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* Meghan stands outside the door to the Dragon's Den for a moment basking in the late afternoon sunshine then pushes the door open and walks in asking the innkeeper to let Kevil know she's there <Kevil> ::In a few minutes, Kevil comes sweeping down the stairs, as elaborately dressed as before, a cloak slung over one arm.:: Lady Meghan! Joyous I am to greet you! ::he bows flamboyantly:: <Meghan> ::a smile comes easily to her lips upon seeing him:: Hello to you Kevil. If you are free for the afternoon I can take you down to the river <Kevil> But of course! I am waiting upon your pleasure only! Please... ::he opens the door to the street and gestures for her to precede him.:: * Meghan walks out into the street lifting her face to the sun once more closing her eyes and taking a deep breath after a moment she opens her eyes and turns to Kevil her eyes sparking and her smile bright <Meghan> I do love the sunshine. It's a beautiful afternoon * Kevil follows Meghan into the street. "Not so beautiful as you, Lady." His eyes twinkle merrily as he offers her his arm. "Assistance I may offer, d'va?" * Meghan nods and slips her arm through his turning and leading him out of the city <Meghan> Have you been able to find you way around the city since you have been here? <Kevil> Of the most part, yes. I am not... what is word... bold! Not bold enough to venture into small byways, yes? Not speaking the language so well, as I do. <Meghan> ::nods:: That's very wise * Meghan continues walking along and as they pass outside the city walls she begins to point out various interesting things. They pass a few people here and there as they walk along the road <Kevil> A great many cities I have seen, and of all are some truths, yes? Learn the tongue quickly or be cheated to the market; wear the costume or be laughed away from the taverns, and walk not the dark alleys without a companion to your back guard, d'va? ::he grins:: <Meghan> ::nods:: I have learned that very recently myself. Now it seems no matter where I go there is always a friend a step behind me <Kevil> Well, it good is to have a friend to guard you, yes? I hope... ::he looks serious:: I am hoping your learning was not too terrible. * Meghan looks away and her face grows dark with pain for a moment and then is quickly washed away her face brightens slightly as she turns back to him <Meghan> It was pretty bad, but I am working through it <Kevil> Ah! Lady Meghan, allow me to beg forgiveness, to have lessened for you the joy of such a day, by bringing to you such a memory! ::He looks genuinely distressed:: <Meghan> ::after a moment more the river comes into view and they turn onto a smaller path that leads down to the river bank <Meghan> :: * Meghan smiles at Kevil <Meghan> It's ok. It's easier now. Please don't worry about it * Kevil returns the smile gently. "Ah, but Lady, one always worries about the well-being of one's friends, d'va?" His smile brightens. "But on your command, I shall place it to the back of my... my mind, that is the phrase?" * Meghan nods and smiles at him stopping at the edge of the river. She gestures grandly "This is the river Starwater" * Kevil looks around him, slowly taking in the scenery. He breathes deeply, then exhales. "You are correct, Lady Meghan. This place is of... great beauty. ::he sighs:: Wishing I am knowing more of the language, to express it better. * Meghan nods at him <Meghan> Sometimes things like this have no words to express their beauty though. I know I have not yet found the words <Kevil> ::laughs:: Is not a bard's... talent, to find words? Though this language is... awkward, in truth, for many levels. <Meghan> I am sure there are many songs about this beautiful river. <Meghan> Come we can walk up the river a bit <Kevil> Lead the way, Lady - I to follow! * Meghan smiles at him and begins walking up the river farther away from the city <Kevil> How come you to discover such a treasure? <Meghan> A very dear friend brought me here when I was new to the city, very much as I have you. <Kevil> Yes? ::he smiles:: Ten thousand thanks to your friend, then, yes? But you are not from this city? <Meghan> Nope. Came here somewhat by accident I think a few months ago. But more recently think there was a purpose to me coming here. <Kevil> ::he frowns as if confused:: You came... by accident? My understanding of the language fails, I think, Lady - I must beg your pardon, and ask you to explain. ::he grins:: In small words, for my stupid ears, d'va? * Meghan nods and thinks for a moment how to explain it <Meghan> I did not choose to come here. I just suddenly *was* here. I don't know how or why. <Kevil> For truth? ::he looks amazed:: Abducted, by magic? <Meghan> Something like that. But I am very happy to be here. The world I came from had no magic at all, and I never could do magic. Now I live in a place where there is magic and I can do, some. <Kevil> No... ::Kevil looks downright horrified:: None at *all*??? * Meghan shakes her head <Meghan> None at all <Kevil> ::He stops walking and leans against a tree for support, apparently unable to even comprehend such a thing.:: * Meghan looks slightly concerned <Meghan> Are you ok? <Kevil> But how... ::he looks at her, then stands back up:: My apologies, Lady. I am only... winded by surprise. ::he smiles somewhat shakily:: Where I am from... ::a short, almost bitter laugh:: Where I come from, magic is... everything. Lifeblood, d'va? * Meghan nods <Meghan> to me now it seems off that a place could have no magic. I don't know if I could ever go back there to live <Kevil> To think of a world of no magic... ::he shudders:: Is like... ::he looks at Meghan for a moment, thinking:: Like a world of no sunlight. * Meghan nods smiling brightly at him <Meghan> My thoughts exactly <Meghan> Sadly it is very much like that for many people who live there <Kevil> Of course! No... ::he shivers:: Let us speak of happier things, yes? * Meghan nods <Kevil> Tell me, this purpose you are believing to have. <Meghan> Well there was a princess that live here long ago. Her name was Sissra. I think that she brought me here. To know my psionic abilities, maybe more. I have not discovered yet. <Meghan> When she died they put her in a boat with all her magic and gemstones and set it adrift and it burned away. Since then no one has been able to find any of the stones or magic until recently hen I found this ::holds out the stone that is hanging around her neck:: <Kevil> Ah-ha! ::he strikes a pose:: A quest, no less! To stand in the presence is to be honored! ::he bows low to her:: I beg, Lady, to be of your... service, yes? A noble quest must always be served by a bard, d'va? <Kevil> ::he leans in closer to look at the stone around her neck:: Ah, it is almost lovely enough to adorn you. ::he smiles:: Is it having a purpose? <Meghan> I think Sissra's sprit is in there, somehow guiding me. * Kevil leans against a tree, looking at her, his eyes twinkling. "A beautiful lady, a guiding spirit within an enchanted stone... " He glances around. "A lovely setting... It is lacking only a knight or prince to complete the storybook, d'va?" * Meghan smiles brightly at him <Meghan> A very noble gentleman though, and good company is good enough for me <Kevil> ::laughs:: Noble? Not I, Lady. I am only the bard who dares to hope to serve... ::he smiles at her:: However, glad it is, that you find my company pleasing. <Meghan> ::nods:: I do, very much so. <Meghan> Are you planning on being in the city for long? <Kevil> I am... unsure. My purpose in coming is complete, but... ::he shrugs:: It was a journey of great length, and there much is to enjoy here, yes? ::he smiles:: Sights for seeing, company to enjoy... If I am successfully undoing misunderstandings with friend Marten, then visit may last... some time. <Meghan> I see. Well I do hope you can be around for a while. New friends are nice to have. ::glances to the sun:: We should probably be heading back soon. Is there anything else you might like to see? * Kevil opens his mouth to make an answer, then appears to change his mind. "Not wishing to keep you out of city gates, if it will be unsafe." He smiles. "I would like to see you again, though, Lady, if you may... tolerate such company?" * Meghan smiles brightly at him slipping her arm though his and heads back towards the city <Meghan> I would enjoy seeing you again as well. <Meghan> Actually there is a party tomorrow night in the city. Would you like to go with me? <Kevil> ::looks surprised:: Nothing is to give me greater pleasure! ::he beams:: May I... call, to escort you? <Meghan> I would like that ::smiles at him:: We can walk back by the cottage so you will know where I am to come get me tomorrow <Kevil> Of course. Only following where you lead, Lady... ::he smiles:: To not be rude, Lady, I am asking - the manner of event? How is one to be dressing, behaving? <Meghan> It's a birthday party for the mayor. He is in charge of running the city. It is formal. <Kevil> Ah, an occasion of great state, yes. ::he laughs:: Zoya teases me, only recently, for purchasing clothing, and see how I am in the right! One never foresees the need! * Meghan laughs lightly <Meghan> Very true * Meghan takes them back to the main road towards the city and after a few moments off a side road and up to the cottage. She pushes the door open and motions for Kevil to enter <Vallel> ::the cottage is filled with the smells of fresh baked bread and grilling meats:: Evening Meghan! ::Vallel's voice comes trailing out from the kitchen:: <Kevil> Is it a custom, here... ::he frowns, thinking, then smiles at Meghan:: Only recently have been... scolded, for not obeying correct customs, yes? Please not to be offended, Lady, but not wishing to offend, yes? Is it a custom here, for my clothing to match yours? Or for a gift to give? ::he smiles:: I am hoping to be correct, yes? * Meghan smiles at him as they walk into the cottage together "My dress is dark blue and it would be a good idea to get something that matches. I can give you a piece of the cloth if you wish. It is somewhat short notice though so don't worry too much. You don't need to bring anything but yourself though" <Meghan> ::she calls out:: hey Vallel. It smells wonderful in here <Kevil> Yes, the cloth would help. A tailor I know, who might fashion me some... trim, at least, in so short a time. Is it... improper to give a small gift? Where I am from, it is highly improper *not* to. ::he stops, considers, and hopes he said that correctly:: Not to offend? <Kevil> ::As he enters the cottage behind Meghan, he looks around, and the bows to Vallel.:: I give to you greeting, sir. <Vallel> Thank you ::walks out of the kitchen, wiping his hands on an apron he has tied around his waist:: Oh, hello. ::blinks at Kevil:: <Meghan> I wouldn't be offended if you didn't bring anything. <Meghan> Val this is Kevil ::gestures to him:: Kevil this is Vallel ::gestures back to Val:: <Kevil> Vallel? A name I am hearing... where? Ah! The angel's beloved! Most blessed are you, sir! <Vallel> Oh. ::eyes the stranger for a moment, then grins:: I've heard about you, too... ::winks at Meghan:: * Meghan smiles <Meghan> Kevil please would you stay and have dinner with us? <Kevil> ::notices the wink and laughs:: And you are hearing what things of me from the angel, to show mirth? <Kevil> ::glances from Meghan to Vallel and back:: If it is pleasing you, Lady, I am your servant, but... ::he looks at Vallel again:: Not to distress your friend, yes? He perhaps has prepared only for two? <Vallel> Actually, Mistress Tyl told me about you... ::bats his eyelashes, trying really hard to look like an infatuated woman, which is surprisingly effective... maybe it's the apron:: She said you were *charming* * Meghan pokes Val in the waist " <Meghan> Don't pay any attention to him Kevil. There is plenty for you too <Kevil> ::laughs heartily:: Lady Tyl'gainia praises all above my due! I am to be grateful to her bad taste, yes? * Kevil bows briefly to Meghan and then Vallel, his eyes twinkling. "If you are in the habit of feeding wayward bards, I am honored to be counted among them. Very little I require, yes?" <Vallel> I made plenty. Recently, I've not had lots of time to do any cooking, so I thought I could cook extra tonight and eat cold venison and bread for a few meals. * Meghan nods leading them both to the dining room table * Vallel heads back into the kitchen and comes out with a small wheeled cart bearing a few covered dishes. <Vallel> I tried something new with the bread today, so if it's horrible, please let me know... <Meghan> I'll be sure to ::winks at Val:: <Kevil> Ah, I see. Then if I am taking from you a meal planned for the future, friend Vallel, you must allow me to have you to dinner to replace it, of course. ::he grins:: * Meghan gestures to a chair "Please sit Kevil" <Kevil> But of course, bright star... ::he sits where Meghan indicates:: * Meghan quickly disappears into the kitchen and come back with a bottle of wine and pours it into all the glasses before sitting down * Vallel puts the serving plates on the table. There is two loaves of bread, still slightly steaming, and grilled basted venison, onion and peppers. * Kevil takes a sip of the wine, smiles his approval, then looks over the meal. "Gods may not dine better!" * Meghan nods "It does look wonderful Val" she helps to serve the food out to everyone * Kevil watches Meghan and Vallel for his cue to begin, then speaks, with a cadence of ritual, a few words in another language before taking the first bite. <Vallel> ::the bread is seasoned with garlic, roasted tomatoes and chunks of melted cheese:: * Meghan begins to eat herself <Meghan> I'm impressed Val. This is really good. <Vallel> ::swallows a lump of bread:: Thank you. <Kevil> Yes, Vallel! Meal fit for kings! ::he grins at Meghan:: And princesses, d'va? * Meghan flushes slightly <Meghan> I'm hardly a princess <Vallel> Thank you. Is the bread okay? I thought... ::swallows:: maybe it's a bit much garlic? <Meghan> You can never have to much garlic <Kevil> ::chuckles:: <Kevil> Bread is marvelot! ::he frowns:: Wrong word... <Meghan> marvelous * Meghan grins at Kevil <Vallel> ::blush:: Thank you. <Kevil> Marvelous! Yes! * Meghan continues eating her dinner <Kevil> Tell me, if you will, Vallel, something confusing me? <Vallel> Certainly. ::takes a sip of wine:: <Kevil> I am told, you are Lady Glossaria's beloved, yes? <Vallel> ::nods:: I certainly hope so. <Kevil> Not.. Not wishing to offend, yes, but only understanding, d'va? I am curious why you are living here, with Lady Meghan, and not with beloved? <Meghan> He is <Vallel> Actually, to be more precise, Meghan and I are living here at the sufferance of my aunt, Nacheyla * Meghan stops a forkful of food in mid air upon hearing Kevil's statement. She slowly lowers her fork back to her plate and glances at Val <Vallel> When Meg first arrived here in Marsember, she had a bad allergy to magical people and things. So she came here, where there wasn't any magic to make her sick. ::shrugs:: So far, we haven't had a need to alter the arrangements. * Meghan nods in agreement but looks thoughtful and continues on with eating her dinner <Kevil> ::glances at Meghan and holds up his hands:: Not... Apologies, bright star, if I am offending, please. My place has such different customs, yes? I am... learning slowly. * Meghan glances at Kevil and smiles <Meghan> You are not offending me. I'm just thinking is all. <Vallel> ::looks down at his plate, seemingly fascinated with an onion:: And Gloss wanted a... trial period on our relationship... to wait for a while and make sure it was me she wanted to be with... ::sighs:: <Kevil> Ah. ::looks relieved, and turns back to Val:: And so... You are living with... kin? Aunt is, yes? And Lady Meghan here also by the grace of your kin, to help against her sickness. ::he nods to himself:: But why... ::he is stopped by Val's explanation:: Ah. <Kevil> You to live with kin, and she with her mistress, until she is heart-sure. ::he looks almost absurdly happy about this:: It is good. ::he returns to eating, with relish:: * Vallel mangles the poor inoffensive onion with his fork. * Meghan glances at Val and then back to her own plate <Kevil> ::notices Val's distress:: Is it not good, this? I am wrong? <Vallel> ::sighs and shakes his head:: It's nothing. I just don't understand women sometimes... <Kevil> ::smiles:: Not to be upsetting you, friend Vallel, but it is not for the ants upon the earth to comprehend the gods, d'va? ::he laughs lightly:: Only to be making the required... homages, yes? <Vallel> ::glances at Meghan for a long moment:: Something like that, I guess... * Meghan smiles lightly * Meghan finishes her dinner and drinks the last of her wine * Meghan stands taking her dishes into the kitchen * Kevil finishes his meal as well and leans back in the chair, swirling the last of his wine lazily around the glass. "An excellent meal, Sir Vallel." <Vallel> I'm no sir. Just Vallel is fine. ::grins:: Thanks. * Kevil stands, following Meghan's cue and carrying his things into the kitchen. <Kevil> ::returning:: Vallel only? ::he considers:: I shall try. Customs, customs... ::he grins:: At least, if I must slip, I will try to say "friend Vallel", yes? * Vallel leans his elbow on the table and rests his chin on the heel of his hand. * Meghan disappears into her room and comes back after a moment carrying a small piece of her dress. It is a deep blue color <Meghan> ::walks to Kevil and holds out the cloth to him:: Here is the piece of my dress as promised <Kevil> ::accept the fabric from Meghan:: Ah, a glorious color to your beauty. ::he smiles at her:: I am taking it to the tailor at first light! * Meghan smiles at him <Vallel> ::smiles:: I got my outfit back today... are you escorting Meghan to the birthday party tomorrow? <Meghan> I'm looking forward to seeing what you find <Kevil> ::smiles at Vallel:: Lady Meghan is doing me honor to allow me to escort her, yes, unworthy that I am. * Meghan laughs lightly <Meghan> You are hardly unworthy Kevil <Kevil> ::he leans toward Vallel and stage-whispers:: I am believing, friend Vallel, she is only wishing to shine the much brighter for the comparison, yes? ::he winks:: <Vallel> ::glances between the swarthy handsome bard and the delicate beauty of Meghan:: I think you two will look very nice together. * Meghan flushes again and turns away <Meghan> Ok that's enough of that <Vallel> What? ::catches her hand and pulls her around:: If you don't know that you are beautiful, you should look in a mirror more often. ::grins broadly:: <Kevil> Ah! Your hopes not wishing to crush... ::he grins:: I must pay the tailor in *gold*, yes? ::he laughs:: <Kevil> ::nods at Vallel:: The very truth! * Meghan glances at Val looking deeply at him then away <Meghan> Thank you for the complement * Kevil grins widely, but says nothing. * Meghan gently pulls away from Val and walks into the living room <Meghan> Come it's more comfortable in here if you'd like to sit * Vallel blushes suddenly and awkwardly begins taking his own dishes into the kitchen. <Kevil> ::follows Vallel into the kitchen briefly, then joins Meghan in the living room:: * Meghan sinks into her favorite chair <Meghan> sit anywhere Kevil * Kevil smiles and selects a chair at random. "A very... comfortable home, yes?" * Meghan nods <Meghan> I have grown very fond of it <Vallel> ::the sounds of dishes being washed drifts into the living area, accompanied by more clatter than could normally be expected:: <Kevil> ::looks around:: Vallel's kin... aunt? She is where? <Meghan> To be honest I am unsure where she is now. Val may know, but he seems to be busy at this moment <Kevil> Ah. Am only... curious. ::he smiles:: Not important. * Meghan nods <Meghan> So do you think you'll be ok finding you way out here tomorrow? <Kevil> ::he nods:: I believe, yes. Perhaps will... test directions with Lady Glossaria, to be sure. <Meghan> That's a good idea <Kevil> ::smiles:: Thank you, Lady Meghan, for gifting your time today. * Vallel comes out of the kitchen, his hands still somewhat damp. <Meghan> You are very welcome Kevil. I very much enjoyed your company <Kevil> ::smiles:: And yours, I. ::turns to Vallel:: And to your cooking, friend, my thanks! <Vallel> Not a problem. ::sits down on the sofa near the fireplace:: * Vallel stares into the fireplace for a long moment... then suddenly, the logs in the fire burst into merry flames. <Kevil> ::jumps:: Oh! * Meghan suddenly stands <Kevil> ::glances at Meghan, and stands as well:: <Meghan> Kevil I can walk you back to the Inn if you'd like <Vallel> ::looks over at Kevil:: Sorry. I didn't mean to startle you. <Kevil> Ah. Pleasant it is to think of, yes? But it is dark, you safe in your home, d'va? Ruffians not to be troubling with a bard, but I am not to be dangering you, Lady. ::he smiles:: My own way to find, better to return tomorrow, yes? * Meghan nods <Meghan> If you're sure * Vallel stares into the flames, gestures with one hand and suddenly the logs are engulfed in bright green flames, with pink smoke drifting up the chimney. * Kevil smiles at Meghan. "Alas, for so pleasant a day to end, yes? But all the sooner tomorrow to awake." He - almost tentatively - takes her hand and kisses her fingertips. * Meghan smiles back at him "very well said. I couldn't agree with you more" <Kevil> A good night to you, bright star. ::raising his voice slightly:: Sleepyou well, friend Vallel. ::he bows to Vallel, then to Meghan, then slips out the door.:: * Vallel glances briefly at Kevil and Meghan, then back to the fire, which becomes a vivid purple. <Vallel> Good night... * Meghan waves to Kevil as he walks away from the cottage and closes the door quietly behind him * Meghan turns and walks back sitting back in her chair her gaze on the floor in front of her * Vallel experiments, turning the flames in interesting shade of blue, then white, and finally settling with a disturbing pattern of green and grey stripes. * Meghan glances at the fire and then out the window. The silence thickening * Vallel sighs, then looks over at Meghan. <Vallel> Yes? * Meghan glances at him her look obviously sad she shakes her head and looks away <Meghan> ::softly:: whatever I've done I'm sorry * Vallel looks at the striped fire. <Vallel> It's not you, Meg... <Meghan> You're obviously not happy with me. I can tell * Vallel tucks his legs up onto the sofa, wrapping his arms around his ankles and resting his head on his knees, suddenly looking much younger than he normally does. <Vallel> Have you ever had... I... ::frowns:: Do you ever think things that you shouldn't think? * Meghan nods <Meghan> Sure from time to time <Meghan> Comes with being human I think <Vallel> ::looks back at the fire:: I was finding it rather difficult not to... I wanted very much... ::takes a deep breath:: I'm not sure I like Kevil very much. * Meghan looks somewhat confused <Meghan> Kevil? What does Kevil have to do with anything. Why you just met him Val * Vallel frowns. <Vallel> I... ::stops and looks at the floor:: ::mutters something incomprehensible to the floor:: * Meghan stands and walks to the sofa sitting down next to Val forcing him to look at her <Meghan> ::softly:: just tell me what's wrong. <Vallel> I don't know. Maybe it would be better if we just forget about it. <Meghan> Do you honestly think you will....just forget about it <Vallel> Well... ::peeks at her:: * Meghan smiles lightly <Meghan> Come now you've never not been able to talk to me, have you <Vallel> ::raises his eyebrows:: you've noticed that, have you? * Meghan nods <Meghan> And I can't say as I mind either <Vallel> ::smiles somewhat wanly:: I think it was more that he... brought up something that I had been ignoring. Killing the messenger is such an old habit, don't you think? <Meghan> That it is. <Meghan> So what is it that you have been ignoring? <Vallel> ::looks up at her with a brief penetrating stare, then looks back at the fire:: You. <Meghan> ::her eyes widen slightly:: What? Why me? <Vallel> ::*not* looking at her:: Except, of course, that I'm not. I'm almost more aware of what you're doing than of what I'm doing. * Meghan shakes her head a bit <Meghan> I'm sorry Val. You have very much confused me. I have not noticed you ignoring me. I don't really understand what you are trying to get at <Vallel> Welcome to the club.... <Meghan> Why do you say you are more aware of what I'm doing? * Vallel stares at the fire, the colors flickering from green to gold to red to blue. * Meghan holds her gaze on Val <Vallel> ::glances at her:: Look, I... don't think I should say this, I really don't. Once I say it, we can't pretend that I didn't... * Meghan nods and stands pacing slightly away <Meghan> Then don't Val <Meghan> I just don't want to upset you, and if I do I want to fix it. ::shrugs:: but maybe I can't * Vallel looks at her, frowning. * Meghan looks back challenging his gaze <Vallel> So... ::as if changing the subject:: You like him, do you? ::jerks his chin, indicating the door that Kevil left from:: * Meghan walks over and sinks into her chair <Meghan> He's nice. Lord Val I've known him for like 3 days. I think he's sweet and think we could be friends. That's all * Vallel frowns and sighs <Meghan> What does it matter Val. Am I not supposed to have friends or care....::Stops suddenly and looks at him her eyes wide:: * Meghan mutters softly to herself <Meghan> ::looks intently at Val:: Tell me how you feel? <Vallel> ::laughs:: I wish I knew... <Meghan> I think you do....at least have some idea....tell me * Vallel looks back at the fire. <Vallel> I... guilty. Jealous. Upset. Confused. * Meghan nods slightly <Meghan> I think it's time for me to find my own place to live * Vallel laughs bitterly. <Vallel> See? I told you. and now everything's going to change. * Meghan goes and kneels in front of Val pulling his hands into her own * Vallel looks down at her. <Meghan> Change is part of life dearest. We'll be no less to each other than we are now. But I can't come between you and Gloss, I won't. Me staying here, living with you ::pauses looking for the right words:: it's not right, right now. <Vallel> I... if you think that's the right thing to do... * Meghan reaches up and touches his cheek lightly with her fingertips <Meghan> I think it's the right thing for you, and that's what is most important to me now * Vallel closes his eyes and leans against her hand. <Meghan> ::softly:: You know I care about you, that will never change <Vallel> I don't know if that makes things better or worse. I didn't mean to, you know. <Meghan> You didn't mean to what dear? * Vallel looks at her for a long moment, his eyes filled with emotion. * Meghan nods placing her fingers over his lips <Meghan> ::whispers:: I understand * Meghan stands and bends down gently kissing the top of her head * Vallel closes his eyes and turns away, hastily scrubbing at his face with one hand. * Vallel stands up, the fire in the fireplace dying to embers. <Vallel> I'm going to go not sleep now... <Meghan> ::softly:: good night dear one ::pauses:: some day remind me to tell Gloss how amazingly lucky she is to have you <Vallel> I'm sorry if I upset you. I knew I shouldn't have said anything... <Vallel> ::mutters:: And I don't think she's lucky at all. I... shouldn't feel this way. <Meghan> Please don't say that. ::looks at him intently:: Val if nothing else we need to be honest with each other <Meghan> You are human dear. Trust me you'll feel this way more than once. The important thing is that you recognize it and make the right choices <Meghan> As you have tonight * Meghan smiles lightly at him <Meghan> Goodnight Vallel <Vallel> I... ::gives her a look of anguish:: when Masato kidnapped Gloss, all I managed to do for her was follow Jaret around like an over-eager puppy... you... you *needed* *me*. She... ::shrugs:: Am I making any sense at all? * Meghan sighs softly <Meghan> Val listen to me * Meghan waits for him to look at her * Vallel glances at her. <Meghan> I did need you. Without you I would have died. That in itself is going to create a bond between us. But there are as many reasons why Gloss needs you too. She loves you very much. For that reason alone she needs you and you have that bond with her. <Meghan> And as your relationship grows there will be other bonds that grow between you and she. <Vallel> I... I love her too... stupid isn't it? I didn't think you could... care about two different people at the same time... * Meghan smiles <Meghan> But you can. You just care about them differently * Vallel smiles somewhat weakly... <Meghan> Doesn't mean you shouldn't care about me Val. You just have to keep it in perspective. You'll learn that....I think you are right now <Vallel> Good night, Meg... I'll... help you look for someplace else to live after the party, all right? * Meghan nods <Meghan> Goodnight dear one * Meghan turns and walks off to her room * Vallel watches her walk away, the turns to the wall and with a sharp jerk, raps his forehead sharply against the wall. He sways, blinks a few times, then staggers back to his own room. |
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