble around, steal a few of my possessions and claim to have proven I'm responsible for a murder. How wrong. <Jelarthna> ::smiles grimly:: Is that so? I happen to have copied of some records from back then. Public matter of finance. ::produces several documents from his little belt pouch:: It seems you had troubles paying you taxes for some time. You sold off much of your land just to meet those minimums. * Temire looks around thoroughly confused. <Tyl> ::blinks:: But, Jel, not to play devil's advocate here, but how did his Excellency pay for the services of a good assassin, with no ready cash. Assassins don't take IOUs... <Jelarthna> Ah-ha! Glad you asked, Tyl! <Viscount> ::grimly:: Stripling, if I had some financial concerns a few years ago, that hardly convicts me of murdering my betrothed. <Tyl> ::grins:: Happy to be of service, dear... <Viscount> ::rolls his eyes at Jelarthna's theatrics:: <Michelle> I've met a few who do Tyl. Usually worth the eventual cost as well. That is if you're the type who needs to employ assassins on a regular basis. <Jelarthna> ::ruffles through the sheets and finds the ones he's looking for:: Right here it clearly shows the sale of the land to pay the taxes, as well as an additional amount. The only year, I might add, that he did this. <Jelarthna> ::points to a few lines:: Right here. In the amount of five hundred gold pieces. <Michael> ::cough:: That... that was exactly me fee. <Viscount> ::dryly, to Jelarthna:: Congratulations. You've deduced that I had financial troubles a full half-century ago. Does the term *obscure* mean anything to you? <Marta> ::the dark cloud growing about her, filling the room with a chill:: Enough of this squabbling, and enough of your lies. ::advancing on the Viscount, her face grim and terrible to behold:: *I* am no lie, and I am beyond lying. ::reaching out to grip the Viscount's shoulder, staring into his eyes:: WHY DID YOU KILL ME??? <Tyl> ::winces, remembering Marta's touch:: bet that hurts... <Jelarthna> ::smiles grimly at the Viscount:: Any one of these things can be dismissed, Viscount, but not all of them. * Michelle shakes her head and mutters something. * Jelarthna backs away from Marta's onslaught, looking at it in surprise. * Michael backs away along the bar with a fearful look. * Temire looks at Michelle, "Why's everyone so scared?" <Michelle> Because Marta's a ghost dear. <Viscount> ::screaming as Marta's supernatural chill freezes his arms and begins to run through him:: I DIDN'T KILL YOU! <Temire> Yeah, but she's mad at him, not any of us. Well except maybe the assassin. <Tyl> ::makes a face:: I know I'm going to end up on the wrong side of this argument, but Michael was paid to do a job. That's all. * Michelle starts counting quietly to herself. <Jelarthna> ::looking at the Viscount grimly:: Face up to it! You are responsible for Marta's death! It is time to take responsibility for what you have done! * Temire thinks for a moment, "You're saying that he's innocent because he just did what he was told to?" * Jelarthna grips his sword tightly, knuckles swiftly turning white <Marta> ::implacably:: You knew I was to die. You were the cause! * Viscount begins to violently shake and shudder involuntarily, as Marta maintains her grip. * Michelle walks out from behind the bar and puts a hand on Jel's shoulder. <Tyl> A good assassin is a national asset, my dear. If you start punishing them every time they do a job, soon there won't be any of them left. And who knows when *you* might want someone assassinated? <Viscount> [thank you, Sadi.] <Michael> Let him go, Lass! It's not worth killing him! <Viscount> ::still screaming:: I DIDN'T TELL HIM TO KILL YOU! * Michelle walks forward and places her hand on Marta's shoulder, then withdraws it and glares at the Viscount. <Temire> ::To Tyl:: Maybe he didn't. <Jelarthna> He did. I am absolutely certain. I will stake my life upon it. <Tyl> It won't help him to confess now... ::watches calmly:: <Marta> ::her grip easing slightly:: Tell the TRUTH. For once in your life, on the grave of your father...tell the *whole* truth. * Jelarthna looks on, his face showing warring emotions, for a moment fierce, then somewhat regretful, and then back again. <Viscount> ::still violently shivering and shaking:: I just wanted my *honor* back you little twist of a skirt! * Michelle stifles a giggle, "That's one I've never heard before." <Jelarthna> ::shoots a stiff looks at Michelle before returning his eyes to the scene:: * Michelle returns Jelarthna's look, then returns behind the bar. <Michael> ::sliding down the bar, obviously losing track of the surroundings:: not worth it... <Marta> ::withdrawing her hand, still gazing at him steadily:: I never owned your honor. I never wanted any part of you. All I wanted was to be with my love...::sadly:: And now I can't even have that... <Tyl> ::looks down at Michael:: battle shock... poor thing... <Viscount> I was willing to give you and your father *everything*. A title! An easy life! But you couldn't stand the thought of being parted from that stinking fisherman! <Tyl> Aha... here we go... a confession ::very quietly to Temire and Michelle:: <Michelle> ::To Tyl and Temire:: Isn't love grand. <Marta> ::shaking her head sadly:: You never asked me what I wanted...neither of you asked me what I wanted. <Tyl> ::gets a *very* pained expression:: Given recent events, I'm not so sure... <Viscount> And so I asked that insufferable *twit* to avenge my sullied honor, and return to me the betrothal ring that was all you wanted of me. That he decided to *kill* you was his *common* decision. <Temire> ::To Tyl and Michelle:: I'm confused, why did we do all that stuff earlier? <Michelle> ::To Temire:: You'll find out in a little while. <Michael> ::looks up:: Ah, you can't hide yerself in the talk of the bargain, lord. That is how all such business is discussed. And we all know the true intent. <Michelle> ::To Tyl:: Well it wouldn't be worth the trouble if it didn't have a down side. * Viscount doesn't appear to have heard Michael, and is still shaking and gasping for breath. <Tyl> Well, Michelle, it seems more like a cone to me... a lot of downsides, and only this little peaky bit at the top... sure, the view is nice, but it's such an easy fall... * Michelle smiles sadly, "It's worth it Tyl." <Jelarthna> Do you understand the loss? Truly understand? You took a life... and you ruined another. And you cursed Marta to a life of undeath, trapped and alone for FITY YEARS! ::glares intently at the Viscount, eyes blazing:: <Marta> ::shaking her head:: Ah, my poor Viscount...you've wrapped yourself in lies so long that you've come to take them as truth, haven't you? And all for the sake of your honor...::a look of pity in her eyes:: * Viscount starts back from Jelarthna, a look of pure terror in his eyes. A jolt suddenly runs through his body, and he sags limply in Marta's grasp. * Michelle comes out from behind the bar and heads over towards the Viscount, "Put him down Marta." * Marta catches him, a startled look in her eyes, followed by an expression of deep sadness, as her gaze fixes on something only she can see. * Jelarthna breathes deeply, as if he's bee exerting himself, and visibly tries to bring himself under control. <Michelle> So did you do something to him Jelarthna, or did his heart fail under the stress. <Viscount> ::he manages to raise his head one last time, and glares at Jelarthna. Through clenched teeth comes a final word.:: "Die....." * Tyl winces <Viscount> [could you be a little more clinical, Michelle?] <Jelarthna> ::looks coldly down at the Viscount:: I can live content with *my* choices in this life. <Michelle> [Probably. She doesn't particularly want to have to explain to the guard why I noble who disappeared from his estate wound up dying in the Hall.] <Jelarthna> ::to Michelle:: I did nothing to him Michelle, however much I wanted to. <Marta> ::shaking her head:: I did nothing, Michelle...he's gone. ::shuddering for a moment, closing her eyes and looking away from the Viscount's body:: No... he... <Tyl> oh hells... * Michelle kneels down next to the Viscount, closes her eyes, and runs her hand over his body. <Marta> ::opening her eyes again:: No one deserves that...not even him....::a haunted look in her eyes:: <Jelarthna> What... what happened? <Marta> They...they took him. His lies...they came for him, at the end. * Maeli bursts through the door, her ubiquitous handbag nowhere in sight. Entering immediately after her, held quite firmly by the ear, is a man who obviously approaches Maeli in age dressed in canvas trews and a loose-knit sweater. Maeli rather forcefully steers the man to a chair and twists until he sits. <Jelarthna> Who did? what did? <Maeli> I've had just about enough of you, Yousef Fisher! You've spent the last fifty years acting like you're the only man ever to be jilted, and now, faced with proof that you're wrong, you attempt SUICIDE! Don't roll your eyes at me you- * Maeli glares fiercely at Yousef and plants her hands on her hips. <Maeli> Now you just sit RIGHT THERE, young man, and I don't want to hear another word of argument out of you! <Maeli> ::to the rest of the room:: Sorry I'm late, but 'e stayed out late on his boat, and then dragged his feet *every* *single* *step* from the wharves here. <Jelarthna> ::blinking and looking disoriented and turns to observe the newcomers:: <Tyl> ::to Michelle:: I think you need a new lock... * Maeli stops when she sees the Viscount's body on the floor and the unknown Michael. * Yousef enters with Maeli, his ear firmly in her grasp, in obvious pain, a hang-dog look on his face. <Jelarthna> ::right arm twitches just a tad before looking somehow more normal than it had, in a way that wasn't noticeable before:: * Michelle sighs, "Dammit! If Moon Dancer where here I could revive him." <Jelarthna> Maeli? <Maeli> ::turning her gaze on Jel:: What is it? <Tyl> ::gives Michelle a long look:: why wake him up just to kill him again? <Jelarthna> ::looks slightly confused:: What? How? Uh... nice to see you. <Marta> ::still looking down at the body:: He's past reviving, now. Even if you brought his body back, his soul would be long gone. <Michael> ::struggling to rise:: Maeli? Where? * Michelle sighs, "I would hope that wouldn't be necessary." Glares at Jelarthna, "But then, I wouldn't have handled the situation so rashly." <Tyl> ::grins easily:: Hey, hiring an assassin is punishable by death, and he was the one so eager to get the courts involved... <Maeli> ::looks around some more and locks onto Marta:: Girl. I've done it. ::gestures at Yousef:: 'Twas the hardest thing I've done for years, but I've brought him to you. It's your turn, child. <Jelarthna> ::blinks a couple of times and meets Michele's gaze levelly:: * Michelle stands, walks over to the door, and locks it. She then passes her hand over the lock. * Yousef stares wide-eyed at Marta as he hears her speak, unconsciously rubbing his ear. He's an old, ornery-looking man of about 70 or 75, hair and bushy beard white, face tanned and wrinkled like old leather. His simple clothes are stained and he simply reeks of fish and salt. <Maeli> ::spins around to Tyl, apparently totally uninterested in Marta and Yousef now, and looks her over carefully:: * Michelle walks over to Jelarthna and whispers something to him. <Tyl> ::grins at Maeli:: Good evening, Mistress Maeli. How goes the sewing? <Marta> Looks up at Maeli, and then down at the old man sitting beside her...her lips move, but no sound comes out. <Jelarthna> ::nods to Michelle, and moves close to the door:: * Michelle disappears into the kitchen. <Temire> ::To Tyl:: Now what's going on? <Yousef> Marta....by all the gods, it *is* you...you came back. <Tyl> Now, instead of getting to stare at my sister and her fiancé stare longingly at each other, we get to watch a ghost and an old fisherman stare longingly at each other ::downs her drink in disgust:: <Michael> ::finally pulls himself upright and peers closely at Maeli:: Are you the same pretty young lass that dominated the neighborhood and terrorized everyone into behaving around you? <Maeli> ::to Tyl:: You look like a girl with sense. Can you clean that ::waves at the Corpse:: up without anyone seeing you? Get him home and tucked into bed? No one will ever need to know it wasn't a heart attack. <Tyl> ::looks thoughtful:: certainly... give me a minute... * Michelle comes back out of the kitchen. <Marta> ::putting a hand to her mouth, obviously trying to hold back tears, her eyes drinking him in:: Yousef... I never left... I never... for fifty years, I couldn't leave. ::blinking:: But I made it. I'm... I'm sorry I'm late. <Maeli> ::glares at Michael:: Might've been, sixty-seventy years ago. <Temire> ::To Tyl:: How are you going to do that? <Tyl> Hey, Jel, can you take a minute to give me a visual of his place? <Tyl> ::reaches into her pouch and pulls out a vial:: Hey, Michelle, can I get a glass of water? <Michael> ::cackles and nods:: Aye, you're the very one. You haven't changed a whit, have you? <Jelarthna> ::to Tyl:: Um, how do I do that? <Marta> ::whispering:: I finally made it... you... do you hate me? <Michelle> Certainly Tyl. ::Fills a mug with water and sets it on the bar in front of Tyl.:: <Tyl> Think really hard... I can do the rest... ::moves over and lays her hands on Jel's head:: <Maeli> ::frowning:: Who are you, to speak so familiarly to me? * Jelarthna nods to Tyl and closes his eyes for a moment. * Tyl closes her eyes and sways a little... <Tyl> hmmm... ::opens her eyes:: You're pretty good... ever practiced psionics before? <Yousef> ::his eyes filling with tears, and a look of shame:: I *did* hate you. I didn't believe in you... I thought you'd left... or married... married him, after all. ::gesturing at the dead man on the floor with a look of surprise, and a little shrug that says he's past being surprised:: <Michael> ::cackles again:: My name is Michael. I don't think you ever gave me more than a passing glance, but I was from your part of the city. Lived but a few blocks away. * Tyl goes over to the bar, dumps a green powder from the vial into the water. <Tyl> Oh I hate this... ::makes a face and then drinks all the water:: <Jelarthna> ::blinks at Tyl and shakes his head:: Not that I know of. * Tyl shudders uncontrollably for a few moments... <Maeli> ::narrows her eyes at Michael:: Maybe. <Jelarthna> ::looks on the scene between Marta and Yousef, face now unreadable:: <Yousef> ::voice gruff as he wipes the back of his hand across his eyes:: But I never stopped loving you. I always hoped you might come back to me...even if it was to laugh at an old sea dog who once gave you his heart. * Tyl turns several interesting colors, ending with grey, then coughs a few times and looks normal again. <Michael> Ah, it was long ago, another lifetime it seems. But I remember your fire. ::grins almost lewdly:: <Marta> Oh, my Yousef... ::tenderly:: I tried to keep my appointment... only death prevented me.... * Tyl goes over to the corpse and winces slightly before picking up his hand <Jelarthna> ::looks over at Tyl:: Are you alright? <Maeli> ::glares sharply at Michael, then - surprisingly - laughs:: <Tyl> Fine... fine... only for you, would I be doing this... ::she concentrates for a long moment, then she and the corpse vanish:: <Jelarthna> ::looks quizzically at the spot where Tyl vanished:: <Yousef> ::holding his hand out, the little fish that Lion made to replace the old one dangling from his fingers:: Forgive me? <Maeli> ::grins toothily at Jel:: Ye know she's sweet on you, don't you? <Jelarthna> ::blinks at Maeli:: What? <Marta> ::stepping hesitantly towards him, ending in a little rush as she takes the little fish from his fingers and hangs it about her neck:: If you can forgive me.... * Michelle shakes her head, "You can be so dense sometimes Jelarthna." <Michael> You always could see to the heart of things. ::elbows Jel:: She's a cute one, too. <Maeli> ::chortles:: You can see it in her eyes. Oh, I don't think it's True Love like that pair over yon ::gestures at Marta and Yousef:: but... ::she chortles again:: * Michelle smiles at Maeli's comment. <Jelarthna> ::blinks a few times in surprise, and looks back at Maeli:: Tyl? * Yousef and Marta embrace with smiles of contentment... Yousef's features seem to soften for the first time in fifty years, and Marta looks more solid than she ever has:: <Maeli> ::laughs again and shuffles to a chair to sit down:: * Jelarthna looks very tired <Michelle> So Marta, are you going to tell your fiancé the good news? <Marta> ::coming out of the embrace with a shy smile:: You're sure you can do it? For both of us? <Michelle> Certain, no. As certain as I can be, yes. You'll have to ask Jelarthna about his half though. <Jelarthna> ::smiles and nods, patting his pouch:: Taken care of. <Marta> ::taking Yousef's hands in hers... strangely enough, he doesn't seem to experience any discomfort from her touch:: My friends... ::nodding her head to indicate the people around the room::... all these people, who helped me come here, and brought you back to me... well, they may be able to help us start over again... where we left off. ::smiling hopefully:: <Marta> If... ::taking a deep breath, the smile fading:: if I leave with you now, I will leave... for good. Die, finally. ::touching her hand to his face, pushing back his hair with a gentle motion:: It was only my promise to you that kept me here.... <Yousef> ::clutching her hands, his voice rusty with unshed tears:: I don't want to lose you again, so soon... but... ::shakes his head:: I can't keep you here. It wouldn't be right. * Jelarthna watches the young & old lovers with an odd tenderness, and a slight look of a remembered loss. * Maeli watches everyone with a certain amount of amusement. <Marta> ::shaking her head, a smile touching her lips again:: No, you misunderstand. These people are wizards... they can help bring me back... in the flesh. And make you young again. ::with a small, teasing laugh:: Not that you don't make a handsome old man.... X: [heh...she *must* be in love...no one would ever call Yousef handsome at THIS point...] * Michelle smiles and whispers something to Temire. ThinAir: [karen, you're commenting on your own dialogue!] <Yousef> ::eyes widening as he understands, looking around at the assembled group:: Still an adventurer's tavern, ain't it? ::chuckling dryly:: X: [well...yeah. So there. :P] * Cwalindia bangs on the door. <Jelarthna> ::looks startled and turns to try and open the door, only to find it's still locked:: * Michelle shakes her head and walks over to the door unlocking it and opening it enough to stick her head out, "Oh, Cwalindia, come in. I'm afraid you just missed Tyl'gainia." * Cwalindia walks in <Yousef> ::nodding:: Aye, well... I'm game to try, if it's no harm to you. * Michelle relocks and spells the door. <Jelarthna> Cwalindia, welcome. <X> [d-o-o-r] <Cwalindia> ::she looks as if she's been running, she's drenched in sweat and breathing hard:: Well damn, where is she? <Marta> ::looks at Michelle with expectation:: I think we're agreed. What do we have to do? * Michelle blinks at Cwalindia, "She said she'd be back shortly. Why don't you wait for her here." <Cwalindia> Where did she GO? Damn it Michelle, she screamed in my head, said she was in trouble... WHERE is she? <Jelarthna> What? Where? How? <Cwalindia> I don't know... ::starts to cry:: I haven't been training long... but I heard her... * Michelle turns to Marta and Yousef, "You" points at Yousef, "Stay here. Marta, come up stares. Maeli, you're welcome to watch if you want to. The rest of you, make yourselves comfortable, this is likely to take a while. Come along Temire. * Michelle heads up the stairs. <Maeli> ::blinks at Michelle, but doesn't get up. She seems very comfortable on her chair:: <Jelarthna> ::puts his hand on Cwalindia's shoulder:: It's alright. We'll find out what happened. * Yousef sits obediently, flicking a look at Maeli and rubbing his ear again pointedly, while Marta follows Michelle up the stairs. * Michelle stops in her tracks and turns to look at Cwal, a pained expression on her face. "Jelarthna, can you handle this? I'm going to need all my strength for this spell." <Jelarthna> ::nods to <Michelle> Yes, Michelle. You take care of Marta. <Bluestar> ::an insistent pounding comes at the front door:: Cwalie? <Jelarthna> ::looks up:: What now? * Michelle looks up at the ceiling, "Why do I bother?" Tosses a key to Jel, "Let whoever that is in, I'm busy." * Michelle continues up the stairs. <Bluestar> ::knock pound knock:: <Jelarthna> ::catches the key and goes to unlock the door:: Yes? * Temire follows Marta and Michelle up the stairs. <Yousef> ::looking up from his seat:: I never knew this place was so busy...::glancing over at the bar:: What's the local bilgewater, here? <Cwalindia> ::pushes past Jelarthna:: That's Jal... my fiancé <Michael> ::moves over to sit next to Maeli:: So you seem to be in charge of things, still. ::grins:: Which one of the lads finally won your heart? Or did you use them all mercilessly? <Bluestar> ::he is an elf of average height, dressed in deep grey breeches and shirt, over which he wears a black cloak that seems to sparkle somewhere deep in its folds:: Cwalie! <Jelarthna> Fiancé? Michelle leads Marta and Temire to one of the rooms that has been prepared for the spell. The usual furnishings have been removed. In the center of the room is a stretcher with a body covered with a blanket lying on it. <Cwalindia> ::tears seems to have miraculously stopped:: Tyl didn't tell you? She surely was in a royal rampage about it... ::sniffs:: <Maeli> ::smiles at Michael:: You were from my neighborhood and you missed it when Thomas and I pledged our troth? ::smile fades slightly:: He's gone, little more than a year ago. <Michelle> ::On the left side of the body, Bai's katana has been stuck point first into the floor, it's light illuminating the room. Me turns to Temire:: You remember what I told you? <Michael> I was gone as a youth. Moved on to the big city and all that nonsense. ::shakes head:: I can't remember why it was so important to leave. <Temire> Yes. ::Temire closes the door behind Michelle and Marta and locks the door.:: <Marta> ::looking with trepidation at the covered form:: Is that... mine, or someone else's? <Maeli> Marsember wasn't big enough for you? ::wistful look:: Did you travel much? <Michael> I'm sorry to hear that. He was a lucky man, and I'll bet you kept him happy unless I miss my guess. <Michael> ::nods:: Quite a bit. I saw much of the world, perfecting my profession. I know I was good, because I still live. ::shakes head sadly:: It was not really much of a life, though. <Jelarthna> ::opens the door and moves aside:: Come on in. <Cwalindia> Jal, she's not here, they won't tell me where she's gone... <Yousef> ::looking at Michael:: I was like that when I was younger... ::wistfully:: I was going to travel with world, with my Marta. After she was gone, though, it didn't seem to matter anymore. <Maeli> ::she waves dismissingly:: Flatterer. We did our duties and found our pleasures in it, but I'll not pretend there was nothing to regret. * Michelle pulls a candle out of her sleeve and sets it in a holder positioned at the head of the stretcher. "It's yours my dear, I couldn't put you into another body without breaking a fair number of rules." * Marta looks relieved. "Good. I didn't want anyone else to... you know." * Bluestar moves to Cwalindia's side and looks around at the assembled party. "Do any of you know where Tyl'gainia has gone?" <Maeli> ::glances up:: She just went. Poof. <Jelarthna> Tyl said she was teleporting. She was... cleaning up a bit. <Cwalindia> ::clutches Bluestar's hands:: oh, she's not very good at that yet... * Michelle lights the candles, thick smoke rising from it, then kneels down opposite the katana. "Marta, I'm going to need you to lower yourself into the body. I'm sure you won't want to, and it might get quite painful at times, but you have to remember Yousef. As the spell progresses and the body is restored to the state it was in... <Jelarthna> It didn't seem like a teleport, but she doesn't use magic... ::looks thoughtful:: * Bluestar glares at Jelarthna. "Please, can you just tell me where she went. If she called out to Cwalie, she's liable to be in a fair amount of danger." ::speaking very evenly, but quite firmly:: <Maeli> ::nods:: Yes, that's what she said - teleporting. She took some kind of nasty concoction, and then disappeared. <Michelle> ...when you died it should become easier. Everything depends on your absolute commitment to come back and be with Yousef." <Michael> ::grins somewhat sadly at Maeli:: I suspect you've a far sight less to regret that I. I sometimes wish I'd had the gumption to challenge the other fellows for your affections, but I was always too small and weak. * Michelle pulls an item from her sleeve, which then transforms into a harp. * Marta nods firmly, her face serious, and goes to stand beside the corpse:: <Bluestar> ::to Jelarthna:: You've known her *how* long? ::grins a little:: Piece it together. Now, *where* did she go? <Maeli> ::smiles slyly at Michael:: You've learned some gumption in the meantime, I see. * Michelle begins to play the harp and sing a quiet song in a language foreign to Faerun. As she does so, her earring begins to glow until it's light rivals that of Bai's katana. At the same time the smoke from the candle fills the room. <Jelarthna> She was going to the mansion of Viscount Guy Truesilver, with his body. I know the dangers of magical teleportation, but what might have happened to Tyl using the psionic sort? * Marta watches Michelle for a moment, and then "sits" on the covered form as one would a bed...she seems to sink slightly, and a look of pain and fright crosses her face as her form flickers and dims. <Cwalindia> ::looks a bit frantic:: she could be in the outer planes, by now... <Michael> Aye, I learned some of that long ago. But by then I was too caught up in my life. <Michael> and my work... <Bluestar> ::tersely, to Jelarthna:: A lot. <Jelarthna> The outer planes?! She's not ready for that, not by a longshot. <Jelarthna> ::looks at Bluestar and Cwalindia:: Do either of you have a way to trace her? * Marta firms her features, becoming solid again for a moment, and swings her legs up, beginning the process of settling back, very slowly. * Bluestar unbuckles his sword belt and hands it to Cwalindia. "Hang on to this for a bit, sweetie." He goes and sits down, cross-legged, on the floor, away from the immediate center of the hubbub. <Cwalindia> ::looks a little helpless:: I've only been a student for a little while... I'm not that talented yet... <Maeli> ::smiles:: You at least got to travel. You had the gumption to break the traditions and leave. * Cwalindia cradles the sword like a baby and watches anxiously... <Michael> Aye, there was at least that. Small consolation, but I've come to live with it. A pity I didn't bring you along. I have seen some splendid things. <Yousef> ::looking slyly from Michael to Maeli, a grin creasing his leathered face:: <Maeli> ::sighs:: I'd like to have traveled. ::somewhat primly:: Perhaps you can stop by some time and tell me stories over some tea. <Michael> ::smiles slowly:: I would like that. Still live in that same shack, do you? <Maeli> ::frowns:: Don't be ridiculous. Thomas wasn't rich, but we weren't paupers. I'm on Silverstrand Alley. <Michael> Ah, no offence. It's just you seem so much the same, it's hard to picture you anywhere else. <Maeli> Piffle. * Yousef's grin widens even further. <Yousef> ::softly, in a tone of GREAT amusement:: I guess love *is* blind. Nine hours later <Michelle> ::The candle burns itself out as Michelle finishes her song and the light from her earring dims. The body hidden beneath the blanket is significantly more substantial than it was to begin with.:: * Temire unlocks the door and carefully enters the room, "Are you finished Mistress Michelle?" * Michelle sighs, "Yes. Wake her. But take a look first, if it didn't work, please be merciful to her. I don't have the strength left." * Cwalindia is sleeping upright in a chair, her arms still curled around Bluestar's sword. * Temire looks very concerned, the swallows and carefully peaks under the blanket. Sighing she lifts the blanket and gently shakes Marta. * Jelarthna still stands alertly after the nine hours have passed, keeping watch over the door and all in the Hall. * Michael has long since drifted off, his wrinkled and crusty features taking on a surprising peacefulness. * Marta's chest starts to rise and fall after a moment...the figure under the sheet looks just like the ghost, but pinker, more solid-looking. Her eyes flutter. <Bluestar> ::the door from the alley is nudged open, and Bluestar walks in, carrying Tyl in his arms. Both of them look moderately beat up, but Tyl is definitely worse off than Bluestar is, although he looks somewhat haggard himself:: Please tell me one of you people is a cleric. * Maeli carefully comes through the front door and looks around at those waiting. "Nothing yet, eh?" * Yousef paces the floor, a worried look on his face. * Cwalindia wakes up. <Jelarthna> ::to Maeli:: No, not yet. <Jelarthna> ::looks concerned:: I hope everything is going alright. <Cwalindia> Oh, goddess! Jal, are you alright? Is she...? * Bluestar takes some shaky steps toward Jelarthna. "I don't mean to be trouble, but could you take her from me? I think I'm going to fall down and pass out for a bit now." <Temire> How do you feel Marta? <Jelarthna> ::moves quickly to help Bluestar put Tyl in a chair:: No, but I can get one quickly. <Bluestar> ::whumps onto the floor:: * Upstairs, Marta sits up slowly and looks around, drawing the sheet up around her. "A..." (Clearing her throat, testing out her voice) "A little weak..." (smiling) But... I'm me again. <Bluestar> I feel terrible. * Jelarthna gives Tyl and Bluestar both a good once-over, checking the wounds with what seems long practice, and pulling out bandages to aid with the worst of them:: <Bluestar> ::sheer exhaustion seems to be a problem for both Tyl and Bluestar:: <Marta> Yousef...is he...alright? * Temire smiles, glancing at Michelle who's obviously struggling to stay awake. "We've got some clothes for you." Temire pulls a bundle out of the corner and hands it to Marta, "Do you need anything?" <Tyl> ::moans a few times:: <Jelarthna> It looks like you both mainly need to get some rest. <Cwal> What happened? <Temire> I would assume so Marta. Everyone's been waiting downstairs to see how the spell turned out. * Maeli silently walks over to Jel and watches his tending for a few minutes, then opens her handbag and pulls out a jar of some sort of ointment. She nudges Jel and hands him the jar. <Marta> ::looks thoughtful for a moment, then, surprised:: I think I'm hungry! <Bluestar> Tyl had accidentally 'ported herself to a Bad Place. I found her mind, traced her through it, 'ported to her, and we hacked our way back. <Jelarthna> ::takes the jar from Maeli and smiles warmly at her:: Thank you. ::begins applying the ointment:: * Marta gets up slowly, staggering for a moment, and then begins to dress, with Temire's help. <Jelarthna> You should have just told me where she was. I could have gotten us there and back. * Temire chuckles softly, "If I hadn't eaten in fifty years I think I'd be hungry to. Do you feel strong enough to go down stairs or should I bring you a feel to one of the other rooms so you can get some sleep?" * Bluestar starts to haul himself to a standing position. "I think what I really need is to get back to the house and rest for a day or so. It's been simply lovely to meet all of you, and I wish you the best, but I think I had best be going." <Tyl> ::wakes up:: If it's all the same to you, Jelarthna, I don't mind doing you a favor, but could we please skip the fire-breathing dogs, please? <Jelarthna> ::surveys Bluestar critically:: Do you need help getting there? <Cwalindia> Wait for me... <Marta> ::shakes her head determinedly:: No. I want to see Yousef again. <Cwalindia> Jel can look after big sister, but I'll walk home with you... <Bluestar> ::to Jelarthna, a wry grin on his face:: Thanks, but I've got some experience stumbling home from strange bars at odd hours of the morning. I'll be okay. <Jelarthna> ::smiles at Tyl:: Certainly, Tyl. They're definitely one of the things to give a miss. * Temire holds the door for Marta, "Do you need help with the stairs?" <Bluestar> ::takes Cwal's arm:: Thanks. ::heads for the door:: Tomorrow, I'll show you how to talk to someone in their head..." <Jelarthna> ::nods to Cwalindia:: Let him lean on you on the way back. he'll probably try to collapse at some point. <Tyl> At least I got lost on the way back... not dragging that damn corpse all over the place... are there teleport shields around this place or something? * Bluestar leaves the Hall. <Jelarthna> ::goes behind the bar and looks helplessly at the taps, the looks at a mug entreatingly:: Where's the water? <Marta> ::smiling a bit:: If you please, thank you. I've been trying to practice walking, but I don't think I have the hang of it quite yet. * Temire helps Marta down the stairs and into the common room. <Jelarthna> Actually Tyl, I think there are. If you got through them the first time, then you're pretty lucky. * Temire leads Marta to one of the comfy chairs and carefully settles her into it. <Tyl> I'll try and remember that next time, and teleport into the street... <Jelarthna> That's probably a good idea. ::looks at the mug again, questioningly:: Well? * Yousef looks up as Marta comes to the top of the steps and slowly makes her way down. "It...it worked?" (Wonderment in his voice, his joints creaking as he rises from the chair he'd briefly settled into.) <Temire> ::A wine glass dances over and points at one of the taps.:: * Maeli sees Marta and Yousef staring at each other, and gets up, smiling smugly. "They'll be just fine." She hobbles out... <Jelarthna> ::missing everything else, Jel looks at Marta coming down the stairs, a big smile spreading across his face:: It worked! <Jelarthna> ::notices the wine glass and trying to watch Marta coming down the stair, fills the mug from the tap to the left:: * Temire smiles, "If you'll excuse me for a moment, Michelle's fallen asleep and will probably be a lot more comfortable in a bed. Besides I need to open the windows and air that room out." Temire heads for the stairs. <Jelarthna> Of course! <Tyl> ::Tyl looks up, sees the alive dead woman:: Great... lovely for you, Marta... I think I'll lie down for a while... * Tyl passes out on the floor. * Marta stands with effort and shuffles over to Jel, wrapping him in a big hug. "Yes, it worked. Thank you." (giving him a light kiss on the cheek) * Temire stops half way up the stairs, turns around and looks at the individuals in the common room, "Is it normal for someone to fall asleep like that?" <Jelarthna> ::absently takes the mug to Tyl, trying to get her to drink some:: * Jelarthna hugs Marta and gives her an answering kiss on the cheek. * Yousef looks at Jel with a smile. Thank'ee, lad. Thank all of ye. ::mock glower:: But if you try that when I'm young again, I'll ream yer scurvy, bunch-backed neck. <Jelarthna> ::smiles at Yousef, and sets his pouch on the counter, then begins pulling bottle from it and setting them on the counter:: Now, my dear sir. Despite your fish bucket's wicked aim, I have some things for you to drink. <Temire> ::Upstairs Temire picks Michelle up in her arms and carries her to another room where she tucks her into bed. Temire then returns to the ceremony room and opens the windows to let the smoke out.:: * Yousef has the grace to look a little shame-faced, and approaches the counter. <Jelarthna> Now, it's going to be tough, but you need to drink these as quickly as possible. <Jelarthna> ::grins at his expression and put his hand on Yousef's shoulder gently:: I bear you no ill-will for it. I was pretty forward about the whole thing * Temire returns downstairs. <Yousef> ::fixes Jel with a beady weather-eye:: Lad, I've been knocking back grog since before you were born...::squinting at Jel's ears:: Well, since you were in diapers, at any rate. <Yousef> Aye, that you were. But I'll fergive ye yer youth. I'd expect no less of a greenie. <Jelarthna> ::smiles widely:: Perhaps, my friend. But this is not alcohol, and it tastes pretty foul. <Jelarthna> ::there are 11 bottle set in a row on the counter now, each in slightly different bottles, but bearing the same viscous fluid:: <Yousef> ::winking:: So is Bawdy Bess's grog. ::picking up the first bottle and taking a deep breath as he looks at it:: <Jelarthna> ::smiles at Temire:: How is Michelle? * Jelarthna idly massages his right arm a bit. * Pinching his nose, Yousef knocks the first vial back, shudders, and reaches for the next in line. As he quaffs potions, his cheeks seem to flesh out more, his hair becomes peppered with black, and the years seem to drop away...he stands taller with every drink. <Temire> Sound asleep. No one ever answered my question though, is that normal? <Michael> ::snore:: <Jelarthna> Ah, I'm sorry. For some of us, all too normal. This is far from a normal place, at any rate. <Temire> What do you mean? I really don't know anything about magic, but Master Yohko thought seeing this would be a good experience for me. * Yousef shudders, shaking his head and making a face, takes another deep breath, and goes for the second half of the vials, putting them away like... well, like a sailor. <Jelarthna> There are often odd things happening to the people that frequent this place. Far too many of them involve me in some way. ::grins slightly:: We all tend to get hurt or exhausted at times and just pass out. <Temire> If she's hurt shouldn't we get a healer for her? <Marta> ::speaking up from the chair, her voice a little tired:: You should meet the owner, Mistress Temire...or some of the *other* patrons. There's one known as Yb who seems to be rather... infamous in the community. Sweet girl, but very strange. * Temire blushes furiously, "Please, I don't deserve any titles. I'm just Master Yohko's student after all." Looks at the floor. <Jelarthna> Tyl will be okay, she mainly just needs rest. <Temire> What about Michelle? <Jelarthna> And yes, Yb is definitely... different. Be careful around her if you ever meet her. <Temire> How will I know who she is? <Jelarthna> Likely she just needs rest as well. I'll look in on her in a little while. Any major magic like this is draining. <Jelarthna> ::shakes head:: Oh, you'll know. <Yousef> ::Finishes the last vial and gives a huge shudder, like a dog shaking himself:: Hooooooo-eeee! Yargh! You were right, lad... it *is* terrible. ::his voice is no longer high and scratchy, but a deep baritone...he stands tall, and his hair and beard are long and raven-black...he looks about 26.:: <Jelarthna> Ah, but I'll bet you feel quite a bit better now, don't you? <Marta> ::quietly, to Temire:: You may be naught but an apprentice, but you helped to restore me. I am in your debt. ::looking lovingly at Yousef:: Both of us are. <Jelarthna> ::grins:: <Michael> ::snore:: * Temire blushes and looks at the floor again, "It was nothing. I just did what Michelle told me to." <Yousef> ::grinning, teeth white in his swarthy face:: I feel like I could wrestle a whale and win! <Jelarthna> You still did well, Temire. Michelle must trust you to have you assist her in such a delicate process. That kind of steadiness is not to be taken lightly. <Jelarthna> ::grins at Yousef:: Well, you have other things to take care of, first. ::glances at Marta:: * Temire looks at Jel with surprise, "But all I did was stand outside the door and make sure no one interrupted them." <Yousef> ::looking over at Temire:: It was not nothing. My love was fifty years dead, and now she's alive. Just smile and accept our thanks, girl. I'm still stubborn enough to out-talk you. * Temire smiles, blushes, and looks at the floor again, "Yes sir." <Jelarthna> That is still an important task. You're the only other person that managed to stay up this long. <Yousef> ::giving a short, firm nod and grinning at Temire:: That's all right, then. ::looking at Marta, his face softening into a loving smile:: Well, love, I need a shave and I'm a bit older than when we met, but...will ye still have me? <Temire> Well, um...I didn't actually. I figured since the door was locked if I slept leaning against the door anyone trying to get in would wake me up. Besides, they'd have to get by all of you first which should have woken me up. <Jelarthna> ::looks meaningfully at Marta:: You had better! ::grins:: <Jelarthna> Ah well, close enough. You're sensible at least. Probably more so than I... <Marta> ::with a tremulous, tear-filled smile:: Yes... forever. ::reaching her arms up to him:: <Yousef> ::laughs and swings Marta up into his arms, kissing her deeply:: Aye, forever...we've waited long enough. <Jelarthna> ::looks on with a smile, and eyes shimmering a bit with emotional tearing up of his own:: Why don't you two go on home, then. ::pulls a large pouch out of the one on his belt and presses it into Marta's hand:: And if you ever need help, feel free to ask me. <Yousef> ::looking down into her eyes:: And there's no reason to run away, now, if ye don't wish to...there's no one here to keep us apart, now. <Jelarthna> ::the pouch jingles only slightly, being quite full:: <Yousef> ::slapping Jel on the back:: Nay, lad, it's we who should be offering that to you. Our lives are yours. <Jelarthna> Don't worry about it. I could you as friends, and there's no such thing as a debt there. <Jelarthna> Now you two better get home. I'm sure Marta is going to need some time to rest. <Jelarthna> Take good care of her, Yousef, she's a special lady. <Jelarthna> ::grins:: But I'm sure you know that already. <Yousef> ::nodding sharply:: Well, then, I've one more favor to ask.... ::looking shamefaced:: Is there a room we could use here? I've no wish to bring Marta to a place such as I've been living, these fifty years. <Jelarthna> Temire, are you staying here? <Yousef> Aye, lad, I know. ::with a devilish grin:: And we've got a bit of catching up to do, think me. <Jelarthna> Oh! ::looks around, realizing he's the only person here with a semblance of authority:: Sure! Just pick a room upstairs. <Jelarthna> Stay as long as you need to. <Temire> Master Yohko told me to watch over Mistress Michelle, so I'll be staying by her side till she no longer needs me. I have the key to the rooms upstairs though. Most of them are empty at the moment. <Jelarthna> and don't worry about it. ::smiles:: <Marta> ::with a mischievous smile, shaking her head:: Bachelors! <Jelarthna> Would you show them to a room then, Temire? * Temire races upstairs and starts unlocking doors, leaving the spell room, the room Michelle's sleeping in, and two other rooms untouched. <Jelarthna> ::calls up:: I'll be by in a few hours to check on Michelle. <Marta> Many thanks, M'lord Jelarthna, Mistress Temire. ::gathering herself and offering a deep, graceful curtsey to both of them:: <Jelarthna> Rest easy, my friends. <Marta> You also...friend. * Temire returns the curtsey, blushing as she realizes how ridiculous it looks since she's wearing pants. * Yousef clasps Jel's hand and nods. * Jelarthna shakes firmly and nods back <Yousef> ::grins and sweeps Marta off her feet and into his arms:: Enough of that, now, love. ::looking to Temire:: Lead the way, lass... as I said... ::saucy wink:: ...we've some catching up to do! * Temire leads the couple to a room at the end of the upstairs hall. * Jelarthna carries Michael up to one of the now open rooms and settles him on the bed. <Jelarthna> Thanks for your help again, Michael. Sleep peacefully. * Jelarthna goes back downstairs <Jelarthna> ::picks up the mug of water and looks at it musingly:: So what am I supposed to do now? ::glances down at Tyl:: * Temire goes to the room she put Michelle in, and curls up on the floor just inside the door. <Jelarthna> ::sighs and shoos the other dirty cups to the kitchen:: <Muggins> ::a mug sits at Jel's elbow and looks up at him, shrugging. <Jelarthna> Well put, I think. <Jelarthna> Can I count on you to make sure the others clean themselves up? I've got to take Tyl home. * Muggins waggles its eyebrows and outlines a female shape with his arms. * Muggins nods and salutes. <Jelarthna> Not you, too! <Jelarthna> Okay then, get to it. <Jelarthna> ::grins at the mug:: * Muggins mimes dancing, and waggles his eyebrows again, making a shooing motion at Jel. <Jelarthna> I'm going, I'm going. ::walks over to Tyl and carefully picks her up:: * Muggins pokes a sleepy plate and shoos it into the kitchen, following, giving a last wave before leaping off the end of the bar. <Jelarthna> ::Jel heads for the door, goes through and locks up behind himself:: Okay, this feels weird... * Jelarthna pockets the key after looking at it for a few moments and then carries Tyl off. |
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