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* Nacheyla walks downstairs, unlocks the door and moves behind the bar. <Nacheyla> Hall's Open. * Jaret walks in. He's dressed in black and silver, and is wearing a slightly foul expression on his face. His rapier is belted at his side, and he takes off his plumed hat as he enters. "Well met, Nacheyla. A glass of Arabellan Red, if you please?" * Nacheyla pours Jaret a drink. <Nacheyla> Here you go, Lord Jaret. * Zoya enters, looking somewhat concerned. She smiles at Nach as she approaches the bar. "I'll have a cider, if you don't mind, Nacheyla. And would you happen to have a scrap of paper or parchment I could have?" <Jaret> Thank you, m'lady. * Nacheyla pours Zoya a mug of cider. <Nacheyla> Surely. ::rummages under the bar for a piece of paper:: Here you go * Nacheyla gives Jaret a stern look. <Nacheyla> Are you all through thumping on my guest, however? <Zoya> Thank you! ::takes the cider and the paper and almost takes a deep draught from the paper before she catches herself and switches hands. * Jaret grins. "Maybe." * Zoya sits at the bar, pulls a pencil from one sleeve, and begins to write in a small, neat hand on the paper. * Zoya nods at Jaret. "Good evening, m'lord Malkier. How are you this evening?" * Lisl descends the stairs soundlessly, skipping the creaky step by habit, a guarded look on her face as she scans the room below. <Jaret> I am... mostly well. My superiors wish for me to leave town as soon as I can on a matter of some importance. They accept my delays, but I think they're getting a little impatient, and with good reason. <Zoya> Leave? For how long, dare I ask? * Nacheyla pulls out a small red leather book and pours herself a mug of beer. She sits absently behind the bar and begins to read <Jaret> Until the task is done. I don't work on set schedules, exactly. <Zoya> Well, of course, but surely you have an idea whether it will be trip of weeks or years? <Lisl> ::crossing the floor to the bar:: I, for one, am glad you're still here, Jaret. I'm not overjoyed at the thought of facing Marten myself. <Jaret> Oh, weeks most likely. I figure... ::counts on his fingers:: six or so at the utmost. Still, I can't leave just yet. <Zoya> ::jumps slightly at Lisl's entrance:: Oh, Lisl! Good evening! <Zoya> Have you seen Marten since... the other day? <Jaret> Why, thank you, Lisl. ::bows to her as she enters:: It's always nice to be appreciated. What happened with Moo -- Marten? <Yb> ::The door swings open and Yb twirls into the Hall. She's dressed in an elaborate white silk wedding dress, her hair braided with flowers and a veil covering her face. Even her crystal staff has been decorated with garlands.:: * Nacheyla glances up, makes a slight face and sighs <Lisl> ::nodding to Zoya, her face emotionless:: No. Rhys seems to think we will, I remain doubtful...but I've been thinking about him a great deal over the past week. ::shifting her eyes to Jaret:: He knows what I am. And he didn't take it well. <Nacheyla> Good evening, my lady. Can I get you a drink? * Jaret is quite interested in something at the bottom of his wine goblet. * Zoya turns to Jaret to make a comment, but nothing comes out of her mouth as she spies Yb. "Oh, no..." she says softly. <Yb> Hello everyone! ::Yb's voice is filled with enough cheer to light the Underdark.:: <Lisl> ::glancing over her shoulder, dropping involuntarily into a slight crouch as the door opens:: Oh...gods above. <Jaret> ::murmurs:: And below. <Zoya> ::to Lisl, pointedly ignoring Yb:: I think he'll be back, but I believe some caution is not uncalled for. <Yb> I'll have the best wine in the house. ::Twirls over to the bar:: In fact, the best for everyone...On me! ::Sprinkles assorted coins and gems across the bar.:: * Nacheyla shrugs, pulls out an old bottle with a yellowed label and opens it. She gestures to some glasses who march out onto the bar. Obligingly, she fills each one, takes one for herself. "I thank you, my lady" * Jaret waves off Nacheyla. "I already have a vintage that pleases. Thank you." * Yb raises her glass, "A toast to my Moon Dancer's return." * Zoya takes another drink of her cider. <Lisl> ::picks a glass off the counter, swirling its contents and staring at it dubiously, as if it might turn to poison:: <Lisl> Moon Dancer's return? ::lifting an eyebrow fractionally:: I think you were misinformed, Yb. Moon Dancer hasn't been here in many months. ::her voice flat:: * Yb looks desperately at Lisl, "But, but...He HAS to be back...I mean..." Yb blushes profusely. * Jaret remains quiet, and drinks some wine. <Lisl> ::shaking her head slowly:: No. There's a man visiting who bears a fair resemblance, but I can tell you for certain that he's not the Moon Dancer you know. * Nacheyla gives Yb a long look, then returns to her book * Yb crosses her arms and looks indignant, "We'll see." Yb's voice echos as if she was standing in a large cavern complex. <Lisl> ::a tiny, glacial smile quirking Lisl's lips:: Yes, we will, won't we? * Marten walks into the Hall, looking like he hasn't slept in a bed for days. His clothes are dirty and wrinkled, and his face is coated with nearly a week's worth of proto-beard. The only thing he carries is a small bag on his waist. He looks up meekly, and upon seeing Yb, mutters. "I... I'm sorry. I seem to be interrupting a celebration. I'll return later." * Marten turns around, stops, and seems to think for a few moments, his hand reaching for the bag at his side. * Nacheyla glances up * Zoya reaches out a hand to Marten before he leaves. "Marten, please, stay!" * Yb locks eyes with Marten for a moment, "He has returned." Yb's voice continues to echo. <Nacheyla> Good evening, Brother Marten... come in. Do sit. * Jaret gets up and heads for the door. "Marten. You... you don't look like you should be traveling right now. Come, sit. Have some food and drink." * Marten turns, small bag in his hand. He looks at Zoya, and his face turns a deep red. "Lady Zoya. Well met." * Lisl remains silent, watching Marten, studying him minutely. <Marten> ::looks at Nacheyla:: Barkeep, I do not believe we've met, though you seem to know me. ::hands her the small bag:: Please, give this to Lord Rhys. It is for the damage I caused the other day. <Zoya> ::smiling:: This isn't a private party. ::smiles gets a bit strained:: Yb visits rarely, but there's no need for you to go. <Nacheyla> ::gives him a long look:: How odd... I spoke with you just last week... maybe there is something to what they say ::glances at Jaret and Lisl:: * Yb blinks at Marten. "Why would you want to leave after just getting back? I mean, this is your home after all." <Marten> ::shakes his head at Zoya, and waves a hand dismissively at Jaret:: No, I... I've only come to settle my accounts, then turn back onto the road. <Marten> ::looks at Yb:: No, milady, this isn't my home. I'm not sure where my home is, now, but it's not here. <Jaret> Wh--why are you leaving? <Zoya> At least stop and have a drink with us first. You did say you'd go see a cleric. ::holds up the scrap of paper, which has names and addresses written on it.:: <Marten> ::looks slowly up at Jaret:: Milord Malkier, I've caused too much grief and anguish, too much damage to those around me to stay. As much as I've enjoyed my time in Marsember, my... ::looks at Zoya, almost smiling:: lunches and the like... * Nacheyla sighs and picks up her book again <Lisl> ::clearing her throat, her voice carrying:: M'lord Marten...will you answer me one question before you go? * Yb races across the room and glomps Marten, "MOON DANCER!!" * Marten turns towards Lisl, without lifting his head, and as he opens his mouth, is tackled and sent sprawling to the floor. "OOMPH! Dear Gods!" <Lisl> ::puts a hand to her face, covering an involuntary giggle:: * Jaret starts to answer Marten, but then reaches out a hand to help him off the floor. "Here." <Marten> ::takes Jaret's hand, and uses it to pull himself up:: Many thanks, Milord Malkier. * Yb refuses to release her glomp, even as Marten is standing up. * Zoya sighs, and looks over at Nach. "No way to get in a proper conversation while she's around. Do you have another piece of paper?" <Jaret> It's the least I could do. * Nacheyla pulls out another sheet of parchment, while absently thumping through her book. <Marten> ::tries to arrange his clothes, and realizes it's useless to try. Then he looks at Yb, knees wobbling:: Milady! If you please... * Zoya sighs, casts one baleful look at Yb, and begins idly sketching on the parchment. <Yb> Of COURSE I'll marry you Moon Dancer. ::Musses his hair:: Why do you think I'm dressed like this silly? <Lisl> ::shaking her head:: Oh gods...he encouraged her.... <Marten> ::looks at Yb, and sighs. He then, slowly and resolutely, removes Yb from his person, and sighs while he sits down:: * Nacheyla looks up briefly. She stands, puts her book face down on the bar and wanders into the kitchen <Jaret> Moon... Marten, where's your klaive? <Marten> ::looks at Jaret:: My... oh, yes. I no longer have my klaive. * Zoya looks up, suddenly concerned. "What happened to it?" <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, and the corner of his mouth twitches:: I sold it. To pay for the damage I caused to the Meade Hall. <Jaret> Sold it!?! To who? * Nacheyla comes back from the kitchen with a plate of meats, cheeses, bread and honey... <Nacheyla> Here, you all might as well eat... <Lisl> ::narrowing her eyes fractionally:: <Zoya> You... ::closes her eyes and ever-so-carefully puts down her pencil:: <Marten> ::looks at Jaret, slightly confused:: Why does it matter? * Yb looks around, "Has anyone seen Lini'leah around? She said she'd do the ceremony." <Zoya> Marten. Come here, please, for a moment. <Jaret> ::through slightly clenched teeth:: "It matters. Please, just tell me who you sold it to. I wish to purchase it myself." <Lisl> ::murmuring:: Well, *that* would be appropriate, at least.... <Marten> ::looks at Jaret:: I'm not sure, actually. A vendor on the outskirts of the city, near the docks I believe. <Jaret> I'll.. I'll have to go out there this evening, and see if he's still there. Tomorrow, perhaps. ::sounding rather dejected:: <Marten> ::shakes his head toward Jaret:: That's not important, Jaret. There are wounds I need to heal here, before I leave. * Nacheyla picks up some bread, cheese and meats and makes herself a sandwich. With a sigh, she picks up her book and plops back down on her bar stool <Lisl> ::speaking up again:: And what about your own wounds? <Jaret> The klaive, though... It was Moon Dancer's last link back home. He'd... he'd be very upset if I let it get away. <Yb> That's right Moon Dancer. I got us this great little summer cottage. It'll be perfect for our honeymoon. ::Yb shoves a piece of paper into Marten's face.:: <Zoya> ::looks at Jaret:: Don't worry, Jaret. I can trace it if I have to. <Marten> ::shakes his head, almost angrily, and forces himself to be calm as he turns to Jaret:: I am... NOT... Moon Dancer. * Jaret looks somewhat better at that. <Lisl> ::flatly:: No, you're not. But *we* still have some concern for him, even if you don't. <Marten> ::looks at the piece of paper from Yb, and brushes it aside, annoyed:: <Yb> But of course you are...OH! Don't you think we should wait until we're alone to play those sorts of games? <Jaret> I... I didn't say you are. I do believe that klaive is his, however. AND, Moon Dancer, wherever in Toril he MAY be, would want me to GET IT BACK. * Nacheyla looks up again and presses the blue panel on the bar, making the furniture glow with a soft, protective light. <Marten> ::slams him hand down on the bar, hard, spins to face Yb:: Did you not just hear me, woman? I am not the man you think I am, and I do not appreciate your constant refusal to accept that! I have been living under his shadow since I arrived in this town, and I WON'T HAVE IT!" <Lisl> ::eyes sliding towards Nach, grinning slightly:: <Marten> ::spins back to face Jaret:: And, find whatever you want! I wash my hands of it! I have TRIED to make you understand, but you refuse to try! <Nacheyla> Actually, brother Marten, Lady Yb doesn't hear you. She's a little... gone... * Zoya looks taken aback by the outburst, but then her eyes narrow shrewdly, watching Marten very closely. * Nacheyla gives Lisl a long look * Yb faces Marten, "If you're living in a shadow all you have to do is embrace me and my light will destroy it." <Nacheyla> Must save the furniture, you know. I give them about ten minutes or less before they're rolling around on the floor with knives again... <Lisl> ::chuckles softly and nods, turning her attention back to Marten:: <Jaret> You look just like my friend. You walk just like him. You fight just like him. You carry some of his most dear possessions. You have a memory lapse coinciding when he disappeared. If *you* can't understand why I think what I do, then your thick skull must be full of EVEN DENSER ROCKS THAN MOON DANCER'S WAS, YOU MEWLING CALF! <Lisl> ::with a tiny smile:: Language, Jaret. * Marten looks at Jaret, mouth gaping, for a few moments. Then, in a fit of rage, Marten grabs the closest mug and hurls it across the room, hitting Sealgair's swords. One topples to the floor, and the other settles on the mantle:: DAMN YOU! Damn you, Jaret Malkier! What do you want from me?!? * Nacheyla sighs, gets up from around the bar and puts the sword back <Nacheyla> I'm sure you're upset, but please, stop wrecking the place... I have to clean up around here, you know... * Nacheyla picks up and comforts the screaming, crying mug <Lisl> Well, I guess I can try again...may I ask you one question, m'lord Marten? <Marten> ::takes the bag from his belt, and throws it down on the bar. A large sum of gold spills from inside:: Take it, then, keep. For your trouble, and any more I may cause before the night is over. * Yb spins Marten around to face her, then shoves him up against the bar. She then holds up a small gold ring, "You gave me this ring, so don't you dare ignore me now!" <Jaret> Straight answers! Where did you get that klaive from? Moon Dancer wouldn't let it out of his hands if he was still alive. Who is this mysterious brotherhood who supposedly saved you? If you've never been here before, how do you know your way around as if you had? <Lisl> ::shakes her head, putting a hand to her eyes:: * Nacheyla scoops up the gold and gives the room in general a dark look <Lisl> ::holds up her hands:: Hey, I *saved* three chairs last time. <Jaret> I want my friend back. * Nacheyla sits the mug down on the bar and talks quietly to it... * Zoya carefully looks around the room, then calmly and deliberately picks up her pencil and goes back to her sketching. <Lisl> We all want Moon Dancer to return, Jaret, but we won't get it by harassing Master Tenbones. ::looking at him shrewdly:: Besides, I believe he has problems of his own to deal with. * Marten looks indignantly at Yb. His face then knots up angrily, and he puts his hands on Yb's shoulders. He then throws her as far across the room as he can, yelling at her:: And you! To the Hells with you! I AM NOT MOON DANCER! <Jaret> ::Jaret's face goes dark, and he kidney punches Marten for all he's worth:: * Yb hits the far wall and crumbles to the floor. <Jaret> Don't. Hit. Ladies. * Nacheyla looks up at Jaret, then says quietly to the mug "Since when is Yb a lady?" * Marten puts a hand to his lip, and looks at the trickle of blood that lands on his finger. He looks up at Jaret, and smiles. "I don't think you understand what you're asking for. Jaret." <Lisl> Gods above....not again. ::moving forward, shouldering roughly between the two contestants and glaring at both of them:: <Yb> ::A soft white glow begins to emanate from Yb's staff as Yb slowly pulls herself to her feet.:: <Lisl> STOP. NOW. Zoya, how's Yb? * Nacheyla hovers her hand over a yellow tile on the bar. <Nacheyla> This does not look good... * Zoya doesn't look up from her paper as she responds, "If she's still alive, she'll be all right." * Jaret reaches into his pouch, and pulls on some leather gloves. "Come on, you bastard. Moon Dancer'd rather be dead than be trapped in a body with slime such as yourself." <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: This does not concern you, milady Lisl. If you please. <Lisl> Jaret! I said stop, and I meant it. ::glaring at Marten:: And it concerns me deeply when friends and supposed gentlemen start brawls they can't win. <Zoya> ::calmly, still without looking up:: Lisl? Come over here a minute, would you? <Lisl> Zoya, I'm a bit busy at the moment...can it wait? <Nacheyla> Actually, Lisl, I suggest getting out of the way... <Marten> ::Marten spits out a glob of blood, and looks Jaret squarely in the eye:: Fine, then. If that's how it's going to be. ::Marten crouches slightly, moving to Lisl's side:: <Zoya> No, Lisl, I don't think it can. Let the boys have their fun for a moment. * Yb glares at Marten, her eyes are glowing identically to her staff, "You DARE do this to ME!" Yb raises her staff, "Find my hope in the shadow of dreams!" Yb thrusts her staff at Marten and a white blast of light streaks towards him. * Jaret drops into a fighting stance and ... * Nacheyla slaps the yellow tile <Lisl> ::rolls her eyes:: Gods above! ::diving for Zoya:: * Marten disappears with a satisfying 'POP!'. * Jaret disappears with a pop, too. <Jaret> ::and reappears, looking a little fuzzy around the edges:: * Zoya looks up sharply as Yb makes her move and lifts a hand before she realizes that Yb's gone slightly fuzzy, as well. <Lisl> ::completing a roll on the floor and coming up in a crouch:: What the HELL just happened? Why isn't everything toasty? <Zoya> ::closing a slightly trembling hand, she turns to Lisl:: Before Marten threw Yb, Lisl, I think Jaret was baiting him on purpose. I think he's trying to bring out the wolf in him. This may be what he needs, to... to change back. <Nacheyla> ::peers into the fuzzy bits:: Now, where did Marten go? * Nacheyla looks over at Lisl <Lisl> ::frustrated:: I *know* what Jaret was trying to do. He did the same damn thing last time. And I'm fairly certain it's not going to work...::cursing:: <Lisl> What, I didn't take him! <Nacheyla> I had some of the Hall gnomes build in some special defenses. I have limited skills to handle that sort of thing... so they're in a slightly different time... until they calm down <Zoya> ::shakes her head:: Last time, Marten didn't get angry. This time, he was... Right on the edge. <Lisl> Ah...got it. <Lisl> ::shakes her head:: You should have seen him last Tuesday, before he ran off and dove through a second story window.... * Jaret looks over at Lisl. "I'm not trying to save him from himself anymore. I want Moon Dancer back, desperately. But this... *thing* residing in his body isn't going to be allowed to act with impunity anymore." <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Oh? Was he angry? Completely angry, or on the edge? ::musing:: I wonder if that's what he was running away from... * Yb has become surrounded in white light. <Lisl> ::shaking her head seriously:: I'm fairly certain he *is* running away from something...Marten, not Moon Dancer. And I *need* to find out what, if we're ever going to fix this mess.... <Jaret> Speaking of which, where is that doppleganger? <Lisl> Impunity? IMPUNITY? Who hit him first, LORD Malkier??? <Jaret> He threw Yb across the room. That was uncalled for. <Lisl> ::rolling her eyes:: It's *Yb*! I *know* her, and I've been strongly tempted to deck her!!! * Nacheyla mutters to the glass... "Gee, I thought everyone wanted to throw Yb across the room..." <Zoya> ::sighs:: Yes, I agree with you. But it might be interesting if... ::sighs sharply, and raises her voice:: Yb! Would you mind terribly bringing him back? <Jaret> Despite your obvious attachment to Moon Dancer, I hope you'd recognize that as a hostile act that deserved some response. And while some of the members of this establishment might have *wanted* to perform similar actions, they didn't. That's the fine line between base crudity and restraint that this creature lacks. <Lisl> He didn't recognize me, Zoya, but he recognized what I was...I'm fairly certain he thought I was something else entirely. <Zoya> Well, there's a clue of some sort, at any rate. <Lisl> ::rounding on Jaret's fuzzy form:: And you, butt out! You've been acting little better than a dockhand since the man arrived!! * Yb white glow around him vanishes and she phases back into the room. "He took himself there." * Jaret sighs and turns his back on the raving Lisl. <Zoya> Well, could you bring him back, anyway? * Nacheyla gives Yb a dark look "I need to bring those gnomes back in here..." <Yb> Why should I bring him back if that's where he wanted to be? <Zoya> ::narrows her eyes at Yb:: Because you're mad at him? * Yb cocks her head and blinks at Zoya, "I am?" <Zoya> Of course you are. He dumped you, after all. Don't you want to bring him back so he can see what he's missing? <Yb> No. I just feel kind of sorry for him. * Jaret begins to walk around in the otherspace, testing for boundaries and solid objects. <Zoya> :;sighs:: Can you at least tell me where he went? <Nacheyla> ::looks over at Jaret:: As soon as you stop being mad, you'll slip back over. Sorry about that, but... well.. the furniture, you know <Zoya> ::muttering:: Not the ether, please, not the ether, I *hate* that stupid communications spell... * Jaret looks at Nacheyla. "Oh. Heaven forfend the chairs get scuffed." <Yb> The Land of Dreams. But it's probably time to bring him back. After all, if we don't bring him back he'll never understand anything. <Zoya> ::looks hopeful:: Yes, you're probably right. * Yb closes her eyes and the white glow slowly engulfs her. <Lisl> ::snorting:: What, you want to piss off the HallMaster too, Jaret? <Nacheyla> ::glares at Jaret:: And the people and the mugs and everything else. I'm sure you're upset about your friend, but have a little courtesy for the rest of us, if you don't mind, sir. <Lisl> ::chuckling a little:: Hear that, Jaret? You, of all people, being discourteous! <Yb> ::A soft white glow appears in the middle of the Hall and slowly resolves itself into Marten.:: <Jaret> ::in a monotone:: Of course, Lisl. I don't know why I didn't help him throw Yb into the wall. How crass of me. <Lisl> ::shakes her head, pursing her lips, and turning away as the glow appears:: Marten, are you alright? <Nacheyla> That happened a little faster than I expected. Trust me, I don't think he's particularly lovely either. In fact, I think both of you are acting like seven-year-old boys with too many muscles and not enough sense... * Marten reappears, and looks around the Hall, disoriented. "What..." Marten looks at Yb, and frowns. * Nacheyla walks over to Marten, hands on her hips <Nacheyla> I think you owe Lady Yb an apology. Immediately <Marten> ::looks at Lisl:: Yes, milady. I am... fine. * Zoya sighs, and picks up her pencil again. <Lisl> Good. Then apologize to Yb, before she fries you. That was completely out of line. <Nacheyla> She is a lunatic, yes, and somewhat annoying, yes. But I don't think she deserved to be mauled just because you're out of temper. * Jaret sits down on the floor near the fireplace in the otherspace, crosses his legs, closes his eyes, and sits quite still. <Marten> ::looks at Nacheyla, frowning, and then to Lisl. He looks at Yb, and sighs:: Yes, I suppose it was. <Lisl> ::arching an eyebrow and crossing her arms, but saying nothing:: <Marten> ::turns to Yb, and drops to a knee:: Milady, my sincerest apologies. I... allowed my frustration with other people, other situations boil over and erupt on you. Please, accept my apologies. * Nacheyla smiles tightly and walks back around the bar. <Lisl> ::covering her eyes:: Oh, not the knee... * Jaret breathes. * Yb throws her arms around Marten's neck and starts crying, "I knew you'd remember." <Nacheyla> ::looks over at Marten:: Just remember, she's crazy and dangerous... not a good mix. * Marten nearly jumps out of his skin, and stands with Yb around his neck. "Remember!?! Remember WHAT?" * Yb continues to sob into Marten's chest, "Proposing to me of course." <Lisl> Yb....::crossing to the pair of them:: remember what I told you before? This isn't your beloved Moon Dancer. ::searching for inspiration:: You know how.... * Jaret breathes, slowly and evenly. <Lisl> You know how everyone on the earth is said to have a duplicate somewhere? ::mouthing to Marten, "Work with me":: <Yb> It is Moon Dancer! It is, It is, IT IS! <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, confused:: <Lisl> No, I'm sorry, sweetie, but this man is just Moon Dancer's duplicate. Gets mistaken for him all the time. Don't you, Mr. Tenbones? <Marten> ::looks at Lisl sadly:: Yes. I'm afraid I do. ::doesn't take his eyes off of Lisl:: * Yb grabs Marten's hand, "Come on, let's go dance in the moonlight." <Marten> ::does his best tree impersonation:: No, thank you. I'm not in a mood to dance. * Yb stops suddenly, "Wait, there isn't a very good moon out tonight." * Jaret is slowly coming more into focus. <Lisl> ::narrows her eyes slightly, but continues speaking soothingly to Yb:: Yb, really, it's not him. What would Moon Dancer say if he found you with another man? * Zoya bends lower and lower over her writing. She coughs - or maybe hiccups - at the "duplicate" idea. <Yb> But it is Moon Dancer Lisl, you know that. * Nacheyla moves over to Jaret, his wine glass in her hand. When he comes into focus, she hands him the glass. "Sorry about that. I really am." <Marten> ::looks at Yb:: No, milady. I am not. * Jaret finishes materializing, opens his eyes, stands, and takes the glass from Nacheyla. "You did what you thought was best. It's your job, you can't be blamed for it." <Lisl> ::biting her lip, and matching Marten stare for stare:: I *know* nothing of the kind, Yb. What I do know is that this man has problems enough of his own to deal with. * Zoya sits up straighter, folds her paper and tucks it into a sleeve along with the pencil. <Marten> ::as Lisl mentions problems of his own, Marten turns his head slightly, looking at Jaret, then turns back to Lisl:: * Yb brightens noticeably, "Oh, then he should be my apprentice." * Jaret walks back to the bar. <Lisl> ::shakes her head slowly and deliberately:: * Nacheyla hands Jaret a cheese and meat sandwich... <Marten> ::Marten actually manages a laugh at Yb's idea of an apprenticeship:: No, I think not. <Nacheyla> If there were anything I thought I could do to help, I would... * Zoya groans softly. "Isn't it about time for her to... flip over another card, or something? <Lisl> ::coughs a little at Yb's last statement:: Um...I don't think he...has the talent for it, Yb. * Jaret smiles wanly. "Thank you very much, but I'm not very hungry right now." <Nacheyla> You should eat. Being in no-space does weird things to your metabolism <Yb> Oh, should I be his apprentice then? * Jaret looks dubiously at Nacheyla and begins to nibble on the sandwich. <Lisl> I don't think so, Yb. <Marten> ::eyes widen, and steps away from Yb:: No, milady. I cannot take on an apprentice. It is not in my line of work to do so. * Nacheyla makes another sandwich and gingerly walks over to Yb <Nacheyla> I'm sure you must be hungry, My Lady? <Yb> But one of us has to be the master and the other the apprentice. ::Yb looks very confused now.:: * Zoya raises an eyebrow at Marten's reaction, but continues to watch him silently. * Yb blinks at the sandwich for a moment, then starts eating it, "I could really go for some spaghetti." * Nacheyla looks around helplessly <Nacheyla> What's spaghetti? <Yb> ::Around bites of her sandwich:: It's these stringy chewy things in a red sauce with spices and some kind of meat. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, then at Yb:: Milady, again I apologize for my actions this evening. More than that, I cannot do. ::looks at Nacheyla, frowning:: Will the gold I gave you earlier cover the addition damage I've done this evening? <Lisl> Why don't you look around the kitchen, Yb? Maybe you could find some....::with an apologetic glance at Nacheyla:: <Jaret> ::mumbles something under his breath:: <Marten> ::shakes his head at Yb's description:: It's pasta. * Nacheyla looks over at Marten <Nacheyla> I thought you were a monk... where'd you get all the cash? * Yb wanders into the kitchen. <Marten> ::quietly:: I sold what few possessions I had. <Nacheyla> Pasta... pasta... what about linguini? I think I have... ::trails off:: <Nacheyla> oh dear. * Jaret has another swallow of his wine. <Nacheyla> Ah. well... I don't think anything was majorly damaged... except maybe the mug, but I can get him some therapy... <Lisl> ::putting a hand on Marten's arm:: And now, Master Tenbones....please, may I ask you a question? <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, resignedly:: Yes, milady. You may. * Zoya takes a swig of cider, and looks back at Lisl and Marten. <Lisl> Will you *please* tell me who you're running away from? <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, stunned. He puts a hand behind him, to catch himself, and nearly falls into a chair:: Running? What... what do you mean? * Zoya smiles, somewhat sadly. <Lisl> ::snagging a chair with her foot, and sitting across from him:: I'm *not* the meditative type, but after your rather...disastrous exit Tuesday, I've been doing a great deal of thinking. And I realized, you weren't running away from me. You were running from something you thought was stalking you...weren't you? <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, face growing white. He sets his jaw:: No. I wasn't. <Zoya> ::very softly:: Marten. We can help. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya, crossly:: Help? I don't need help, milady. * Jaret snorts quietly into his wine. <Lisl> ::sighing:: Dammit....I hate mysteries, and I hate seeing good people in trouble...I don't care who the hell you are, Marten..when I look at you, I see *both* of those things. Please, let me help you. *YOU*, not who I might see. * Nacheyla laughs sharply <Zoya> ::sighs, closing her eyes:: That's not what you said the other day. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, surprised, then turns back to Zoya:: You're right, it's not. But, Zoya, a great deal has happened since then. * Jaret finishes off his wine. "Nacheyla? Just some water, please." * Nacheyla gets Jaret a glass of water <Lisl> ::shaking her head:: And if you doubt my intentions...I've got a vested interest in helping you, if I've guessed right about what you called me before you...left so precipitously. ::quirking a small smile:: <Zoya> ::opens her eyes and meets his gaze:: So much so that you no longer care to recover your memory? So much that... ::closes her eyes again:: We have all of us felt fear, Marten. We have all been in... tight spots. If you were a complete stranger to us, in trouble, we would help. ::looks at him again:: And you are not a stranger, even if you are not Moon Dancer. <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, then again at Zoya. He lowers his head, and mutters into his table:: I... It's just that... ::he sighs, and lowers his head onto the table:: <Lisl> ::softly:: You're not used to being able to trust people, where you come from? * Jaret sips some water. * Marten looks back up, into Lisl's eyes. "No. It's something I can't afford to do." <Lisl> Where every other stranger is a spy, and someone is powerful enough to use werewolves as hunting dogs? ::raising an eyebrow:: * Zoya looks at Lisl, the light dawning in her eyes. She tucks her hands into her sleeves as she looks back at Marten. "Trust never comes easy, and the price, I know, is dear. But it is less than the price of standing alone." <Marten> ::smiles slightly:: You surprise me, Lisl Ferinsdottir. You seek out things most mortals would shy away from if given only half the chance. * Nacheyla looks around the room with an odd smile. <Lisl> ::smiling without humor:: I've sought death often enough, and that was similar...now that I'm past that stage, I have to find new ways to occupy my time. <Marten> ::shakes his head:: Neither of you understand what you are standing on the border of. Neither of you could ever imagine. ::looks at Zoya:: Trust is not something I can give you. All I can do is stay, for the night at least. It is too late to start now, and Marsember is far enough away. * Jaret drinks some more water. <Marten> ::stands, and walks over to Jaret. He stands behind him, and slightly to his side:: * Jaret doesn't turn around. "Can I help you with something, Master Marten Tenbones?" <Lisl> Marten...you don't understand, either. We don't *care* what we stand against. We care who we stand *with.* ::looking at him intently:: You already have my trust, and my greatest secret. Remember that. * Marten lowers his head, and speaks sotto voce. "Lord Malkier, I... apologize. My actions were not justified, by any stretch of the imagination. I was wrong, and you, good sir, completely in the right." * Jaret turns. "Your apology is accepted, Master Tenbones." <Nacheyla> ::aside to Zoya:: now all we need is that big-hearted Jelarthna, his fervent fiancee and that loud-mouthed demon and we'd have a mighty force 'gainst the darkness, eh? <Marten> ::nods curtly:: Then, it is settled. * Zoya coughs out a laugh. "Aye, there you have it." <Lisl> ::snorting giggle:: * Jaret finishes his water, and looks past Marten to Zoya. "When do you think you could begin on acquiring a trace on Moon Dancer's klaive?" <Zoya> ::gulps back the rest of her cider:: Tonight. It would be faster, Marten, if I could have a few of your hairs? <Marten> ::turns back to Lisl:: Milady Ferinsdottir, I will keep my word and your secret. ::Marten's hand tenses as Jaret mentions the klaive:: I... I appreciate your offer of comradery, but I cannot accept it. Yet. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya:: Hairs? What for, if I may ask. <Lisl> ::bowing her head in a nod of acceptance, and looking back up at him with a smile:: I can understand that. But also understand that I won't let this alone. Whether you let me help you or not. <Zoya> Well, whether or no you were ever Moon Dancer, it was yours for the last several months, at least. Some bit of you - hair is the easiest to acquire - would greatly assist in tracing it. You can witness the spell, if you like, to be sure that all the hairs are consumed, that I'm not keeping them for some nefarious purpose. ::her voice turns slightly bitter:: <Marten> ::shakes his head, smiling:: No, no. You misunderstand. I was just curious as to your motives. I was not questioning your sincerity or offer of trust. <Marten> ::reaches to his head, and pulls out several hairs, handing them to Zoya:: Here you go, milady. <Lisl> ::coughing into her fist, hiding a smile:: No, you wouldn't, would you? <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: Well, then. Thank you. ::takes the hairs and tucks them into her sleeves.:: <Zoya> Lisl... Don't you have some... friends, outside of town, who might be able to help you keep an eye out for any strange visitors? <Lisl> ::smiling a little wider:: I imagine I could scare up a...watcher or two. <Marten> ::shakes his head in protest:: No, seriously. You needn't concern yourself, not yet. I... I was startled into action, and have acted hastily, it seems. Please, you reach beyond your grasp, Lady Zoya, Lady Ferinsdottir. <Jaret> ::to Zoya:: Thank you. If you think it'll be ready by then, I'll stop by your tower in the morning. Until then, I'll look for it on my own." ::he stands:: Good night, everyone. <Lisl> ::looking at Marten:: Seriously, Master Marten, we don't care. And you have no idea how large our grasp can be. <Zoya> ::to Jaret:: That would be fine. I should have a lock on it by then. <Lisl> Good evening, Jaret. Sleep sweet. <Zoya> ::to Marten, grinning:: A watch, overreaching? A watch is never a bad idea, Milord Marten. <Lisl> ::smiling at him:: And for what it's worth...you have my apology as well, M'lord Malkier. <Marten> ::sighs, and throws up his hands in frustration:: Fine. Do what you will, but I have warned you, milady. <Jaret> Thank you, Lisl. You know it's worth a lot. ::walks to the door, putting his hat back on as he steps through the doorway:: I must be going, though. Good night. <Zoya> ::grins wider:: But you *haven't* - not really. But that's all right. I'm used to watching for unknown dangers. <Marten> ::looks at Nacheyla, apologetically:: Can I assume that my room is still available, seeing that no one has come to rent it? <Lisl> ::nodding:: We understand.. we will not hold you at fault, and neither should you. ::grinning:: You had no idea what sort of lair you were stepping into, here. <Nacheyla> With all the noise around here recently... who would want to rent your room? Go on up. <Marten> ::laughs:: No, Lisl. I had no idea. <Marten> ::looks at Zoya:: If your mother tells you not to stick your hand on the stove, and you don't yet understand hot, you listen, simply because she knows more than you. <Lisl> ::breaking into a wide grin:: Ah...you *do* know my first name. <Zoya> ::laughs:: Funny you should mention that, Marten. My mother learned I was a mage because I wouldn't stop playing with the fire in the hearth. <Nacheyla> ::gives Marten a shrug:: Well, these are the idiots who joined the Blood Wars to save a friend. Somehow, I don't think you need to worry about them getting burned too badly <Marten> ::nods:: Thank you, milady. I will discuss arrangements on the morrow. <Marten> And, milady Zoya, much like when you were younger, I am simply trying to keep you from getting badly burned. <Zoya> ::laughs:: Well, then, who knows what strengths I'll discover this time. <Marten> ::shakes his head slightly:: And, if there are no more questions, accusations or suspicions, I will be heading to try and rest. Are there? <Zoya> ::seriously, to Nach:: We didn't *join* the Blood Wars, Nacheyla. We just took a shortcut through them. <Lisl> One more question.... <Marten> ::looks at Lisl, slightly annoyed:: Yes, milady? <Zoya> ::to Marten:: Just one - Will you come by the Tower in the next day or so? We still need to see about that cleric I mentioned... ::smiles:: <Lisl> ...you still haven't told me what you're running from. ::quirking a grin:: <Marten> ::lets loose a small yell:: Women! Yes, I'll come to the Tower! No, I haven't told you! Yes, I am going to my room now! Good night to you all! * Marten proceeds to stomp up the stairs, and slams his door behind him. <Lisl> ::laughs:: <Lisl> You know, I have yet to get one straight answer out of that boy. Maybe you should try, Zoya. He's quite taken with you. * Nacheyla makes a face <Zoya> ::laughs:: Taken? With *me*? You're out of your mind. Come on, I've got a case of dwarven spirits I'll share with you... * Zoya leads the way out of the Hall... * Nacheyla looks at the two ladies <Nacheyla> I'm going to go see if Yb has traumatized the silverware <Lisl> ::grinning:: Am I? We'll discuss it...over the case....::following Zoya out the door:: * Nacheyla sighs <Nacheyla> Finally... yeesh. |
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