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* Michelle unlocks the door and announces, "Hall's Open!" * Michelle returns behind the bar, she's wearing a grey wool skirt and matching cardigan sweater over a pink turtleneck. * Michelle has several mugs and glasses line up on the bar, apparently having some kind of dance or festival. * Vallel walks in. He is wearing white linen trous and a long brown tunic belted at the waist. * Michelle smiles at Vallel, "Good evening Vallel, how are you this evening?" * Sanriel enters tentatively with Vallel, looking a bit confused by the odd placement of the "front" door and the layout of the room. He's wearing sturdy leather clothing that is probably more suitable for wandering in a forest than in town. <Vallel> I'm doing quite well, thank you. I'd like you to meet my friend and roommate, Sanriel. San, this is Mistress Michelle. <Michelle> "Good evening Sanriel and welcome to the Meade Hall. Is there anything I can get for you this evening?" <Sanriel> ::smiles at Michelle:: Nice to meet you, Michelle. * Kevil enters, obviously relieved to be back in his city finery. "Civilization at last!" He strides to the bar and smiles at Michelle. "Fair Lady, I am in dire need of meade to ease the dust of travel from my throat!" * Philister sort of stagger/stumbles in, his clothes somewhat battered and discolored around the sleeves. He wanders over to the bar and hauls himself up onto a stool. "I'll have... uh... meade sounds good." * Michelle grins at Kevil, "Oh, and the return journey was SO taxing for you." * Vallel sits down at the bar, indicating the stool next to him for Sanriel. "Michelle, can I get ::turns to Sanriel:: you like beer?" <Kevil> The trip out was taxing enough, Lady. <Kevil> ::he grins:: * Michelle fills to mugs with meade and sets them on the bar, where they begin working their way through the intricacies of the dance to Kevil and Philister. * Glossaria enters, wearing her tan green-trimmed gown and carrying a couple of books and a portable lap desk under her arm. "Good evening, all. Milord Kevil! Michelle! Good to see you back. Hello, love." She crosses the floor and gives Vallel a peck on the cheek. * Philister blearily watches his mug jig itself over to him. When it gets close, he grabs it by the handle and mutters, "For Gond's sake, sit still while you're over here. I don't need to do any hand-eye coordination exercises right now." * Kevil plucks his meade from amongst the dancing mugs and takes a deep drink, sighing happily. <Michelle> Bad day Philister? <Michelle> Good evening Glossaria, what would you like this evening? * Philister drinks some of his meade. * Sanriel nods at Vallel, now noticing the dancing mugs and glasses, jaw dropped * Kevil stands and bows deeply to Glossaria. "Sweet angel! A joy it is to meet you once again!" <Philister> ::to Michelle:: Um, sort of, I guess. I'm not sure. My time sense is a little haywire for the last um, sometime. <Vallel> Michelle? Two beers, one for me, one for my friend. Ah, Gloss, dear... I'd like you to meet my new roommate, Sanriel Tailorson. San, this is Glossaria, my fiancee. <Michelle> They have another celebration at the Barrelstone for not losing any customers? <Glossaria> ::setting her books and desk down on the bar and taking a stool:: Hm... I'm up to... J. ::pulls her notebook from the stack:: What's a.... jelly shooter? Is that a drink? ::wrinkling her eyebrows:: * Michelle fills two mugs with beer and sets them on the bar where they begin working their way to Vallel and Sanriel. * Vallel looks over at Sanriel. "Oh, I forgot to tell you about the mugs. They're enchanted." <Sanriel> ::blinks a few times and closes his mouth, tearing his gaze away from the dancing to look at Glossaria and smile:: You're Vallel's fiancee? It's great to meet you! He can't stop talking about you. * Philister toasts Glossaria. "Congratulations, I'm sure you'll be very happy together." <Sanriel> ::nudges Vallel a little and grins, speaking quietly to him:: Lucky guy. <Glossaria> ::blushing a little at Kevil's greeting:: It's good to see you, also, Milord Kevil. ::turning to Sanriel, slipping off the stool to curtsey:: A pleasure to meet you, Sanriel. ::blushing a little:: He can't, can he? * Michelle frowns at Gloss, "It is and it isn't. Basically you take hard liquor, the hard, the better, and use it instead of water to make gelatin, usually in a shot glass. Then you throw the whole thing back at once like you would any other shot." <Sanriel> ::grins and looks back at the mugs:: So.. those are real? And Dancing? Are.. they alive? <Philister> ::Philister's eyes sort of unfocus for a bit, and he sits stock still on his stool for half a minute. Soon after, he blinks, feels about for his mug and has another sip:: <Vallel> ::nods:: They are alive, in as much as they are semi-intelligent ::Vallel's mug sticks its tongue out at him:: See? And they stop moving if they get broken. So, they're as alive as matters. <Sanriel> ::grins at Gloss:: Nope! Day and night.. sometimes even in his sleep. ::winks mischievously:: <Vallel> Hey! ::nudges Sanriel in the ribs:: At least *I* don't snore. <Sanriel> ::indignantly:: I do *not* snore. * Kevil drinks meade, grinning at the two younger men. <Vallel> How would you know? You're asleep! <Glossaria> ::drops another curtsey for Phil before taking her stool again:: Thank you. ::grins at the good-natured ribbing back and forth, and looks back at Michelle:: Oh-- so it requires pre-preparation? * Michelle nods, "And if I made one here Vallel would have to carry you home...Assuming you lived through Lisl's favorite drink." <Sanriel> ::looks down at his mug a little dubiously:: Umm.. nice to meet you. Do you mind if I pick you up to.. uhh.. drink from you? <Michelle> ::San's mug claps its hands and jumps up and down a smile on its face.:: <Sanriel> ::to Vallel:: I don't seem to scare away all the animals when I sleep, at least... * Kevil nods a greeting to Philister. "Did we not meet, sir, some weeks past?" * Sanriel smiles and carefully picks up the mug to take a drink <Sanriel> mmm.. that's good! ::looks surprised:: <Vallel> So... ::taps Gloss on the shoulder:: Anything interesting been happening with you recently? * Philister ignores Kevil for a few moments, then blinks surprisedly and looks more-or-less in Kevil's general direction. "Hmm? Oh, um, yes, the...um..." ::stops talking again for a bit:: No, I think you're thinking of the halfling over in the corner." * Sanriel nudges Vallel and asks him something quietly, looking slightly embarrassed * Vallel mutters something back to Sanriel. <Kevil> ::glances into the corner, then back at Philister, frowning slightly:: Ah... Yes, perhaps I've got the wrong gnome... ::looks back at the corner:: Um... *What* halfling? <Sanriel> Oh! Thanks. ::smiles and looks covertly over at Philister for a moment:: <Glossaria> Well, I would assume you used something less lethal, but...::thinks:: Hm. On second thought, I don't need a wavering hand... I'm copying for-- for a friend. ::gesturing at the desk:: Perhaps a cup of tea? * Philister has been working at drinking some meade. He pauses, and looks around slowly. "Oh, sorry. I'm... um, I'm a little confused lately. Don't worry about it. It's not you, it's me." <Sanriel> ::clears his throat a little, looking a bit concerned:: Are you okay, sir? <Kevil> Is anything wrong? <Glossaria> ::turning at Vallel's tap:: Interesting? Well, I-- hm. Well, Mistress Zoya and several others have taken off on the track of those beholders. There were illithid, too! * Michelle starts preparing tea for Glossaria, "You know, a lot of people get the shakes if they drink too much caffeine." <Vallel> What's a lithid? * Sanriel looks a little confused at the wash of new words <Philister> I'm purple. FINE! I'm fine. It's just... the write I've been booking. No... book I've been writing. <Glossaria> ::widening her eyes:: An illithid. I-L-L-I-T-H-I-D. You haven't been warned of them? Well, they are classed as rare, but.... ::shakes her head:: The common term, quite descriptive, really, is mind-flayer. <Kevil> You've been writing a book? About what? * Michelle blinks at Phil, "You're writing a book...Your memoirs?" <Vallel> Mind-flayer? That sounds unpleasant... <Philister> ::complete deadpan tone:: "I study spores, molds, and fungus." <Glossaria> Deadly, to anyone without sufficient mental shielding. They're psionic. * Michelle grins at Vallel, "Right up there with mind bender." <Kevil> ::to Val:: *Very* unpleasant, for the short life remaining to you. <Sanriel> Mind... *flayer*? Like, flaying of skin? <Glossaria> ::brightly:: Really? ::turning to Phil:: What sort of study are you writing? * Kevil nods. "Precisely like the flaying of skin. They eat minds." * Philister looks wide-eyed at Sanriel, and murmurs to himself, "That's going to leave a mark." <Sanriel> Eat? ::looks a little shaken and takes a big swallow of his beer:: <Glossaria> ::looking back at Sanriel:: The damage is mental, not physical. I understand that physically, they're supposed to be quite weak. <Vallel> But they left right? In the ethership? * Elgara'a enters, well-wrapped in her jellaba, the door seemingly blown open by a mighty sneeze. She wipes her nose on a handkerchief. Ya'salem.... mise 'el kheer, my friends. Forgive me for exposing you all to my evil vapors, but hope you will allow someone on death's door a last hour of companionship? <Philister> Cataloging completely the.... Completely cataloging the various species find we which... which we could find. <Philister> We just had a small lab in the accident.... <Kevil> ::sighs:: I hope so, but it's possible a few would've been left behind, to delay pursuit. Xarroch and I have been watching for them. * Sanriel looks over at the newcomer and stares a bit at the odd clothing <Kevil> As long as you stay in town, you should be quite... ::Kevil trails off as Elgara'a enters, his jaw dropping briefly in surprise, then snapping shut:: * Vallel looks at Glossaria for a long time, pondering. <Glossaria> I believe they have all left, yes. I doubt Tyl'gainia and Mistress Zoya would have left any alive. Still, it would be best if the instructors, at least, know of them. ::frowning in concern:: * Michelle frowns at Elgara'a and comes around the bar, "Please, have a seat." Michelle helps Elgara'a to sit at a table. <Sanriel> ::blinks and looks at Glossaria and Kevil:: There are some of those illithid things near here? ::looking moderately horrified:: <Philister> With the Heezenberk Spores... <Elgara'a> My thanks, sahim, perhaps tea would-- ::catching sight of Kevil as she pushes back her hood, her jaw dropping as well:: * Michelle places a hand on Elgara'a's forehead, a faint glow encompassing the hand. <Glossaria> ::looking back at Phil:: Heez-- ::frowning:: I thought... doesn't that species have psychedelic properties? *Elgara'a* Strongly. She just has a cold. But she's recovering. * Nacheyla walks in, currently in her nineteen year old normal form. She is carrying a black hat with a red tassel dangling from the top. * Kevil is still staring at Elgara'a, oblivious to questioning. Suddenly, he seems to come to a decision, and walks toward her. He stops some few feet away from her table and bows so deeply his head nearly touches his knees. "Mise 'el kheer, el'azim. It is... in sha'allah... my great good fortune to have met you again, that I may offer up to you my most sincere apologies." <Philister> Thought we originally... We originally thought that, but think I have theory new a. * Michelle smiles and returns behind the bar, "Do you have any preference in tea stranger?" <Sanriel> ::sighs slightly and turns to Vallel, sounding a bit plaintive:: Do you have any idea what all of these people are talking about? * Vallel smiles at Sanriel. "I haven't got a clue." * Michelle finishes Gloss' tea and sets it on the bar in front of her. <Sanriel> So you feel about as lost as I do? * Elgara'a is so shocked she doesn't even protest-- or seem to notice-- Michelle's glowing touch. Her mouth works several times, as if she's trying to form words that don't quite make it past her throat. Finally, she just looks at Kevil and laughs, until she coughs. <Philister> Some to properties temporal seems have it shifting probably. <Vallel> Just nod and smile... it's safer that way. Once in a while, Gloss will slow down long enough that you can ask her a question or two. * Kevil straightens slightly, looking almost hurt. * Michelle turns to Vallel, "Sell me your first born." <Glossaria> A temporal shift? ::skootching her stool closer to Phil:: So it has *magical* properties??? ::sounding very excited:: <Philister> Manifestations visual annoying are the. * Sanriel smiles at Vallel and nods <Vallel> ::grins at Michelle:: I think you'll have to take that up with Gloss, unless Yb... ::blushes:: <Sanriel> ::blinks and gasps at Michelle:: Huh? * Michelle smiles, "Good, you are paying attention. I'd have had to speak to Glossaria and Tyl'gainia if you had just nodded your head and smiled." * Vallel laughs. "I didn't say I didn't listen. Just that I didn't understand most of it." <Philister> When if I know I am, know when I don't where am. <Kevil> ::hesitantly, to El:: Lady? * Nacheyla walks over to the bar and sits on the stool next to Sanriel, seeming not to notice him. Her long braids touch the floor when she's sitting. "Ah, 'Chelle, glad you're back." She examines the hat closely. * Philister stares at his mug of meade for a few moments and manages to wrap his hand around the handle, and after a few more moments, manages to work it over to his mouth for a drink. <Elgara'a> ::waves her hand expressively in a "please don't mind me" gesture, finally getting her coughing under control and sitting back to breathe:: Your... pardon, sir... I... what are you doing here? I thought-- I-- ::unaccountably, she blushes:: <Sanriel> So.. umm.. who are all these people? * Sanriel looks around shyly, blushing just a little when Nacheyla stands next to him. * Vallel points around the room. "That's Michelle, she tends bar here. The gnome's name is Philister something or other. Master Kevil is a bard, that's him there. I don't know the lady. And that's my aunt, sitting beside you." <Glossaria> ::frowns for a moment, working this out:: Visual and temporal displacement alternatively? Odd. ::rubbing her chin:: Fascinating, but odd. * Michelle starts preparing tea for Elgara'a. "Nacheyla, are you still looking for a place to move to. I'm going to have to get a bigger house and I'd like to know how many rooms to look for." <Kevil> I... Lady, I live here, for the present time. You... your friends are here? A coincidence only the gods could have arranged! <Sanriel> Your Aunt Nacheyla? <Philister> it's alternate not. Co-... It's concurrent. Duck, by the way. ::winces:: Ouch. <Glossaria> ::ducks, out of general principles, looking around:: * Vallel nods. "Yup. Aunt Nacheyla, this is my roommate at the School, Sanriel." <Elgara'a> YOU ::pointing at him as if to make clear this impossibility:: live HERE? In Marsember? But-- ::continues gaping:: <Sanriel> ::smiles at Nacheyla:: Umm, nice to meet you. Your nephew has talked a little about you. * Kevil nods. "For the past several months, yes. Apart from travellings." * Nacheyla turns the hat upside down, looking inside it. She nods absent-mindedly to Sanriel. "'lo." <Glossaria> ::frowning, deep in thought:: So... you see the future? Or the past? ::whipping out a pencil from behind her ear, the point hovering over her notebook:: Could you describe your current surroundings? What's happening? Who you see? <Philister> Very big cat. Don't know why the management let it in here in the first place. <Elgara'a> But-- ::gaping:: here? * Nacheyla takes something out of her haversack that is wrapped in oil-cloth and smells like brine. <Sanriel> ::smiles helpless at Vallel:: You know... I'm used to more people in a bar, but... this somehow seems more full and crowded. ::shakes his head a little and drinks some more of the beer:: <Glossaria> Cat? ::taking notes:: A large housecat, or some other species? * Sanriel wrinkles his nose at the scent <Kevil> In Marsember, yes. At the Dragon's Den, actually. ::he takes a deep breath:: I must beg your forgiveness, el'azim. <Michelle> What's with the hat Nacheyla? * Vallel shrugs. * Philister looks at the meade askance. "I swear, I have to watch Drach every damn second... never sure if it's water or something that'd peel paint at twenty paces." * Nacheyla looks up at Michelle. "Oh, hi. I picked this up off the thing I killed earlier today." * Michelle finishes El's tea and carries it over to her. <Elgara'a> ::covers her mouth again, suppressing a giggle:: I-- I'm sorry. do you know what you call me? And for what could you possibly need to apologize? <Michelle> Another undead? * Philister blinks again and looks at Glossaria. "We've met, haven't we? You're Zoya's... accountant?" * Michelle returns behind the bar, catching a glass as it falls off the edge and placing it back on the bar with a scolding look. <Glossaria> Drach! ::sounding excited:: You refer to Drachnaerbaen? He was a HallMaster here during the Sealgair period. <Kevil> ::pauses:: "El-azim?" I thought, from your use, it was a title of great respect. Was I incorrect? <Glossaria> ::nods:: We have met, Master Philister. I'm the Tower Librarian. * Sanriel looks around at the various people in the hall, confused and curious, and obviously having trouble following any of their conversations * Nacheyla shakes her head. "No, something else. It was guarding a pool of picklejuice with several of these things in it." Opens the oil-cloth to reveal something that looks like a cross between a tadpole and a squid, about six inches long. <Elgara'a> ::restrained smile:: Yes, it is. But it is male. <Philister> ::semi-absently:: Right. Accountant. <Kevil> ::face clears:: Ah! I should have guessed, there would be two forms... And the female is...? <Michelle> Um...Kevil, could you take a look at this please...NOW! * Vallel finishes off his beer. <Sanriel> ::looks at the tadpole thingie:: What is it.. ::trails off and gets a vacant look, staring right through the thingie and the counter:: * Kevil reluctantly glances over his shoulder, then looks back at Elgara'a. "One minute, Lady, and I shall return." He stalks over to the bar and looks over Nacheyla's shoulder. * Vallel glances over at Sanriel, then gasps. "Oh, hells." Moves behind him, to catch Sanriel when he falls. * Michelle waves her hand in front of Sanriel's face, "Please tell me I'm wrong." <Elgara'a> Illa'azim. ::she nods somewhat dazedly as he takes his leave:: <Kevil> ::in a hard voice:: It is dead? And its siblings? <Sanriel> Evil... ::looks terrified and totters slowly backward into Vallel:: <Vallel> It's okay.... he has visions. He'll be back in a minute or so. * Philister sips from a phantom glass. "And that has got to be the ugliest thing I've ever seen anyone carry around with them on purpose." * Nacheyla looks over at Kevil. "What is it? I was out where the Maiden used to be, checking to see if there were any beholders left behind, and I found these." <Kevil> Mindflayer hatchlings. You killed them all? <Vallel> ::looks at the squidpole:: Yes, I imagine it is. <Glossaria> ::distracted, peers into the hat:: Hm... so perhaps they *are* amphibious, as their external form would suggest... have they any power at this size, Milord Kevil? * Nacheyla shakes her head. "I didn't know what it was. This one was already dead." * Vallel pulls Sanriel away from the squidpole. <Kevil> ::shakes his head:: No; they have very little power so young. ::to Nach:: Tomorrow, we go back out and make sure there are no more nests, d'va? <Nacheyla> All right. ::shudders:: This is the small form of that... thing that attacked me? * Sanriel straightens up unsteadily after being pulled away from the illithid baby, holding the bar and looking around, looking a bit lost <Sanriel> ::offers Vallel a grateful smile:: I did it again? <Kevil> ::nods:: Yes, I would assume so. * Vallel nods. <Vallel> What did you See? <Glossaria> If that's the case, look for low-lying areas, puddles of water... frogs can lay eggs even in a hollow log that's gathered rain. Visions? ::looking at Sanriel interestedly:: What kind of visions? <Sanriel> ::looks a bit disturbed:: I feel... slimy. <Kevil> ::look at Gloss with a lopsided grin:: I know how to hunt illithid eggs, angel. <Sanriel> ::shivers and answers Glossaria:: Umm.. I normally don't remember much. Sometimes I say things, though. <Glossaria> ::raising her eyebrows:: Oh! That's right, Mistress Zoya mentioned that-- how... ::bites her lips:: I'm sorry. * Sanriel shifts nervously and rubs at his arms with an expression of vague disgust <Kevil> ::smiles:: It's all right. <Kevil> ::to Nach:: You killed the nesting one? The whelps may die overnight, then, without our help. But we still will return tomorrow to be sure. <Glossaria> ::nodding at Sanriel:: You said "evil." What does it feel like? Did you see anything? What can you remember, besides a slimy sensation? * Nacheyla glances at Kevil. "You are familiar with these things? That's good. I think I'm lucky that I already had my sword out. It hit me with some sort of stunning blow to the head. I barely managed to kill it. It was trying to... clamp onto my head." ::turns her head, displaying a sucker-shaped bruise on her cheek:: * Kevil takes Nach's chin carefully in one hand, tilting her head so he can better examine the bruise. "Seems clean. Good." He releases her. "Illithid destroy the mind, then eat brains. Do not go outside the city alone." <Sanriel> I.. I did? ::shakes his head, sighing slightly:: I don't remember seeing anything... ::thinks hard for a moment, then screws up his face and sighs again:: I just feel like I've jumped in a scummy pond or something. Like I need a bath. <Nacheyla> ::shudders:: Yuck. <Glossaria> Hm...::cocking her head at Vallel:: Perhaps... he was Seeing into the minds of these hatchlings? That would aptly describe their gestation environment. <Kevil> ::nods:: I doubt they will risk the city. Physically, they are weak. They avoid prey in numbers. * Vallel shrugs. "Mistress Tyl told me not to look in his mind when he was Seeing. I could get lost in an uncontrolled Vision." <Glossaria> ::excitedly:: Perhaps he has xenotelepathy! <Sanriel> Huh? <Kevil> Now, if you will excuse me... ::he glances back over his shoulder:: I have an apology to offer. * Nacheyla waves Kevil away. "No worries... " She grins. <Glossaria> ::curiously:: What about after? Would you be able to see his memories? ::reining herself in a little:: I mean, if Sanriel was comfortable with you looking into his thoughts. <Sanriel> Val.. does this mean we should stop the fishing trips for now, then? ::shifts nervously:: * Nacheyla wraps the hat and the squidpole back up in the oilcloth. "Hey, Michelle, you want to incinerate this for me?" * Kevil smiles and bows to Nach before returning to stand before Elgara'a's table. "Illa'azim...?" He eyes her, watching to make sure he's pronounced the strange word correctly. <Sanriel> ::smiles a little at Glossaria:: I don't mind... but if it's not in my memories, how could he see it there? * Philister looks up. "G'night, 'woro." <Vallel> I don't know. The River's not that far from town. <Elgara'a> ::nods, a little shyly, looking up at Kevil from under long eyelashes:: <Vallel> And we'd be together, not alone. <Sanriel> ::smiles, just a little:: That's true. <Sanriel> I wonder how far away they can do thing? I could bring my bow along, just in case... * Vallel turns to Glossaria. <Vallel> What do you think, dear? <Kevil> ::smiles slightly:: Good. ::he bows again:: Illa'azim, I beg your forgiveness. It came to me, after we had parted ways, that my treatment of you must have seemed not the friendly banter I had intended, but grossly disrespectful, with implications that were almost obscenely offensive. <Glossaria> If you were uncomfortable, perhaps-- ::hesitantly:: could I go with you? I've never observed fishing before. And if the illithid *did* attack, I could see them firsthand.... <Vallel> Um... ::frowns, wondering:: Um.... ::leans over and whispers something to Glossaria:: <Elgara'a> ::eyes widening:: Disrespectful? Oh, no, not at all! Actually, I found you quite... charming. ::blushing again:: * Nacheyla looks over at Kevil and Elgara'a. "There he goes again, Master Silver-tongue. ::she says this quietly:: <Glossaria> ::looking shocked:: Not-- not bookworms? * Michelle takes the oil-cloth from Nach and disappears back into the kitchen. <Vallel> No... earthworms. <Sanriel> I.. ::smiles a little shyly:: I wouldn't mind if you joined us, Lady Glossaria... as long as Vallel doesn't mind, either. It's normally very relaxing.. though maybe less so if we're worried about some awful mind-flaying beast... <Glossaria> ::looking relieved:: Oh! That's alright, then. No relation. * Kevil glances at Elgara'a briefly. "Truly? It seemed, when I had thought... What was harmless flirtation for my people might have been... overly familiar, for yours." <Sanriel> No relation to what? <Glossaria> ::easily:: No relation to bookworms. <Sanriel> ::blinks:: What's a bookworm? <Vallel> Speaking of relations, dearheart... did you enjoy your lunch the other day? * Philister has another drink out of the phantom mug. <Glossaria> Bookworm? The genera Anobium? * Michelle returns from the kitchen, without the oil-cloth. "Does anyone need anything?" <Sanriel> um.. Master Philister, sir? You... aren't drinking anything. <Glossaria> Oh... you knew about that? ::looking chastened:: * Vallel smiles. "I spent most of this weekend with Mum. She came by the School." <Sanriel> ::smiles:: Nice lady. <Vallel> ::grins:: She even treated San and I to lunch yesterday. Ham and carrots and redfruit and a chocolate trifle. <Elgara'a> I-- perhaps it was, at times, more... familiar than I am accustomed to. ::playing with her handkerchief absently:: But... I am not... accustomed to such talk, regardless. ::turning her face half-away:: I... I did not mind so much as to object. <Sanriel> I've never had a chocolate trifle before! ::happily:: * Philister doesn't seem to exactly hear Sanriel. <Kevil> ::sighs minutely, and smiles slightly:: Ah. You are gracious, Illa'azim. <Sanriel> ::glancing at Philister:: Mistress Michelle? Is he okay? <Glossaria> ::relieved:: Oh, good! Your mother was *wonderful*! And she even gave us a wedding present... I didn't bring them, because I didn't want to lose them, but... wedding rings. Dwarven manufacture, perhaps two hundred years old. She said they came from the beginning of your line...? * Michelle shrugs, "I'm not familiar with the drug he's on. But Glossaria didn't seem too concerned so we'll just let him enjoy it as long as he doesn't get himself in trouble." * Vallel nods. "I think I've seen them a few times. My gran used to wear hers. I'm surprised she gave them to us. I'd have thought Careth would have gotten them." <Glossaria> ::looking at Philister again:: He's alright. He's just temporally displaced. Probably close to a decade, by the references he made-- ah! Big cat! That must be the "Snowy" to which Mistress Lisl referred! * Kevil gestures at the chair across from Elgara'a. "May I, then, if I am not to be made to grovel for forgiveness?" His smile is slightly impish. <Sanriel> umm. Okay. ::smiles and nods:: <Elgara'a> ::smiling a little:: No, sahim, *you* are gracious. *I* am blushing. Please, by all means, sit, sit! * Nacheyla looks over at Gloss. "She gave you Polaran and my rings?" <Glossaria> ::nodding to Nach, looking hesitant again:: She *said* you probably would not mind, but I meant to ask you, before we used them, just to be sure. * Sanriel shifts a little out of the way from between Nacheyla and Glossaria <Nacheyla> Oh, no, Gloss, that's fine. ::holds out her left hand which has three wedding bands on her ring finger:: I don't have room for them all anyway. <Kevil> ::sitting:: I must thank you for the gift of your story. Composing a song that might hope to touch upon its beauty whiled away much tedious travel time. ::he grins somewhat sheepishly:: In fact, I believe my companions found me somewhat distracted for some days... <Glossaria> ::smiles:: Just as Mistress du'Nache said, then. ::nodding, satisfied:: <Nacheyla> One of my undead hunters made them for us. Augar Strongsmith. <Elgara'a> ::clearing her throat, covering a small smile with a cough into her handkerchief:: You were not, I think, alone in distraction... the second half of my journey did indeed seem to fly past. * Michelle waves at Kevil, "Don't worry about it. I enjoyed listening and besides, it's not as if we didn't spend plenty of time ignoring you." <Kevil> ::chuckles:: I am glad to have provided you with some distraction. ::he glances at Michelle and grins:: You are too kind, Lady. <Glossaria> Really? ::raising her eyebrows:: So you did not always pursue undead alone? * Vallel looks over at Michelle, smiles, and covers his mouth with his hand. "I bet you were." * Sanriel looks at Val curiously * Philister looks warmly in Vallel's direction. "Well, yes, he's lovely, Vallel. And he's got your aunt's eyes. You must be very proud." * Nacheyla shakes her head. "Oh, no. In earlier days, I had several companions. Grayson was the first, but for a while, I had a group of as many as six others." <Elgara'a> I am honored that my meager tale could so inspire a Singer of your caliber. * Michelle glances at Vallel and blushes slightly. * Vallel looks at Philister, his mouth open. <Glossaria> He? ::whirling and grabbing Phil excitedly by the shoulders:: We're going to have a boy? Oh, when, when??? * Philister raises his (real) mug. "Cheers!" * Sanriel looks over at Michelle's blush curiously * Michelle grins mischievously, "What was that you were saying about Yb earlier Vallel?" <Sanriel> Wait.. so he's seeing the future? * Vallel shakes his finger at Michelle. "Hush, you." <Kevil> ::nods almost gravely:: The song seeks only to do its subject honor. If your visit permits, and since the gods have been so kind as to allow us to meet once again, I should be honored to sing it for you: the first witnessed singing. <Glossaria> He must be. ::very excited:: Vallel didn't come to the Hall until after I was here... * Philister looks at Glossaria blankly. "Have we met?" <Sanriel> and.. a drug did this? <Glossaria> Oh, drat, he's swung back again... ::patiently:: Yes, Master Philister, we have. Glossaria, Zoya's Tower librarian. * Sanriel gives Vallel a look that promises many questions later <Philister> Hmm? Really? You don't look like an accountant. * Vallel leans over and mutters something to Michelle. <Glossaria> A spore. It should wear off after some amount of time... depending on the dose. Unless...::eyes widening:: unless it's replicating.... <Elgara'a> I will be staying some time longer than I had first intended... two of Lisl's friends are marrying, and they have invited me to attend. * Michelle whispers back to Vallel. <Glossaria> ::patiently:: Librarian, not accountant, Master Philister. I keep books, not monies. * Sanriel sips and relishes his beer, looking intensely curious * Kevil 's face freezes for a long moment. "...Lisl?" He looks a little wild around the eyes. "Your... your friend here is... *Lisl*???" <Philister> So.. you're not a bookkeeper? * Nacheyla glances over at Kevil. "Oh, come on, it's not like Lisl bites... much." <Kevil> ::grins a bit sickly:: The Lady Lisl... does not have much use for me, I fear. <Nacheyla> ::nods:: Yes, I remember... boy cooties. ::grins:: <Elgara'a> ::looking alarmed:: Yes, Lisl Ferinsdottir. ::she almost trills the r's with her accented speech:: We shared quarters when last I was here, and she has generously kept my rooms... untouched. ::grinning a little as at some private joke:: <Sanriel> ::giggles a moment:: boy cooties? <Glossaria> ::still patient:: I tend books, yes, but not *account* books. <Elgara'a> "Boy cooties"? What are these-- "cooties"? * Kevil sighs, drops his head into his hands, and mutters something that has the cadence of a proverb in his native tongue. <Michelle> Ah...You leave those poor account books all alone and unprotected in the rain. <Elgara'a> ::frowning a little:: You have offended her somehow? * Nacheyla grins, seems to shimmer, and is suddenly about eleven years old. She climbs off her stool and goes over to Sanriel, pinches his nose between her index and middle finger, then shows him the ball of her thumb between the same fingers. "I got your nose." <Glossaria> ::shoots Michelle a dirty look:: * Sanriel drops his jaw and looks at Nacheyla in shock <Kevil> ::looks up:: Apparently my very drawn breath offends the Lady, Illa'azim. ::he smiles weakly:: Perhaps you could intercede on my behalf. * Vallel looks at Nacheyla with something very close to disgust. "Aunt Nach, will you *please* stop making Sanriel nervous?" * Sanriel works his mouth slightly with a small croaking noise, eyes wide * Nacheyla sticks her tongue out and gives her nephew a very wet raspberry. * Glossaria giggles at Sanriel's expression. "*Bad* Nacheyla! No cookies for you." * Michelle grins at Vallel, "I could introduce him to Felice." <Sanriel> ::seems to recover a bit: you.. but... little... * Vallel turns to Sanriel. "See? I told you. Weird. And definitely beyond any explanation." * Sanriel nods speechlessly to Vallel * Vallel turns to Michelle. "Don't you dare! Hasn't he had enough shocks for one night?" <Glossaria> ::trying to distract him:: So, where do you hail from, Sanriel? * Nacheyla puts her hand shyly into Sanriel's hand, looking up at him. "Don't you like me anymore?" <Elgara'a> ::leaning back a little in her chair, her body language signalling a slight withdrawal from him:: Lisl is a good companion. I think, perhaps, I would speak with her first... ::frowning a little, looking concerned:: * Michelle smiles at Vallel, "I won't. Just wanted to see how you'd react." <Sanriel> ::staring at little Nacheyla, blushing as she puts her hand in his:: ummm... it's not that... * Nacheyla puts her arms around Sanriel's neck, pulling him down to her eye level. "Good." She shimmers, becoming nineteen again. <Kevil> ::lifts his hands disarmingly:: I was only joking. I shall stand or fall with the Lady according to my own actions, d'va? * Michelle shakes her head and smiles, "Shame on you Nacheyla. He's young enough to be your nephew." <Elgara'a> ::looking relieved:: But... what did you *do*? Lisl is perhaps sometimes... moody, but she has, in the past, always been a good judge of character. * Sanriel blushes furiously as Nacheyla shifts to her nineteen year old form <Kevil> ::smiles wryly:: It seems I began on the... wrong foot with her. She was suspicious rather than pleased with my compliments. * Nacheyla looks over at Elgara'a, not taking her arms from around Sanriel's neck. "Ah, if you know Lisl, you know she hates flattery. Give the woman a cake and she wonders where the arsenic is." * Nacheyla looks back at Sanriel blushing. "Oh, sorry." Lets him go. <Glossaria> ::looking thoughtful, blinking a few times in that way that indicates rapid thought to those who know her:: Actually, she's old enough to be his-- oh. Um. Sorry. * Sanriel hides his blushing by finishing the beer off quickly <Sanriel> umm.. s'quite alright... * Philister stands up and heads for the stairs. "Well, I've gotta get going. G'night, everyone. And congratulations on that medal-thing, Jelarthna. You sure as hell earned it." <Kevil> ::grins wryly at Nach's comment:: I fear that is indeed the problem, Lady. <Michelle> Night Philister. * Philister tromps in a wavy line up the stairs, and after a few moments, the sound of a door opening and closing and opening and closing and opening and closing and opening and then closing can be heard. <Sanriel> ::looks over to Glossaria, still blushing slightly:: Umm.. did you just ask me something? <Elgara'a> Hm. ::turning the handle of her teacup around in a circle, absently:: True, she prefers plain speaking. And she *detests* court. <Glossaria> ::looking up the stairs after him:: Oh, dear. I *do* hope he'll be alright. <Glossaria> Ask you? Oh! I'd only asked where you hailed from. <Kevil> ::sighs:: And yet, the first time I saw her, she was at a formal event, dressed and acting the part of a great court lady. What was I to think, but that she moved with equal grace in both the court and the fields? Zoya had told me she was a warrior to be reckoned with, and I thought she would appreciate being hailed for that accomplishment... I strive, at least, not to repeat the endless and obvious flatteries. * Nacheyla leans over, talking to Elgara'a over Kevil's shoulder. "Not that it's any of my business, or anything." ::extends her hand:: I am Nacheyla d'Rosten, undead hunter and part-time barkeep here at the Hall." <Elgara'a> ::absently:: Some of the elders were quite taken with her, actually... ::grinning a little to herself:: <Sanriel> ::nods slowly:: Oh... yeah. ::takes a deep breath and looks a little more steady:: Hail from. Right. ::smiles a little:: I come from a village called Harbach. It's pretty small, I guess. <Elgara'a> Oh! ::standing and sweeping into a bow, with much finger-flicking and gesturing:: A thousand thousand pardons. I was... distracted. ::glancing at Kevil and back to Nacheyla:: Elgara'a ibn Al Shudhyr, of the Raz'hadi Bedine. * Nacheyla grins. "I can understand that. Not a problem. Nice to meet you." <Glossaria> ::cocks her head to one side, thinking for a moment before nodding:: I don't recognize the name from maps of the area... a population of under 250, I would imagine? What is it close to? <Sanriel> ::nods and smiles, at last on familiar territory:: Under. Probably a lot under.. we all knew everyone else there. <Elgara'a> A pleasure meeting you as well. ::gesturing to Kevil:: I met this gracious gentleman in my travels, on the way here, and never again did I think to see him.... <Kevil> ::chuckles:: No more did I expect to meet you, Illa'azim! <Sanriel> And you've said... more than once.. ::chuckles:: that you're a librarian? What's that? <Elgara'a> ::looking at him a touch slyly:: No? Then you didn't follow me here? * Nacheyla grins, pulling up a chair and sitting down. "I've known him since I was eleven. Of course, that was only, what, two or three months ago?" <Kevil> ::looks surprised:: Not at all! Ask any here who are regulars: I've been coming here for some several months, and left again on a journey. I only returned a few days ago! * Michelle begins shooing the dance dishes into the kitchen, "Last call everyone." <Kevil> ::grins slyly back at her suddenly:: Not that you are not *worth* the following, Illa'azim... <Glossaria> A librarian? I care for the collection of books, scrolls and manuscripts in the Tower Library. <Elgara'a> ::opening her mouth in a soundless O:: So... when I met you, you were travelling *from* here, just as I was travelling *to* here! But what an odd meeting of the fates! ::turning her head to the side as another blush stains dark cheeks:: You are irrepressible, effendi. * Nacheyla gets up, yawning. "Kevil, you know where the cottage is, right?" <Sanriel> ::looks a trifle confused:: I think I don't really understand... I mean, what do you? I.. don't really know what a library is. I've heard it's some kind of book collection, but how how big? And how do you take care of that? ::looks a little embarrassed at his own ignorance:: <Kevil> ::chuckles:: Indeed I am. I will cease, if that is your wish, yes? <Kevil> ::to Nach:: Yes, Lady. Shall I meet you there on the morrow? <Elgara'a> ::turning to Nach as a welcome distraction:: Forgive me... it was a pleasure to meet you, Mistress d'Rosten. <Sanriel> Mistress Michelle? How much do I owe you for this? ::gesturing at the moving mug:: <Michelle> Don't worry about it. First hit's free kid. <Elgara'a> ::looks up quickly to meet Kevil's eyes, before looking down at her cup and saying nothing:: * Nacheyla nods. "Knock hard, I'm sometimes a sound sleeper. And we'll go off and kill hatchlings. How inglorious. But, what must be done, must be. Want to come along, Mistress Elgara'a?" <Sanriel> ::smiles at Michelle:: Oh! Thank you, then. <Kevil> ::nods:: Better to kill the hatchlings than deal with the adults. * Nacheyla nods. "I can imagine. I don't know if I would be a match for more than one at a time." <Glossaria> The Tower library is somewhat larger than many private collections. At present, it contains ::cocking her head to one side:: 7,361 items. ::looking down at her half-finished copy:: And a half. * Sanriel looks confused * Vallel looks over at Sanriel, then at Gloss. <Sanriel> Books? <Elgara'a> Well... I still have the... what is the word? The sneezes? But I am fit to fight, if you need another arm. <Vallel> Do you think Mistress Zoya would mind, if we took Sanriel on a tour of parts of the Tower? <Glossaria> Books, and other materials of similar format, yes. <Sanriel> ::looks both curious and dubious:: This isn't going to be more surprises, is it? ::glancing at Nacheyla for a moment, then back:: I think I've had enough for one night. ::grins a little:: <Kevil> ::shrugs:: If you are ill, Illa'azim, it is best you rest. I do not think tomorrow's mission will be too much for Lady Nacheyla and myself. Your arm would be appreciated, however. ::he smiles at her:: <Glossaria> Well... ::frowns:: I doubt she would *mind*, but new visitors require her permission. Otherwise, the Tower will not admit them. <Vallel> Oh... ah well... Maybe when they get back from space. ::shrugs:: Come over to the school, tonight dear? We could play whist. Malika's been looking for a forth for a while. ::to Sanriel:: You do play whist, don't you? <Elgara'a> ::making a bit of a face:: To be truthful, I would welcome the action, if I am not a hindrance to you. I have been mewed up in my rooms for the better portion of two weeks, now. <Sanriel> What's a whist? I'd be happy to try! * Nacheyla laughs. "'Mewed up'? I bet Lisl hated that." <Kevil> ::smiles:: Yes? Then you are of course welcome! <Glossaria> ::cocking her head:: I could show him *part* of the Tower. But not all of the library. Although I would be happy to come over and play, also! We could teach him! <Kevil> Shall I call for you before we attend Lady Nacheyla, then? * Sanriel smiles <Elgara'a> ::flashing a white grin at Nacheyla:: I refer to the lodging of birds, not cats, sahim. * Vallel nods. "He needs to get used to learning things anyway..." Vallel offers his arm to Glossaria, dropping a few copper coins on the bartop with the other hand. <Kevil> ::eyes her with a sudden thought:: It is, however a... magical method of travel to the hunting grounds. * Michelle sweeps the coins into the lockbox. <Sanriel> ::laughs:: My head hurts from all the things I'm having to learn... <Glossaria> ::taking Vallel's arm and standing, half-turning to Sanriel:: So your town doesn't have a library? A shame... I think if the resources were more widely available, the public would benefit. * Nacheyla stretches. "Well, I'm going to go home and get some sleep. See you in the morning, d'va?" She winks at Kevil. <Sanriel> ::shakes his head:: No... but we seemed to get along okay.. ::still sounding a bit unsure, but smiling:: <Kevil> ::grins at Nach:: Va. <Elgara'a> ::nods:: I would be able to better find my way to her home with a guide... I admit to an unfamiliarity with city life in general. * Nacheyla waves and exits the Hall. * Sanriel shyly gives a little wave back <Elgara'a> Magical transport? ::bringing her eyebrows down:: What... sort of transport? Not the... flying ship? <Kevil> ::shakes his head:: A portal. Like stepping through a doorway, almost. <Vallel> ::sticks his tongue out at his aunt's back:: Sheesh, I swear, she acts more like Loria every day. <Elgara'a> Well... ::swallowing:: it is a task that must be done. Illithid are cowardly creatures, but still dangerous, when grown. <Elgara'a> They plague the waste places of Anauroch, as well. ::nodding firmly, as she makes up her mind:: I will come. <Glossaria> ::grins merrily:: Well, she's young again. I imagine being Blessed Mother all the time can be stressful. * Kevil stands and returns his mug to the bar before returning to El's table. "Your bravery is unbounded." His voice and face hint at no irony whatsoever at this, only respect. "May I walk you home, Illa'azim? I must know where it is I should call in the morning." * Sanriel walks over to the door and waits for Vallel and Glossaria <Elgara'a> ::stands and puts her nearly-untouched cup of tea on the bar, and looking a trifle amused:: A warrior who does not know the lair of his enemy? I share rooms with Lisl. * Vallel sighs, looking put upon. "Remind me to mock you heavily the next time Erdian asks you when you're going to cut your hair." * Vallel heads towards the door. <Glossaria> ::bundles up her books and lapdesk again, stowing them under her arm:: <Kevil> ::smiles mildly:: The Lady has not privileged me with that information, I fear. But if you prefer to walk alone, I shall attempt an alternative method of divining the address on the morrow. <Sanriel> ::opens the door for Glossaria and Vallel, looking at Gloss' bundle:: Um, want some help carrying that? <Glossaria> ::grins and accompanies Vallel out, her voice drifting over her shoulder:: You're so cute when you're put-upon! <Vallel> I do not come here to be abused... ::shuts the door behind him:: * Sanriel chuckles and follows Gloss and Val <Glossaria> Thank you, I have it. ::calling over her shoulder:: Good night and pleasant dreams, all! * Kevil calls a "good night!" after the departing trio. <Elgara'a> Ma'a e salemma, friends! ::turning back to Kevil with a small smile:: I did not say I would prefer to walk alone. <Elgara'a> ::smiling wider:: And I doubt my neighbors would appreciate your "methods" in the early hours of the morning. * Kevil chuckles. "Ah, well, if it is picky neighbors..." He waves toward the door. "After you, Illa'azim." <Elgara'a> ::mildly:: It is an honest excuse. A most pleasant rest to you, barkeep! <Kevil> ::smiles at Michelle:: Rest well, Lady. Give my best to Lady Meghan, yes? <Michelle> Goodnight you two. Don't stay up too late. <Michelle> Of course Kevil. * Elgara'a winds her headdress over her face again as she heads for the door. "The gentleman merely escorts my poor, diseased body to my door. I'm for bed, soon enough." * Elgara'a blesses the wrappings that hide her blush. <Kevil> ::chuckles, but doesn't say anything as he follows her to the door:: * Elgara'a exits with Kevil at her back. * Michelle makes sure the dishes are taken care of, then dims the lamps and exits, locking the door behind her. |
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