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* Rhys walks in from the back room and unlocks the main door. "Hall's open." * Rhys returns behind the bar. * Vallel walks in. He is wearing much more subdued clothing than normal, black pants, a dark brown shirt and a simple black vest. He is carrying a wicker fishing creel in one hand. <Rhys> Evening, Vallel. Been out drowning worms? <Vallel> Something like that. ::deposits his catch on the bar and opens the top for Rhys to look in:: * Bai walks in and heads for the bar, leaning his staff against the wall before sitting on a stool. "Good evening Rhys, Vallel." <Rhys> Impressive haul, Vallel. * Sabrina slowly walks down to the bar she is wearing a simple blue dress her hair hanging loosely around her shoulders <Rhys> Evening, Bai. Water? <Bai> Yes please Rhys. <Rhys> Sabrina, good to see you. Can I get you anything? * Rhys pours Bai a mug of water. <Sabrina> ::smiles softly at Rhys as she takes a seat at the very end of the bar:: water please Rhys * Rhys pours Sabrina a mug of water. <Sabrina> ::Smiles:: thank you <Rhys> And what can I get you, Vallel? * Bai sips his water. <Vallel> ::runs his hands through his hair:: Stout? * S'ayad'i enters tentatively, looking around as if she's afraid the place will dissolve under her feet. She is wearing a simple mercenary officer's uniform (and the white bardic band around her arm, of course), her sword as always at her side. She smiles somewhat when she sees Bai, and walks to the bar. * Sabrina takes the mug and drinks most of the water eyeing Vallel and Bai for just a moment before looking at her mug on the bartop <Rhys> ::to S'ay:: Evening, miss. Can I get you anything from the bar? I'm Rhys Altain, barkeep this evening. <S'ayad'i> An ale, please. ::her voice is like silver bells chiming:: * Bai turns to S'ay, "Good evening S'ayad'i. Have you come to entertain us this evening, or simply to share our company after your long absence?" * Rhys pours S'ayad'i' an ale. "Here you are." * Vallel looks into the basket, admiring his fish, before looking around. * Rhys pours Vallel his mug of stout. "Here you are. Sorry about the wait." <Vallel> No problem. ::takes a gulp of the dark stout:: * Xarroch opens the door with something resembling a normal amount of force and squeezes himself through the doorway. His clothes look to fit slightly better than usual, and he walks ponderously to the bar, glancing around at the other patrons, and showing just a hint of a grin as he sees Bai. <S'ayad'i> No, I am afraid that I have no heart for singing tonight, old friend. I have come only to visit. ::she takes a sip of her ale.:: * Sabrina drinks most of the rest of her water glancing quickly at S'ayad'i' then away <Xarroch> ::nods to Rhys:: Good evening, Rhys. ::smiles:: <Rhys> Xarroch, good evening. You did an excellent job handling the door tonight. * S'ayad'i smiles at Sabrina. "A good evening to you." * Xarroch grins and looks back at the door * Sabrina s eyes go wide as she sees Xarroch and she slips back off her chair catching herself on the bar before she falls on the floor <Xarroch> Then I shall celebrate by having a mug of mulekick! * Vallel smiles somewhat weakly at Xarroch, his eyes a bit tense. * Bai raises his mug to S'ay, "Certainly we are glad to know that you are still well." <Xarroch> ::nods and smiles at Vallel:: Hello, Vallel. * Rhys pours Xarroch a mug of mulekick, and places the mug carefully in front of Xarroch at the bar. <S'ayad'i> ::glances askance at Xarroch, but turns quickly to the fallen Sabrina:: What is wrong? <Vallel> Hello. ::pulls out a nice fourteen inch rainbow trout:: Fish? ::offers it to Xarroch:: <Xarroch> ::grins a little at Bai:: Hello, Bai. <Xarroch> ::looks at the fish curiously:: A fish did you say? How interesting! * Sabrina looks at S'ayad'i and shakes her head softly as she gets back on her seat she whispers "Nothing" * Nacheyla skips in, one hand clutched tightly around something small and furry, her long hair up in pigtails. She is eleven years old. * Elgara'a enters. She's swathed head to toe in a deep blue cloth, a fold of it covering the lower part of her face like a veil. Alert dark eyes peek out above the veil, studying her surroundings. She stamps the dust of the road from her boots at the door before entering. <Bai> Hello Xarroch. * S'ayad'i lays a hand gently on Sabrina's shoulder. "Are you sure? You seemed quite upset." <Rhys> Good evening... ::squints:: Nacheyla? What are you doing? <Nacheyla> Oh! ::bounces up to the bar:: Hello Rhys! ::climbs onto a stool with some effort:: <Rhys> Can I get you a... milkshake? <Sabrina> ::Softly:: I have just nver seen anyone ::glances at Xarroch:: so big before * Nacheyla places the small furry thing on the bar and watches it. <Xarroch> ::laughs as Nacheyla enters:: Hello, Nacheyla! Back to being a girl, again? <S'ayad'i> ::glances back at Xarroch:: He *is* intimidating, isn't he? <Nacheyla> Strawberry? ::smiles:: Hullo, Xarroch! ::stands up on her stool and kisses Xarroch on the forehead:: <Xarroch> :smiles at S'ay and offers hand:: I assure you, I am quite safe here. I am Xarroch. * Sabrina nods to S'ayad'i * Xarroch smiles fondly at Nacheyla <Nacheyla> I figured it out! ::grins proudly, pointing at herself:: <S'ayad'i> ::takes Xarroch's hand:: Well met. S'ayad'i. <Xarroch> Figured out... yourself? * Rhys fiddles around with the taps for a while, and eventually ends up yanking one sideways to get it to pour out a thick pink concoction into one of the mugs. * Vallel shakes his head, avoiding his aunt's gaze. <Xarroch> ::searches his memory for a moment:: It is nice to meet you, S'ayad'i. And your friend is? ::nods to Sabrina:: * Rhys passes Nacheyla the mug. "Here you go. Drink it too fast and it'll give you a headache, so be careful." * Nacheyla drops back onto her stool and slucks noisily on her milkshake. <S'ayad'i> ::smiles again:: I don't know. I've only just met her, myself. ::she turns to Sabrina and solemnly offers her hand:: S'ayad'i, bard, at your service. * Elgara'a hangs back at the door for a moment, studying the room at length, before crossing to the bar and addressing Rhys is heavily accented Common. "Mise el'kheer, barkeep. I saw light in the windows. Please, can you tell me... is this still Sealgair's Meade Hall?" * Rhys looks at the small fuzzy and then up at Xarroch. "This is *not* an appetizer, so please don't treat it as such." <Sabrina> ::softly:: Sabrina ::shakes S'ayad'i's hand slowly:: <Xarroch> ::smiles widely at Rhys:: The young huntress did not offer it as such, so do not worry. * Bai sips his water, watching the various goings on. <S'ayad'i> ::smiles:: Well, that's all... ::she turns around at El's question, her sea-green eyes widening with surprise:: Elgara'a!!! <Rhys> ::to the stranger:: "This is the Meade Hall, but the ownership is... well, it's in a somewhat unresolved status. My name is Rhys Altain, can I get you anything from the bar, or to eat?" * Sabrina drinks the rest of her water <Rhys> ::to Sabrina:: More water? * Sabrina nods to him <Nacheyla> Oh! ::jumps off her stool, nearly bumping into Xarroch and pulling a package out of her pocket:: Here, Vallel. Happy birthday! * Rhys refills Sabrina's mug. * Vallel sighs and looks at his "aunt". "Thank you, Aunt Nach. <Vallel> " * Xarroch steadies chibi-Nacheyla a bit <Rhys> It's your birthday, Vallel? Happy birthday. * Sabrina takes a long drink of the water <Sabrina> ::softly:: Thank you <Vallel> Thank you ::he smiles, opening the package gingerly:: <Xarroch> Birthday? ::raises an eyebrow:: <Elgara'a> A glass of spring water would be a blessing from on high... yes, please. ::turning:: S'ay? ::broad smile, dark skin crinkling around her eyes:: S'ayad'i, as I still breathe! My good friend! ::clapping her on the shoulder:: <Nacheyla> ::very off-key, with great enthusiasm:: Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday dear Valle-hel! Happy birthday to you! * S'ayad'i laughs - a cascade of bells - and hugs Elgara'a. * Rhys pours Elgara'a her mug of water, quietly murmuring to himself, "Popular choice tonight..." * Sabrina smiles softly at Nacheyla * Bai sips his water and smiles at Rhys. * Vallel opens the small package and pulls out several small single earings, a silver hoop, a diamond, and something that looks like a small, green worm. * Sabrina watches Vallel open the gift <Vallel> Thanks Aunt Nach ::hugs the little girl, looking somewhat embarrassed:: * Nacheyla kisses Vallel on the cheek noisily. * Xarroch knocks back the mug of kick and sets it down on the counter carefully <S'ayad'i> But whatever brings you out of the northern desert, my friend? * Xarroch chuckles a little * Vallel disentangles himself from the girl, then replaces the gold hoop with the green worm earing. <Xarroch> So what is this birthday thing? <Nacheyla> ::bounces back over to Xarroch:: It's Vallel's birthday. He's lived eighteen years now. <Elgara'a> ::returning S'ay's hug, and adding a grin of her own:: Well, my friends do. It has been too long since I have heard from you all, and my tribe prospers. They could afford to lose their chieftain for some few weeks. * Sabrina takes a sip of her water <Rhys> Us mortals who remember the day of our birth often celebrate it, and often are given gifts on the occasion. * Bai sips his water. <Xarroch> ::lifts Nacheyla back up onto her stool:: Ah, I see. A celebration of life, then? <S'ayad'i> I'm glad they could spare you some little while. It's been too long. <Xarroch> A reward for surviving so long? <Nacheyla> ::giggling:: Yep! Have you seen my space hamster? ::looks around for the furry thing:: <Rhys> ::quietly:: Space... hamster...? <Xarroch> It is a miniature giant space hamster? ::said with a straight face:: * Glossaria enters, wearing a yellow dress very similar in appearance to the one Vallel gave her. The center gold panel has been ripped out and replaced with one of dark green brocade, and the new sleeves are of a matching green. * Bai sips his water. <Rhys> Evening, Glossaria. What can I get you? I never remember if you're proceeding alphabetically by drink or by ingredient. <Nacheyla> ::nods vigorously:: It's a miniature giant space hamster! His name's Manfred! <Elgara'a> ::nodding agreement:: Aye. ::frowning a little:: Does Lisl yet frequent this city? I had hoped to share her quarters again, but the door was locked... ::gesturing to a small pack of belongings, left by the door:: And what of Felis, eh? <Xarroch> ::turns and offers Glossaria a smile:: Hello, Glossaria. It seems today is your mate's "birthday". <Xarroch> Manfred? ::looks around and sniffs for the hamster:: Where did you find him? * Vallel leans back in his chair, lacing his fingers together and locking them behind his head, watching Gloss walk across the room. <Glossaria> ::nodding with a smile:: Aye, I know. ::blushing a little as she keeps both hands behind her back:: <S'ayad'i> ::looks somewhat sober:: I wouldn't know, Elgara'a. I've been out of the city myself for months, looking for Felis. * Nacheyla shrugs. "On a big boat thing... out in the woods." <Elgara'a> Looking for him? ::putting a hand on her shoulder:: Has something happened? <Xarroch> ::looks at Elgara'a the mention of Lisl:: You are a friend of Lisl? <Bai> Lisl still resides here. Though she currently lives alone. Mostly like she is out hunting and will return soon. * Sabrina finishes the rest of her water <Glossaria> And Rhys, I move alphabetically by drink. I believe I'm up to I. * Nacheyla bounces over to Gloss, jumping up and down, trying to look at whatever it is she's got behind her back. <Rhys> Hmm.... I.... Inish Coffee? <Elgara'a> ::looking up... and up... and up... as she surveys Xarroch:: Indeed, my large friend. She and I even shared rooms, some time ago. I would almost call her cousin... ::grinning a little:: ...but that I know her kin. <Glossaria> :;turning deftly to keep her whatever-it-is hidden:: Who-- Nacheyla? Did you revert? <Glossaria> Inish coffee would be fine, Rhys. <Nacheyla> Eh? Oh, no... I figured it out. ::spots something small and furry headed for the door at top speed:: Manfred! ::races after the hamster:: * S'ayad'i nods slowly. "There was some trouble, upriver a bit. Bandits... slavers, I think. He took a group of guards out to round them up... After two weeks, half the guards returned. The battle had been fierce...." She chokes slightly, then resumes. "Felis's body was never found." <Xarroch> ::returns the grin, nodding:: I have not met her family, but it is nice to meet another friend. I have hunted with her several times. ::grin widens as he glances down at his mug a moment:: And shared mule kick with her on others. <Vallel> ::turns to Rhys:: Would it be too much trouble to pan-fry some of these? I was really craving some fresh trout earlier. <Rhys> One moment, Vallel, and I'll get going on it. * Nacheyla catches the escaping hamster in one hand, then turns back to the room, her small face solemn. * Bai sips his water. <Nacheyla> I'm sorry for your loss, ma'am. ::offers her non-hamster hand to S'ayad'i:: * Xarroch grins as Nacheyla catches the miniature giant space hamster <Elgara'a> S'ayad'i... ::her face grim:: I mourn with you, my friend. But at least, if he has passed into the sands, he did so in battle, as he would have wished, yes? * Sabrina looks towards Rhys <S'ayad'i> ::pets the hamster but does not take it and smiles sadly at the girl:: Thank you. * Rhys gets a mug out, fills it about half-way with steaming hot black coffee, pours in a healthy dash of whisky, stirs in a spoonful of sugar, and then carefully floats a layer of cold heavy cream on top. "Here you go, Glossaria." <Rhys> Yes, Sabrina? More water? * Sabrina nods to him and says softly "Some fruit to please" <Xarroch> ::looks thoughtful:: Your missing friend was also a friend of Lisl's? * Bai sips his water. <Rhys> As soon as I get back with these ::heads back into the kitchen with a few fish:: * Nacheyla sticks Manfred in her front vest pocket and climbs back onto her stool. <S'ayad'i> ::to El:: Yes, I suppose so. ::she sighs:: <S'ayad'i> ::to Xarroch, carefully:: Yes, he was. * Sabrina nods to him <Glossaria> Thank you, Rhys. ::sniffing tentatively, and getting a dollop of cream on the tip of her nose:: <Xarroch> ::smiles just a bit:: Her friends always seem quite resourceful. If you have not found remains, I would think that he has survived. Although perhaps is in need of assistance, if he can be found... <Vallel> ::smiles and walks over to Gloss, kissing the tip of her nose:: You have cream on your nose, dear. <S'ayad'i> ::shakes her head:: I have spent the last months combing the area near where the attack took place. I do not think even Lisl's... ::glances around quickly:: ...special resources could help. One needs a trail in order to follow it. <Glossaria> ::smiling at him:: Not anymore, I think. ::hugging him:: Happy birthing-day, love. ::shyly:: This is for you. ::holding out a 3" square box, wrapped in several layers of different-colored tissue-thin paper:: * Sabrina sits listening to the conversations in the Hall <Vallel> Thank you, dear. ::gestures over to his slightly less crowded corner of the bar:: Come, sit down? <Xarroch> ::nods:: Then do not lose hope. Trust in your friend and in your god to keep him safe. ::offers a slightly encouraging smile:: * Jelarthna opens the door and enters, gracefully hanging up his cloak and hat, and beams to the room at large <S'ayad'i> ::nods:: Every night offers a prayer to Milil for his safe return. <Jelarthna> Goodness! <Elgara'a> Still... our help is there, should you require it. ::grinning a little:: And I believe you will find my resources much increased from when I was last here. Father stepped down eight years ago... it is why he called me home. <Rhys> Evening, Jelarthna. Can I get you anything? * Nacheyla sighs, stirs her milkshake moodily, then, an almost subtle shimmer gathers around her. When it fades, she is nineteen and normal looking. <Glossaria> ::nods and allows herself to be led:: <Rhys> ::returning from the back room with a plate of fried fish for Vallel and a plate of fruit for Sabrina:: * Vallel sits down, takes another sip of stout and unwraps the present. <Sabrina> ::softly:: Thank you Rhys * Bai sips his water, "When did you become a shape changer Nacheyla?" <Vallel> Thanks Rhys! <Jelarthna> ::blinks a few times at the number of people, smiling widely:: A mug of meade please, Rhys... ::looking around again:: <Glossaria> ::pauses halfway to the table:: Nacheyla? What-- how did you do that? ::frowning:: An illusion spell? * Rhys gets Jelarthna a mug of meade. <Nacheyla> ::shakes her head, then frowns and undoes the pig tails on either side of her head:: Not a shape-changer... they are all my shape. I just learned to shift between them. ::braids her hair in a single braid down her back:: <S'ayad'i> ::smiles at El:: Really? Congratulations, then! ::she lifts her mug in a toast to Elgara'a:: <Jelarthna> Hello, Bai! Vallel, Happy birthday! Hi, Glossaria! Nice to see you again, Sabrina. Xarroch, old friend, it's been too long! S'ayad'i! It's been even longer!! <S'ayad'i> ::smiles and nods in greeting to Jelarthna:: * Vallel takes several bites of pan-fried fish, then finishes opening the gift <Xarroch> ::grins at Nach:: With more aptitude than I! Nice trick. * Sabrina begins eating the fruit in front of her offering a soft smile to Jel <Elgara'a> ::smiles and lifts her water glass in acceptance of the toast:: <Nacheyla> ::smiles, somewhat coyly at Xarroch:: it's all my own shape, so I imagine it's easier... ::looks at him:: * Jelarthna smiles happily at Rhys and picks up the mug of meade, taking a big swallow * Bai sips his water, "Still, it's a fascinating ability. How did you learn it?" * Vallel pulls out a wooden box with stylized flames on it. "This is lovely, dear." ::opens the box:: <Nacheyla> ::grins at Bai:: Lots and lots of practice. <Xarroch> ::laughs:: Perhaps, but it is still very interesting! ::raises an eyebrow and smiles back:: <Glossaria> ::smiles and bounces a little, watching Vallel open the box:: * Nacheyla absent-mindedly pulls the hamster out of her vest pocket and looks at it. <Vallel> ::opens the wooden box and looks at the crystal inside:: Very nice. What's it for? <Jelarthna> ::pats Xarroch on the arm with a warm smile and moves over next to Gloss and Val:: Nice new earring there, Vallel. <Glossaria> To help you meditate. Look at it, and relax. <Vallel> Thank you ::looks over at his aunt and seems both relieved to see her looking more normal and at the same time, seems more tense than he was:: <Xarroch> ::looks at the miniature giant space hamster with a grin:: Now where did you say you found your new pet? <Glossaria> ::rubbing his arm with a smile, touching his chin to pull his attention back away from his aunt:: *Relax*, silly. <Nacheyla> Oh... ::blinks:: There was a ship out in the woods, about three days north of here. I snuck aboard... I was curious. * Vallel takes a deep breath and nods. "I'll try." ::peers into the crystal:: * Elgara'a takes a sip of water. * Bai sips his water. <Xarroch> hmm. Not Zoya's, I would think... she would guard it better. <Glossaria> ::turning a little: A ship? In the woods? You mean a spelljammer? * Sabrina sips her water <Nacheyla> ::shrugs:: I'm not sure what a spelljammer looks like. But I was curious as to what it was doing way out there, with no water around. * Elgara'a represses a small shudder at Nacheyla's words. * Jelarthna watches Vallel concentrating quietly, and slowly begins pulling a long, wrapped package from his belt pouch * Vallel looks into the crystal, the lines in his face slowly relaxing. * Sabrina watches Vallel curiously <Xarroch> ::grins:: Those creatures are not native to this planet? ::nods to Manfred:: <Nacheyla> Anyway, I found this little guy scurrying around in the hold. <Jelarthna> ::looks around at the mention of a spelljammer:: A Spelljammer? Where?? * Glossaria looks concerned. "Only the one of them?" ::Muttering under her breath:: Not a breeding pair, I hope... <Nacheyla> About three days ride that way ::points north east:: * Glossaria eyes Jel with a touch of amusement, her attention shifting back to Vallel, smiling as the lines on his face smooth. <Xarroch> ::grins at Glossaria:: But I thought you approved of breeding? <Nacheyla> I only saw the one... * Jelarthna stares off to the northeast thoughtfully, pulling the rest of the package free and absently setting it on the table beside Vallel * Bai sips his water. <Glossaria> ::blushing a little:: Well, yes, THAT kind... but... ::glancing at Manfred, and continuing in a stage whisper:: Rodents don't use birth control! * Sabrina finishes the fruit on her plate and drink the last of the water in her mug <Xarroch> ::laughs:: So then the predators will find a new source of food. <Jelarthna> ::shakes his head for a moment, then smiles at Nacheyla brightly:: Would you like to show me? <Glossaria> ::dubiously:: An alien rodent... that would still disrupt the balance of nature. <Rhys> Only if there aren't sufficient predators around to keep its population in balance. <Rhys> More water, Sabrina? * Elgara'a has another swallow of water, looking around her at all the new faces:: <Jelarthna> ::thoughtfully:: Perhaps, Glossaria... but nature seems to be awfully good at resettling things. <Nacheyla> I can if you want ::shrugs:: there wasn't anybody there... ::makes a face:: except for a few bodies, that is. <Jelarthna> ::suddenly beams a smile at Elgara'a and bows to her extravagantly:: I do not believe I've had the pleasure to meet you, milady. I am Jelarthna. * Sabrina nods to him <Glossaria> Sometimes... but... nature's not used to silly humans who bring things where they don't belong. ::shakes her head:: We don't know what sort of natural defenses this fellow might have. <Xarroch> Bodies? ::raises an eyebrow:: Of what sort? * Rhys refills Sabrina's mug. * Bai sips his water. <Xarroch> Did it seem a crash, perhaps? <Nacheyla> I don't know. I never saw anything like them before. * Vallel seems to come back to himself and smiles softly at Gloss. <Vallel> This is lovely, thank you. <Sabrina> ::softly:: Thank you * Elgara'a putting a hand to her heart before pushing back her hood and offering Jel an elaborate bow of her own, touching her hand to forehead, lips, heart, and sweeping out with much flicking of fingers:: <Nacheyla> And I'm not sure it crashed. The ship didn't seem to be damaged, much. ::frowns:: <Elgara'a> My deepest apologies, effendi. Elgara'a ibn Al Shudhyr of the Raz'hadi Bedine, I am honored to make myself known to you. * Glossaria sips her coffee. * Bai sips his water. <Jelarthna> ::smiles and bows again:: The pleasure is mine, lady Elgara'a ibn Al Shudhyr of the Raz'hadi Bedine. It has been long since I have seen the beautiful desert. * Elgara'a's face, now seen more clearly, is deeply tanned, and she bears tribal tattoos-- little swirls and triangle-patters of dots-- on cheekbones and forehead. * Vallel notices the package next to him on the table. "Where'd this come from?" <Elgara'a> ::smiling a little:: You may call me Elgara'a, or El, if you choose. You have been to the Great Sand Sea, then? ::studying him more keenly:: <Jelarthna> ::grins:: That's from me, Val. Happy birthday! * Glossaria smiles a little and points to Jel. <Vallel> Oh. Thank you ::grins:: <Xarroch> ::looking thoughtful:: Not crashed? <Xarroch> I wonder if it has perhaps brought something dangerous to us? <Nacheyla> ::shakes her head:: Not as far as I could tell. The bodies were all stabbed, though. And one of them looked like it had been twisted somehow. ::shudders:: it was grotesque. <Jelarthna> ::smiling again at El:: Only once in my travels, Lady Elgara'a. I found it to be a beautiful place, with a draw almost as powerful to me as the forests of my home. But I had difficulty surviving there. ::grins a little:: * Vallel opens the package, curious. <Elgara'a> ::looking at Xarroch with a smile:: You have hunted with Lisl, ke'beera? ::nodding:: Aye, I think I can see that, now. <Xarroch> Twisted? Something dangerous indeed.. I can think of several ways such a thing might happen. * Bai sips his water. <Elgara'a> ::turns back to Jel with a smile:: Many berrani find it so. Only the Bedine can truly thrive in the sand-- it is our home. But I am pleased that an outsider would see its beauty, past the heat and dust. Few do. <Xarroch> ::grins back at El:: Can you? What is this ke'baara? ::curiously:: It does not sound like the common I am growing more at home with, <Nacheyla> Well, I never saw creatures like this either. Maybe they're the dangerous things and whatever killed them is... friendly? * Sabrina finishes her water and slips from the room up the stairs and back to her own room <Glossaria> ::frowning in concern:: twisted? Mistress Zoya should know of this... only... ::biting her lip:: I should hate to interrupt her at the moment. She, ah... strongly indicated her desire for privacy, this evening. <S'ayad'i> ::softly:: Tell us what it is that you saw? * Vallel pulls out a fine, elven rapier and admires it in the light. <Vallel> Thank you, very much. <Xarroch> Perhaps.. but better safe than sorry. ::grins:: * Nacheyla nods. <Xarroch> ::nods to Gloss:: I have little experience but I think Nacheyla and I will be able to find and investigate whatever is there safely. And Jelarthna if he insists on coming along... <Nacheyla> Well, they were large, broad through the chest, almost as broad as Xarroch, here. And tall... ::looks up at Xarroch:: About nine feet, I think. <Jelarthna> ::beams at Vallel:: I hope you like it! <Elgara'a> ::smiling a little at Xarroch:: My apologies... Common is not a...common tongue, in my homeland, and I fear I lapse into my native Bedine at times. Ke'beera is a... how is it called? A short-name-- a nick-name-- meaning "large one," for you have not honored me with your true name and... well... it does seem to fit you. <Vallel> It's beautiful. <Jelarthna> ::shoots a glance at Xarroch:: Try to stop me! <Nacheyla> And their faces... ::shudders:: they looked like animals... gray skin and huge heads... bulbous. <Xarroch> ::smiles even more widely:: Nine feet tall, eh? How interesting! <S'ayad'i> ::frowns:: They sound... terrible. * Bai sips his water, "Did they look something like weasels?" <Xarroch> ::to Elgara'a:: I understand... this is not my native tongue, either. <Nacheyla> ::shakes her head:: No, they didn't look like any animals I ever saw... <Xarroch> ::chuckles a little:: "Large one". My name is Xarroch. <Xarroch> but I do like the "large one". ::grins:: * Vallel stands and makes a few practice strokes with the new sword, admiring the blade. <Glossaria> Huge heads, you said? ::frowning a little, reaching for a napkin, and scribbling a quick, rough likeness on it:: Like this, perhaps? * Jelarthna smiles and motions Vallel over * Vallel lowers the rapier and walks over to Jelarthna, his face glowing. <Vallel> This is beautiful. I don't deserve it. * Nacheyla looks at the drawing. <Nacheyla> Yes, that's them. ::shudders:: Ugly, aren't they? <Elgara'a> ::nodding her head:: Xarroch. ::she pronounces the ch as a strong back-of-the-throat guttural:: * Jelarthna whispers something to Vallel and grins * Xarroch nods to Elgara'a's approvingly * Vallel takes several steps away from the Patrons and raises his eyebrows at Jelarthna. "Far enough?" <Xarroch> Many humans have trouble with it. ::grins:: <Glossaria> ::cocking her head thoughtfully: Inhuman, certainly. But I believe they bear a certain resemblance to Gondish Water Horses. Or so Lisl commented. <Jelarthna> ::nods, still smiling:: That should be fine! * Vallel says something under his breath, then swings the rapier again. <Glossaria> They were friendly enough to us... but fierce. ::frowning:: I wonder what could have killed them? <Nacheyla> Friendly? Are they? ::shudders:: I wonder what else is out there. <Glossaria> I would posit... something rather less friendly. * Bai sips his water and glances at the sketch. <Glossaria> ::smiling sidelong at Vallel as he plays with his new toy:: * Vallel grins as the blade of the sword bursts into flames, hissing through the air. "Neat!" ::he frowns:: "How do I put it out?" <Xarroch> As I said.. better safe than sorry. And this is the closest population center, correct? <Jelarthna> Just say the trigger word again, Val. <Elgara'a> ::shakes her head:: Indeed... the faces are different, but I find that little has changed of this place in a near half-score of years... * Elgara'a grins and takes another swallow of water from her glass. <Vallel> Ah... okay ::he mutters to the blade again, the flames die out:: Thank you again. <S'ayad'i> ::grins at El:: You're right. <Jelarthna> Use it well, my friend. ::shakes Vallel's hand:: * Bai shakes his head and sips his water. * Vallel shakes hands with Jelarthna. "I'll certainly try." <Nacheyla> Well, there were about two dozen of these... whatever they are... laying around the ship. <Jelarthna> ::glances at Elgara'a's:: half score... were you a patron here in the past, Lady Elgara'a? <Xarroch> Two dozen? No signs of magic? Or perhaps psionics? <Nacheyla> Well, I assume that the one who was all... ::makes a strange gesture with one hand:: messed up had not been stabbed. <Elgara'a> ::nodding:: Aye, I was. Forgive me, I thought I had said... ::shakes her head:: ah, it is this chilly climate. It muddles my thinking. But yes, I took my custom to this place regularly when I lived in Marsember... two years, all told, I believe. <Xarroch> ::chuckles just a little:: Sufficient strength could do such a thing... <Nacheyla> ::shudders:: Nasty. <Jelarthna> ::almost bounces over closer to Elgara'a, looking between her and S'ay:: Really? So you two were friends back then? Who did you know? What sort of things happened? Did you know Erdian and Sealgair and Moon Dancer and Jaret and Philister? ::seems to run out of breath:: <Glossaria> ::nods, and looks worried:: Perhaps I should call my Mistress... ::pulling a silver piece from her pouch and fingering it uncertainly:: <Nacheyla> It's a bit away from here though. If there is something else out there, won't it be long gone by now? ::glances at Xarroch:: I went riding after... I had some things to think about. <Xarroch> ::shakes his head a little at Glossaria:: If what she is doing is important, there is no need. You *should* let her know as soon as you can without disturbing her, but I suspect interrupting whatever she is doing now will not help things. <Elgara'a> ::leans back a little, exchanging a Look with S'ay:: <Glossaria> ::biting her lip:: Well... it... Master Marten is there, and... <S'ayad'i> ::laughs a little at Jelarthna's enthusiasm:: Yes, and yes, and yes. * Glossaria blushes a little. * Bai sips his water. <Jelarthna> ::grins ruefully, taking a deep breath:: My apologies! I made several friends back then.. ::smiles warmly at S'ay:: I just get very excited when I meet other people that knew them as well. * Vallel looks over at his aunt, then at Xarroch and mutters under his breath, going back to his table and sitting down. * Jelarthna beams another smile at Bai <Xarroch> ::nods to Nach:: It likely is gone, but there may be things there that whatever it is will return for.. or perhaps it will try to use the ship again. <S'ayad'i> Perfectly understandable. But surely... Jaret resided yet in Marsember when I left. He is still well, isn't he? * Xarroch shoots Vallel a small grin <Elgara'a> ::grins at S'ay's answer, white teeth flashing:: Such is the base material of many stories, and this one has better skill with weaving them than I. ::nodding to S'ay and then, unaccountably, blushing a little as she studies her glass with sudden absorption:: <Jelarthna> ::nods:: Jaret is a very good friend, yes. ::looks a little inquisitive as EL blushes, but refrains from comment:: * Bai sips his water, "Jaret still lives here, though his current employer seems intent on keeping him from sharing our company." <Glossaria> ::putting a hand on Vallel's arm:: What is it, love? You've... ::frowning, and leaning a little closer to Val to whisper to him:: <Elgara'a> Employer? Jaret is... employed? ::raising a dark eyebrow:: Indeed? * Vallel frowns, then touches Gloss's forehead. <S'ayad'i> ::nods with relief:: Ah, well... that happens, I understand. <Elgara'a> ::grins:: Though I had thought that Jaret would be the last such would happen to. ::sipping from her glass:: <Xarroch> ::nods to Rhys:: One more mule kick, friend Rhys. * Glossaria closes her eyes, opening them wide a moment later:: OH! ::she looks from Nach to Xarroch, and then down at the floorboards as her cheeks burn red:: * Rhys pours Xarroch another mug. <Xarroch> Thank you. ::smiles a little, then looks over at Glossaria curiously:: * Glossaria looks furtively at Nach and Xarroch again before leaning to whisper to Vallel. * S'ayad'i finishes off her ale with a satisfied sigh. <Rhys> More ale, master bard? * Bai sips his water. <Rhys> Actually... last call, everyone. <S'ayad'i> ::smiles at Rhys:: Thank you, no, I must be on my way. <Jelarthna> ::bounces up suddenly:: Oh yeah! That reminds me! We don't have invitations written out, yet, but I hope you will all come to the wedding! Tyl and I.. ::grins and laughs a little:: well, Tyl decided on Mirtul 7th. * Jelarthna spins around to look at everyone eagerly <S'ayad'i> ::she turns to El:: Since Lisl is not to be found, old friend, I offer my own home, if you are in need of a place to stay. * Nacheyla grins at Xarroch suddenly. <Nacheyla> Up to a little hunting, then? <Xarroch> ::grins down at Nacheyla, eyes bright:: Always! <Nacheyla> Well, we'll go back and check out the ship some more. <Xarroch> And yes, Jelarthna. I shall be there when you marry Tyl'gainia. ::smiles:: * Nacheyla turns to Gloss. "Wanna come along?" <Elgara'a> ::nodding:: Your hospitality is boundless as always, my friend. If it would not put you out to shelter my miserable head, I should be delighted to accept. <Jelarthna> ::looks at Bai:: What about you, Bai? Come to the wedding, please? I don't know if I'll have another chance to ask you before then! <S'ayad'i> ::chuckles:: It would be an honor to have you, Elgara'a. <Glossaria> I'd be delighted to come, Jel. ::smiles:: And I'll help with invitations, too, if you need an extra scribe. <Jelarthna> ::beams at Glossaria:: That would be wonderful! As long as Zoya isn't keeping you *too* busy. <Vallel> ::mutters to himself:: Sheesh, I ask her nearly six months ago, he asks two weeks ago, and they're getting married before I am... <Jelarthna> ::grins at Vallel:: Actually, Val.. Tyl asked me a couple of years ago... <Glossaria> ::blushes deeper at Nacheyla's offer:: Well, I... ::glancing at Vallel:: ah, I should report to Mistress Zoya of it, but... * Bai smiles at Jel, "If I am back from investigating this strange ship by then, most certainly." <Vallel> ::blinks:: She did? <Jelarthna> Great! <Nacheyla> ::looks at Bai:: Oh? You're coming with us? <Xarroch> ::grins suddenly at Bai:: Did you wish to join us, Bai? <Bai> ::grins at Xarroch:: You couldn't have kept me away. <Jelarthna> ::bobs his head a little embarrassed:: Yes, she did... I had that ring for forever, it seems sometimes. <Elgara'a> ::nodding to S'ay and finishing off her water with a long swallow:: Then I accept, sahim. <Xarroch> ::laughs:: Perhaps not! <Vallel> ::looks at him, one eyebrow up:: Any reason why? <Jelarthna> ::turning his enthusiasm on S'ayad'i and Elgara'a:: Ladies? Would you both grace my nuptials with your presence? <S'ayad'i> ::smiles at Jel:: If I am not already otherwise engaged, I should be pleased to. I will have to check my appointments, of course. <Jelarthna> ::laughs again:: Vallel.. however much of a fool you may have ever thought yourself... I've been worse. ::winks:: * Xarroch laughs again and nods in agreement <Elgara'a> ::looking surprised:: But.. we have only met this evening, effendi. You are sure? <Vallel> ::in a mock whisper:: Yeah, he should have heard some of the names Mistress Tyl called him from time to time. <Jelarthna> ::shoots a glare at Xarroch:: Hey now, you're not supposed to *agree*! <Jelarthna> ::whips around to smile at Elgara'a:: I am quite sure, Lady Elgara'a. Any friends of my old friends are always welcome, and honored with me. <Nacheyla> ::to Gloss:: Well, if Zoya's busy. I'd like someone to come along and identify good people from bad people. <Jelarthna> ::shoots a mock-glare at Vallel:: I *have*. Every last one and more, I suspect. * Xarroch grins at Nacheyla, glancing at Bai * S'ayad'i stands and heads for the door, waiting for Elgara'a to follow. "This way..." * Bai sips his water. <Elgara'a> ::smiling back at the happy husband-to-be:: Then, should nothing call me home beforetime, I would be honored to stay for your wedding, ma-- my lord. <Jelarthna> Thank you so much! * Vallel grins. "I'll bet you have, actually. My tiny little teacher does not have a tiny little temper." <Jelarthna> Tiny? ::breaks out in giggles:: <Vallel> ::to his aunt:: Do you think it would be okay if I tagged along as well ::glances at Gloss:: To sort of protect my investment? <Jelarthna> ::stage whisper:: she's adorable when she's angry, but don't tell her I said that... <Elgara'a> ::nods and stands, offering the room another bow like the one she gave on entering:: In that case... ma'a e salemma, my new friends. The gods go with you. <Glossaria> ::looks gratefully at Vallel:: <Nacheyla> ::glances at her nephew, then at Rhys:: We'll discuss this back at the cottage. I think Rhys is getting ready to throw us all out on our ears. <Jelarthna> ::offers El a similar bow, almost executed properly:: A pleasure to meet you, Lady. Good night. And good night, S'ayad'i. ::smiling and waving farewell:: <Rhys> Nonsense. Although I *do* have to get to work on some scarring and dents that have appeared in the floor in my absence... <S'ayad'i> Good night, friends! <Xarroch> Scarring and dents? ::looks around and grins:: Not my fault.. I only abuse the door. * Xarroch pulls out an ancient dwarven gold coin and sets it on the counter <Elgara'a> ::turning to S'ay:: Effendi... after you. * Rhys flips Xarroch's coin into the lockbox. * Vallel takes Gloss's arm "Shall we?" <Jelarthna> ::grins at Rhys:: Bet you won't take any money from me, will you? * Nacheyla looks around... <Rhys> Not unless you've drank us through our stock in the past week without me noticing, Jelarthna. <Nacheyla> Let's go back to my cottage, whoever is tagging along, and we'll decide what we're doing. <Jelarthna> ::laughs:: I didn't think so. <Elgara'a> ::from the door, El makes a quick motion from beneath her robes, and a holed silver piece arcs through the air to land neatly spinning on the bar. <Xarroch> A good plan, Nacheyla. We'll have quite a little band, won't we? ::grins:: <Jelarthna> oh.. nice toss! <Nacheyla> Looks like it. * Bai finishes his water and picks up his staff, "Lead the way Nacheyla." * Glossaria , for some unaccountable reason, blushes deeply at Xarroch's last statement. * Rhys looks at the silver coin and sighs. "I should have expected that..." * Jelarthna gathers his cloak and hat and holds the door open for everyone * Nacheyla leads the way. <Xarroch> Good night, Rhys. * Bai follows Nacheyla out. <Rhys> Good night, Xarroch. * Vallel leads Gloss out the door after his aunt. * Xarroch looks at Gloss a bit curiously and follows the others out <Elgara'a> ::grins and offers Rhys a bow from the door before swathing herself fully in her bournoos again and following S'ay out. <Jelarthna> ::gives Rhys a spritely wave:: night, friend! ::smiling, he closes the door behind him:: * Rhys scoops Elgara'a's coin into the box. * Rhys locks the door behind Jelarthna. "Good night." * Rhys looks at the scar running from the door to the bar and sighs. "When I find whoever did this..." |
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