RPartage - [ORP]Fortuitous Tale - tavern and home of Mor Payne.

[ORP]Fortuitous Tale - tavern and home of Mor Payne.

Morrandir

Huffing and puffing Mor dragged the huge tree he had chopped down on the way from Lewes. As if the trip hadn't been tiring enough with constant travel with no real rest in any of the towns they had rushed past, now Mor had to deal with this behemoth of a tree. Those few steps leading to the front door had never felt this steep and he could have sworn someone had deliberately covered them in ice to make his struggle that much more painstaking. Some very colourful grumbles were heard by various passers by.

At least Cynth had left the door ajar, so all Mor had to do was nudge it open once he got to it and haul the tree to the ladding on the other side.

Breathing heavily Mor glanced down at the bar and noticed there were decorations all over the place already. He had ordered some while still in Lewes and was pleased to see all of them had been put up. One thing less for him to take care.

Closing the door and sighing Mor grabbed hold of the tree again to continue his task, but then paused suddenly. Tilting his head and then turning to the side, he took a glance over the railing on his left and down at the bar area. Grinning he glanced back at the tree and then down at the bar again. Shrugging in a carefree manner he muttered,"...and why not."

Hauling the heavier end of the tree over the railing and then lifting the lighter end, it didn't take much for the tree to tip over. With the help of gravity it went crashing down on a table below with a solid thud and some sound crackling. "Mind over matter", Mor chuckled softly as he took a peek down to asses the carnage below.

There were a few branches blown off the tree and tons of needles everywhere. "Okay... perhaps not so much mind after all," he sighed, but chose not to worry about it right now. He sorely missed his bed and he could always set the tree up tomorrow. Climbing up the several flights of stairs, he finally came to the door to his private bedroom and stepped in.

He was met with the most adorable of sounds as his beloved was fast asleep on his big comfy bed and snoring. With her half awake cooperation Mor got her under the covers, before taking off his excess clothing. Watching for a while as she slept peacefully, stroking her hair softly Mor sat silently on the edge of the bed and felt grateful he had found her relatively unscathed in Evesham. You're safe now, he thought as he eventually slid under the covers. "G'night darling," he spoke softly as he snuggled in close to her. Soon he too was snoring softly...
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Cynth

Slowly she awakens and she sees the most beautiful vision in front of her eyes. Her man was sleeping with his hand falling heavily on the dip of her waist. She smiles softly, her eyes moistening with happy tears as she sees his boyish face relaxed in sleep.

His hands tighten on her as she turns to look at him. Trailing her fingers very gently across his face, she leans and touches her lips to his and whispers a soft "I love you". Drawing back she watches as he smiles in his sleep. Unable to help herself, she leans once more and kisses him tenderly on his forehead.

After much maneuvering she quietly slips out from the bed and carefully covers Morr with the quilt. Smiling to herself she stretches and yawns as she approaches her yet unpacked luggage. Choosing a blouse and a skirt, she retires to the bath area. Her morning ablutions over she silently tiptoes down to the kitchen and boils some water as she looks for the tea leaves.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Cynth

Straining the tea, she sips it slowly mindful of the heat. She scrunches her face as the strong taste hits her palate and wakes her up truly. Pouring another cup of tea she quietly makes her way back upstairs to the bedroom.

She looks at the man sleeping peacefully on the bed with much longing and tenderness. Silently she places the cup of tea at the bedside table and walks to the window...Sighing she perches on the windowsill and watches as Mor stirs.

She sips her tea..her smile hidden by the tea cup.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Tightly hugging a pillow, Mor awakens slowly and sniffs the faint scent floating from somewhere near. Sighing he whispers a good morning to his pillow, which he, in his barely woken state, believes to be his dear Cynthie. "Who brought tea?" he mumbles drowsily while nuzzling the pillow.

Frowning as Mor feels cloth where the smooth skin of her shoulder should have been, he carefully takes a peek at what he's holding. "Oh..." A longing sigh escapes his lips, followed by an endearing wail. "Hooooney?! Won't you come back to bed?" Fully aware that she won't be able to hear him, if she's down at the bar, he discards the comforting feel of his pillow and rolls over to his other side to console himself with the delightful tea she must have brought up to him.

Light from the windows shining in his still light sensitive eyes he reaches for his bedside table. "Had to open the curtains too, huh..." he mutters quietly as his fingers try to feel their way to the mug. Next he notices an unfamiliar shadow being cast down on the floor. Instantly he becomes fully alert and firmly grabs the mug he almost tipped over as his hand brushes against it. However, it takes him a mere second to figure out what's going on and the fleeting tension dissipates and he relaxes. This is one observer he will never need to fear.

Warding off a grin he stays fully composed and sits up to stretch, being careful not to glance up in the direction of the window. Bringing the mug to his lips, his free hand slowly ventures down, casually under the covers and makes a few subtle probes beneath the blanket. He was simply scratching an itch on his thigh, but it might not look like that in the eyes of someone who might be watching.

After sipping his tea and letting out a shamelessly exaggerated moan of approval to further titillate the imagination of his viewer, Mor finally has to break the silence as he hears some stifled coughing sounds. "How's the view from there?" His voice is soft and playful as he goes on. "You want me to pick up your jaw off the floor or can you manage, darling?"

Relocating his hand behind his head and taking a cosy posture, he can barely wait for the reply as he takes another amused sip of tea.
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Cynth

First she saw him hugging the pillow, at which time she felt like giggling. Then she heard him call to her and she almost left her perch to go to him. She was halted from that thought when he turned and reached for the mug.

Cynth was sure Morr had seen her when she noticed his stance stiffening and then relaxing. She had been watching him all the while, and she thought she had come to understand her man and his intention much before he himself...
The hot tea scalded her throat as she gulped it when she sees where his hands had moved too. Gasping, her eyes were riveted to the spot and she couldn't take her eyes off if her life depended on it.

The moan was the final straw.

Maybe he didn't know she was there. Suddenly out of breath, she remembers to swallow the tea and promptly chokes on it. Between trying to regain her composure and appearing nonplussed she coughs as if to make her presence known. The sound however appears stifled and so unlike a cough it might as well have been a groan.

It took her some time to understand what he had asked. Her haze covered brain assimilated the information further when she was finally able to follow his hand back behind his head and was able to look at his face. The innocence on the face was a dead giveaway. Cynth would have denied that at this point she sputtered with contrived indignation. Glaring at him, she chose to answer him with only one word before she takes another sip of her tea. The "HMPH!" was answer enough for the tease.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

With mirth Mor takes one final sizeable gulp of tea after her less than wordy reply. It was quintessential Cynth and he loved her quite unique way of reacting to his antics. Certainly she had not minded the tease, not for real, but there was no way in hell she would let him see that. If only she could see how her rosy cheeks betrayed her, but Mor was not going to mention it as she would probably only say it was due to the hot tea. All he did was chuckle softly as he placed the now empty mug back on his bedside table and swung his legs out of bed.

Standing up, being careful to hang onto the blanket, he wrapped it loosely around his waist and strode across the floor to her. The blanket was long enough to cover even his feet and still drag along the floor behind him. "Good morning, my darling," he spoke, while looking into her eyes. Gently holding his hand against her cheek and bending down, he placed a soft kiss on her lips. "Thank you very much for the tea... it was very thoughtful of you." Still reserving one hand to hold the blanket in place, he gave her an attentive hug and affectionately rubbed her back.

After a proper amount of hugging and soft words, Mor leaned back up to leave. "Better go and take a bath," he started, "I don't want to stink up the place in the presence of your friends." Seeing her look a little puzzled, he went on as he turned to head for the door. "Oh yes, I thought we'd travel to Canterbury, stay for a week or so and..." Right then, as he was walking away from her, the blanket got caught in something and Mor lost his loose grip on it. The blanket slid off him and to the floor, before he could do a thing about it. So, there he stood, stark naked, next to his study desk and still a few paces from the door. "Hmm, how about that," he blurted out spontaneously and seemingly unfazed by the turn of events.

Glancing down to his right at a bowl on his desk, he plucked a few grapes from it and popped one in his mouth. "Let me know what you think of that, honey," he said and strode out the door munching placidly. Pausing behind the door to consider what he just said, he poked his head back into the bedroom. "About the travel idea, I mean."

After a jovial wink, he retreated before she could find something sharp to throw at his head. Shouting from down the hall, he disappeared into the room with two large bathing tubs. "See you downstairs soon...!"
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Cynth

Blushing furiously Cynth mutters something under her breath. she did not move till the man was out of her sight. Taking a deep breath she says softly "That would be amazing darling, thank you"

Not waiting to hear his reply she goes down to the bar and immediately halts in her tracks. A growl escapes her throat as she screams "MORRANDIR GET BACK IN HERE"
Muttering curses she bends to clean up the mess avoiding splinters.

After a time she could sense Mor coming down the stairs behind her but she concentrated on cleaning.

Surveying the tavern she asks him..."Shall we keep the tree here darling?"
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Fry

Fry exits the dark church, his visit there had been far too long and he wasn't sure where to go. His thoughts shot from a house made Into a tree but that seemed foolish he had been Gone for what seemed like an eternity. He walked his way to the tavern and entered quietly glancing about the room.

Morrandir

Coming down the stairs all freshened up and wearing clean, crisp clothes, Mor saw as Cynth cleaned up the last of the mess he had made the previous evening. Sighing he went to her and gave her an appreciative hug, before picking up the bucket of needles and a few small branches she had placed in it. "Looks good, honey," he replied and nodded as she asked about where to put the tree. "I'll go empty out this out back."

Coming back inside through the back door after dumping the tree parts in the compost, Mor notices a man with a red and white hat descending the stairs to the bar. Brushing a light layer of snow off his shoulders, Mor greets the familiar face."Fry! Long time no see, matey. Come in and say hi to Cynth. We were just about to put the tree up"

Giving Cynth and Fry a chance to catch up, Mor went to lift the tree upright. Letting the tree lean against a wall, he lifted it up just enough to slide a bucket under it. Once that was done, he went to get a second bucket from the cellar, this one full of gravel. As he emptied the gravel into the bucket with the tree trunk in it, it now held the tree upright without need for the tree to lean on anything.

Mor pulled on the small rug under the bucket and the rug, bucket and tree all came sliding along the floorboards quite easily to the spot Cynth had pointed out earlier. Standing to take in the sight, Mor felt quite pleased with the choice of tree Cynth and he had made. He had all but forgotten what a task it had been to get it inside in the first place.

Soon the decorations were up as well and they all could sit down to enjoy some ale and chatter. At least to Mor the tree didn't look all that bad against the dark tavern background.
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Morrandir

Soon after it came time for Mor to excuse himself as he needed to check on some lads loading the wagon he and Cynth would be taking to Canterbury. Having made sure all the goods and baggages they wanted to take along had been safely loaded on board, Mor paid the lads for a job well done and watched as they went their merry way.

Returning to the tavern, Mor said his goodbyes to Fry, wished him well and waited for Cynth to finish her goodbyes. While she did that, Mor gave some instructions to the young lady he had hired to take care of his tavern during his absence. The tavern would stay open even without him and people could come enjoy the warm tavern, if it got too cold outside. Mor was finally ready to set out.

Helping Cynth up on the wagon and after wrapping her in a thick blanket, Mor got on the driver seat and slapped the reins on the two horses pulling the wagon. They were on their way to Cynth's home...
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Cynth

Ycpy and P were yapping endlessly. Puppy the Alaskan Husky was still much manageable but Youcutepuppyyou the St. Bernard always kept following Morr. She knew it the day Morr had given the pup as a Christosmas gift. She had seen the way Ycpy worshipped the ground her man walked on. Rolling her eyes at the unfairness she mutters something under her breath. Sighing Cynth enters their home with P trailing her. Ycpy had stayed with Morr as he unloaded the Wagon. The Tavern wasn't very dusty, but it could use a clean up.

Changing into an old shirt and skirt, she starts cleaning each nook and corner. When Morr comes in she smiles at him softly and continues to work with him. Morr was still playing with the dogs more than actually stocking the Inn when she started climbing the stairs. Shaking her head, with a contended smile on her face Cynth enters their chambers and starts to change the bed linen.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Apparently, from now on, the wagon unloading process would take Mor twice as long to get done. Ycpy just would not stop picking a fight with Mor's trouser legs every time he went to carry something from the wagon. With his hands full, Mor could not shoo him away at all or pacify the excited puppy with some petting, so there he stood. As he did not want to accidentally step on the little puppy, he had to let Ycpy tug and tear his trouser legs, holding onto whatever it was he was carrying and mutter, until Ycpy noticed something else of more interest and darted away.

Usually that was a passer by who would bend down to play with and pet the puppy. Mor grumbled every time he saw that happen. "Must be so convenient to have your hands free, I'm sure..."After the ninth time Ycpy had come running for Mor's pants, he gave up. Setting down a small crate from his hands, Mor called a few loitering youngsters over from a warehouse nearby, paid them to unload the wagon for him and went inside carrying Ycpy this time.

First letting Ycpy down and hugging Cynth, Mor then went to get some food supplies from the cellar, with both P and Ycpy on his heels. Both puppies kept on circling him and yapping as he carried some meat up for some possible hungry patrons.

Noticing that Cynth had left, probably to go upstairs, Mor knelt down with a tasty treat in both hands. "Not a word to Cynth about this, agreed?" Mor looked meaningfully at both P and Ycpy as the puppies settled down on the thick pelt in front of the still quiet fireplace. Mor handed both puppies sizeable pig bones with still some meat in them and turned to lit the tinder in the fireplace. "You hide those if you hear her coming..."

Soon Mor was sitting in his chair having some mead as the two puppies were happily gnawing and grinding the bones. He had taken his pants off and was doing some repair work on them with a needle and thread. Ycpy had done well to tear at them, but Mor just shrugged it off, grinned at both puppies and took another long swig of mead...
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Cynth

She had tidied the bed and herself. She frowns as the ruckus downstairs seems to have stopped. Slowly she inches towards the stairs and grins at the sight. It was obvious that the dogs were well fed and snoozing besides Morr. The man himself was pantless and sewing. Chuckling softly she goes back upstairs and gets a clean trouser for him to wear.

Hiding her grin and trying her best to look stern she raises an eyebrow as she hands him the trouser and takes the mending work. "Let me do it" She says smiling at him.

She sits across him in the chair and mends his trousers while her man sips his ale and watches her.

Cynth was preoccupied with the mending and her daydreams, a soft smile playing on her lips. She could hear her man moving about and she knew she had never been more happy and content than she was at the moment.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Wrapping his arm around Cynth as she comes down and to him, Mor hands the trousers to her when she asks for them. "Here you go. I wasn't doing that bad, but..." Mor kisses her cheek in appreciation and goes to the bar to fix them both some supper.

Soon the tavern was filled with the scent of fish being prepared over a quiet fire, freshly baked bread, which Mor had just brought from his bakery next door, and garlic and cream sauce for the fish. There were also some steamed vegetables being cooked in the fireplace. A bit of seasoning and the fish was all ready to be served.

Ycpy and P were behaving surprisingly well during the entire cooking process and were strolling back and forth between Mor and Cynth. The reason why they came to Mor was probably because he kept giving both of them small treats every time they sat down next to him. Cuddles they obviously got from Cynth.

After setting all the food on a table, with plates, utensils and goblets for two, Mor opened a bottle of red wine to give it some time to breathe. Customary it should have been white wine with fish, but he was in the mood for some passionate red. He then got out some candles and after lighting them set those on the tabl, too.

Cynth had been relaxing next to the fireplaces with the puppies after finishing her work on Mor's pants. He had insisted on preparing the meal on his own and, after taking off his apron, now went to her. "Supper is served, my love. Would you join me?"

Mor offered his extended hand to his love.
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Cynth

Pleasantly surprised Cynth takes his hand and follows him to where the dinner was served. "Oh honey" She says softly as she sees the elaborate setting. It was New Years eve and he had made her fantasy come true. Everything was just as she wished.

He was there with her. Just as she wished. He had yet again proven her wrong. Each minute with him was a revelation. Each minute with him was better than the last. And ever so precious.

Suddenly emotional she turns to see him smiling at her. Lifting herself on toes she kisses his lips softly "Happy New Year My Love"

She felt giddy with emotions. With happiness. He made her feel precious. Burying her face in his chest Cynth whispers softly "I love you."
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Fortuitous Tale - tavern and home of Mor Payne.

Morrandir

The time had come.

He had delayed the inevitable for as long as he could. It had been several weeks since he last laid eyes on her and yet he dreamed of her almost every night. Would she come to him now that he had finally settled matters? The tavern was ready... it had been ready for quite some time, but would Lady Shirinova still come to him after all this time had passed? After the way he left her side after that... incident in the tunnel. He could only hope that she would find it in her heart to forgive him.

These were the thoughts that ran through his head as he walked through the quiet town toward his tavern. It was late evening, drizzling and except for a few lit windows, there were no signs of life. In other words, Morrandir was in his element. Rounding the last corner, he came to a halt a short distance away from the steps leading to the front door of The Foxy Tigress. He climbed on a barrel across the narrow street to get a better view of the front door and the tavern sign. A small but visible grin emerged on his face as he examined the exterior of his tavern...

The heavy sign was hanging still in the light breeze, the newly crafted steps looked sturdy and the oak door almost majestic. Nothing like Sevenoaks oak, he thought to himself. Two tall and narrow windows would provide some natural light during the day, but still keep the tavern dim enough for him to be comfortable inside. The balcony wasn't big, but it served it's purpose as a way to air oneself after some heavy drinking, if needed.

Morrandir hopped down to the ground and made his way to the steps. As he climbed, his hand slid under his already soaked shirt and soon found what it was looking for - a thin chain going around his neck. He lifted the chain over his head and took the key on it in his hand.

Sliding the key into the lock of the mighty door, he twisted his wrist and heard a distinct snapping sound as the door unlocked. Alea iacta est, he muttered to himself. Too late to back down now... He pushed the door open and stepped into the light...

A familiar sight greeted him. The guest book had been placed between the wide benches on the left, the receptionists desk in the corner and a warming fire already roared in the fireplace. Good, good... He nodded contently. Everything looks to be more or less in order. Frowning slightly at the crumpled pieces of paper on the floor, he shrugged and decided not to let that minor detail distract him.

Morrandir would wait for Lady Shirinova by the second floor fireplace, so he could welcome her as soon as she arrived. If she would come at all that is. He set a plate of Mousie's famous rum cake next to the chair in front of the warming fire... and then he sat down in deep thought.What will I say to her...? He had thought of just about every issue there was, concerning the tavern, but when it came to her, he still had no idea what he would do, if she turned him down.

He took a big piece of cake in his hand and waited...

(ORP) The Foxy Tigress tavern --> [ORP]Fortuitous Tale - tavern and home of Mor Payne.
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Shirinova

Walking the streets, her mind in a turmoil of emotions, her clothes soaked from the rain, Shirinova again wonders why she is here at all. She should have returned to the Cabin but for some strange reason, she is in Town and wandering. Him, she thinks now with a heavy sigh, tis him.... And then something makes her stop walking.... The Tavern...

Looking at it from across the street, the sheer size of it making her feel so small, Shirinova shivers as the cold now makes itself present. Looking down briefly, swallowing hard, she decides to go and try the door...

Mounting the steps, each one seemingly more harder than the first as she starts to tremble, Shirinova finally reaches the door and takes a deep breath praying that it will open for her. Reaching out her hand, grasping the opener, she tries it and feels it give and the door open.... Trembling, she steps in and gasps as she sees all the lights...

Soon she is lost in wonder... everywhere she looks there is something to amaze her eyes. Tapestries, paintings, books, the furniture... Him... Sitting by the fire that looks sooo warm.....

Taking a deep breath as she sees that he is deep in thought, scared that he will cast her out into the cold and rain of the night, yet so cold she is now shivering, Shirinova, her body trembling also in scared nervousness swallows hard and approaches him.... Standing just behind him, feeling the warmth of the fire now, she asks softly, Can I join you?
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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

Hy wandering in the rain thinking about the turmoil in his life not paying attention to where he is in town as he know none will bother him he is well trained and armed., he hears a door open nearby then close, that is odd in the middle of the night, He then spots the dim lights beaming from the new tavern, and goes to investigate. He sees the tavern is now open. He takes out the gift he has prepared for this momentous occasion and mounts the steps.
Hy strolls into the tavern looks around and sees the guest log goes and signs his name:

HydraRider Markov

Then he spots Mo and Shiri. “Well met Barkeep, have a small gift for you.. “ Hy sets a small cask of fine red wine up on the bar.
Then he steps up and swats Mo on the back, “Well done lad, well done indeed, this place looks great!”
Then he orders a pitcher and wanders to a corner close to the fire and sits reflecting on his life, sipping the drink well into the morn.
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Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Morrandir

Emerged in his deep thoughts, Morrandir fails to notice the door being opened and a figure step in. Suddenly he hears a faint, but clear voice speak to him. Even before he turns to face the speaker, he recognises the voice.

Shiri! You came! Mor stands up and turns to face her. Seeing her shivering from the rain, and simply because it has been so long since he last saw her, Mor grabs her little figure in his warm embrace.

I've missed you... so much. Pulling back slightly, he looks deeply in her eyes and smiles. Would you like some cake perhaps and thos...

Right then, in mid sentence, Mo notices the door opening again. Stepping toward the door frowning, he soon starts smiling widely as he recognises the unexpected visitor. Hy! My dear friend, come in from the rain.

Seeing Hy go straight for the guest book, Mor keeps smiling and once Hy finishes, Mor signals both of his friends to come take a look at the view to the first floor below them.

Seeing his friends quietly glance at one another, Mor chuckles happily. Shall we take the stairs down to the bar? I can show you the rest of this floor later, along with the guest rooms upstairs. Taking Shiri by the hand, he leads them both downstairs to the actual bar and dining floor.

Watching the expressions on their faces, Mor feels quite pleased about their first reactions. Accepting the generous gift and compliments from Hy, Mor pours them all some wine and looks at Shiri, who still seems rather quiet. Likely due to the surprise of it all.

Thank you Hy for the gift, then turning to Shiri he asks, and how does the place look to you... my... barmaid? Mor grins as he sneaks in the request, which had been burning his mind for days now...
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Shirinova

Turning to Mo, looking at him in utter astonishment, her mind racing with all she’s seen so far, the sheer scale of it, hearing his last words, her eyes widen further... You mean it? She asks slowly, uncertainly, You want me in your life – to help you run your Tavern? And seeing him nod, his look steady as he looks at her so softly, so expectantly, Shiri says, I’d love to. Oh and I love this place, this place is just stunning hon... she looks down suddenly after saying the word that slipped from her mouth so carelessly... Did she still have the right to call him that? She wonders, will he, is he... still her hon?
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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Morrandir

Looking at Shiri and hearing her accept his proposal, Mor hugged her tight and couldn't resist the urge to spin her around a couple of times in his arms. Excellent! That's all I needed to hear! Thank you my love...

Morrandir hugs her once more before letting her go and turning to Hy. Seeing that he was starting to doze off in the table, Mor helps his friend to the bed beside the bar and then returns to Shiri.

Alright... this has all made me a very happy man, but for now I must excuse myself... it has been a very long day for me and I need my sleep. I guess I'll be taking one of the guest rooms upstairs, since... Mor glances at the sleeping man in his bed my bed is sort of occupied at the moment. He leans down to kiss Shiri, I leave the tavern in your capable hands. Good night... and thank you.

Mor turns around and ascends the first flight of stairs to the second floor. He walks over the bannister to blow a kiss at Shiri looking up at him. Then climbing the remaining stairs to the third floor, Mor crashes in the first bed he lays his eyes on and falls into a deep sleep...
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Shirinova

Finding herself so suddenly alone but for the two sleeping men in a tavern that to her is huge, Shirinova sighs happy in the knowledge that she is still loved and goes to the fire to warm up and finish her wine...

Taking off her shirt and trousers, her under clothing relatively dry, Shiri hangs the garments before the fire and goes off to explore the bar area to familiarise herself with it. For a moment she is terrified. She has never been a barmaid. But the next she is at ease. She has been Mayor and Councillor. Surely this has to be easier? But she is still worried. And cold.

Returning to the fire, retrieving her now dry clothes, she puts them on and heads up the stairs after checking on the soundly sleeping Hydra. Looking at the small reception area, smiling, she takes a seat to await any guests who may come in while her Love is asleep. Setting the bottle of ale down upon the table, making sure that the letter opener is at the ready should the receive mail, she sighs wondering if she move into the Tavern or not....

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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

Hy wakes with a start,looks around to try to figure out where he is... on a bed... by a bar... Oh the new tavern... Heck I must have gotten Mo's bed..... it is nice and comfy... the tavern looks wonderful so much to look at....
Hy gets up and notices Shiri Asleep Sitting there.. Well that is not good.
Hy quietly moves behind the bar, gathers up the Sleeping Lady and ever so gently puts her on the warm bed and covers her with a throw,
Well looking around sees no sign of Mo, Guess he must have went to the guest room upstairs(I think that is what he said was up there)
Well then I guess I'll just watch the shop for them while they rest as they watched for me when I ran the Seventh Oak for the town..
Hy moves to the bar finds some cleaning supplies and make use of them scrubbing the area to a fine sparkle.
Hy make fresh tea for the tea drinkers, which is what he does mostly. Make some fresh coffee for him to wake up by. And waits for the next person to come in, Mayhap Ed will come and spin one of his tales, or strum a melody.
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Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Morrandir

Morrandir wakes up feeling a bit stiff and cold. He looks about and comes to the conclusion that he never actually made it to a guest room, but instead spent the night sleeping on a bench on the third floor hallway, using some pillows and sheets as his mattress.

Juuusst great... He grumbles, as he falls off the bench and hits the floor with a hefty thud. Stretching his sore back and legs, he slowly gets back up to his feet. Shaking his groggy head, he wanders into the closest room to splash some refreshing water on his face from a bedside bowl.

Drying his face on a towel and feeling a bit better, he heads downstairs to see, if Shiri has things in order.

Coming down the stairs to the second floor landing, he can hear some light whistling and humming emanating from the first floor below him. Mor walks over to the bannister and peeks down to the bar area. To his surprise it's not Shiri that's busy at work behind the bar.

Hy? A grin appears on Mor's face, looks like you're settling in fine. Where's Shiri? Hold that thought... Without waiting for a reply, Mor takes the last set of stairs down to the bar floor. Any customers? ...and more importantly, is that tea you got there? Oh... and good morning. Mor walks to the opposite side of the bar from Hy and sits down to catch his breath and to hear what's been going on...
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Hydrarider

As hy hands Mo some tea.
"and a fine morn to you Mo, Jimmy_the_hand was in for a bit and the Mayor came bye for a visit. the round flew for a bit, they left So I cleaned back up, I think you will find the tender in order, if it isn't I will make it up. oops I think I talked too loud. Shiri is stirring."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Opening her eyes, looking about, sure she wasn’t here the night before.... Shiri frowns as she finds she’s in a bed... How the..... then hearing voices, recognising them as Mo’s and Hy’s her eyes fly open in shock!!

Suddenly she’s embarrassed.

She’s in a bed, in the Tavern and she’s....

Peeking under the covers... seeing she’s still dressed she sighs in relief.

Pushing the cover back off her she makes to get up and yawns... Turning, seeing Mo and Hy looking at her, she, not knowing what she looks like, even if she’s “presentable” says, Um, Hi.. uncertainly...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

"hello Shiri, You look like you slept well. and as beautiful as always."
Hy Pours her a tea.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Morrandir

Listening intently to Hy's description of the past few hours, Mo is left slightly puzzled. Must have been rather short visits, he looks around, everything seems to be pretty much the same way as I left them last night. You did great job cleaning up, I must admit.

Mor takes his cup of tea and with a grateful nod to Hy, he starts sipping slowly. Mmm... good tea...

Seeing Shiri sit up, yawn and look at the two of them somewhat bashful, Mor pick up the cup of tea Hy just poured and goes over to Shiri. Mornin sweetie... you look... um... well-rested. Mor grins a little and bends down to give her a kiss along with the tea. Sleep well?
_________________

Ederick

Ederick was walking through the town on his way to the mines, when he sudenly noticed the activity going on in the new tavern, and decides to enter.

seeing all the wonder's that had been preformed to decorate the place so elequently. he feels a little embarassed he did not bring a gift.

hy offers him a tea and nudges at the bundle in ed's hands

"A tale perhaps?" hy asked

"nay, i have much work to do." replied ederick "but a song maby"

ederick smiles and unraps the bundle carefully to reveil his harp. He picks up the instrument and starts to run his hands across the finely tuned string's and starts to sing the shortest song he can remember as the day is soon to start.

Shirinova

Returning Mo's kiss, suddenly feeling like she hadn't in so long, Shirinova sighs as the kiss ends and accepts the tea gratefully. Looking up at Mo, seeing the softness of his smile, the look in his eyes, she smiles up at him as she gets to her feet saying, Thank you for the tea, and yes I am well rested. Taking a large draught of the tea, feeling the liquid burn her mouth, her throat, her eyes widen as she hands it back to Mo and heads for the barrel behind her!

Turning on the tap on the barrel, bending low to fill her mouth with the water coming from it, Shiri drinks then washes her face in the water that has missed her burning mouth and filled instead the bowl....

Oh that's better. she says in a relieved tone as she grabs up a nearby towel from the fireplace, That was some hot tea. And seeing Hy grinning mischievously she pouts a little - and is then interrupted by the arrival of Ederick, the Bard. Welcome to the Foxy Tigress! she calls to him, Come on in! And watching him do just that, she smles at him as Mo hands her the cup of tea again...

Listening to Ederick and Hydra talking soon after, draping the towel over her shoulder and seeing the meat by the fire, Shiri takes a deep breath as she remembers the veges that were somewhere nearby. Looking for them and seeing them as Ederick starts to sing, Shiri decides to cook up a hearty beef stew and promptly sets to work....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Mousie

Mousie had left her castle, she gave the nanny instruction for the twins, like she really needed one after helping with Pc and Star. Mousie took her cloak with her when she left, she cover her head so it would stay dry. For some reason she couldn't sleep to night. Something bothered her, maybe worried her. She needed fresh air. Mousie walked into town. Looking down the street she sees a new tavern, the sign had it's name on it. Mousie stood there looking at the building, maybe this is what made her come to the place, she thought to herself. Then she looked into the windows before entering to see who was all in there Mousie seen Shiri with Mo. Hy over in the corner and Ederick there was well. Mousie smiled at her wet cloak. She opened the door slowly. And peeped around the corner. Mousie walked inside. She greeted everyone that is there. Then bought arounds for everyone.

Morrandir

Mor barely manages to utter the words "sip slowly...", when Shiri already hands the teacup back to him and dives for barrel close by. Holding the cup on his hand and looking down at Shiri's bend over figure, Mor can't help but chuckle softly at Shiri's slight distress.

You ok hon? He asks with some concern in his voice, but is interrupted by Shiri greeting someone behind him. Turning around he sees that Ederick has stopped by on his way to the mines.

Handing Shiri her teacup back, Mor quickly sits down on the bed. It appears that Ed, after some encouragement from Hy, is willing to grace them with one of his songs. Listening absolutely quiet, and even though the song is rather short, Mor can't help but feel a little choked up by the words of the song and the tune of Ed's harp.

From the corner of his eye Mor notices a cloaked head peek through the main door on the second floor. Still somewhat emotional from the tunes of Ed's harp, Mo makes his way quietly up the stairs to welcome the newcomer.

Coming closer, he recognizes the person to be none other than his dear friend Mousie. Welcome, he speaks with a low voice, so he won't disturb the bard. After taking Mousie's wet cloak and having hung it in front of the second floor fire place, Mo offers his hand to Mousie and escorts her down the stairs to the others...
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy joins in welcoming Mousie and Ed into the tavern, drinks some rounds with Mousie and buys some too. After most leave he finds a corner to reflect in, vowing not to fall asleep there again. He reflects on how good the folks are here about. His joy at the return of PC, his sadness that is caused by it too, His joy that he has friends that want him to stay, and even more joy that he might be able to find another special Lady that might, might spend time with him.

After untold hours of drinks and thoughts Hy bows out of the tavern Telling all to have a good night.

He decides to walk out to the river, as he has not been there in a good while and it is a quiet night with the rain still drizzling down.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Ederick

Ederick deciding that his hands have become to rough in the mine of late, and that it is not worthy of a harp player to be so calused. He looks over to the Geust book and realises he forgot to sighn in. So going over to do this deed He pertends to leave and hints that with a bit of encouragement (and a mug of draght) He could stay a while, and sing a more uplifting tune.

Mousie

Mousie allowed Mo to take her cloak. She smiled and accepted his hand as he lead her down stairs to where everyone else was. Mousie hugged Mo, and Shiri. She nodded at Ed with a smile. She seen Hy and walked over and gave him a hug as well. Mousie walked over back to the bar to order a drink to warm up her bones. She then turned around, was about to head toward Hy and noticed he was gone or was he in the shadows some where and she just over looked him Mousie blushed, seeing him over in the corner by himself lurking in the shadow of the tavern. She looked down at him, holding two mug of ale. May I, join you this evening? Mousie waited before seating herself. She looked around the tavern and thought to herself Mo did a wonderful job on this place.Of course, with the help of the barmaid. It seemed more lively then the other tavern here in So. Something was different about it, that it drew ppl here. It had to be that Mo and Shiri are very good ppl. Who has a wonderful personality to go with it. Mousie loved to be around her friends, she was so relieved that Hy decided to stay in town. Without him, she didn't know what she would do, it drove her nuts hoping he didn't leave. Which she couldn't blame him one bit, Mousie knew in her heart that he should be angry with her, and he should have started hating her, but she was relieved that he didn't.

--Renki

Running through the Town, down alleys and lanes searching searching searching, Renki finally stops to ask a small girl, Missy Shirinova? And seeing the child point to a building he nods and makes for it....

Shirinova

With the stew cooking steadily over the fire, Shiri frowns as she gets the feeling that something isn't right...

Going over to Mo, telling him that need to step out for a while, that she'll be back soon, she leaves the Foxy Tigress and almost walks right into a worried looking Renki. And felling him start dragging her down the steps, she gasps and tries to keep up as he babbles away in his lingo while she tries to keep her feet...

Whoa!!, she calls out as they reach the bottom of the stairs, Dusty is here in town...somewhere.... And seeing Renki stop, turn to her, frown, she smiles...

Loosing a whistle, hearing an answering whiney, she grins as the horse comes into sight.... Now that, is what I call service she grins. Give me a hand up, mount up behind and we’ll go see what’s up at the Cabin.... and offering her ankle, feeling herself being boosted up onto her Horse’s back, she waits till he is behind her before nudging Dusty into a canter out of Town and out toward the Forest...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Morrandir

First making sure that everyone has plenty of their chosen beverages at hand, Mor takes a look around the tavern. Seeing his friends enjoying themselves, each in their own way, he can't help but feel satisfied with how things are unfolding. Maybe the turnout of patrons hadn't been as numerous as it could have been, but the ones that had come seemed to be happy with the place.

For some time now Mor had wanted to set up a tavern, so that he would have a place where he could enjoy a drink with friends and, at times, have a place to retreat to, if he felt like it. A place to call his own. Now, with the help of all those here, that had become reality. Judging by the praises he received, he felt assured that the tavern had earned it's place in their hearts - for this he was grateful.

Raising a tankard of ale to his lips, he glances at Hy and Mousie in the corner, sharing drinks. Mor grins as Hy, once again, tries to make Shiri blush as she tries to shake off a hot ember off her skirt, which the fire had spat out at her as she stirred the pot of stew. Mor also notices Ederick the Bard come back downstairs after having signed the Guest Book and sit back to his table, to which Mor had already set up a tankard of ale for the man.

Not bad for a recluse, not bad at all, he mutters to himself, downs the remainder of his ale and sets the empty tankard on the bar with a content sigh.

After some time, and ale, has passed, Mor wishes a good night to Hy as he sets out for a walk to the river. Going over to Mousie, Mor covers her with a blanket, as she nods off at her table. Hearing Shiri tell him, that she needs to step out for a while, Mor nods and brings Ederick one more ale before heading down to the cellar to check on his supplies. Holler if you need me Ed, I'll leave the cellar door open...
_________________

Mousie

After everyone had gone, the tavern had seem quiet and peaceful. Mousie sipped her ale, the tavern lightening had gotten dimmer then before. Mousie thought to herself that she needed to get back to Windmill thinking that Pc had brought the kids home, she took another sip of her ale and the next thing she knew she was nodding off to sleep. Mousie apparently thought she was at home, she felt the blanket put on her. She never moved the muscle.

Later on Mousie had woken up to see there was a few ppl there. She paid for the drinks left a tip on that table. She then went up stairs got her cloak and head out the door before she could get her cloak on. It was raining now. Mousie had put her hood over her head to keep her hair dried. She walked down the road a little ways up to 11 windmill lane.

Morrandir

As Morrandir was busy sampling his wines in the cellar, he had no idea that a young messenger boy had arrived at the tavern in search of him. Luckily for Mor the boy wasn't at all shy to enter the tavern, as this was not the first time the boy was there. Briskly the boy marched through the reception area and down the stairs to the bar area, where he came across a some sort of minstrel tuning his harp.

The owner, the boy spoke in a clear voice, where may I find him, good Sir? Ederick the Bard pointed at the slightly open cellar door and resumed his harp tuning. Thank you, the boy replied and left the musician, in order to fulfil his duty.

Sir... a message for you, the boy spoke, as he came down the steps and saw a figure seated at a small table with lots of open wine bottles in front of him. Morrandir stepped out of the shadows behind the boy and placed his hand on the boys shoulder. I guess you better hand it to me then, he spoke in a friendly tone.

The boy startled, as he had thought the figure seated at the table was the person he was looking for. Slowly turning around and handing Mor the two letters he was carrying, he replied. Sorry sir, but I though you were... The boy nodded toward the table.

Aahh... yes, well... things aren't always as they appear to be, my dear boy... not all men are easily caught off guard. Mor glances at all the wine bottle on the table, as he goes to pick up his mantle off the upside down rake, which he had set up as a diversion against the chair in front of the table. Turning back to the boy, he continues with a smile ...even, if this man has had more than his fair share of wine tonight.

The boy hands the letters to Mor and after receiving his reward of two gold coins, leaves to return to his post.

Morrandir holds the letters next to a candle to make out the writing on them. Has-t, he mumbles knowingly, as he recognizes the code. Quickly checking the second letter and seeing "Lew-a" written on it, he decides to disregard the first letter for now and open the second one.

Glancing through the letter hastily, the frown on his face quickly turns into a grin. Jerr's in town, Mor chuckles to himself. Pocketing both letters, he heads back up to the bar.

As you were, Mor continues his chuckling, as he passes the now sleeping Ederick. Quickly going to Shiri's receptionists desk, Mor picks up the basket next to it and some of the crumpled up pieces paper laying on the floor. Making his way to the reading area on the other side of second floor, he sets the basket down on the rug. Hmm... we need a mark of somekind.... aha! Mor hurries back downstairs and goes to get the broom from behind the bar, then returns up to the reading area and measures six paces from the basket and sets the broom against the wall as a marker.

http://www.widro.com/throwpaper.html
(click the link next to the pic -> click GO -> click PLAY -> click the crumpled up piece of paper when you want to throw. No post required to play, but I might ask for a screenshot to prove your score, if the score is over 30.
You can IG mail or PM me, if I'm not around and I will add your score to the parchment. Cheers and good luck to all.)

Figuring that the area is all set, Mor goes to Shiri's desk and pulls out a large parchment and a quill.

Foxy Tigress Paper Throw open to all!! Come have some fun or just kill some time.

Top20

01. Morrandir - 69 ....... 11. ---
02. Aliciaanne - 23 ....... 12. ---
03. Kris80 - 20 ............ 13. ---
04. Ederick - 17 ........... 14. ---
05. Mousie - 2 ............ 15. ---
05. Shirinova - 2 ......... 16. ---
05. Hydrarider - 2 ...... 17. ---
08. ---
09. ---
10. ---

Sorry to all you lovely Lewesians from whom I'm totally ripping this idea from

Then picking up a hammer and some nails, Mor goes outside into the rain and nails the parchment next to the tavern door for all to see.
_________________

zulah

Zulah. having heard about the new tavern on the outskirts of town, quickly changes out of her work clothes, washes up, and puts on her brown skirt and blouse as it has gotten colder since the leaves started to fall. Pulling on her boots and throwing a warm shawl over her shoulders, she closes the door behind her and picks up her pace as she heads for "The Foxy Tigress".

Its getting dark around her , as she sees a fairly large stone building down the street. .......

This must be it..yep..I can make out the sign now..I hope its open... The door opens to her touch and she feels the welcoming warmth of the place...

Oh, my this place has two levels! And a glorious fireplace down near the bar on the lower level...

No wonder everyone is talking about this place,,it is truely the nicest tavern in town , and so well appointed..tapestries and all!

She descends the stairs and heads over to the chair by the fireplace,,,so far I dont see anyone I know...but Ill sit awhile and take it all in,,and have a cup of tea...or maybe a mug of that mulled cider Im smelling......
_________________

Ederick

Ederick startles awake at the new entrant and greets her with the poise and good grace known to bards.

"I canot believe i fell asleep agian." he puts his harp in the well worn sheep skin wrap. Plays a quick round of paper toss and heads to his field to chase off some crows.

zulah

So nice to meet you Ederick,...Im Zulah propietor of the Daily Gring Mill.

So sorry to have missed your performance! Perhaps another day? Im sure Ill be back here another day. Its the warmest most pleasant tavern to kick back in....
_________________

Morrandir

Having nailed the parchment beside the front door, Mor quickly goes back inside as the chilly autumn breeze starts to freeze his fingers.
Whew! Sure is getting nippy out there, he utters to himself, as he walks over to the second floor fireplace to warm his fingers.

Once the warmth has returned to his fingers, Mor goes to pick up a few bottles of ale from the bar and takes The Handbook for Tavern Owners from under the bar, where he had hidden this absolutely useless "guide" of nonsense. Looking over at Ed and seeing that he is busy tuning his harp, Mor heads to his newly set up Paper Throw Arena.

Placing the bottles on the small table just behind the throwing line, Mor takes out the Handbook and opens up the centrefold. Finally I have some use for you, he mutters with a grin on his face, as he proceeds to rip the centre pages from the book. Still thinking, that whoever wrote this piece of literary garbage must have been utterly sloshed or mentally unstable, Mor crumbles the pages into a tight balls and starts his warm up rounds.

The early rounds mostly consist of stifled curses, as he misses the basket over and over again, followed by sizeable gulps of ale. Since, all of his concentration is being focused on this addicting pass-time, Mor completely misses the arrival of a new patron, namely Lady Zulah.

Soon after, Mor hears light chatter emanating from somewhere below him and peeks over the railing to see, if Ed has suddenly started talking to himself. To his surprise, Mor sees Lady Zulah right there next to Ed, in his tavern and he has completely misses her arrival. *Hips* Z! Mor calls out and quickly drops the noticeably thinner Handbook on the floor and rushes down to the bar to greet his dear friend.

So good of you to *hips* come Lady Zulah, he speaks feeling slightly embarrassed about his drunken state. Would you *hips* like some tea perhaps? Going to the bar, Mor picks up three cups, a kettle and a plate with a rum cake on it and brings the whole lot back to Zulah's table, just as Ed is about to take his leave.

Oh... before you go, try your *hips* luck at paper throwing, if you feel like it Ed. It's all set up on *hips* the second floor reading area. I'll add your name on the list, if you do. There's still some ale there too... *hips* can't have people throwing sober, now can I? Mor chuckles softly, still feeling the effects of the ale.

As Ed leaves, Mor turns his attention back to Zulah and sits down on the opposite side of the table. How you been Zulah? Your mill and studies keeping you busy? Pouring them both some tea and waiting for Zulah's response, he wonders if Z signed the Guest Book when she came in...
_________________

Shirinova

Returning to the Tavern, it still taking her breath away, Shiri puts the flowers she's collected on the way to the Tavern into a vase one of the tables and then joins Mo and Zulah at their table and sits down to rest her weary feet for a few minutes. Zulah, she begins, So nice to see you again. How have you been?
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

HydraRider wanders into the tavern and spots Shiri back in there tending instead of him, He rushes.. oops slows down and moves at a fast pace to her scooping his Sis off her feet spinning her around and hugging her tightly.
He finally sits her down and smiles, It is so good to see her back in the tavern.
"Hi Mo, Zulah, and Shiri, Just the one I wanted to see, I forgot to get Orja to pull the stitches out and I wanted to ride with Mousie and the kids into town.. Do you think you could be bothered to take these stitches out? I am suppose to leave for Lewes tomorrow and I am sure they have healers there but, I don't know them.. I am sure going to miss coming in here to enjoy the tea and friendship this place always has."
Hy smiles at Zulah, Mo, and Shiri then looks around.
Hy goes to where he has paper all over the floor from trying to get it in the basket and missing and puts the pile of paper where others can try. He has given up on the basket as the thing moves too much for him.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Waiting till Hy has finished trying his hand at the Paper Game, Shiri sits him down and looks at the stitched wound....

My but you heal up fast, Friend, she begins as she sees how well the skin has knitted together, quite amazing. Then working deftly with a small filleting knife - the only thing she has to hand, She cuts the stitches then removes them with slight tugs which tickles the big Fella slightly as he smiles with every pull....

Or could it be, she wonders, that Hy is thinking of the stitches as a new beginning that has to hurt somewhat at the start, but gets better with every day that goes by...

Shrugging as she gets the last of the stitches out Shirnova then hugs the one she has adopted as her big Brother. And with a tear in her eye she says, Take care of yourself Hy. Turning to Zulah she hugs who she sees as an Aunt saying, And you Z, you take care too. Then using the pretext of meals for them both she dries her eyes returning with the meals saying, Something for the road, you know, can't have you travelling on empty tummies.
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

"Hey, you shoving us out the door already? We plan on being in Lewes Sunday morn not sat. morn... " Hy says laughingly to Shiri after she tickles him by pulling the stitches out.
Hy hugs her again, and bear hugs Mo once more.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Returning Hy's hug as she realises her mistake, feeling so very embarrassed, Shiri then laughs with the rest of them - yet in the back of her mind she's concerned that she might be going mad.....

No she tells herself slowly, you've only gotten the days mixed up is all. Nothing to be overly concerned about really. Plus you've been very busy lately and now it's all catching up with you is all...

Blinking, hearing them still laughing, Shiri takes a deep breath and sits down smiling. She's amongst friends and starts to relax once more....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

"Hey sis, you been on the road so much you have to get some rest then you will catch up. You have a seat and I will get the rounds for awhile, I have had practice lately..."
Hy smile as he sits her in a chair then goes to get everyone their drinks, tea for some like him and brews for the others.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Mousie

Mousie sneaked into the tavern, without anyone noticing her. She went to the darkest corner she could find. Sitting in the shadow, quietly Mousie order a drink. She sit there sipping her own drink, she watched Hydrarider with Zulah, and Morrandir with Shirinova. Watched them as they all laughed and chatted with each other. She heard that Hydrarider is leaving town for a month, she knew why and felt bad about it. She never meant for this to happened, none of it. Mousie hoped one day she would regain their trust and respect, but for now had to live with it. She has option but all them that was a cowards way out. She decided to face what she done and make the best of it for now. When she walks through town, people tends to cut their eyes at her while whispering, but Mousie holds her head up high and not let them get her down, after a few drinks. she tries to slip out the door. Someone notices her and calls after her.

Hydrarider

Hy notices Mousie trying to slip away and runs to hug her as there is no hard feelings from him. He loves her now more as a Sister and PC as a brother, he looks forward to when they might share outings at the river or the lake.
"No beautiful lady you need to have another drink as I am serving it is on me."
He looks at Mousie and whispers to her "I am here for you if you need a friend."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Mousie

As Mousie had been turned around with a hug. She got a bit dizzy, it caught her off guard. Mousie tried to refuse but knew she couldn't do that to Hydrarider.

Thanks Hydrarider, I needed that. I appreciate you being there for me and I will be there for you as well.

Mousie took a drink feeling a bit out of place here. She shook it off and wanted to enjoy herself. Mousie sit down at the bar sipped her ale.

Hydrarider

"And your always welcome where I am, And thank you all for the birthday bash. This tavern was great for that."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

Zulah joins Hy and puts her arm around Mousie...your friends all understand. We are all glad to see PC...so glad to see Star and Jr. happy, too. They have two fine Daddies now. Never too much love for children!

_________________

Ederick

Ederick woke up outside not being able to get into the tavern from the night before he decided to have a drinking session by himself. It must be open by now he thought. so he got up and ran as fast as he could. triping over this and that as he ran (still a little bit drunk). I have to say goodbye to Hy and Z before they leave.

He came up to the Inn at full speed, slipped on wet stone and went head first into the door with a thunderous BOOM

"What happend"
"to drunk to use the door handle I geuss"

When ederick came too every one was staring wide eyed at him.

"I just came to buy ye a drink *hip* before ya parted"

Mousie

Your a very good person Zulah. It something I need to deal with on my own. I know Hy has forgiven me, but I have to forgive myself. I know you will make him happy and I know you will be a good step-mom to the twins. I wish you both didn't have to be gone for a month. Thanks for not being upset with me. I wish you well and to be happy with Hy.

Mousie took her last sip out of the mug.

You both have a safe trip, I must depart now and go home to my children. Hope to see you both soon.

Mousie put the mug back down on the bar. She laid a tip down as well. Mousie got her cloak and walked down stairs and out the door. She jumped on the back of her horse and kick him in the rib to take off.

Morrandir

Having welcomed Shiri back earlier in the day, with thanks for the flowers she had picked, Morrandir grows ever quieter as the evening progresses.

Even the arrival of Hydrarider seems to only worsen the feeling of parting, that eats away at him. Morrandir quietly notes Hy's clean up of the Paper Throw Arena, before Shiri starts removing the stitches in his head with Morrandir's best filleting knife. Something, that usually would cause a immediate berating to Shiri, today seems all too trivial to get worked up about.

Smiling slightly, as Shiri brings the travellers some supplies and having almost being decimated by Hy's "hug", Morrandir retreats to the darkest corner of the tavern to sulk and plot his revenge on the meddling church.

Sometime later, as Mousie comes in, Mor has rejoined his friends and, in an attempt to make the departing go somewhat smoother, is trying to enjoy the last hour in the company of his friends as best he can. Mor watches Hy gallantly reassure his soon-to-be ex-wife of his good intentions, and again feels the sting of departure deep within. As Lady Zulah also goes to hug Mousie, Mor is overcome with great sense of humility. One could not find more loyal and true frinds, he thinks to himself quietly.

Just as Mor is about to say something emotional and sappy, he is, luckily, interrupted by the arrival of Ederick. Grinning slightly at the man's entrance, Mor resumes his role as barman and gets the whole party some ales to give two of his closest friends a worthy send-off.

Everyone drink up! No one's leaving sober tonight!
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy found Ed in the street unconscious and carries him in after the tavern opens, makes sure he is tended too, then runs to work a field then Hy wanders back in after working and missing his departure.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Ali__

Ali continues to throw paper.. muttering to herself

That man will NOT beat me She walks up to Eddy as to hug him and pinches his throwing arm hard, Its your turn big fella, I have to get me a room here

MO, GIVE ME A ROOM!!! And another ale... please[b]

Ali thinks to herself, its going to be a long night.

Make it a nice room, with a tub..[b]

Ali looks back at Eddy and thinks perhaps she needs to change her technique. Perhaps I will have more luck if I turn on the ole Ali charm

Ali__

Ali dances up to Eddy and thumps his bumm...

23 big fella.. beat that!!! Ali grins as she steals his ale and drinks it and points toward the paper and bucket, Its your turn, I'm thirsty

Ali wonders if Mo and Shiri are preparing a room for her..

Ederick

Ederick got up still a lil hazy and buy's Hydra a drink thanking him for bringing him in "I geuss thats makes another one i owe you mate"

He then resumes on to his usual spot by te fire unraps his harp from his sheep skin and plays ode to a traveler.

"For the journy is long, when you leave your home.
your family will wait, in the tavern you've known.
Good fortune, Good journy, on your way to the mass.
May jah show you favor, and make the time pass.
as you set to your task, and do what you do.
you will be missed my friend... oh and mike too"

he sets his harp down while mo hands him an ale. when in comes a lovely yet quiet loud youg lady demanding a room and some ale. Ederick leans onto the bar hoping not to get noticed as he has met her before. but she see's him smiles sweetly and gives him a hug. oh good she's in a friendly mood Ederick thought,but then she pinched his arm and ran off with his drink.

Hydrarider

Me comes down after turning a bed down for Ali and carrying the tub in for her with a fair bit of water and setting the water close to the fire to keep it warm for her. Sees Ali run off with Ed's drink so he wanders around and retrieves Ed another ale and brings it too him. "Well Ed, I would hope that you would be so kind as to bring me in if I had done the same And I am sure you would so I don't feel you really owe me any thing. Mo, I took the liberty of tending to Ali a room since you were busy down here, I did get her the tub and the water too. She grabbed her own Ale." Hy then goes and pours a large mug of Tea to sit with while waiting to leave town.
Visits with Mousie and helps her toward her profession.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Ali__

After consuming perhaps a bit too much of the fine ale flowing in Shiri and Mor's pub, Ali decides its time to retire for the night.

"Thank you dear Hy for providing such lovely accommodations for me" she says as she hugs everyone good night and retires to her room.

She walks up the stairs and unlocks the first door on the left. She opens the door and finds a bath filled with delightfully warm water and notices the bed is just as she had hoped... beautifully hand crafted and soft enough for the finest of England to sleep on.

Knowing shes not worthy of such a lovely room, she goes back out into the hallway to make sure she was in the right room. "This is the first door on the left, no mistake"

She reenters HER room and enjoys a wonderful bath before climbing into bed...A bed so soft it seemed to devour her whole body as she laid down. After saying a quick prayer to Jah thanking him for giving her the best friends a girl could ever ask for, she drifts off to sleep... Still drunk!!

Morrandir

As Mo peacefully enjoys drinks with his friends, he is abruptly given a boisterous command by a female voice. Frowning slightly at the stifled giggles and laughter of his drinking companions, he stands up from the table and goes to take a peek who this demanding patron could be. Glancing up at the reading area, Mor sees the inebriated Aliciaanne looking down at him, as she leans heavily on the second floor bannister - the only thing keeping her from taking a nose dive to the floor below her.

You sure you haven't had enough alre... Mor never gets finish his sentence, as Ali drops her empty glass down to him and gives her a look that would turn lesser men to stone. Riiight... I'll just bring some more ale up to you, shall I? Frowning deeply at the laughter directed at him from his cheerful friends at the table, Mor sighs and goes to get Ali some more drink to quench her seemingly unending thirst.

How about you sip these a little slower, Mor tries to suggest to the woman as she's now busy engaging in some peculiar form of communication with Ed, who has just finished playing a song about a traveller.

However, as Ali's expression to his request is anything but favourable, Mor decides to head upstairs and ready her a room at once.

Then right out of the blue, Mo hears Hy's voice telling him that all has been taken care of already. With a grateful nod to Hy, Mor turns back to Ali, wishes her a good and restful night, before heading back down to the bar. Setting up another round of ale and tea for his friends, Mor sits down with them and sighs happily...
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zulah

Zulah has one last ale as she watches the antics around her, thinking,

I'd best be onmy way to make sure I have packed everything that I will need in Lewes....hope no one notices my exit tomorrow.......surely just coincidental that Hy is headed in the same direction, right?

Barkeep, I think Ill have one more ale before braving the cold breeze that seems to have kicked up out there!
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Ali__

Ali wakes up late the next morning. Feeling the effects of the ale from the night before she lays back down and prays to Jah her head stops pounding before she begins her journey to Lewes with Sirthomas

SIRTHOMAS!! Ali says out loud, sitting straight up in her bed.

Suddenly she remembers, she has to meet him soon to leave. Not wanting to keep such a handsome man waiting tooo long she hurries to pack her belongings. She doesnt have much, just the rags she wears everyday and a few little momentos from her past.

Thank Jah I still managed to wash my clothes before laying down to sleep last night.. foolish girl drinking the ale again She scolds herself for overindulging again, but oh the fun she had

She runs downstairs and finds Mo and Shiri tending to the business of the pub and hugs and kisses them both, You guys are the best, thank you so much for taking me in and taking such good care of me last night. I must be on my way now but I will be back in a week or so.... take care, love you guys. Babye!!

Ali waves as she runs out the door and yells Say good bye to Eddy and Mousie for me!! If Eddy starts getting too good at tossing paper, please pinch him for me

She heard through the town chatter that Hy will be leaving for Lewes today also and she hopes to see him there as she needs to thank him personally for preparing her room for her and being so sweet... rumor has it, he has a traveling partner too.. hmmmm.

Shirinova

Waving as Aliciaanne runs up the stairs to the entrance, giggling a little, Shiri grins at Mo then resumes her cleaning duties wondering what the new day will bring...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

Hy drops back bye for a round or three to see some of his most favorite folks in the word and hug them all bye.
Trying not to cry before he leaves he hugs everyone three or four or five times each, Then rushing out to his loaded wagon, bearing trade goods so he will be able to eat his normal fair. He waves as he turns the wagon toward Lewes, Shedding a few tears as he leaves his home and friends and will even miss the festival..
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Warm from the hugs from her honourary Brother, Shirinova waves to him from the balcony with tears in her eyes as he drives his wagon away from the Tavern...

He's going for a whole month... she thinks sadly... then unable to hold them back, Shiri starts crying...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Ali__

Ali watches as Hy pulls away, turning to Shiri she notices her tears and hears her weeping softly. She rushed to Shiri and gives her a gentle hug and a shoulder to cry on until Mo returns.

We are all going to miss him Shiri, he will be back but in the mean time, lets pray to Jah he has a safe journey and finds the forgiveness of the church he so desires

Ali continues to hold Shiri, trying her best to be supportive in her time of need. Hy, Mo and Shiri have been most generous to her in her short stay in SO and it breaks her heart to see Shiri so sad.

Morrandir

Waking up the next morning, Mor has the distinct feeling that something has crawled into his mouth during the night, stayed there and died. Coughing noisily several times to get rid of the foul taste, Mor notices that he isn't alone in the bar. Swinging his feet out of bed, he sees Shiri busy behind the bar cleaning up last nights mess.

Receiving one of her "what am I going to do with you" looks, Mor quickly gives her the most heart-warming smile he can manage, while still tasting the questionable mixture of last nights drinking in his mouth. Morning sweetie, he manages to utter, before dunking his head in the bowl of water next to the bed.

Mor slowly gets up and starts hobbling over to Shiri, but before he gets there to hugs her, he is instead himself receiving a hug from the young Lady staying over in one of the guest rooms. Mmm... morning Ali, Mo mutters as the the scene now turns into a small group hug. Feeling a bit weak, Mor makes for the nearest seat, to cope with the girl's panache.

Quickly nodding to Ali's request to pinch Ed, if he should evolve into a master Paper Thrower, Mor is slowly but surely reaching the conclusion that Ali is the most competitive person he has ever met. Grinning at this notion, he watches her leave. I'm getting too old for this sort of drinking...

A little later, after Mor has had time to wash up, Hy comes for a quick last visit, before leaving for Lewes. As Mor has never been any good at these sort of situations, he stays quiet pretty much the whole time, letting Shiri handle the goodbyes.

Several hugs later, as Hy is getting ready to leave, Mor steps out of the tavern and slips some of Mo's Hot Buns in the back of Hy's wagon and covers them up, just as Hy comes out.

Rest assured, we will come and visit you, my friend. Giving Hy a final pat on the back, Mor steps back from the wagon and watches his good friend depart. Standing there in the heavy rain, Mor can but curse the church under his breath, as his hands clench into a tight fist.

Looking up at Shiri, who's up at the balcony with the reappeared Ali, Mor pulls the hood of his cloak over his head. I'll be back later... need to think... and walk... been sitting inside for too long. Love you. Bending his head back he lets the water wash away his tears, as he turns around and heads for the Sevenoaks Forest, the one place that has always brought him comfort...
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Cynth

Someone in the town had told her about the Foxy Tigress tavern. It wasn't difficult to find the place.

"Now where do we register...." Cynth wonders aloud..
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Returning from his little excursion to the Forest, Mor had stopped at his bakery to quickly bake some fresh bread, before returning to the tavern.
Baking bread was another thing that he found relaxing and peaceful - both things he needed right now. The departure of his dear friends, just when he needed them the most with the Festival preparations in the tavern, had led to Mor being a little too busy for his own comfort.

Carrying the large basket of bread, which impeded his sight, on his arms, he managed to push the large oak door open with his rear end and turn around, only to stub his shoe on the threshold. Oooouuch!!!

Falling awkwardly, Mor landed on his side next to the bread basket, which had spilled most of the buns all over the waiting area. Slowly getting up, muttering curses and straightening his shirt, Mor turned absolutely red in the face as he noticed the slightly startled looking Cynth sitting on one of the benches.

O-oh h-hello, he managed to stutter as he got up to his knees, welcome to the Foxy Tigress. May I help you in some way?

Trying to think of a way ease his own embarrassment and the look on Cynth's face, Mo picked up the basket, which still had some bread in it, and extended it toward Cynth. Hoping that the smell of fresh bread and a friendly grin would defuse the situation, he spoke raising his brows slightly. Bread milady?
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Mousie

Mousie walked down the walk way. She came to the FT, she stopped for a minute trying to decide whether or not should she stop for a few ale. Mousie decided to walk in. She pulled off her cloak and hanged up, she walked down stairs and decided to sit at the bar and order a drink. Mousie sipped her ale feeling a bit better. She watched as visitors walked in and out of the tavern. Mousie seen Mo and Shiri and greeted them both with her mug up in the air. Mousie smiled at them and then took another sip of ale. Mousie missed Hy and Zulah. It seems like a long time for her before seeing them again.

Cynth

She was startled,

to say that would be understatement of the year. Cynth had seen the large door first and then the rear then the toe and then the Buns.

Sorting it all out in her already tired mind took some time. But then she saw the familiar face with the offering of a bread and she grins. Hello Mo! thank you, I would like that. Cynth accepts the bread from Mo and continues,
"I had met Shiri some time back and she was the only one who offered me to a place to stay, she said something about getting myself registered. I would like to register 2 rooms, one for me, another for Zalina."
_________________

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Frantzs

Earlier that night

"One drink pleasesss"

Present Time

It had been more than one more drink.

Frantzs lay at the table still demolished from the night before.Slowly relizing where he was Frantzs put his head up.

He looked around."Mo I would like some bread and water please,I'm still kinda,umm groggy from last night"

Realizing who was there"Cynth what on earth are you doing her?"He asked seeing his fellow Canterburian.

Zally_travis

Yeah please put me in a nice view room suddenly Zally approaches to Mo while she grabs some bread from Cynth hands.
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For My Penguin

Clyppie

Clyppie checked if she had the address and the tavern name correctly. She nodded when she saw the sign "The Foxy Tigress." This is the right place.

She silently pushed the door and entered. "May I please have a room for one? I'm staying for the Fall Festival. Oh, and no need for pet accommodations as I did not bring my dog with me," she said.

Frantzs

Frantzs stood up."So many people,so loud."He said covering his ears with his hands.

Frantzs turned to Mo."Yeah I need a place to stay too,I've been sleeping in the stable with Pink...I don't want to talk about it."He said.

Morrandir

Smiling at Cynth, after hastily collecting most of the spilled buns, Mo slowly gets up off the floor. Glancing over at the empty receptionists desk and seeing no Shiri there, he frowns. Ah... It seems my barmaid is neglecting her duties. Turning back to Cynth and hearing her requst a room, Mo's smile get even wider. Right, a room. I'll just... Then suddenly hearing another female voice behind him, Mo turns around to see Zalina come in through the door.

Excellent! Welcome Zalina... and a room for you as well? Feeling slightly out of place, as he usually handles the bar while Shiri does the meet and greet, Mo peeks over the bannister next to him. Hon!! We got guests!! Mind giving me a hand?! I made a little mess here, bring the broom too!!

Turning back to the two slightly amused looking women, Mo points at the large book between the long benched. If you Ladies would do me the honour of signing the Guest Book, I'd be most grateful. Shiri will be right with you to take your room orders.

Bowing to both Ladies, Mo takes the bread basket and heads downstairs to the bar, where Frantzs seems to be waking up...
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Shirinova

Hearing Mo yell down at her as she comes into the bar from down in the cellar, her arms full of bottles to replenish the bar, Shiri frowns mumbling. And bring a broom... Yea yea... as she heads for the bar.

Putting the bottles away, grabbing the broom, half brush and short shovel, she heads for the stairs.

Passing Mo as he comes down into the bar, smiling at him, kissing him quickly, she then takes the stairs two at a time to hasten her getting up to the reception area and greets her friends saying, Sorry about that. Was down in the cellar getting more ales. Now then... she pauses for breath before saying, You’ll be wanting rooms. And thinking quickly she begins to match rooms to the Guests as they sign in.... Three single rooms... hmm.... perhaps Zalina and Cynth could share a twin room. she thinks aloud, Clyppie a single with double bed for her to stretch out in. Looking up at the Ladies, she smiles saying softly, Please, make yourselves comfortable in the bar downstairs. Or if you prefer, we have a reading room just down the hall. she gestures with her head. I’ll have your bags put in your rooms as soon as I clean up the um, mess. she adds as she reaches for the broom...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Morrandir

Getting down to the bar, Mo sets the bread on it for all to enjoy freely, and then goes to the water barrel to fill up a glass for Frantzs. Handing it to the man, Mor looks at him with a grin across his face. Little men hammering away in the ol' cranium, eh? I might have a remedy for that. Help yourself to some bread and I'll be right back...

Going down to the cellar, Mo stops at the small shelf at the bottom of the stairs.

Starting from the two bottom shelves, he goes through the assortment of different liquids and concoctions. Lets see now... Aldea's Oil... nope, that's not it. Zint Markov's Tincture... not that either, that's for injuries. Kris' Sewage... no no, that will just make him spew his guts out. Steqman's Salve for Itchy Crotch... nah, probably won't need that, since he's been spending his nights with Pink. Chuckling softly, Mor comes to the one he's looking for. Ah, here we are! Celldwell's Tonic of Smoothing. Grabbing a bottle off the top shelf, Mo heads back upstairs.

Seeing Frantzs slowly eating some bread, Mor hands him the greyish bottle with pink lee at the bottom. Here, taste isn't that great, but drink that and you'll feel a whole lot better. A local drun... um... avid tavern goer, and a dear friend of mine, makes it for himself and he gave me a few bottles for storing.

Seeing Mousie step in, Mor goes to her, hugs her and sets an ale for her on the bar. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll go see to your room Frantzs. And a few other as well, he thinks to himself while climbing the stairs to the 3rd floor...
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Cynth

"Hello Frantz, looks like you are having fun! Zally is here for the autumnfest and I am here cos she dragged me here!" Cynth replies smiling.

She was quite amused with the goings on in the tavern and was relieved when Shiri mentions something about a room. "I dont mind sharing a room with Zally, if its alright with Zal"
Cynth gathers her luggage and follows Shiri
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Mousie

Mousie returned Mo hug, she thanked him for his wonderful ale. She sipped her ale. Watching all the visitors getting registered and getting their rooms. Mousie loved having visitors from other towns, new face and familiar faces. Mo and Shiri being wonderful host and hostess. She loved coming here seeing how they both being loving and carrying for their customers. Mousie order some bread she loved eating here as well. Mousie looked around she loved what Mo did to the place. The place seemed lively. You can feel the love here and the warm welcome. Mousie order another mug of ale. She sipped it while she day dreamed. Her mind wondering off into another world. Then something caught her attention. Her pet blue piggy, had gotten loose and made her way to the tavern. When some one had open the door she sneaked in. Mousie giggled, as she picked up her pet blue piggy. she let the piggy wonder around in the tavern until she finished her ale. She knew she had to get it out of here before Mo gets back.

Morrandir

Scratching his head and looking at the room, Mo wondered if it would be satisfactory in the eyes of the Ladies. It was, after all, but a simple room. Some flowers, a couple of books for late night reading, chests for possible valuables and a dresser for clothes and such. Oh, well... I suppose they'll be spending most of the time downstairs at the bar floor anyway...

Stepping out to the hallway and closing the door behind him, Mo headed for the stairs.

Reaching the top of the stairs and seeing Shiri already coming up the stairs with Cynth, Mo offered to take Cynth's luggage and proceeded to carry it to the door. While the two women kept chatting about something completely foreign to him, Mo nudged the unlocked door open.

Carefully placing the luggage just inside the door, Mo turned to Cynth to give her the key to the room. Here you go... two sets of keys, one for you and you can give the other one to your room mate. Now, if you two will excuse me, I need to get back downstairs to the bar and our other guests. Giving Shiri a kiss on the cheek, he continued back downstairs...
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Shirinova

Smiling and blushing slightly at the kiss, Mo moving off before she can return it, Shiri clears her throat and turns to Cynth saying, I'll um, leave you to settle in and refesh yourself. a little nervously. Then felling a bit more relaxed, she says, If you need a meal, one will be prepared and bought up to your room if you wish. Then turning to Clyppie, she says, Your room is this way.

Leading the wayas she looks at the key number,and smiles saying, Oh you'll like this room. There's all you need in here - even a change of clothes should you need them. Flowers, even a book to write in should you need too. Then unlocking and opening the door, entering...

...she turns saying, I hope you enjoy your stay here. And smiling, she hands Clyppie the key saying, Don't lose it ay. and winks with a grin as she moves off.
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Cynth

"Oh I love the room!" Cynth exclaims. She was rather surprised with the welcome she received. Mo and Shiri were a graceful couple and she liked them.

Smiling she takes the Key and thanks them. She then proceeds to freshen up and then she lies on the bed, hoping to nap a bit.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Ederick

Seeing all the activity as of late Ederick sets to the task of tuning his Harp. after being satisfied with it he thinks mabe i wont have to work the mine to pay for my ale today and he sets up at his usual spot by the fire and begans to play.

Shirinova

Returning to the bar area, going to Mo and whispering in his ear, Doesn't Frantz need a room too? she then smiles to Ed who is playing so sweetly his Harp. Going to the fire, ladling some beef stew into a bowl, Shiri then takes it over to Ed saying, Here you go. A meal on the house for your entertainment of the other patrons. then seeing the pig she looks at Mousie asking, That your's? with raised brows as the pig sniffs at the meat by the fire. Shooing it away, she says, Maybe a leash next time more than asks...
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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Jasmine.

Jasmine walked in followed by her maid Karma. She walked to the front desk.. her ears were captured by the sweet melody so she turned around to see who was playing the harp that well... She saw a gentleman that she had not met before so she smiled to him and resumed to where Shiri stood, "good day, may I have a double room..for me and my maid?" she stood there with her sweet smile not saying much not thinking much either the music was charming that she couldn't stop listening to it.
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Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Morrandir

Hearing Shiri's words about Frantzs' room, Mo feels most embarrassed by the way he has completely neglected the man. I will ready the room post haste. After sliding a few complimentary drinks to Frantzs, Mo hurries to the 3th floor, taking a cloth and a bowl of water with him.

However, going through the two remaining rooms on that floor, it becomes evident that those rooms would take too long to prepare for the weary traveller. Thus, Mo goes up another flight of stairs and comes to the 4th floor, the second highest in the tavern. Walking briskly to the last room on the left, he opens the door to see, if it is ready to receive a guest.

Luckily, as the rooms on the 4th floor have never been used yet, the room is in good order and after some quick wipes with the wet cloth, all is set. Closing the door and locking it, Mo heads back to the bar area.

Here you go Frantzs, your key. Mo places the key on the bar next to Frantzs, I decided to give you a room with two beds in case your travel companion, Pinkcoat, would like to spend a night somewhere less damp than the stables.

Taking another ale to Ederick the Bard, who is once more gracing the tavern with some soothing melodies from his harp, Mor glances up at the reception area. Noticing that Shiri is welcoming Jasmine and her maid to the tavern, Mor carefully picks up Mousie's pet blue piggy off the floor and grins. I think, I need to go ready another room... wanna come with? Blue gives him a couple of grunts and an oink, and being a pig farmer himself, Mo has no trouble deciphering the reply. Let's go then...
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Shirinova

Smiling at Jasmine, looking at the keys Shiri smiles saying, But of course Jas. If you'll come with me I'll take you there now.

Walking along the hallway, seeing Mo gesture with four fingers to her, Shiri nods and heads for the stairs saying to Jasmine, Its a bit of a hike I'm afraid but very worth it for the view Jas.

Climbing the stairs and hoping that Jasmine isn't getting to fatigued by the climb, Shiri finally arrives at the fourth floor and makes for the room oposite Frantz saying, It's a really nice to see you by the way. And unlocking the room, opening it and peeking in, seeing that its all in order, she opens the door a little wider saying, There's an anti-room off the main one which should suit your Maid Jas. And handing her the key she says, Take your time, rest, refresh and I'll see you when you come down...

_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Jasmine.

Jasmine smiled at Shiri feeling a bit embaressed for not greeting her first but the melody facinated her so much till the point tha she forgot her manners talking. She was glad to see Shiri once more, she grinned as Shiri asked her to follow she nod gently, "oh thank you Shiri."... She followed her and as they climbed the stairs she followed quietly hoping that the view would be worth it as it was not few stairs she climbed.
Jasmine didn't complain, she was more thankful for being in good shape. She climbed the stairs gracefully and lightly but her maid was getting really breathless as they reached the fourth floor. Jasmine gave her an encouraging smile then turned her attention back to Shiri replying to her sweet kind words, "thank you so much Shiri..it is very nice to see you too...I hope to see you alot more during my stay" She smiled at Shiri and followed her into the room as she opened the door. She looked around the room enjoying the view and facinated by the simple yet elegant decore. She listened and waited till Shiri told her about the maid's anti-room, taking the key Shiri handed her she said gently, "its a very nice room.. it is so friendly and cosy too..thank you Shiri for the warm welcome and for the sweet room.. and of course for the view..you were right, it is worth it.. I will see you as soon as I freshen up and change...I do not want to waste any minute..so I guess I'll be down soon"

As Shiri left closing the door behind her, Jasmine grinned at Karma holding fluffy in her hand walked to the window, "ohh!! the view looks fantastic.. the room is sweet and the people are so sweet..I'm sure we will have great time around here...I'll go freshen up and change... you can rest and then join me downstairs whenever you wish" She sets Fluffy down and go to ready herself, glances on the bed giving her tired body a silent promise to rest it on the cosy looking bed soon after enjoying the evening downstairs
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Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Jasmine.

half hour and Jasmine was ready to go downstairs, dressed and fresh she left Karma to freshen up too and rest as she seemed tired. She closed the door behind her and climbed down the stairs with a charming smile on her face. as she approached the first floor her ears caught the sweet tunes played on the harp.

As she reached the floor where the sweet melody came from she felt charmed searching with her eyes for the skillful musician she saw him.
She walked to where he sat holding his harp close. She sat gracefully near the fire opposite to him listening to his playing swaying with the melody. She enjoyed watching him playing the harp as his face looked deep in thought. she did not want to interrupt him so kept quiet listening to the sweet melody. his music reminded her of some memories she drifted away in her thought yet the music kept her company
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Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Ederick

Ederick pulling his fingers Lightly against the strings slowly coming to a stop lets the last note linger for a moment before he stops it with the flat of his hand. He looks up and see's a bowl of food shir left for him and devowers it. That Mo can sure cook. After washing it down with an ale he picked his harp back up, resting it back to its usual spot on his shoulder and set out to earn his meal.

He placed his hands back in the ready position and started to pull back the strings gently again. He lets the song began its awning and begans to sing. his calculated movements on the stings sudenly falter slightly as he just noticed a young lady sitting across from him. refocusing on his task he continues on.

Shirinova

Hearing the words, That Mo can sure cook, Shirinova smiles slightly in amusement as she places a meal in front of Jasmine saying, Enjoy, as she sets Ales down for pair on the table. Then noting Jasmine's somewhat distant look she grins saying, Ah yes the Harp. In the hands of an expert tis as effective as a Love Spell on those with the ear to hear its magic. For those that don't tis merely a musical instrument that soothes the ear. Either way it doth have a charm that no other instrument has for its softness of tonal quality and ethereal sonic nature, and a shape and form that pleases the eye in it's complex simplicity.... her words trail off in a frown...

Where on earth did all that come from? she asks as she walks off in confusion, Did I actually say all that?
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Jasmine.

something went wrong the music stopped words were spoken, something interrupted her thoughts and memories. She snapped out of her day dream as the harp stopped and the musician started talking. She looked at him hoping to aplaud his charming play and thank him for it, but as she found him eating she stopped herself from talking.
when he started playing again, she just smiled and listened blushing suddenly when his eyes met hers as he startled over the tones fow a moment then continued with the same magic he started with. she closed her eyes enjoying the soothing melody thinking, "he does really know how to make the harp speak..he plays from the heart ...tunes that reaches down ones soul soothing any pain.. wonderful...smell!!..what!! smell...yes something really smells delicious" with this thought invading her mind she opened her eyes, she smiled as soon as she saw Shiri's face as she set down a meal for her. She listened with a smile to Shiri as she spoke of the harp and its music. she kept nodding in agreement with every word Shiri said. she believe it and more she knew it well as she once upon a time she used to play it too. She giggled as she found Shiri talking to herself wondering how and from where the words she said came from. Her giggling filled the air with its own music. She noticed just at that moment that her fingers were moving with the tune she listened to and that made her giggle increase before it came to a stop. She did not ask herself even once if she was able to play any musical instrument once more or not. only then she started wondering and that question started touring inside her head
_________________

Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Ederick

Ederick continues playing his harp as catches the young lady air struming along out of the corner of his eye. Missing another note but covering it up by a smooth transition into another rythm. He casualy watches while he plays, her delicate fingers deftly plucking at the sting that arnt there. He has seen such technique before but not in a good many years.

He plays out the end of his song and out of curiosity says "would you like to try it M'lady? I can help you if you have forgoten the chords." he trys to smile as politely as he can.

Jasmine.

A smile twinkled in her eyes as well as her lips when he finished playing saying gently with her sweet charming voice, "that was wonderful Sir..really wonderful...I'm sure my words are not new to your ears but I could not hold them back after such performance"
then as he offered her his harp to play if she wished, his words really startled her. She could not forget how to play it even if she wanted but..but how could she play after such a charming melody. She fear the idea of messing things up so she looked at him and his polite and sweet smile gave her some courage to speak, "me!! play..oh my! how can I play after such playing you gave usI don't wish to mess the charm you casted on this place." smiles sweetly at him and added, "I have to admit your offer gives me a great pleasure as I have not touched a harp for quite some time.. I miss it but I'm not sure I can do it"
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Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Hydrarider

HydraRider comes into the tavern with a charge, hugging everyone he finds 'specially Mo, Shiri, Mouse, Ederick, Zulah.... well everyone, He is so glad to be able to visit for a short time, he winds up getting drunk in the first minute after he gets in the tavern. Such good friends of his. He is so proud of Mo getting into the university period of his life, and will be glad when he can afford more classes himself.
Shortly though Hy had to dash for his house to rest for work.
He roars through the tavern hugging everyone yet again on his way out. and off in the night he roars on his loyal Mick.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Ederick

Ederick so suprised by Hydra's visit almost drops his Harp! he stands up to great the erant traveler when all of the suden he has the air crushed out of him. Then as fast as he showed up Hy was already gone after slaming several ale in a short amount of time.

Ederick so stuned by the shortness of the visit forgot his manner's and apoligise's for his rudeness as he had practicly thrown the Harp into Jasmine's lap. "I am very sorry M'lady" he say's not atempting to take the harp back at all but instead pulls a small wooden flute from inside the folds of his cloak. "But do please grace us with a melody, and I will try my best to acompany you" he says with a geniuine smile, and a bow. "Im sure it would please everyone to have a slight change of pace"

Jasmine.

jasmine was startled when a stranger walked in hugging everyone and drinking then left as fast as he entered. She looked up at Ederick who seemed stunned as she was or even more. She gasps a little in surprise as the harp fell in her lap between her hands. She smiled with a look of understanding the situation. "It's okay..I was surprised myself. no worries,sir Ederick" she noticed that he did not try taking the harp back. She looked at the harp as her fingers touched it a warm smile danced on her lips. She was happy holding it as it brought happy memories.
She looked back up at Ederick as he talked smiling at him giving a single hesitant nod of acceptance. His sweet smile made her smile gaining more confidance, "okay..I will try my best then"
Jasmine sat up straight setting the harp in place pulling the cords softly adjusting her fingers on it relaxing them as much as she could. Her heart raced and felt butterflies in her stomache, she had not played for a while so she feared getting embaressed in front of others but yet again that was not all what she felt at the moment. She was more happy than nervous and as soon as she started she forgot everything else. She pulled the cords bit hard at first messing couple of tunes then she drifted away with the melody. It was only her and the harp, she played her favorite melody. The music seemed more as if coming from her heart not the harp. After some time she opened her eyes and glanced at Ederick hoping to see his reaction.
_________________

Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Shirinova

Finally recovering after Hy's whirlwind visit, chuckling to herself as she sits at the Reception desk, Shiri then cocks her head as she hears the harp start up again. Hearing a few bad notes, raising her brows, Shiri goes to the handrail to look down at the bar area to see if Ed's ok. Then seeing it's Jasmine playing, hearing her playing get better, Shiri smiles softly and returns to the desk....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Ederick

Siting and listning to the first couple note's slowly smooth out into a melody. Thinking not to ruin such a nice melody with his rusty wind work he puts the flute back into his cloak. Loosing himself to the song of a fellow harpist he sets his back to the wall he closes his eye's, and drifts off to another time and place.

The music stops and Ederick returns to reality. He see's that most of the activity in the Tav has stoped. He smiles in aproval of the melody. "Thank you that was very beutifull." was all he could studder out as he was at a loss for words.

He looks around and wonders where all the people have gone.

Hydrarider

HydraRider comes back by and listens for awhile to the pretty Lady play, as he quietly sips his tea in the corner. Pondering what to do to Shiri next.. after several hours he thinks of something. Yes that is so much fun.

When she goes out to feed Mick, he has Mick lick her with his whole tongue. (All Eight)
while he and Mo watches from the shadows if Mo will join hm.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Hears a rumbling roar from out the back as she's doing the dishes and looks out at the lake to see Mick grumbling for his "snacks". Grins and picks up the crate of ducks she managed to purloin from a nearby lake and heads out to feed the Hydra....

Approaches the beast cautiously as she remembers Hy's words about Mick devouring "Coders" - whatever those are, one night during a Tavern Lockout...

Standing just out of reach of the beast, talking soothingly to it, Shiri bends to undo the crate when Slurp, slurp, slurp.... She struggles to stand up... Slurp slurp... she puts her arms up and .... Slurp.... Oh no stop! Slurp...

Backing up, scowling, Shiri pouts in high annoyance. She's wet from head to toe!!

Taking a deep breath she says irritably, Bad Mick! That was very very bad. Look at me, I'm all wet!! And seeing Mick put his tail between his legs... hearing chortling she turns and mutters, Hy.... tersely under her breath....

Snorting angrily, Shiri feeds Mick his snacks and resolves that one day she will get her Brother back for this.... one day he will pay...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Jasmine.

Jasmine finished playing the melody she loved dearly. She looked at Ederick who seemed lost in thought. When he looked up at her and spoke in praise of her performance her eyes lit up. She was glad he thought of it as nice. It was wonderful to hear that from someone who plays as well as he. She felt the honesty in his words which made her happier as he was not complimented but he really meant it. "Thank you for your nice compliment, Ederick. and thank you much more for giving me the chance to play the harp once more... it meant so much to me" saying that she smiled thinking of giving him his harp back be then she stopped and asked, "but why didn't you play your flute along, was the tunes unfamiliar to you. could you play something for us? I would love to hear you play it, I'm sure it will be as sweet as your harp playing"
_________________

Arabian Princess~Knight Paladin of SA~Dame Hospitaller of KoG~Knight of the Crown~Heart of Dover

Hydrarider

Hy, Laughing at Shiri, goes and give her a big towel.. "You should likely clean up and change, Guest room four has a bath drawn for you and a dress laid out for you, I think I got the right size for you."

Then Hy goes back inside to listen to the two wonder-workers of music and story.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Ederick

Chuckleing softly as Shiri enters into the tavern ounce more soaking wet. assuming he knows who was behind it.

Ederick then looks over at Jasmine's astonishment and trys to explain best as he can "I could not bring myself to take away the gentle and flowing melody of your song from the harp with my unpracticed flute playing."

Shirinova

Snatching up the towel from her brother, he having enjoyed his prank on her immensely, Shiri stomps into the tavern and goes up to the room mentioned to take the bath....

Entering the room, seeing the dress on the bed, seeing the colour, she stops in her tracks... Pink? PINK?!

Going closer to it, her mind in a turmoil, Shiri stares at the dress her look one of bemusement... Surely he know's I'm not that kind of girl, she thinks aloud. Then again... she considers, it is more red than pink, and red is the colour of passion.... she grins happily, I'll wear it to the next ball I go to, impress Mo with it.... well hopefully... Then remembering the bath, she smiles hoping there isn't any eels in it as she remembers how much her Brother loves to play tricks on her and that such would be just the kind of thing he'd do...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Ali__

Ali runs into the pub, excited to be home again. "Hello everyone!!" She hugs Hy and Mor and notices Eddy playing in the corner accompanied by a beautiful young woman. Not wanting to interrupt anything by hugging him, she catches his eye and waves. Then when nobody else is looking, she makes a pinching motion with her fingers and winks at Eddy

Looking at the wet floor and wrinkling her nose she says "Mo, what did you do now? Has Shiri seen this? You should really clean this up before she slips on it... Looking closer at the mess she wrinkles her nose even more and asks "WHAT IS THAT?"

Turning back to face the boys, Ali asks "So, is my room still waiting for me? First room on the left.. the one with the tub and the large luxurious bed? I've been away too long and I cant wait to wash the dust off of me and take a nap"

Ali looks at the paper and the basket and starts working out her throwing arm.. "But first...."

Ederick

Ederick takes back his Harp as Jasmine departs. He then lay out the old tatterd woolskin, Delicately place's the harp on it, and with practiced movements folds the corners over then ties it up.

Looking over at Ali throwing paper again he smiles and Instinctively rubs his throwing arm. Looks up to the banister and Shiri's nowhere to be seen just yet. Mo's over doing what he Does. and the rest of the tavern seem to have taken their leave as the festival has wound down.

Ederick then slings his Harp over his shoulder, picks up his rowen staff and heads out the door into the night.

Shirinova

Refreshed from her bath and feeling fine, Shiri steps out of the room in time to see Ed leave and hear Alicaanne speaking of something on the floor - and abruptly Shiri feels anything but fine..... Hydra saliva.. she mutters under her breath as the smell gets more pungent.... And not exactly perfumed either.... Clearing her throat, smiling at Alicia, Shiri says, Your room awaits you and has been cleaned since you last left it - make yourself at home. And handing her the room key she smiles as the Other moves past her towards her room. Then breaking into a run, Shiri heads downstairs to get a bucket of hot water and soap....

Working late into the night, and glad that Mo has gone to bed relatively early - he having gotten drunk with Hy after their "little" prank on her, Shiri, on her hands and knees, cleans and cleans and cleans and slowly.... so very slowly, the Hydra saliva is cleaned from the tavern floor leaving it pristine and smelling of rosemary.... Oh Jah! she now realises, food! I have to get food ready!!

And hour later and with the day's stew cooking over the fire, Mo waking in his bed by the bar, Shiri kisses his lips before she slips quietly out of the tavern to go to the Market....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Mylessantos

Myles, a new man in town, then slowly came in, and sat down on a chair. Quietly, he slowly pulled out a small and worn-out lute and played a tune. Then soon, sound was made and the melody was heard in the whole of the Foxy Tigress.

Then before he could sing, a huge hydra, Mick, came out of nowhere and started dancing. The young man stopped, Oh my, The boy then hid his lute and requested for help. No one seemed to notice... So the boy ran and got the chair behind and used it as I shield assuming that the hydra would strike him.

Noticing that the Hydra had no intention of hurting him, he lowered the chair and started to walk slowly backwards. After he got to the door he sat down at the corner and sent out a huge sigh. Few moments later, he then heard a man laughing hysterically . . Who could that be...? he wondered.

Ederick

Running back into the tavern Ederick chuckling at the young man aproaches Mick (the hydra) and says "you know your not allowed in here now mo will have to fix the door again" thinking the poor thing home sick Ederick slaps him on the behind to send him back to Lewes. Mick turned with all 8 heads and growled. Mabey im just a lil more comfertable with this thing then i thought

Giving mick a stern look Ederick says "no mater mick off to lewes you go" and the hydra left. Then moving over to myles and helping him up "Buy a drink for the Lad on me" waving his farewell again as he picks up his belonging's he heads for the door again.

Shirinova

Eyes wide as she sees Mick in the street as she walks back from the Market, Shiri groans, Oh no inwardly as she notices the Hydra making for a nearby group of children.....

Running quickly to get between the Beasie and the children, Shiri gets Mick's attention with the crate of ducks she has and seeing his greedy look, starts to lead him to the rear of the tavern as quickly as she can....

Minutes later and with Mick back in the pond, noting how much he resembles an oak tree, Shiri shrugs as the "Tree" groans at her loudly to be fed and returns to the form of Mick.

Ok Big Fella she says with a grin. Setting the ducks free from the crate, watching as they scatter, she looks up at Mick saying, Go get em! And watching in morbid fascination as the heads move in different directions, snap up ducks with ease, Shiri shakes her head in amazement before heading back toward the Tavern. Hearing eight long and loud... Buuurrrpppps!! she giggles.....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Ali__

Ali runs down the stairs from her room and hugs and kisses Shiris cheeks "I'm off to Canterbury for a bit" She stops to look around the tavern and suddenly getting a tear in her eye, she realizes how much she loves Seven Oaks and all her friends... Ali wonders if she is making the right decision to move..

"Thank you so much for the lovely accommodations Shiri. You and Mo take such good care of me and all your guests. Please do give him a hug and kiss for me." Ali gives Shiri one more hug and picks up her bag and heads to Canterbury...
_________________

Mousie

Mousie rode up to the tavern, she jumped off the horse and tied her up. Mousie went into the tavern, she took her cloak off and hung it up. Mousie went and took a seat, she laid the files on the table to look at them. The barkeeper come over with a mug of ale. She took the mug and sit it down beside her files carefully trying not to spill it.Mousie looked at the papers reading it over and over.

Morrandir

Morrandir barges in through the door. Muttering all manner of foul things to himself, he hurries down to the bar.

Then he spots the Mayoress in the corner, all alone, reading some important looking documents. Mousie!! he calls out happily as the frown on his face turns into a smile.

Morrandir goes over to her and gives her a welcoming hug. So glad to see you here. What the bloody hell is going on? I got a message in Lewes saying that the Tigress has run out of ale?! Looking at the somewhat puzzled look on Mousie's face, Mo goes on. Preposterous, I know! Morrandir glances down at the mug on the table and is distraught by what he sees.

By The Seven Oaks! What is this?? There's nothing but foam in your mug! A thousand apologies Mousie... this is highly embarrassing. I'll get you a proper mug of ale at once. Good thing I brought some with me from Lewes. Be back shortly...

Morrandir hurries back up to the front door, exits and goes to the wagon, where Lady Shirinova is stretching her legs. Hon! It's true! No ale! Mousie is inside and there is no ale for her. Mo hands Shiri the empty mug and climbs on the wagon to the ale barrels. Cracking open the top of a barrel with his axe, Mo takes the mug as Shiri hands it to him and dips it in the barrel. Here, Mo hands the full mug back to Shiri, could you take this back to Mousie? I need to unload the wagon and take the barrels to the cellar...
_________________

Shirinova

But of course! comes the slightly flustered response as the full to the brim Mug is handed back to her, her mind daunted by all the steps that lie between she and the Lady Mousie, I'll um... get right on it. she manages a smile. Turning, and almost tripping on the first step, she heads up the rest more carefully with the Mug held firmly in her hand....

Finally through the huge wooden door, her heart pounding with the effort not to spill any Ale as she opened the door, pushed it open and moved passed it, Shirinova almost jumps out of her skin is it BANGS shut behind her. Free hand going to her chest, eyes wide, she takes a step forward and feels herself trip then start to fall forwar.....

Hand going out for balance, hiss issuing from shocked lips, legs trying valiantly to recover some semblance of balance... failing, feeling a knee hit the floor, Shirinova curses under her breath and groans.

All this effort just to get an Ale to the Mayoress.. she hisses as she gets back to her feet grateful that she's not spilled any of the Ale... Oh Jah! her voice calls now as she realises she's twisted an ankle that only now alerts her to its plight by collapsing under her slight weight, This is not happening!

Only it is and she is again plunging forward....

Grabbing the banister as that looms into sight with her left hand, her right just managing to keep the Ale in the Mug, Shirnova manages to regain her footing and sigh. Blowing it out in relief Shirinova gingerly puts her weight on her on her twisted ankle and frowns as she feels no pain now. Shaking her head, she moves carefully forward slowly hoping for no more accidents as she watches both Ale and where she's going...

Walking around past the Reception Area, heading for the stairs leading down to the bar area, Shirinova swallows hard hoping that she doesn't trip on any of them... which of course she does. Miss-stepping the first, completely missing the second, catching the third but not enough to halt her progress, Shiri cries out, oh oh oh ohhhhhwoooow! as she all but runs down the last of them and into the bar proper stumbling for balance - the Mug of Ale moving wildly about in the air as her arms try to aid her in her recovery of balance!! Oh Jah!! she calls out as she gets ever nearer the fire, Oh no!!! and reaching out her free hand, eyes wide, she manages to halt her crash fall into the fire and push off and come to a complete stop in the process....

Ahhh, she sighs in relief and smiles easily as if nothing is amiss.

Looking at the Mug, seeing that despite all her best efforts to empty it that it remains full, shrugging casually, Shiri takes the Ale over to Mayoress Mousie saying, Your Ale, My Lady, compliments of the Owner with a smile...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Mousie

As Mousie was working on her documents, she looked up and seen Mo. You and shiri is back. She stood up and gave him a hug. As he pointed out at the mug being nothing but foam, Mousie had frowned, I guess i got the last of the ale even 7oaks tavern is dried out. As he left saying something about the barrel of ale, Mousie sit down once again working on the papers.

The she heard a BANG. Mousie jumped, then looked up it was Shiri trying to bring the ale. Mousie watched in shocked how Shiri was being clumsy. She got her sense back and stood up but it was to late, Shiri was already there. Shiri that ankle doesn't look to good. Maybe, you need to sit a prop it up. It is good to see you back at home again. How was the trip?

Mousie took the mug. Thanks for the ale, he could have waited until he got the barrels in here. Mousie invited Shiri to sit with her. So, she could rest her hurt ankle.

Hydrarider

Hy arrives in time to help Mo with the barrels, carefully helping to unload them and to stock them after giving Mo a sound hug.
Hy then goes in and Hugs Shiri and Mousie, handing over to Mousie the town hall money from the wood sale he brought back with him.
Hy looks around and realizes he must have left Zulah in Lewes, In the tavern of all places... He hopes she is not upset with him. He has found he is quite fond of being around her and misses her dearly already. He think she might be along right after him so he sits in the tavern sipping the tea and waiting.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

Zulah bursts into the Tigress, stamping the snow off her feet and uttering a loud: HUMPH!

Muttering, "Fine thing! Waking up alone in a tavern in a strange town in the middle of the night! Humph....

Espies Hy calmly sipping that dratted tea by the fire......and goes over and glares at him.

"Why didnt you wake me? Shamefacedly admits. ."Yeah, been told I sleep like the dead!". Just can't get mad at you...why is that?

"Do I smell coffee?.........

..
_________________

Mousie

Mousie sit back down looking at the paper work, she sipped her ale, She looking at the figures. She heard Hy coming in but didn't see Zulah. Mousie stood up knowing Hy would want a hug. She hugged him back. Welcome back home Hy. As he handed her the money, Mousie was relieved from that. Thank you Hy. Do I owe you anything? Mousie sit back down downing her ale once again. She held her mug up and it was filled once more. Mousie wrote figures down and shook her head. She decided that was enough for a while.

Mousie looked up as she was putting the documents in her pouch. So, that is Why she wasn't with him when he first came in, she thought to herself. Mousie giggled then shook her head. She got up hugged Zulah, and pardoned herself.

I need to get these documents to the office and the money over as well. Welcome home you too. Mousie giggled, Zulah don't be to hard on him. You know how these men are with one track mind. I assure you he was thinking about getting the money back to the town. With that Mousie went down stairs put on her cloak and went outside. hmmm, Did it snow the whole time I was in there? This morning it was somewhat warm. I guess no lunch at the river today,talking out loud to no one at all. Mousie covered up after she jumped on horse. She kicked the horse in the side with her heel, to let her know she was ready to go.

Hydrarider

"Yea, Zulah, I guess I was just thinking about getting the money back to the town as quick as I could, and the way you were sleeping I thought it would be quite rude of me to wake you up the way my dad used to wake me.. He would get the coldest water he could find and if I didn't wake up first thing, he would douse me with it.. But, I seem to be rambling, your so pretty it makes it hard for me to think. Every time I look at you my words seem to make no sense. As you must be able to tell, as I seem to be babbling yet again.."

Hy sips his tea and slides Zulah a cup of coffee with cream in it..
"I really hope you will forgive me."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Watching the discourse happening around her as she sits resting, Shiri smiles softly. And as often it does, her mind begins to wander....

Sevenoaks is a nice town, has nice people. And here in the Foxy Tigress are those who are amongst the nicest.

Zulah, like an Aunt to Shiri, was one of the first she met when she first arrived in Sevenoaks - well almost. Took Shiri quite a while to finally get up the nerve to go into the Tavern. But once she did, well there was no stopping Shiri - esp once she found out about the Forums....

Mousie, like a sister of sorts now. Yes Mousie has her moments, her problems, her dramas, but Mousie is a constant and a very dear friend...

Hydra, the one she met one night and chatted too. So long in the shadows, Shiri managed to talk him back into the light. Honourary Brother now, Hy too is a constant and dearly beloved friend. His pranks upon her while a bit embarrassing, are what brothers do to sisters. And you better just pray that I don't start pranking you back...

Ed, The Bard... Man of songs, tales, a harpist and gentle friend... What will you be I wonder once you spread your wings.... Time will answer that me thinks....

Myles, you have only just begun and I hope you keep coming here... You have so much energy my friend...

And to our guests thus far, I thank you....

And Morrandir... My Mo... What can I say to he who is my Love? You have come far and still you amaze me... To think that I met you one night and you asked of me the impossible, to make you some gold. Instead I made you a flower of gold and you kept it... I hope this not embarrasses you, but....

Oh my, Shirinova says softly as she realises the others looking at her, Did I say all that aloud?
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

HY hugs his adopted Sister and kisses her on the top of the head, He then Hugs Mo and more gently slaps him on the back, goes over and Hugs Ed, Goes to the mother of his twins Mousie hugs her and gives her a kiss on the top of the head, Shakes Myles's hand not sure if Myles is a hugger yet and don't want to offend.. "I normally hug my friends and I am sure you will be one too as soon as you get to know me."
He looks around to the lady he has had a crush on for years even before she married, Zulah, He rushes over to her and hugs her, looks into her eyes, "I love You and want to travel far with you. I am so glad you have helped me see the light after I feel from Mousie's kind arms." Hy looks over at Mousie. "I do wish you the best dear heart Mousie, and we have parted ways but we can always be friends and when PC is feeling well enough to go on a picnic I am sure we can go have a picnic as two couples with the kids and have a blast."
Hy looks back at Lady Zulah the one that holds his heart "You hold my heart and I proclaim that I will be glad to dance with you and try to sing with you, and be there for you till my last breath is drawn. I hope to grow old with you. I know I am not a real wonderful person, I have lots of faults like not making sure I have you in the wagon when I leave Lewes... But I do wish to try." With that Hy kneels before Zulah
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

Turning every shade of red, Zulah looks from the serious eyes of the kneeling Hydrarider, to the smiling eyes of her friends around the tavern.

" Get up kind sir! I believe you, and if the truth be told, I seem to find myself in the same perdicament. You hold my heart as well but sometimes I'm afraid of being played the fool....but your eyes do not lie. I would be honoured to dance and sing and travel in your company . It has all been so much fun and has happened so fast that sometimes I can't believe I'm not dreaming........"

Standing, she grabs his hands and pulls him to his feet, giving him a big hug with the Foxy Tigress patrons all cheering in the background!

'''
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy and his Lady come back into the tavern from Lewes yet again. But this time Zulah has a ring that Hy has asked her to wear to profess his love for her. He has taken time to make and it fits so well.

Hy Smiles as his love shows the ring to all that want to see.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

Zulah smiles happily as she proudly displays the beautiful ring that Hy has given her....a promise ring, he said.

It was good to see that her friends Shiri and Mo were happy for them. Life was good and happiness seemed in reach once again. It was truly a Blessed Christomas for her.

How thoughtful Hy was...always seeming to know what she was even thinking!
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy hands her a cup of coffee with cream in it and smiles.
"I am blessed to have so many friends that love a person like me.
I love each and every one of you in one way or another, I feel like Mo is like a brother to me, Krypet like a very smart pet, Shiri like a Sister, Mousie as the mother od my twins will have a special place in my heart and Zulah the Lady that I first had fallen for when I was shy. I have since found if I want something I need to step up a try for what ever it is, I have to thank Mousie for getting me out of the recluse stage, And Shiri to thank for getting over being embarrassed to speak up. And Zulah to thank for being willing to put up with my craziness and being the love of my life.
I know I left alot of my friends out of this statement and I love each for different reasons, and different ways."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Trying to wipe the tears welling up in her eyes as the emotion of Hy's words and the vision of the Zulah's ring hit home, Shirinova turns as more well up and her throat catchs tightly and tries to act as if she's merely stirring the stew heating by the fire...

Bowing her head, her mind numb with humility, She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly as she thinks how lucky she is.... Looking about for Mo, wondering what he made of all the nice words... The Ring....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Mylessantos

After Shiri's moment, Myles turned to the two who seemed to be over-joyed. He then acquired his worn lute, For both Zulah and Hydrarider.

The boy then made music that flowed through the room. It sounded fantastic, he had a great time playing. Knowing that the couple was satisfied, the young man finally made bizarre finishing chord...

May you two have a great future. Hope you two will be blessed by Jah in upcoming days.

Hydrarider

Hy enjoyed hearing the music played for him and his love. At the music with Zulah in his arms he surely must be in heaven. At the last "..., Hope you two will be blessed by Jah in upcoming days."
Hy Looks at the beautiful Lady Zulah and heart pounding in his chest so hard he thinks it could bust his shirt, he smiles at Myles "Yes, Jah blesses me each day I get to see my darling's lovely face, the beautiful curves of her body, and even more each time I heard her wonderful voice."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

Caught up in Hy's arms a whirling aroung the tavern to Myle's music, Zulah could not remember when her heart ha last been this full of joy and hope for the future. It felt so right to be sharing this happy moment with their dear friends...Shiri and Mo
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy in the presence of many tavern folks gets back down on a knee and looking up at the fair maiden Lady Zulah
"Will you marry me, my love?"
Hy smiles as his love tells him yes. He pulls out the ring he has for just such a case.

He slides it on to her finger.
And grins as she shows everyone..
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Shirinova

Agog with surprise, Shiri feels her jaw drop as she glances at Mousie and then back to the happy couple in amazement....

Closing her mouth with some trouble she stares at the ring upon Zulah's finger, grins and gently applauds....

Congratulations you two, she wishes them earnestly as her eyes continue to linger on the ring enviously, I wish you all the best. Then shaking her head, sighing, she goes to get them a round of Ales to celebrate...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Mylessantos

Staggered by Hydra's revelation, Myles soon gave a clap offering for the two as they smiled and stared at each other.

Congratulations Hydra and Zulah!
I wish you guys have a prosperous marriage.

Smiling, he then trotted to Shir, and walked back out with a dozen of ale. After distributing the round to the tavern dwellers,
Myles then stood near the couple and said to them, smiling, So, when and where's the honeymoon!?

zulah

Zulah is so happy that for once in her life she is speechless! The ring sparkling on her finger, she raises her glass to her friends and well wishers.

" I hope you have a couple of rooms Mo as I think I just might get a tad tipsy! ".

Snuggling up to Hy, they kiss surrounded by the clapping hands of all present.
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy sits back down and pulls his lady love into his lap making sure not to spill her drink or his.
Hy is so happy that she has accepted his proposal he feels like he is in heaven.
"I am so glad your here with me darling! I will get a messenger to announce the joyful news so all can see it."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

zulah

" You really do have to post our intent to marry with the priest and might I suggest we go to my house to work on the design for the announcement and the invitations? What do you say we take a nice bottle of white wine with us and sit by the fire at home and make plans?"
_________________

Hydrarider

"Yes, we do need to make plans, wine in front of the fireplace with you sounds good.
of course anywhere with you sounds good, I know your good company in church.
I think we said we would try to get Father Faheud to do the service for us, right?"

Hy takes her hand as they head out for her house to make the plans.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Mousie

Mousie walked into the Tavern. She went to the bar and sit down. The barkeep, knew what Mousie wanted and slide down a mug of ale. Mousie sipped at her mug. She took out her documents looking over it. Mousie updated Frigo_99 files. She had been well pleased with the work he had done to repay the town and the peoples trust. She took another sip of her ale. Mousie would go down to vote at the Council, after she finish her work. Mousie was pleased with the town and the people giving her support. Mousie took another sip of her ale, before she knew it the the barkeep was back with a refill. Mousie nodded, to go ahead and fill the mug up. She began once again looking at her documents and figures.

Clyppie

Clyppie entered the tavern and she was glad to see a familiar face. She saw Shiri, and the two women talked about lots of things. In the course of the conversation, Clyppie realized something. She noticed that one event in the Fall Festival was not officially ended. In haste, she quickly made a tally of the winners of the Log-Jump contest.

Then, Clyppie quickly rushed to the market and bought the prize: one piece of meat. She returned to the tavern and talked some more to Shiri. She made a private deal with Shiri regarding the prize, mailed Mayor Mousie about it, then left the prize to Shiri.

She looked for a parchment and started writing:

Quote:

Dear Mo,

Congratulations on winning the Log-Jump Contest in our Fall Festival! My apologies for the delay as I had to run back to Arundel and only had to chance to award you your prize today. Sadly, I was not able to catch you in the taverns, so I'm leaving this note here, in the hopes that you would be able to read it. Oh, and before I forget, your one piece of meat is already with Shiri.

Again, Congratulations!

Clyppie

She sealed the parchment and left it in a secured place in the tavern where Morrandir will surely see it.

And she returned to drink more water since the water here in Sevenoaks is safer than the one in Arundel, since Arundel water makes one pregnant.

Shirinova

Offers Clyppie an Ale and claps as the Other drinks it down quickly in her haste to leave Sevenoaks. Takes back the mug as the Other leaves and looks over at Mo and grins saying, Well done hon. Then having an idea Shiri heads for the rear of the Tavern....

Looking at Mick, watching as the moody Beastie moves his 7 heads around, shiri begins to grin impishly as an idea comes to her. Biting her bottom lip, She sets to work....

An hour later and with a makeshift saddle on the Hydra, a makeshift bridle and reins on the Hydra's Primary Head, Shiri looks into the eyes of the Hydra as her's and the Beast's mind's seemingly "talk" to one another silently. Then nodding firmly, waiting as Mick raises a leg slowly allowing her to mount him as one would an elephant, she gathers in the reins and heads him toward the rear of the Tavern field toward the road beyond....

Once on the road and glad that it was deserted, Shiri heads him off toward the Manor of Sevenoaks.....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Lauda

Lauda and Darrion arrived at the Foxy Tigress after a trip around Sussex. A slipping shadow teased the corner of Lauda's eye, but she shrugged it off to tiredness and strain, and entered, hoping to see her Sevenoaks friends. There was no sign of Shiri, and Morrandir dozed by the fire, not rousing even when Mousie came in.

The three conscious ones shared a few drinks and a catchup chat, before Lauda and Darrion headed to the upstairs rooms, Lauda still a bit pinkcheeked. She hoped anyone she saw would put it down to the heat of the fire in the main room, and not to the slip she'd made about Darrion's snoring. It couldn't be a blush, because, of course, Lauda never blushes!
_________________

Viscountess of Lewes | Official Royal Party Elf | Hedgehog Supporter

Morrandir

Morrandir awakens from his coma like state with a startle. Ahh!! What the bloody hell is that horrid noise!?

Still groggy from his deep slumber, Mo listens to the unholy rumble. Glancing up, trying to locate the source, it seems that the slight tremor caused by the sound is making the fillings between the ceiling boards above him to come loose and rain down on him. Who... what the h...

Morrandir tosses aside the blankets covering him and rushes over to the bar. Quickly going through the room keys and noticing that a pair is missing, Mo rushes to the reception area to see what manner of beast Shiri has given bed and board to this time. She better have charged extra for this one. Going through the room reservation log, Mo frowns as there are no entries today. Then, suddenly, the answer dawns on him. There's only one person who has free access to the rooms - Hy!

Picking up a candle holder with two lit candles in it, Mo heads up the stairs to put an end to this, before the noise drives away all customers for good. Hy!! For the love of all things good and decent! Put a sock in it! Arriving on the third floor landing, determined to put the poor man out of his misery, Mo paces to the door which is visibly vibrating from the sound emanating from the room on the other side. Right, I have to... besides, I'm doing him a favour.

Unfortunately, as Mo unlocks the door with his skeleton key and pushes it open, the slight draft blows out the candles he is holding. Mumbling a couple of curses to himself, Mo steps in, still under the belief that it's his close friend sleeping inside.

Hy? he utters as he steps into the dark room. Mate, you need to keep it down a bit, you're freaking out people downstairs... well, me anyway. Receiving no reply, just the continuous deep intake of breath, followed by the window shaking rumble of a snore, Mo ventures closer. Now, listen, Mo speaks in a slightly elevated voice, you...

Morrandir stops dead in his tracks as some faint moonlight shines through the window and hits the figure of a man in the bed. Blonde? When did you dye... Next thing Mo notices is something that looks like a sizeable wad of curly brown hair slightly below the blonde. Getting the distinct feeling he's about to make a mistake he might not live to regret, Mo immediately shuts up and backs away to the door.

Returning to the corridor outside the room and pulling the door shut behind him, Mo has never felt more grateful for all those weeks he spent in the Sevenoaks Forest honing his sneaking skills. Breathing a huge sigh of relief as he leans against the door, Mo whispers a quiet reassurance. OK, you're still alive... no one saw you... go back downstairs. Let it be.

Tiptoeing down the stairs, Mo ponders in what way exactly he is going to make Shiri pay for not writing down this particular room reservation and where to find some decent ear protection for the rest of the night, as he notices a letter from Clyppie addressed to him...
_________________

Shirinova

Riding Mick back into the Town, thankful that it is really late, that no one is around, Shiri guides him back to the pond at the rear of the Foxy Tigress and sighs heavily. Has been a long ride and not without incident - but Mick seems contented as he patiently waits for her to remove the bridle and saddle.

A short while on and she watches as the Hydra moves off toward his waterly home before she heads for her Shack in the Forest....

Mylessantos

Myles soon finds himself waking up on top of a bench near the Foxy Tigress . He was groggy, and was still a bit wretched. But after a few stretches, and a glass of water, the young man felt fine and slipped back inside the tavern, waiting patiently, for someone to come through that big door. Myles, who was still sleepy, ordered some of Mo's famous buns, which he dearly loved, and saw Morrandir unlocking a door nearby.

Mo did not notice him for Myles was in the edge of the tavern. Wondering what was going on, Myles followed him. Hey Mo! The boy, still unnoticed, quietly followed Morrandir, and hid behind a table. He was wondering what Mo was doing. A couple minutes later, Mo went down, and noticed a letter addressed to him. Myles was also curious, so he went down to greet Mo.

zulah

[b]Zulah hastily ties Marquis to the post outsie the Foxy Tigress and hurries in to find Morrandir.

"Mo, Mo come on man, wake up!"

She shakes him roughly, trying to wake him.

"Come on Mo, Shiri is missing in the storm out there. Come, let's try to find her! Hy is at the shack lighting torches and a bonfire..."
_________________

Mousie

After working all day on a collar Mousie decided to go to the tavern. She walked in over hearing Zulah. Mousie ran down stairs. She seen Zulah shaken Mo trying to wake him. Mousie laid her hand on Zulah arm.

What's going on Zulah? What is this about torches?

Mousie seen the scared look in Zulah face. She decided to help her try to wake up Mo.

I know Mo won't like it but the best thing to wake him up with is a bucket of cold water.

zulah

"Good idea Mpousie! I'm so glad to see you..We need to get Mo moving and go out and look for Shiri...she's missing. Hy is back at the shack lightinh torches so she can see through this storm to get home! I'll get the water. I hope he will be sober enough to ride..."
_________________

zulah

Mousie

Come on Zulah let's get back to Shiri shack. We will leave a note under Mo, he will see it. Mousie got her cloak and put it on. She handed Zulah her cloak as well. Together they walked out, Mousie noticed something far off toward the Shiri Shack.

Come on Zulah something is wrong, there is smoke in Shiri direction. We need to hurry and get over there. Mousie jumped on her horse waiting for Zulah. The snow was falling and it was freezing. Mousie didn't care she was more scared then being cold. She hoped that it wasn't Shiri place. All she could think about is that Hy and Shiri servant being there.

Hurry Zulah we need to get over there and see where that smoke is coming from.

Mousie kick the horse in the side with her heel. The horse ran as fast as it could, in the direction of the smoke.

zulah

"Right behind you.Mouse! Let"s hurry. I feel like this is all my fault..having Hy light all those torches...oh please Jah! Let everyone be alright..... I think you are right..Shiri"s shack is just over that rise there in the distance...."
_________________

Ederick

Ederick tierd from streching himself so thin walks into the Foxy Tigress. After long days of traveling back and forth to Canter too fish... coming back to do his duty with the malitia... he still finds a bit of time to work his feilds.

Seeing that his sleeping stool is still in the corner by the fire he unraps his wool skin and produces his prize posetion. His Harp, siting down and resting it on his shoulder He starts to play an old familure song but passes out almost as fast.

Hydrarider

Hy wanders into the tavern looking for Shiri, and sees her in the area behind the bar and is overjoyed.
He runs and hugs her.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Laike

looks up at the sign and smiles a little... Interesting name...

Making his way inside, immediately smelling dust and human odour, Laike dismisses those as he concentrates on finding what he's after...

Before the hour is over he has been to every room, searched every nook and cranny and found out all he can here....

Once vibrant, the place is falling into disuse thanks to an Owner who is lazy and uncaring and a Barmaid who is off gallivanting around the countryside painting church steeples pink with a near-do-well drunken female associate! Women these days! Then again with a Priest in Retreat, who can blame them? Surely not him. More though, She is the one he is after, of that he is most certain...

Leaving the Tavern, its fate now uncertain, Laike rides round the back of the building and quickly reins in his mount as he sees a Hydra standing in a pond... or is it? To the untrained eye it looks like a tree. An Oak. Plus his steed is nervous of it... wants to flee this place...

Curbing it as it turns to do just that, glancing back over his shoulder, seeing the Hydra moving, Laike gives his steed its head and nudges it into a gallop....

http://forum.renaissancekingdoms.com/viewtopic.php?p=48549106&sid=6ckiG7WWH0pMsdm12u2Cp8wfO#48549106

--Laike

Re-entering the Tavern after stabling his steed in the Mews to the rear, Laike retrieves a torch from his carry-all and lights it...

Flashing this way and that to ensure he is alone, still surprised by the lack of patrons, of a Landlord or Barkeeper, he makes his way silently up to the guest area and enters one of the rooms.....

Lighting the candles using his torch, making himself comfortable, Laike then reads the note again....

Plans have changed, you are now to seek out another additional person, one William, Hydrarider Markov the fourth. Tis he that might lead you to the One We be after as We believe they be related by blood. Make haste Friend or you payment is forfeit...

Taking a deep breath, considering his next move, Laike sighs makes ready to retire for the night and blows out the candles. Easing his weary body onto the large bed, he falls into a light sleep....

Hydrarider

Hy wanders in to the tavern tired and thirsty, he goes to the bar drops some money in the pot for the owner and serves himself a bottle and goes to the chair he has used so much, sits down and considers the events of the day.
He leans up as he senses the presence of a newcomer to the tavern.
He watches for this new one to come out so he can welcome him to SevenOaks.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Laike

Wakes and washes with care and heads downstairs to the Bar and pauses as he senses...

A slight and brief rise of his brows as he resumes his passage into the Bar area, he remarks, I thought this place deserted Sir.

Hydrarider

Well met, I am not dead yet so I therefore am here... How do you do today?
I see your new in town, anything I can do to help you?
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Laike

A flicker of a smile at the Man's words softening Laike's usual hard and somewhat harsh countenance and he says, Nay sir, thee not be dead. And thank thee for the welcome. As to help, aye thee can be. I am seeking a personage here. One who is related to thee - although thee may not be aware of such. he adds cautiously, Fact is sir I know not her name only that she be an adult and an orphan - supposedly that is. Truth is she be nothing of the sort - but may not know of that. I wonder if thee know of whom I speak, a personage who be adult, female and an orphan?

Hydrarider

Hy ponders for a bit and reaches out with his thoughts to remember who he might be talking about, and one that is related to me?

Hy thinks and the more he thinks... could it be Shiri? He seems to have a bond beyond the norm with her but not as a couple would have, but different.

"the only one I can think of that may fit your description.. is Shirinova, she is the bartender here, when she is around.. She and I are more like in some ways.. Could it be?"

--Laike

A frown of thought crumples Laike's face as he takes in the information... Shirinova.... hmmm.

Looking again the man in the eye, he asks, I also seek one, William, Hydrarider, Markov the fourth. Do thee of know him also?

Hydrarider

"I uhhh, uhhh, I have not heard his name in along time.."
Tears come to his eyes,
"as far as I know he has died years ago.
I am as far as I know the last of his spawn.
I am HydraRider Markov, My mother wished for me to be the 5th but I am not.
as far as I know all that is left of the great Markov Family
Is my distant Cousin Zint Markov, and myself."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Laike

Feeling a brow rise in uncharacteristic interest in the Other's story, Laike then frowns again. He has found one of those he is seeking out, but not the one of most interest to those who hired him. More he cannot fathom how they be related. Then again that is not what he is here for - yet his mind be too curious as the two names, Shirinova and Markov now clamour to dominate both his attention and his concentration as if to divert him from his task. And given such there is nothing for it but to lower his head for a moment and allows it free rein....

For a moment nothing but confusion reigns in Laike’s mind. Then slowly as his mind mulls over the two names with more determination and clarifies a little, they are revealed as those he has heard in his travels over the years. In the blurred jumble of ales and laughter, hushed words and outright debauchery... Ah yes much debauchery, a small smile betrays his thoughts, in Taverns all over the Realm, these two names come up and are spoken of time and time again - especially that of Markov.

Snorting away the smile dismissively, he returns his gaze to the Man asking, So if she be not here, where would one find, Shirinova?

Hydrarider

"Well as her house has burnt, along with some of my clothes hide and hair... and some witch? She could be at the castle, or at the bamboo guest house, as both were made available to her, I have been trying to get things ready for a wedding and been to a funeral I have no idea who we buried, and am now in council and ... what a minute why the heck am I blathering like a senseless old fool. I guess the wine has aged longer than I had thought, or I drank more than I thought.."
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Laike

Knowing the man knows himself better than he does, Laike says, Sir thee have been most helpful. May thee have a pleasant day. Tossing a few coins on the bar, he says, Good day sir. before ascending the stairs and leaving the Tavern.

Retrieving his Steed from the Mews, mounting up, Laike makes for the Castle....

Shirinova

Entering the Tavern after stabling Dusty and leaving Renki to care for him, Shirinova looks around and shakes her head. The place really needs to be tidied up, dusted....

Going to the long dead fire, looking in the cooking pot, almost fainting at the odour coming from it, Shiri reels and blinks several times. Waving air past her nose, she lifts the pot and goes out to the kitchen - fast....

An hour later and with the fire blazing warmly, a fresh meal cooking, Shiri looks around the rest of the Bar and smiles. Her hard work has the place looking just right and ready for patrons. Now all that's needed is some flowers and the place will be perfect.

Only its starting to get dark...

Lighting some candles, picking one up, Shiri heads out to find some flowers....

_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

I decide to go spend some time in the tavern to wait for Zulah and hope she comes in, I find some flowers on the way so I pick some, some for Zulah my dear and some for my Sis, on the chance either will show up.

So when I arrive and Shir is getting to the door, I hand her some and keep some for My Zulah. Zulah swings by briefly and is gone quicker than I would prefer but I am well pleased she came and sat with me for the time she had.
I hug her lovingly as she heads out to go home and head to bed.
I dream of the day we will make that trip together.
So I sit there sipping coffee or tea, as the other day I had too much to drink.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Zintmarkov

Zint looking much like Hy wanders in He wonders if he is early yet... He sees Shiri at the bar looking at some flowers, He sees Hy sitting there drinking herb tea..
He sits in the upper area in the darkest corner where he is quiet and well hidden.

Shirinova

Smiles at her bro then her eyes go wide in pleasure at the sight of the flowers. Thanking him, putting them in water, Shiri then goes up to put some on the Reception desk...

Standing back to admire them, hearing the door ahead of her open, she cocks her head wondering who it might be...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Franklin

Entering with head bowed, wiping his feet then looking up to see a beautiful woman, head cocked in curiosity as she looks at him, Franklin says, Good day to you my Good woman. I seek a room for a day or two. And a meal too that I may warm me insides up a little, as he approaches her smoothly. Seeing her smile at him, almost melting inside, Franklin then reaches out and takes the Woman's hand and kisses the back of it adding, And may I say My Dear, thee be a sight for sore eyes. Hearing her giggle softly, letting go her hand and seeing her look, Franklin says, Oh of course. Name... silly me. Franklin Mint at Your service My Lady. And watching as she writes it down for him in the Register he frowns noting aloud, A Woman of letters. I trust thee can read as well? he asks. Seeing her nod in the affirmative, her look somewhat annoyed at the questioned posed by him, Franklin then smiles sweetly saying, I am sorry My Dear. No offence meant. Just an old man with old ideas. Now that room if you will...

Shirinova

Of course Sir. Shiri says politely as her mind gives warning that all is not what it seems with the Guest, This way. And leading the Man to a room, she lets him in saying, There is food served downstairs when you require it. For now, rest yourself. Come down when you are ready. We have a fire downstairs to that will cheer you while you eat Sir.

Seeing him nod curtly, closing the door, Shiri heads back to the Reception area then stops in her tracks as the feeling of doom comes over her. Swallowing as she watches the Tavern door open, a face appear, her eyes widen as she words, You... escapes her lips in a whisper....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Laike

Silencing the Woman with a finger to his lips and seeing her frown but remain silent, Laike closes the distance between them before saying in a low voice,I be not here to harm thee. I was sent here to find thee. That man you just signed in, Franklin, he has business to to with you and another here. One Hydrarider Markov. And seeing the woman's eyes narrow, Laike adds, Tis to the advantage of you both I believe. Then snorting in mild amusement he says, And you be very hard to track down Lady. Loosing s short laugh under his breath he adds, Harder than many in a long time I've had to track down. But my job be done here for now so I take my leave of thee. And bowing slightly he moves off and leaves the Tavern....

Shirinova

Stunned, watching Him leave Shirinova slowly turns and looks down at Hydra and frowns wondering what business could involve them both.... And to what advantage? Then hearing a noise behind her she starts...

Turning, seeing Franklin, she smiles saying, Ah, ready for that meal are we? This way. Turning, she leads him down the stairs to the Bar proper....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Franklin

Following the young Woman down to the Bar proper, feeling the heat of the fire blazing in the hearth almost instantly, Franklin then takes a seat at the table and is soon eating a meal served him by the Woman.

Eating it slowly, looking about the place as he does so, taking his time, he smiles as the Woman brings him an Ale. Soon enough though he finishes the delicious beef stew and watches as the Woman takes his plate and empty mug. Smiling as she refills it, brings it back to him Franklin leans into her to say in a low voice, Afore ye go, I know who thee be. And smiling, dropping the olde talk he says, You be the Lady Shirinova. I saw it written next to my entry on the Register page. And you. he inclines his head to the man at the next table, Ye must be Sir Markov. Fact is I need to speak to thee both. Care to join us? he asks him as he points the woman to the seat next to his....

Hydrarider

I am but a simple shepherd lord but if you are buying the drink I will be glad to share.
Hy moves closer to listen as the other shares.

Hy simply in love with Zulah

--Franklin

Smiling at the pair for a moment as he withdraws a sheaf of papers from his bag, Franklin says, Right. As he turns to Shirinova, This is mainly about you. Looking again at his papers he reads, Father, one, William, Hydrarider Markov. Mother, Ruth wolf. This pair had a liaison whereupon soon after... Um Ruth was the daughter of a Jewish Merchant by the way. Clearing his throat he resumes with, whereupon soon aft... ah yes, she was put into the service of the Nova family. There was a rather nasty occurrence between her and the Head of said Nova family, and as a result of that – but more likely of the liaison with the Markov fellow, Ruth bore a daughter – you Miss Shirinova, but died birthing you. He looks at her and smiles softly as the woman sits in apparent shock. Clearing his throat again, Franklin says, Now seems the daughter, you miss Shirinova, were accepted into the Nova family. Perhaps to be wed off to some wealthy Count or something. He tries to joke. A jest that is utterly lost on the woman though causing him to say, Well yes, not so nice. Oh and your proper name was Elizabeth Shiri Nova. Your Mother’s choice shortly before she died. The Novas though called you Lilly or Shiri. He grins. But seeing her frown, Franklin resumes saying matter-of-factly, Anyway the Novas having five sons, were seen as potential threats by another Family and a plot was hatched to “get rid of” the Nova family – which occurred shortly before you were five. Inn fire, tragic. And it seems you were spared only to be sold into a travelling Caravan by one of the conspirators....

he turns his papers quickly to keep going...

Oh yes. That life too came to a somewhat nasty end when the Caravan was attack and the people killed. After that not much is known until you turn up in the care of my Brother who found you near death on the outskirts of a small town, wretched and near death. Benjamin, my elder brother, now dead, being the kind soul that he is, brought you to where we live and we cared for you as one of our own. Only you were not fully one of us, Lady Shirinova. Despite all our best efforts, you fled and we had to track you down... his words tail off slowly. Taking a deep breath he says, Suffice to say that you are a part of our kind thanks to William Markov and therefore had to be found. For you see Lady Shirinova, you are his Sister by blood. And seeing her look, it go to the Other, he smiles saying, That is right. You two are related. Despite having your adopted family’s surname which somehow became your full first name – probably thanks to your being young and the gypsies thinking Shiri Nova was just one complete name, you are of the Wolf family line. A line that is related to that of the Markov line. He states mysteriously as the woman stares at him somewhat blankly, You could of course take Markov as a surname. he suggests lightly as he puts his papers away, Tis up to you.

Turning to the Man, Franklin says, I have the distinct feeling that none of this comes as any surprise to you, Sir. That you suspected as much perhaps from the start. Needless to say there are not many of your name about now. Indeed, you are blessed to have Shiri as part of your family now – if she accepts that is. Glancing at the young woman, seeing her face and the mixed emotions crossing it, he returns his gaze to Markov saying, she will need time to come to terms with this news, In a knowing tone, is her way. Believe me I know her well enough to know this to be true. I will stay on a few days, He decides now as he reaches for his ale, keep an eye on the pair of you in case you have questions of me. In the meantime, think about this information I have imparted ye. Mull it over some. Ah there is one thing though, a Zint Markov, he begins a new as that name comes to him, an older Brother I believe. He too has to be informed that he has a Sister... er, half Sister. Well a relative at any rate. Would either of you have any idea of his whereabouts? He asks. And seeing both frown he adds, Seems that William Markov, being a Gypsy, got around a fair bit ay. with an impish grin and knowing wink.

--Zintmarkov

Zint steps out of the shadows, striding into the light, I knew she had to be... As Hy is my brother, yes dad got around, but we are the last of the children of William HydraRider Markov the fourth. Hy there, youngest son of the first wife, me the oldest son of the first mistress(of which there were twelve mistresses) , and Shiri the youngest Daughter of the last mistress, Hy your father was a scoundrel.
We each are descended of gypsy linage also, grand lines each.
Yes Franklin I know where Zint Willfred Markov is, I am he.
As he looms above them at the rail, Mighty Staff that seems to glow in his hand.

Hydrarider

I look up at Zint, I wonder where he had come from and how long he had been there, he was one to turn up like a bad pence. What? I thought you were my cousin, but I guess that does explain why we look alike.
I look at Shiri, I felt a kinship with you from the very first... I didn't know you were my flesh and blood.
I break down in tears as I have family, I thought all were gone. the pain of the years.
I look in wonder at Franklin, and what other news do yee have?

Hy Simply in love with Zulah!

zulah

Zulah enters the Foxy Tigress for a quick ale before she goes about her errands in town. There seems to be some kind of serious discussion taking place.

She slips quietly into the empty seat next to Hy and orders an ale.
They all hug after exchanging greetings and Zulah desides to buy everyone a drink as there seems to be some tye of occasion in progress and a drink never hurt anyone, afterall.

She sits back, waiting expectantly for the conversation to resume. She hopes she is not intruding......
_________________

Hydrarider

Hi Love, I have just been informed that my father had more children than I knew about, and Shiri is my half sister from dads frolicking, I knew she seemed like a cousin or something. Thank you for the drink my love. It is good to see you here today.
I raise my mug to my wife to be.

Simply in love with the most wonderful lady, Lady Zulah!

--Franklin

Looking the Shepherd in the eye, Franklin says, Aye there is more. However here is not the place to disclose such. Indeed, here is not a good place at all given what thou three need to know – may already know of thy-selves. He glances up to Zint Markov, And if I understand my senses correctly, me eyes, already one of thee do. Then looking to the Lady Shirinova he says gently, But thee do not. Thee had Orja in your home, yet knew not she was there to kill thee – that Renki was there to protect thee – and all but failed in that duty. Yet he still abides with thee. You Lady Shirinova need to be um... he struggles for the words... to be... educated. He smiles in triumph at the finding of the word.

But across from him the Lady is both frowning and angry.

Noting the look, laughing shortly, Franklin says, Ho yes I know THAT look! The well known, Shirinova glare of defiance! That look that says, I will not study, not ever – never. Laughing again at her, seeing her look darken, Franklin states firmly And where has such got thou? Hmm?

Seeing the woman cross her arms firmly in front of herself he again laughs at her as her Brothers frown in confusion.

Observing such, Franklin says, Well I did say she was not good at study. Unlike thou two, she is not a natural to your Crafts. She is.... hmm. His mind searches once more, a um... oh dear.... She’s um.. err.... um.... Latent Soul. He settles on. Unlike her half brothers, Shirinova’s talents are dormant, so to say, inherent, he starts to waffle now as words come all to easily to him, but hidden, indeed she has the potential to be truly magnificent given the right training and patience. Indeed it will take time to get her to the point whereby she becomes fully accomplished in the Crafts of her um, kind... his words trail off as he finally notices all are looking at him somewhat blankly in boredom... Errm, he struggles briefly, I apologise, I do ramble so at times. Tis a failing I regret to say. Overly excessive elucidation when essentially a singular sentence would suffice more than adequately. I hold responsible my legal schooling to be perfectly candid. All those excessively lengthy legal expressions and phrases that essentially articulate naught and are utterly unintelligible to the common man yet are completely comprehendible to any Barrister worthy of his academic legal qualification. To be perfectly sincere.... and I’ve done it again!, he realises in horror, Completely mystified you all with language that has utterly nothing whatsoever to do with anything, let alone understandable. Worse I now look like a fool and left you as to be outright mystified and completely jaded! Verily I am fool. He bows his head. Then hearing a giggling, looking up and seeing the Lady Shirinova’s sly smile, her wink of triumph he cries, You! In outrage, You did that on purpose to make me look idiotic! he charges angrily, Just as you did at the Conservatory Hall that time when I brought you to task over your distinct lack of study! You thought it amusing to put words in my mouth, to make my mind your own for your own entertainment! Shame upon you, failed Guardian of Azura. He growls now, Thou art as ignoble as he who usurped your Domain and now runs it as... he stops short as all look at him in utter confusion - including the Lady Shirinova. Um... never mind me. Raving idiot here. He tries to distract them with as much conviction as he can muster, Just the travel, road lag. You know, long way to travel to get to this.. um... oh dear. He realises now, this is just not what I had planned and tis all down to my verbosity and alacrity. I can be so loquacious. Oh God!! He cries out in utter frustration, can I not just speak plainly!! I think I will go have a little lie down. He decides now as he gets to his feet, I bid thee to think not ill of an old man. Then realising again that he has been undone by the Lady Shirinova he glares at her – yet again her looks is just as mystified as she others are as they stare at him in confusion, glancing at each other from time to time. Suddenly realising that there is yet another presence here, he looks around for them.... And espying who that presence is, he gasps, You?! In utter shock as his eyes go wide in astonishment....

zulah

Zulah. mouth agape. is thouroughly astonished at the ramblings of this loquacious rambling elder.
Looking to Hy, she whispers:

"What on earth is he talking about? Do we need to be concerned for Shiri's safety?"
_________________

Hydrarider

Hy pats her hand.
"My family has always been eccentric Shiri will be fine."

Simply in Love with the most wonderful Lady Zulah!

Shirinova

Enters after they're long absence and sets up Ales for she and the others in the Caravan then frowns as she sees Franklin heading furtively up to his room.... Turning as the others come into the bar she smiles saying, First round is on the House, as she wonders where Morrandir is.....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Hydrarider

Hy requests a pitcher full for his first round.

and goes to heat some coffee for the coffee drinkers.

Hy also wonders what Franklin didn't show him...
Thinks to himself, beggar, I want to look that diary over real well.

Glad the wedding is coming soon..

--Franklin

Looking at the second diary he has found within the package, this one written in a cryptic code, Franklin muses that he will need to work long and hard to decipher it. The first, by the Mother of Rachel is in plain language, but this second, a very different matter entirely. Hearing footfalls coming, the door behind him opening, Sir Hydra, the very much worse the wear from drinking enter and all but force him off the bed, from the room, Franklin snatches up his bag and whatever else he can and leaves to find another room....

Minutes later he is cursing...

In his haste to leave the room to the drunken Shepherd, he has left behind the diary of the Mother!

Slapping a hand to forehead hard, almost dazing himself in the process, Franklin sighs heavily..... he has failed... – or has he?

Rummaging through his bag, finding the rest of the package, he sighs. Not all is lost. Then seeing another letter, he opens it and again frowns. Not another relative... he says in a despairing sigh of one who has spent far too much time on a task already..... Then seeing the glint of steel, his frown deepens...

Hydrarider

Hy lays down and finds a lump in the bed under him, finding the diary of the Catherine Rogers whom the letter had explained to them was Rachel's real mom.
He decides to read a page or two..

Turning at random he nearly drops the diary as he comes across this page.

Dear Diary,
A month ago my dear friend Elizabeth BroadSmyth has given birth to Zulah a baby girl and she is so precious.
She loves to play with my Rachel’s fingers when they are near.
Rachel was born three days before her.

He thinks, this is my lady love

Rachelbond

Rachel had packed just what she needed for a short trip, leaving the rest of her meagre belongings in her room. She tiptoed across the hall and down the stairs, hoping not to disturb people with her early morning departure.
It was strange to think that she felt she was leaving home; she paused at the door, before gathering her resolve and stepping out into the yard where the other wagon should stand prepared.

--Renki

Helping Rachel up onto the Wagon, handing her the reins of Pilgrim, a small, stocky but biddable bay gelding, Renki then nods to her saying, Be safe Lady Rachel. I be there if needed. And watching as she sighs, flicks the reins over Pilgrim's back and he move off, Renki nods....

Hydrarider

Hy, seeing the wagon starting to move, realizes it is his Sister Rachel. He hurries out side to see her off.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

--Franklin

Rubbing his eyes, they stinging from all the work he has been doing deciphering the latest diary he was sent, Franklin sighs heavily. Not only is this the Diary of the Lady Shirinova’s Grandfather, but it seems to be a full record of all the offspring Sir Hydrarider’s Father, sired before the Grandfather killed him. Written in a Coptic dialect, tis not easy for Franklin to decipher – yet progress he has made. He has confirmed that not only were there 12 mistress, but that all had children – in some cases, two or more. Moreover, not all are of Gypsy stock but are of the Aristocracy and the lower classes. The Sire, it seems to Franklin, was none too choosy – nor none too careful. Indeed Shirinova’s Grandfather was paid a bounty by many a father and husband scorned, to kill the travelling Casanova. Pinching the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes for a moment, he again sighs. He needs to eat...

Several hours later and with the last of one Diary Section completed, Franklin clears his throat. Twins to be added to the family tree, he thinks aloud now, Ysabella and Salinah. And Ringgenie another brother. Deciding to go for a walk, he leaves his room....

Salinah

After slaughtering pigs all day for the Mayor, Salinah makes her way to the Foxy Tigress for a bite to eat.

On her way into the doorway, she almost knocks Franklin down, who looks distracted and truly distressed.

What is the trouble Sir Franklin? She asks him, concerned. Is everything alright?

--Franklin

Recovering himself rather admirably, clearing his throat and nodding to the young woman, Franklin then smiles saying, Why yes M'dear. Just lost in though... his words trail off. Oh my! he exclaims now, My my! Salinah - dear child, how nice to see you! I was just reading about you and your sister in a um diary. he lets slip without thinking. Then catching himself he says, I need to read more though to know more. Um. you don't have anything from your Mother do you? he asks hopefully as that occurs....

Salinah

Salinah was taken aback at the mention of a diary. The mere mention of her mother recalled feelings of distress she and Ysabella have been dealing with for years since her death. She wondered what dear Franklin could be talking about?

A diary? What diary are you speaking of? She asks rather surprisedly. The only thing we have of our mother's, is an old wooden jewelry box. But there was nothing of value inside it, save for a few trinkets and things. Our family didn't have much.

Looking at Franklin's strained expression, Salinah became concerned that something was not quite right. How would he know about her mother? Why would he be asking if they had anything in their possession that belonged to her?

Rachelbond

Rachel arrived back. The wagon had fish and bread to trade now, having sold the wood.
She paused and breathed deeply, before taking her gear inside the FT.
Once she had refreshed herself she headed down to the bar and sat herself in the corner with a large ale.

This new family would need some learning she had decided.

--Franklin

At the mention of the Jewellery box Franklin's brows rise ever so slightly and his heart quickens....

Clearing his throat as gently as he can, he says, Ah never mind the Diary, Dear Child, tis in a language most obscure and therefore hard to.... his words trail off.. Um a jewellery box you say. he starts anew trying hard to curb his excitement, Might I take a look at it?

Salinah

Might I take a look at it?

Salinah sees a noticeable glint in Franklin's eye at the mere mention of an old jewelry box and becomes even more curious to get some answers.

I'll have to find my sister and tell her of this. Either she or I will bring you the box. Salinah turns to leave and go find Ysabella.

Ysabella

Ysabella, after working in her sister Lina's veggie field, decided to take a break to eat and drink. She stops at The Foxy Tigress and surprisingly finds it's doors locked and decides to go to The Laughing Dutchess. She finds her good friends, Darleen, Sugarbear, and Ringgenie, in there, laughing and talking so she decides to grab a bite there. What a lovely and fun atmosphere! I could really use some cheering up! she thinks to herself, pleased she can improve her mood whilst fueling her body for the work remaining for the day! Soonafter, Lina enters The Laughing Dutchess and informs Ysabella of Franklin's inquiry. Ysabella listens attentively and wonders to herself seems like I packed some old stuff up with my OWN things when we moved....WAIT! I think I have our mother, Emilia's, jewelry box, in my things back at Lina's house! Ysabella tells Lina this and assures her that she will get the box to Franklin as soon as she can, hoping that maybe there is SOME indication as to the girls' role in this Markov family lineage....

Ysabella runs out of The Laughing Dutchess and over to The Foxy Tigress and finds the doors now unlocked! Elated and relieved, she sees Franklin sitting at the bar and places the empty jewelry box in his hands. Ysabella turns to Franklin and says My sister and I appreciate all the help you've given us, Franklin! Now, this jewelry box is verrry old. I noticed that there's a flimsy backing on the inside, but I've always tried to keep it tacked with old dried sorghum syrup. I really hope that you'll be able to tell us something about all of this...

--Franklin

Carefully taking the ancient looking item, gently opening the lid and seeing for himself the backing to the lid, Franklin nods knowingly. Ah yes. he says sagely as he fingers the backing carefully, I see what you mean Child. And looking her in the eye he says, Be rest assured I will take great care of it as I examine it. Closing it almost reverently, he bows slightly to her and goes back into the Foxy Tigress and up to his room...

Working swiftly to remove the backing from the jewellery box, pulling it down slightly and seeing what he knew had to be there, he takes out the piece of paper and opens it out.... and grins. The Code. he says under his breath, Just as the Diary said. Crossing to the Diary, picking it up and opening it, he nods as he scans a few pages of the next section quickly..... Yes, he states firmly, just as I suspected, Markov left behind the clues needed to find his offspring. More, his Killer also left clues. Looking again into the jewellery box, fingering through the trinkets and other items he soon sees what he is after and takes it out. You. he states to the item, Are just what I'm after. And closing the box slowly, pocketing the item, he leaves the room and heads out once more...

Shirinova

Entering the Foxy Tigress to retrieve her belongings and seeing the Mayor and Owner of the Tavern seated at a table, he beckoning her over, Shiri goes to him and within minutes leaves the bar area for her room. A Trade Mission. Shouting down to Renki from her room window, telling him to ready the Caravan, she goes to pack her bags....

About to leave the Tavern soon after, seeing her Brother, Hydra, hearing him tell her that he and Zulah are off to Arundel, She nods telling him she will join them, that she too has reason to travel. Seeing him nod, she continues on her way. She needs tell Rachel.....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Laike

Arriving at the Foxy Tigress and dismounting, freezing as a female voice calls down in the chill of the early morning air to the Farmhand in the rear courtyard that he has to make ready the Caravan, Laike sighs heavily in annoyance. This Markov Family stays put for never a moment it seems to him. Mounting up as the Farmhand returns to the Stabling area, Laike rides back the way he came. Today is not the day

Shirinova

Arrives back in Sevenoaks none the worst for wear and makes her way to the Foxy Tigress and takes a seat and chats with Family as they pile in....

As time goes on and others arrive the conversation turns to that of travel and of good times - until Shiri looks at the barmaid's stool, to Mo, and back to the stool again.... And then comes the answer she least expected.... That Aliciaanne, in order to keep her around, has been made the bartender - of both the Foxy Tigress and the 7th Oak......

For a long time there is utter silence as the news sinks in... For Shiri there is only utter devastation and shock, astonishment and bewilderment that all she has worked for, all she has loved, has slowly and finally, been removed from her leaving her feeling utterly and completely - gutted. With the job of Bar Maid of the Foxy Tigress stripped from her, removed and given to another, without so much as a Mail or warning, Morrandir has done to her the worst of things, taken from her, her baby, her home, that which SHE made great....

Looking down at her boots, numb with sorrow and grief, Shirinova makes the only decision she can, she gets to her feet and quietly leaves the Foxy Tigress...

Going out to her wagon she gets into the driver's seat and slaps Dusty into a trot and heads out of the Courtyard without a word and heads for the Forest, her mind too numb to even think beyond the horse's head which she barely even sees for tears....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Franklin

Frowning, listening to the reasons for events, gasping, Franklin hurries to find a horse....

Grabbing the only one with a bridle, not even remembering he's not that good a rider, Franklin rides out to find the Lady Shirinova....

--Renki

Pushed out of the way, watching as the Lawyer mounts up on the Tavern pony, Renki scratches his head wondering what on earth has gotten into the man - and his Lady.... Then seeing the One that is forever shadowing them suddenly ride past the open stable doors Renki frowns as a really bad feeling suddenly starts to engulf him.....

Shirinova

Arriving at the one place that provided her with solace, sighing, Shirinova contemplates the past.... then seeing a butterfly she smiles and heads back...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Renki

Greeting his Lady upon her return, Renki smiles broadly as she smiles at him on her way inside the Tavern. Returning to his duties, he sighs happily...

Rachelbond

Travel has made her tired, and Rachel welcomes a chance to spend times at peace.

--Renki

Checking the running gear after hitching Dusty and Misty to the appropriate wagons, Renki completes the task of loading them up and then waits the Ladies in the Drivers seat of His Lady's wagon, then seeing Franklin run out, hoist his bags into the wagon of the Lady Rachel and sneak into the rear of it he rolls his eyes...

Rachelbond

Realising it is time to move, Rachel makes her way to the driving seat

Shirinova

Taking her place on the wagon, her thoughts on her money woes, Shirinova bids Renki to get then moving...

Waving to Bro as they pass the front of the Tavern soon after, she sighs and starts to relax....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Rachelbond

She notices the relaxation in her sister's shoulders and smiles.
She waves at Hy and knows how much she will miss him,
She then turns her attention to the journey ahead, looking foreward to the fun ahead.

Shirinova

Drives her wagon like a demon from Canterbury to Sevenoaks and halts it outside the Foxy tigress and races her Sister into the bar.... and loses - again!!

Slightly annoyed but too happy to be home to be in a bad mood for long, Shiri is soon enjoying the company of friends and the fact that the tavern is open in her home Town

Not even getting beer bombed by Zredeal three times can dampen her mood. She's just happy to be home!!!!
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Shirinova

Several days later and remembering something, Shiri goes out to the wagons and looks inside one then grins...

Waking Googleywob up she says, Come on you, you're missing out on all the fun!! with an impish grin. Then seeing his look she takes off at a run....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

--Franklin

Watching as the pair run off into the Foxy Tigress, sneaking into the Lady Shirinova's Wagon, retrieving what he had secreted there earlier, a pouch and small parcel, Franklin then heads for the Stables - and while Renki is busy with mucking out the stalls, he heads for the loft are where the rest of what he has secreted awaits him....

Some minutes later, and sneaking back out of the Stables, Franklin goes quickly to his room to assemble what he needs for his next Mission....

An hour later and all packed, and hearing the Lady Shirinova issuing orders to ready the caravan for another journey to Arundel, he smiles and nods thinking, All coming together nicely. One more clue and I will be able to finally reveal something most interesting to the Markovs. But for now, tis to Arundel I need to go....

Rachelbond

No rest for the wicked...
Rachel readied the horses and awaited the arrival of the rest of the caravan. Four wagons this time she decides.

Shirinova

Stowing her bags and meagre trading supplies, Shiri climbs up onto the wagon and clicks her tongue for Dusty to move out....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Fares

Arrives to Sevenoaks, and takes a walk around town for hours and hours, starting to get tired spotting a tavern just few 100 meters ahead of him "The Foxy Tigress"

Enters the tavern and starts meeting town's citizens finds it an amazing tavern and a great town to settle in.[/i]

Shirinova

Sees the Newcomer and soon finds him to be amiable and starts to fill him in on things Sevenoaks along with her Sister, Rachel and her "friend" Wavy....

Soon all are chatting and getting to know each other as Shiri starts to prepare the evening meals...
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Fares

After hours of listening carefully to every word spoken, started to relax about this town "I think this is the best place I ever been into" everything is perfect, the citizens are so friendly and so helpful.

Goes back home and starts organizing his plans on how will his RK life will continue.

Hydrarider

Hy meets Fares briefly and welcomes him to town, glad to see another person coming into the tavern.
Well met Fares. good to meet you.
_________________

Husband of the wonderful and beautiful Lady Zulah B. Markov, The Baroness of Southwick. Hy Baron of Dartford

Fares

Hello Hy, pleasure was all mine

A long conversation went through, listening to advices from him, catching alot of basic information about various stuff, including army,militia and the tasks of them.

Shirinova

Arriving in Sevenoaks, weary from the journey, Shirinova enters the Foxy Tigress to find her Brother, Hydra, Fares, Rachel, Nahren, Elliejune and Nolman already seated... Greeting them all with hugs, she then kisses Fares and sighs happily.... She is home....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Fares

Welcoming her with a big huge kiss saying

Welcome home hon, it's glad to have you back here!

Soon later after the welcoming, surprises started moving around the tavern, and soon later everyone seemed happy.

Violajade

Violajade was meandering, pondering the world, as she often did during her "in between" hours. On this particular day she walked with a song on her heart. The days were not so bleak now, as they had been when she first came to SevenOaks. As she meandered, she listened to people in the street. The world was buzzing with gossip. "Shiri is back!", she heard one woman say. Viola immediately spun about, heading in the direction of the Tavern. After returning from a journey they were sure to be there. Her mind began racing...she couldn't wait to hear all the tales of the road and news from abroad. As she got closer she heard a commotion of people laughing and talking. She hurried her steps and was quickly through the heavy tavern door...

"Hello Everyone!" she sang as she burst in on the sea of smiling faces. "Welcome back! How were your travels this time?"

Several people began responding at once, and Viola grinned, listening intently, and began drifting towards the bar...

Shirinova

Grinning as Jade walks up to the bar, Shiri pours her an Ale and accompanies her to the table where the action is and smiles at those already there....
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Shirinova

Sighing heavily as she looks around the bar.... Shirinova thinks back to the happy times.... sad times... bad times....

She remembers that first night, how nervous she and Morrandir were, how much depended on her approval, his acceptance, their co-operation....

Nodding, remember that night, smiling, she then lowers her head and swallows hard.... It just fell apart... he got lazy, She tried too hard.... they drifted apart.... it ended in a blaze of his anger leaving her..... Don't say it...her words echo hollowly....

Giving the place one last dusting, one last caring clean, Shirinova again sighs and silently wishes the Foxy Tigress well......

She will still think of this as her home, as partly hers, but, she will never again know the fun she had. Hell if Mo haf no interest in coming here then why the hell should she?

Looking around one last time, picking up her bags, the Lady Shirinova Markov, Baroness of Knepp heads outside and into the dark of the rainy night and heads for the waiting Caravan......
_________________

6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Cynth

Cynth avoided the Foxy Tigress like plague. But the time had come. She had avoided it to stop the anguish it would cause people. She knew the importance this place had for lovely Shiri and Morr.

Cynth had given enough time to both of them. Morr was hers. She was sure Shiri being the gracious host she was, would help as usual.

As she enters the FT she sees Shiri go out. Smiling and waving a bye to her, Cynth goes to the upstairs study and bedroom of Morrandir. He had given her a key earlier and she used it to let herself in.

Once inside, she takes her time looking at her surrounding and smiles softly. "So this is him" she whispers faintly. Humming a tune she changes into her night dress and slips inside the covers.. Within minutes she was sound asleep.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

--Franklin

Closing his bag after once more making sure he has everything, he sighs....

For many days, weeks, over a month, Franklin has been busy. Reading, pouring over his books and gathering that which he needs for an undertaking that is now well overdue....

Books both rare and old have been consulted, notes taken and transferred to a Journal and only now does he feel able, and comfortable, with that he is about to take on. Yet he has so many fears....

He’s working from information, while old, he trusts, yet may have changed markedly since the Writers times – so too maps. Then again where he is going, very few would go or want to go – or would know too go... More, he has to make sure he is not followed to these places - and to that end he has enlisted aid......

Picking up his bags, he heads out of the Foxy Tigress wondering if he will ever see it again – ever see those he has been retained by, almost calls, friends.

Without looking back, he heads for his first destination, The Caravan.....

Morrandir

There he stood once more. At the bottom of the steps of his tavern. How long it had been since he last set eyes on his pride and joy, he could not even remember.

Seeing someone come out and pull the door closed, Mor frowned briefly. As the man came down, Mor gave him a less than friendly look and saw to it that the man took notice of it. After the brief exchange of looks and as the man went on his way, Mor returned his attention to what mattered.

Walking up the steps, like he had so many times before, he came to the front door. He gently let his fingers glide along the surface of the sturdy oaken door and a grin emerged on his face. It was raining rather heavily, but Mor was home and in no hurry. He would savour this moment.

As his hand went to the key chain around his neck and pulled out the large iron key, he spoke softly. "Lets see if you still answer to your true masters touch, shall we." With a slight tremble he slid the key in the keyhole, took a deep breath and turned the key.

As that click of metal sounded as clearly as ever, he was suddenly overcome with emotion. Truly his absence had been a long one, but now all would be well.

Morrandir pushed the door open, stepped in his tavern and took a look around. Everything seemed to be in order. Even the ale and food he had ordered had arrived earlier that day and there was no danger of running out as he was back to run the tavern properly.

Going down to the bar area, Mor lit the fireplaces and began preparing meals for the patrons. Next he went out to the front door and nailed a big sign on it.
Only people with a pulse allowed inside. Pets can come in too! (OOC: No more NPC's in this thread unless permission has been given by the thread author)

Then he returned inside. He was where he belonged.
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Miffle

Joy oh Joy thought Miffle as she recognised the back of her very valued friend. Without a second thought she leaped from the back of Merlin (who careered off down the lane)and shot into the tavern to hug Mor and hear all the news.

Morrandir

Stirring some meats in a pot, Mor suddenly hears footsteps coming down the flight of stair behind him. Turning to see who it is, his face lights up.

"Miff! Welcome, come in! Come in!" Mor hugs his dear friend warmly and shows her to a table near the roaring fireplace. "Here, let me take that wet cloak off you. Nice weather we are having," he chuckles softly. May I pour you some hot tea or perhaps an ale. Are you hungry? After hanging her cloak to dry, Mor walks to the bar to get some ales to start with. "Tell me, how have you been?"
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Fares

Walking back after a long working day to have a drink or two.. He was feeling so cold and was trembling.. Just thinking of one thing.. When will I get to the FT.. and meet friends to talk to and have fun with..

He arrives at the Foxy Tigress's door.. and enters seeing everyone he smiles and waved to them all

Cynth

Cynth was woken up by the ruckus...She turns and touches the other side of the bed looking for Morr. Realising he had not turned in for the night, she wears an overcoat and tiptoes her way down. What she sees makes her lose her mind.

A lady with delectable body, her curves visible with her clothes plastered to her..Morr undressing her..

Cynth was about to claw them both apart when Fares enters the Inn. As he enters the lady turns and Cynth feels weak with relief. It was Miffle. Sweet, gorgeous Miffle!!!

With a silly grin on her face she calls out to Morr "If you have finished there, can we had something to warm us up Ole' man?" She walks down the steps hurriedly and hugs Miffle, getting all wet in the process.

She then almost drags Fares inside.. "Come in! out of the rain!"
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Hearing his love's voice suddenly brings a wide grin on Mor's face. "Hello beautiful, did you find my study? Had a nap?"

Going to Cynth, he wraps her in a shawl to keep her warm and kisses her cheek softly. "Take a seat, catch up with Miff for a while and I'll be right with you two with some hot tea."

Noticing Fares enter, Mor gets another cup for him as well, some extra ale tankards, a pitcher full of ale and somehow manages to bring it all to their table in one go.
"Ha! I still got it," he smirks and takes a seat. "Cheers, friends!"
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Miffle

CYNTH, Miffle squeals in delight, you look amazingly radiant, guess that means you are VERY well loved, knew you would be though, hummmm maybe girl talk for another time hey. Miffle grins at Mor who is showing off his skills as a landlord and enjoying the whole business of being welcomed home. She sees another face she is not sure she knows and hears the names Fares. Gently Miffle disentangles herself and shyly introduces herself to the tall man staring down at her.

Violajade

Weary from the days work, and wretched news, Viola stumbled back into the Foxy Tigress. She felt a twinge of guilt for not stopping in at the Seventh Oak, but her friends were here, so she stumbled on.

She grinned a chesire cat grin as she noticed the people relaxing and enjoying themselves. "Hello Fares!" She said hugging him, beginning her sweep around the room. "It feels like forever since I've seen you!" She wondered if she felt the same twinge of sadness that she did. She shook this thought off and noticed another face, "Hello Miffle," she said, and smiled warmly. "Its good too see you." She turned and faced Mo and Cynth, "Hello again dear friends" She settled into a cushioned seat near a window. "A round of Ale for everyone Mo!" she exclaimed.
"Glad to see you both back" she said to Mo and Cynth, and then she turned her attention to Miffle and Fares..."How are you both doing? It's been so long since I've seen you!"

Cynth

Cynth smiles as he covers her with a shawl. Sighing, still touched with his thoughtfulness she sits with Miffle and Fares.

Though she was conversing with both Miffle and Fares, her eyes drifted to Morr from time to time. Faintly smiling she nods at something Fares said, not quite knowing what was said.

Finally he joined the table and she could concentrate on the conversation.
"Show off" she whispers in Morr's ears as he comes back juggling the pitchers and tankards.

She almost jumps out of her chair as Viola enters. "V! great to see you! and thank you for that figurine you made for me. That is just perfect."

"Yes, We are back" She says softly looking at Morr.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Salinah

Salinah enters the Foxy Tigress just as the Mayor was buying a round of ale for everyone. She perked up because she needed that drink very much, hoping it would boost her mood.

She undid her cloak and hung it on a nearby hook. Grabbing a chair at the table with Fares, Cynth and her new friend, Miffle, Salinah greeted both ladies warmly, and she lightly chatted with Miffle about her recent visit to the Manor.

As the yellow-orange flames flickered off the fireplace casting a beautiful glow around the room, Salinah looked over at Cynth and said, I have to agree with Miffle...Cynth, you're looking absolutely radiant.

Salinah then waved at Fares, whom she hadn't seen in awhile, and smiled at the lovely ViolaJade, catching her eye as she sat over by the window, Salinah raised her mug to thank her for it.

Mo, the place looks great! Cheers!

Morrandir

Sitting close to his darling, Mor listens the conversation and occasional bursts of laughter that echo in the tavern. He feels more at home than in a long while and it's all thanks to the woman next to him. Giving her a light kiss on the cheek, he gets up to bring the thirsty patrons another round of refreshing ale and some salted pork titbits cut from the meat of his very own pigs. He knew how to keep his customers good and thirsty.

Seeing the Mayoress enter and immediately shout a round of ales after taking a seat, Mor gave a little chuckle. "Hard day at the office ay? I remember those. This one's on me everyone," he announced and brought three more pitchers full of ale to the table. Giving Viola a reassuring hug, he retook his place next to his love.

Just as he sat down again, Salinah came in. Mor tried to see if she was with anyone, when she unexpectedly praised his establishment. "Well, thank you, milady. I do feel the new seating arrangement makes the place appear more spacious." Noticing that she had truly arrived alone and no one came in after her, Mor went on. "Now... what is that husband of yours up to and why is he not with you?"
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Salinah

Salinah swallows some ale and nods her agreement that the spacious seating arrangement has allowed for more patrons to sit comfortably.

She chuckled softly. The hubby is working hard at the mines office today. It's possible he may meet up with me here, later. Leaning in to Mo to share a whisper. I sometimes take a break from working the mines, to come to the taverns for a quick drink and some fellowship, seeing as how I'm the wife of the Mines Superintendent, I can get away with that sometimes...not all the time. She winked and smiled.

Cynth

Cynth smiles as she sees the pride in Linah's eyes when she spoke about Krissy. She chuckles a bit as she remembers how Linah had dragged her mines superintendent husband on the floor...

"Erm...Morr does have lots of table clothes" Cynth adds snickering. She then proceeds to regale Miff, Viola and Fares about the stories of newlyweds and multiple uses of table cloth..

She occasionally took a sip of her ale and looked up to see the smile on her love's face. Feeling quite blissful at that sight, and with the wonderful company, for the first time, Cynth was feeling quite relaxed in Sevenoaks.

She reaches forward and squeezes Salinah's hand.."I am happy for you both. Kris does look very happy. And that is all that matters, your happiness."

She nibbles on the snack as the conversation flows...
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Miffle

This is exactly how life should work there is such happy love here thought Miffle before snuggling down in the corner to listen to the others chatter. She did smile to herself remembering an autumn afternoon under a Spanish chestnut tree covered only her lover not that long before she arrived in Sevenoaks. How surprised they would be was her last thought before she slipped into a contented doze.

Morrandir

Smiling at Salinah's private confession to him, Mor whispered back in a not so quiet voice. "Already showing signs of favouritism, eh? Oh, he will make a fine addition to the pool of crooked Sussex politicians!" At the end of his sentence, his voice had grown loud enough that everyone could easily hear his words.

The quickest response came from the woman next to him as Cynth covertly stomped his toes under the table in a not so gentle manner and gave him a glare that spoke in volumes without any words being said.

Wincing slightly, Mor grumbled and hobbled over to the bar to get more ale for the patrons and to let out a few muffled curses as his toes throbbed from the loving correction his woman had just given him.

He quietly listened as Cynth changed the topic to table cloths and what had transpired in the tavern the other day between the young couple. Mor couldn't help but smile at her, when she glanced at him at the bar. She was making sure everyone felt welcome in his tavern and even the pain in Mor's toes had already subsided. The ale helped, of course.

Mor glanced at Miffle, who seemed to have drifted off to some distant, but still comforting memory. Mor nodded to her quietly and took a sip from his ale. Things are looking up, he thought to himself as he kept listening to the others talk.
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Princeb

Runs into The Foxy Inn with a smile. Thinking of every secound of all the fun of this party Kris is throwing.

He shouts as soon as he gets to the nearest seat "PARTY"

Kris80

Kris swings open the door of the Foxy Tigress, to make an impressive entrance. He announces his arrival to the tavern Kris, the crooked politician has arrived at last! he practically shouted before bounding into the tavern tripping over the doorstep, stumbling forward into a table, making a fool of himself in front of everyone as usual. He looks up and around the room, all eyes on him, grinning with embarrassment.

The clumsy crooked politician has arrived he mumbles before adding So let's get this party started! He walked over to his wife Salinah, pulling her into a hug, kissing her passionately before sticking his tongue out at Cynth and waiting for the other arrivals.
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Fry

After spending a few hour staring at his veggies, Fry grows weary and decides to head to the Foxy Tigress.

He wasted no time in getting there as he needed to talk to non vegetables before he really lost it. Fry looked at the wooden door, turns the handle and pushing the door open with his other hand he gets a splinter in his thumb. The door continues to open but Fry stands still looking at his splinter. He thinks "should of stayed with the veggies, They at least wouldn't of hurt him." He looks up and notices everyone sitting around drinking and have a good time. Fry takes a seat waving to everyone.

Araluenne

Ara heard about the party Kris was throwing. It was supposed to have started 5 minutes ago. And she just woke up!! "I'm late! I'm late! For a very important date! I'm late! I'm late! I'm late!... And I am not a white bunny" After just three hurried attempts, she gets her clothes on the right way. Tripping down the stairs, she grabs Thebe from the foot and tucks him into her coat pocket. As a second thought, she runs back into the kitchen and grabs a pie she had baked earlier in the day. She was pretty sure it was blackberries. Shrugging, she skips off towards the Foxy Tigress. And arrives in time to spot Kris sprawled across the floor. "Have you all been drinking without me already?"
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Cynth

Cynth had just started feeling sorry for stomping on Morr's toes when she is startled by a shout of PARTY!

She first notices Princeb followed by Krissy..who strangely tripped and fell flat infront of Salinah's feet. Cynth smirks and was about to make a comment when Fry joins them. She looked concerned at the wince on his face and notices the splinter on his thumb.

Cynth looks at Morr and then at Salinah hoping either one of them would know how to help Fry.

It wasn't long before another entrance takes her attention. The vivacious Ara had entered the tavern and something fluffy was peeking through pocket.

Ara! she rushes and hugs her "We have been drinking free ale! which the mayoress and the tavern owner had kindly provided to us!"

"Now Krissy here...I think he is just kissing his wife's feet" Cynth whispers to Ara with a impish grin on her face.

She goes on to introduce everyone to each other and looks at Morr smiling. "Honey..you need a barmaid....and lots of Ale!!! and perhaps a croc who could take the splinter off Fry's thumb...hmm.."
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Avatea

Avatea had not been feeling particularly well, the weather had not been nice to her .. or perhaps it was something funny that she had eaten, but she was confident it was nothing that a nice, long walk wouldn't cure. Or a mug or three of ale. She was not going to choose walking ove ale, no.. and the party Kris was throwing sounded perfect. She had received word that it was in full swing down at The Foxy Tigress, so that was where she was headed.

Walking past several doors, Ava rounds a corner and stops in her tracks, having finally reached her destination. She makes her way up the steps and gives the oaken door a soft push, to have it swing open for her easily. Stepping in, she lets it swing shut behind her and gazes around, smiling.

There's Ara.. with pies!! And Fry.. and Cynth..Morrandir, Salinah and Kris .. Prince, and a few faces not familiar to her.

"So, how many rounds of ale have I missed?" she asks jokingly.
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Thank you Sephie ♥

Fry

After he sat down, In came Ara. Fry gave her a wave and focuses his attention back on his thumb. Not painful was this splinter but it was one of the most annoying things he had encountered, besides a select few people. After a few seconds he has successfully removed the splinter(No Croc needed) and with relief sighs.

Fry looks up and notices Ava walk in. He smiles and watches Ava walk across the floor. Fry says " I don't think anyone has started a round since i walked in."

Princeb

Grabs 10 cups of beer off of the counter and set them up on a table close to him.

Whispers to Morrinder "How much do I have to pay"
Then shouts "Free beer"

Morrandir

Mor was enjoying the rather quiet tavern, when suddenly a rowdy youngster comes through the door screaming something about a party.

Frowning for a moment, Mor thought about retreating to the same calm place where Miff seemed to be, but decided against it and instead served the young man a non-alcoholic beverage. "Does your mother know you are here, Prince?" With a friendly grin on his face, Mor passed a glass of apple cider to him.

Just as he was about to ruffle Prince's hair all out of shape, the Sussex Mines Superintendent entered the tavern and took a wee tumble. Watching Kris recover quickly, Mor went to him with something to drink. "My friend, usually my policy is that, if you are old enough to marry, you are old enough to drink in my tavern. However, by the looks of your less than graceful entrance, I must use my better judgement and serve you... this." Mor placed a glass of the very same apple cider in front of Kris as he had just served to Prince. "Enjoy." Mor patted Kris on the shoulder and chuckling softly welcomed Araluenne with a warm hug. "A drink perhaps, milady?"

Mor was about to ask about her pie, when Fry makes his more tranquil entrance. Noticing the man carefully inspecting his finger for some reason, Mor waves back at him. "I think you're right, honey," he exclaimed to Cynth, as he yet again made his way to the bar to get more ale, "I do need a barmaid."

Coming back to the table, and seeing Fry had solved the issue with his finger on his own, Mor shoves a drink in the man's hand. "That should take your mind off your thumb, salud!!"

Hearing another female voice behind him, Mor turns to see Avatea asking about rounds. "Ha! Don't listen to Fry, we've had quite a few actually! You wouldn't be interested in carrying the ales to the table for me, would you Avatea? Barmaids spot seems to have been left vacant, at least temporarily."

Shaking his head in amusement at Prince's enthusiasm, Mor sets ales on the table for everyone else as well.

Finally taking a seat next to Cynth again, he snuggles in and sips his own ale quietly.
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Mousie

Mousie approached the tavern, she walked into the tavern turning to take her cloak off to hang it up. Mousie finally managed to get it off with a little difficulty. She took the wooden stick back into her other hand and started walking toward the bar. The bartender smiled at her, and without a word gave her a mug of ale. He whispered don't tell Mo, but it is on the house, I am pleased to see you out and about.

Mousie smiled with a nod, she took a sip of her ale and hoped to see Mo soon before she got to tired to where she had to take her leave.

Araluenne

Araluenne hugs Morrandir back. He looked suspiciously like someone who had been woken up abruptly. Placing the pie in his hands, she says "How about ten drinks instead?" with a twinkle in her eye. Grabbing a drink from the counter, she perches on a stool, swinging her legs rather happily as she took a long swig from her mug.
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Avatea

Well, that sounds good then, Ava thought, as Fry informed her that the drinks had not started flying yet. She took one step forward, when Morrandir came around and told her just the opposite. Ava chuckled. When she was handed a tray bearing drinks, she nodded unsurely.

She did not know about bartending for The Foxy Tigress just then, but she balanced the tray on her arms and turned to Morrandir, smiling. "I will carry these ales to the table, don't you worry about it."

Ava stopped by Ara first. She was sitting up on a stool by the counter, drinking deeply from her mug. "Here you go," Ava placed one ale before her and grinned. Then she made her way to the table everyone sat surrounding, and set the tray down gently, a smile playing across her face.

"I brought more drinks!"
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Thank you Sephie ♥

Princeb

Looks at the Cider Mo set in front of him and then looks up at Mo.

"You have to be kidding me mate. I bought ale and I want to drink."

Looks at the Cider then look at Mo again.

"And don't you touch my hair."

Cynth

Cynth looks at her sweet man keeping the patrons happy and beams proudly. She kisses the tip of his nose as he comes to sit beside her. Her smile dimmed a little when she hears Prince, but she smiled nonetheless at her man and ruffles his hair grinning.

She listens in to Ava and Fry talking and looks at Miffle still sleeping. Viola was looking out the window from her seat. She smiles at Mousie and looks on as Morr goes about running his inn.

Seeing that everyone was distracted, Cynth goes back up the stairs and packs her bags, changing back to her travelling clothes she comes down and leaves the key on the table.

She then sips on the tea and prepares to leave.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Fry

After entering Mo hands Fry a drink, he chuckles at Mo's words and says "I'm sure it will" He starts sipping away and glancing around the room. Mo moved to talk to Ava about bar-tendering and Kris was chatting up with Sal. Fry chuckled to himself as Mo hands Prince a nonalcoholic drink but had just given himself an alcoholic one. Looks like Mo knows how Prince gets with one too many. Fry laughs nodding his head from left to right( A skill Ava had taught him). Moving his eyes back across the room he notices Cynth all packed up and ready to go and wonders where she is off to. He decides to mind his own business and lets his eyes wander. His eyes lead him towards Ara and pie. His mind wanders on what flavor it might be and almost stands up in thoughts of doing the pie dance.

Noticing Ava coming around the room with more drinks, he quickly chugs the rest of his drink and sets it on the table. He gently knocks the mug over on purpose in hopes to grab Ava's attention and land himself another drink. He looks up to see if his little plan works.

Morrandir

Slicing up Ara's delicious looking pie and handing out shares to the people sitting at the table, Mor grins at her drink request and nods toward Avatea. "I do believe my new barmaid will have to decide the appropriate compensation for this lovely pie... be it the one ale she already gave you or ten more."

Sliding a slice of pie to Prince, Mor gave the man a nod. "As you wish." He placed an ale in front of Prince from the tray which had been brought to the table and smiled a thank you to Ava for her help.

Mor grabs a full tankard and raises it in the air. "To my new barmaid! To Avatea! May she have a steady serving hand and an unending patience with her employer!" He can be quite the scoundrel sometimes... Mor thought to himself and turned to grin at Cynth, only to realise she was not at his side any more.

As Mor got up, he notices Mousie and gives her a quick hug. "Would you excuse me for a moment, I will be back shortly." Leaving his tankard on the bar and swiping something off the table, he then goes to the second floor landing before Cynth has a chance to slip out completely unnoticed.

"Leaving?" He asks softly and slides the key she had left on the table back in her pocket. "You forgot this. No one else will ever have a use for it." Placing his finger on her lips before she can respond, Mor quickly adds. "Do not say goodbye."
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Cynth

Cynth stood still as she looked up to his face...her eyes had closed when he had slipped the keys in her pocket... When he started speaking she bites her lips to keep from crying out...she could not however stop a wayward tear from escaping her eyes...She tried blinking them away..to try...to not let him see how much his words had touched her.

When he places his finger on her lips, she comes undone...Barely were the words out of his mouth that she reaches for him. Breathing choppily she buries her face in his chest and tries to calm down. "I love you.." She repeats those three words again and again like a litany as if to convince him. As if she wanted him to remember her every minute, that she was away. His arms around her, his fingers rubbing her back soon soothed her. She could have sworn she heard him whisper in her ears for all the times she had vowed her love to him..."Love you too"

She looks up at him and touches his face before tenderly kissing his lips. "Soon" was the only coherent word she could utter...but she was sure he understood.

She turned him towards the Inn and nudges him...."Go..before you have a crazy sobbing woman on your hands once more.." She hugged him from behind once more and draws back a step as he very slowly makes his way back. She was thankful he didn't look back. She couldn't have made it through the door if he had... She sighs softly looking at her love, and leaves the Foxy Tigress. He was in her heart. He was her heart.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Mousie

Mousie smiled and nodded at Mo. She took another sip of her ale. She then, got her cane like and walk her mug of ale got up to walk over to the table in the darkest corner. She sit down in the that corner listening to everyone talking. She had her elbows on the table holding her mug looking over it. Her mind wondered in deep thoughts. Some of the ppl in the tavern she knew not.

Mousie began to feel that she was back to her old self again. Mousie stared, at nothing particular. She was in space more less mind wondering. The barmaid came up to her straddling Mousie. Oh my Ms I am so sorry, I didn't mean to make you jump. Her is another mug of ale. Mousie smiled, nodding at her, after sipping the last bit she took the other mug and sipped out of it. Her mind wondering again but this time looking outside at the beauty of Mother nature.

Morrandir

Without looking back, Mor wanders down the stairs back to the bar floor. His mind in a haze after the emotional departure of his lady, he sits down heavily and drinks deeply from the tankard he had left on the bar.

Right now the crowded tavern was too much for him. He needed air and he needed to think. Finishing the last of his ale and grabbing a few extra bottles along, Mor went over to Ava and whispered to her. "I... need to to go out for a while, but I will be back." Mor gave her a reassuring nod and hoped she did not mind too much. In any case, he knew pretty much everyone in town and they were all free to come and go as they pleased as far as the tavern was concerned. The tavern would be in good hands and the patrons happy as long as the ale didn't run out...

Going behind the bar, Mor placed the bottles in his travel bag, swung it on his shoulder and took his staff and bow. He figured a calming walk in the Sevenoaks Forest was what he needed now. Seeing everything was in order, he quietly slipped out the back and headed for the woods.
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Avatea

The tipped over mug draws Ava's gaze back to Fry. Slowly shaking her head, she lifts an ale off the tray and sets it down on the table before him with a gentle thud. "Here's your ale," .. Reaching into the pockets of her apron, she pulls out a piece of cloth and wipes the table clean off the little ale that had trickled out of the upturned mug. Serving everyone their drinks, she collects the empty mugs and bearing the tray again, makes her way back to the counter.

Once behind the counter, she puts aside the tray and proceeds to refill Ara's drink. Helping herself to some pie, Ava sits back contentedly, surverying the room. She gets to her feet, a tad puzzled, when Mor approaches her. As he tells her that he needs to be away for a while, she nods quietly. "See you soon," she calls after him as he quietly slips out. Then she reverts her gaze back to the room again, and starts filling more mugs with ale, ready to be served whenever called for.

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Thank you Sephie ♥

Fry

After landing his second drink, Fry continues glancing around the room at people. It was quite busy in the tavern as usual and with Mo no where in sight, poor Ava had the whole tavern to run. He stood up and made his away across the busy tavern nodding and waving along the way. Soon he reached the the other side of the tavern and walked up to the busy Ava.

"Would you like some help? I noticed it was quite busy and figured i would give you a hand if you wanted" Fry said with a friendly smile.

Miffle

Stretching herself Miffle wondered what on earth all the noise was about. Opening her eyes she saw Ava and Fry busy handing out mugs of ale. It took her a little while to remember it was Mor and Cynths homecoming and she had fallen asleep! Oh by Jah she thought to herself before catching Frys eye and miming drink please.

Deema

walks in and looks around
nay sure who to ask
a drink is all she wants for the road
and the wind's new task

sits down wearing a frown
as if it be a crown
knows not why it be there
sits and stare
listening to the whispers of the air
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Serve with honor--Apprentice of Knights of Saint George--Dover TC & HM

Avatea

Ava returned Fry's warm smile with a smile of her own. He had come up to lend her a hand, and that was really nice. "Right now, I think I can handle things by myself," she told Fry. "But there are spare, clean aprons at the back..." she let her voice fade, so only her smile lingered. Her eyes soon found someone snuggled in the far corner, motioning to them for a drink. Nodding, Ava picked up a mug of ale and wove her way between the tables to get to Miffle. "Here you go,"she smiled, once she had reached her table and lowered the ale down in front of her.

As Ava made her way back to the counter, someone else walked in. The woman took a seat, a quiet frown crossing her face. Speeding past people, Ava lifted another ale onto her tray and approached the newcomer. Setting the drink down on the table, she stood back. "Anything else I can get you, miss?"
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Thank you Sephie ♥

Ysabella

Bells walks in and is happy to meet visitors from France: Rogue, Jen, and Antigone! After some nice conversation and drinks, the guests leave to pack for Canterbury and Bells, Ava, and Sara enjoy ladies night in the FT! Whew-hoo!

Shortly thereafter, Mo comes in and Bells and Sara get to play "dress-up" with him as they outfit him with pirate clothes. Aaargh! They all laugh and reminisce about their friend Cynth, hoping to see her soon, and drink some more...

Just as Bells feels her strength, intelligence, and charisma slipping, she decides it's time to head home and bids all a good night!

Shirinova

Looking around the dusty Tavern, shaking her head, Shiri listens to the memories of the building, the fun times, the sad times, the just plain bad times....

Dismissing them all from her mind, she sighs... The place has no bread and needs a damn good clean up....

Many hours later, the Bar area cleaned down, the windows cleaned, the fire ablaze, Shiri pours herself an Ale and takes a seat wondering who will come in....
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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

zulah

Entering the Foxy Tigress, for the first time in a long time, Zulah looks around and sees a lot of new faces milling about. The ale is flowing...

Off to the side she espies her dearest friend Shiri, who is looking quite weary.

" Greetings "Sis", Sorry I haven't been in. May I buy you an ale or two?
We must talk. ".
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Shirinova

hugging her sister-in-law, Zulah, Shiri smiles at her and nods to the offer of an Ale then cocks her head saying, Indeed, we haven't talked in ages.
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6xMayor of Sevenoaks, 5x Sussex Councillor, Full time Mentor,3X Mayor of Hastings, Sussex

Rachelbond

Finding the door barred to her, Rachel creeps in through the cellar. She takes a seat beside her dearest sister. Places an arm around her, reassuring her that family is still so very close to her.
Looking around she sees that her sister has been cleaning...
Nice work sis, looks so much better
Grinning, she orders a round of ale, passing a glass to Zulah, then to Shiri.
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Baroness of Bexhill. Markov Family. Dover in her heart, though her home is no longer there.

Miffle

Miffle felt like a ghost as she surveyed the Foxy Tiger. It was dusty and unloved in part because she had been unable to enter it, or in fact any of the other taverns for a great many months. Here now she wept a little for its desolation before hurling herself into cleaning and re stocking the bar. She lovingly polished the carved woodwork and swept the floors. The fireplace was full of ash so she cleaned it out and relaid the fire so that when Mor returned he would just have to strike a flint to the tinder and hopefully the fire would burst into a welcome warmth. Looking around satisfied with her work, Miffle whistled to Bundle her her dog who was snoozing under a table, and Icarus the owl who was hunting mice in the cellar, strode out of the Tavern locked the door with the old Iron Key she had promised to mind for her friend and set off to White Owl Church her own home on the edge of the forest.

Morrandir

Putting off his return to the tavern for as long as he could, Mor was finally standing at the bottom of those stone steps again. As to be expected, it was raining, but there was also a storm coming, Mor could feel it. Standing there, as he was quite sure the tavern had been neglected during his long stay in Hastings and Lewes, Mor found himself reluctant to enter. To his surprise, the windows still looked rather clean, as if someone had cleaned them not too long ago.

Ascending the steps to the door, Mor could see the run down state of the sign, which hung above the short archway to the door. "Foxy Tig ...", he tried to read the name but the end of it had already worn off. Due to the elements or because of some mischief, he could not say. Even one of the chains holding the heavy sign had broken off, causing it to hang crooked. He turned his gaze away from its sorry state.

At least the door still looked sturdy as Mor stopped and stood silently in front of it. Taking a deep breath and pressing his hand to its surface, as he had done countless times before, the man was almost convinced it would all but crumble under the pressure. Yet, the door held firm, no sign of ageing there. Pushing on the door harder it became evident that not all things had changed in his absence. "Still unyielding, eh... stubborn. How alike we are, you and I." Letting out his breath, a grin emerged on his lips. "Hope remains." With fortified determination, Mor took his key, unlocked the door and stepped into the dark.

As Mor was closing the door behind him, a strong gust of wind suddenly swung it shut with a loud bang. This was more than the single chain holding the sign outside could take and the whole thing came crashing down with a thunderous boom. Falling the distance of more than two grown men and striking the hard cobblestone street below was the killing blow to the already weakened sign. It cracked in half right down the middle, severing Foxy and Tigress for all time.

Opening the door again to calmly survey what exactly had happened, Mor sighed in relief. "And thus it ends," he spoke to himself, while kneeling down to pick up one of the splinters that had flown to the door from the force of the impact. Noticing a figure clad in all black pushing a wheelbarrow on the street, past the tavern, Mor calls out to the person. "Need firewood?!" The person stops, turns to Mor and simply gives a nod, or if the person did speak, Mor could not hear it over the driving rain. "Help yourself!", Mor shouted pointing at the two halves of the sign and went on to mumble to himself as he stood up and closed the door behind him once again, "I have little use for broken symbols of the past, long lost their meaning."

Pocketing the splinter, having a careful look around, things didn't seem as bad inside as he had thought. Leaning against the railing and taking a peek down at the bar floor below, Mor smiled as he could see all was in order and neatly in place. Then it suddenly dawned on him who he owed thanks for this delightful surprise and he yelped out his satisfaction in a single word. "Miffle!" She had once again saved his day.

My dear, thoughtful Miffle, I should have known I could depend on you, he thought while rushing down to the fireplace. He found it all clear of ash and wood already in place. Still grinning, Mor lit the tinder and in no time at all was enjoying the warmth of a crackling fire. Indeed everything was in order, Miffle had gone through some trouble to make sure of that and Mor felt truly grateful.

Making himself comfortable in front of the fireplace, with some ale in his tankard and cured meat on a platter, Mor started writing Miffle a message. She deserved thanks and he needed something from her as well. The Fortuitous Tale tavern, his home to be from now on, would need a new, mighty oaken sign and Miffle was the only person Mor would trust to craft it.

As he was penning the note, a small shadow emerged from under the bar side bed and fearlessly made its way to his right boot. Smiling down, Mor picked up his familiar tavern companion and gave the little critter a gentle caress. "Came to warm by the fire too, did you? Don't worry, I am home again and not leaving for a good long while." Placing his small companion on the table, Mor got up to fetch some cheese for her and soon came back with plenty. "Hope, an apt name," he muttered as he resumed writing and Hope squeaked quietly in response, with a huge lump of cheese between her front paws...
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Miffle

Walking down the lane Miffle was surprised to see smoke coming from the chimney of the Foxy T. Hoping it was Mor she decided to investigate. Something had changed since her last visit to the Inn and looking up she saw that the tavern sign was no longer in place. She knew it was delapidated but wasn't quite sure what actually had happened to it. The old door was still in tact though and as it wasn't locked Miffle lifted the latch and entered the dim interior. Hearing a strange mumbling sound as her eyes adjusted to the light she was somewhat alarmed to see Mor hunched over one of the tables shaving slivers off a large round of cheese!! Had he lost the plot,? Miffle really hoped not. She spoke his name gently and he motioned her forward warning her to be quiet. She was delighted to see the tiny mouse being fed lunch from Mors hand and made a mental note never to let Icarus into the inn again. After the two friends had greeted each other they sat talking about how to return the beautiful old place to its former glory. Thrilled to be able to make the new sign Miffle drew out her design for Mor to see if he liked it. It would be made using two kinds of wood ancient black oak inlaid with walnut. She would carve a tree trunk opening out into an oval, carved leaves outlining the shape. Rowen she thought, or perhaps holly. The middle would hold a large opened book and the taverns name would be carved on the title page. THE FORTUITOUS TALE TAVERN. The book and leaves would be gilded with gold leaf and the walnut polished to reveal its amazing colours. What Miffle didn,t tell Mor was that she would also carve a perfect little mouse climbing the trunk with the name hope gilded in tiny letters on a ribbon around her neck This would she hoped make Mor smile and also bring luck and joy back into the building. This was going to be the start of a new adventure for her friend now he needed those friends he had in the village to help bring back the spirit to the Fortuitous Tale.

Morrandir

Happily welcoming Miffle to the tavern with a warm hug, Mor went to the bar and soon brought more ale to the table and an extra tankard for his dear friend. Telling her his idea for a new name for the tavern, Miffle seemed to immediately get excited about the prospect of crafting the sign, something which helped put Mor's mind at ease over this whole turn of events.

Listening eagerly to Miffle describe what she had in mind for the sign, Mor couldn't help but get carried away with her and he felt like the change was indeed destined to be successful. Sharing a few additional ales, light chatter and laughs in the otherwise peaceful tavern was exactly what the man had missed of late.

Unfortunately, not all goes as one would like...

Hearing the clearing of a throat behind him, just as Miffle was explaining the intricate design she had in mind, Mor turned around to see one of his couriers had snuck up on them as they were discussing merrily. Mor was about to ask the man to join them for a pint, but the man had an uneasy look about him and was holding a sealed letter in his slightly shaking hand. Getting up, as he recognised the man was not one of his usual Sussex based hirelings, Mor's thoughts immediately went to his wandering beloved and he spoke a single word, "Trouble?"

As if judgement day itself was at hand, the letter exchanged hands along with a ominous nod. The couriers gaze firmly fixed on the floor boards of the tavern after releasing his hold on the letter. Breaking the seal, opening and reading the letter, Mor's face became distorted in simultaneous rage and consuming concern. The carefree tavern owner was gone, the glint in his eye had died and something dark had taken its place inside. The demons of his past came crawling out from the deepest recesses of his mind and for a fleeting moment, it looked like rage would take hold and the scene would not end well. However, and perhaps it was the presence of his gentle friend that stayed Mor or the need for clear thinking, anger was temporarily subdued and Mor strode to the bar to hastily pen a few words on a piece of parchment.

Folding the piece of paper, Mor placed it in the still shaking hand of the courier. Piercing the man with his cold gaze, Mor spoke in an eerily calm manner, as if trying to contain something primal while speaking. "Now, you will take this and deliver it to the same city you came from. No stops until you reach the person it is intended for, no matter the cost." There was no verbal reply, just a firm nod and grasp of the small note and the man was off to perform his task.

Mor stormed behind the bar after the courier had left and went down on one knee to get out his travel gear, along with his bow and quiver. A sigh escaped his lips as he realised how he was behaving. Taking a calming breath and closing his eyes briefly, he soon stood up to explain to Miffle. "Forgive me, Miffle, but something has happened and I must leave immediately. Cynth...," Mor paused briefly, "I must see her."

Hugging his dear friend warmly, part of his usual self momentarily restored, Mor went on. "I have asked much of you and now I need to ask more. Please, keep the key for the front door and, if you can, keep the place in order." Glancing around his tavern, he sighed again. "I leave her in your and Avatea's capable hands. I am unsure about my return... take care and farewell, my friend." Mor gathered his belongings and made his way to the door. Having waved once more to Miffle, he was out the door.

As he made his way down the streets of Sevenoaks, his look as dark as the deepest abyss, one single thought kept him sane and focussed - I am coming, my love...
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Miffle

Never having seen Mors dark side before Miffle was sad that something or someone had produced that reaction in him. Still it was absolutely none of her business and her own heart told her the very best she could do now was as Mor had asked, keep the key of the newly named Fortuitous Tale and look after it as best she could. First she must go and find Avatea to see if she was able again to take over the running of the bar completely in Mors absence. As she walked along the path to the treehouse Miffle speculated on seeing the dangerous side of Mor. Wow she thought to herself. That brings a very interesting dimension into play.

Cynth

He had come when she needed him. Bruised and hungry she had waited in Evesham and he had come. Smiling faintly inspite of the very tiring journey she reflected how Mor had rode hard and tirelessly to bring her to safety. He hadn't rested till just now when they had reached Sevenoaks.

And so she was here standing in front of...Bemused she traces the sign and a wide smile splits her face as if the shadows had suddenly cleared.

With trembling hands she opens the door and gasps at the changes. There was a new warmth in the place where earlier there had been only coldness and murkiness. The Barrels were stocked and the wooden chairs arranged just so perfectly. She glances at the bar and finds no one there at this time of night. The red and white decorations on the bar made her eyes shine with the glow of happiness. Avatea or Miffle...they had been hard at work...

Clutching her hand near to her heart she looks around smiling uncontrollably. Her cheeks hurt from the grin that refused to leave her face.

She rounds the corner behind the bar and starts up the stairs to his room. With her key she opens the door and enters the room. His private domain was unchanged. The same clean and spacious masculine abode tastefully yet sparsely decorated which reminded her strongly of her man. All substance, no frills...

By the time Mor would bring the tree she wanted to wash her face and change her clothes to freshen up. The tiredness had vanished or so she thought... Washing herself she changes into a light dress and sits on the bed just for a minute. When she had leaned back and rested her head against the pillow she did not know. Curling into a ball she was softly snoring soon.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Cynth

Surveying the tavern she asks him..."Shall we keep the tree here darling?"
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Fry

Morrandir

Soon the decorations were up as well and they all could sit down to enjoy some ale and chatter. At least to Mor the tree didn't look all that bad against the dark tavern background.
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Morrandir

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Cynth

Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

Her words caused a smile to creep on his face. "Happy New Year, my love."

Mor leaned across the table, placed his hand on Cynth's and kissed her tenderly. A sigh and soft nuzzle later, he replied. "I love you."

The tender moment and silence was broken by a low rumble emanating from Mor's side of the table. Glancing down at his belly, Mor muttered something. "Sorry... shall we dine..."

Mor poured them both some wine and sat down. As famished as Mor was, it still took him a while before he could begin. He was so captivated by her beauty and grace.
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Cynth

A soft chuckle was her response to the grumbling of his stomach. Grinning impishly at him she teases "Aye M'lord, It would seem your hunger needs appeasing first"

Her Jaws hurt from so much of smiling as she looked into his eyes. Her Love was reflected many times over in his eyes. She was truly his. She never had thought that this would make her feel so proud.

The taste of the wine teased her tongue and she laughed gaily. The laugh lines around his mouth and his eyes enchanted her. Cynth teased him mercilessly just to see those lips turn upwards and to hear the music that was his laugh. She broke the bread in pieces and unconsciously leaned to feed him a piece. Once he had the morsel in his mouth, she wipes the crumb left at the corner of his lips, her thumb lingering just a little longer.

With the hand holding the glass hovering near her lips she listens to him as he tells her about the incident with Jean that day.

The puppies lay at their feet and Cynth knew Mor was slipping them treats. At other time she may have objected but right now she was content and happy and perhaps a little tipsy enough to overlook this deliberate spoiling of pets. She hides her grin behind the glass of wine as she sips.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Cynth

It had been days since the night and she still remembered it like it was yesterday. They had danced, teased, laughed...loved..

Sighing she looks at the man busy reading some documents and she couldn't help but feel a little resentment over the time and attention which was given to a mere piece of parchment.

Going back to packing her meager belongings, Cynth was humming softly. She hoped Morrandir would take care of himself when she was no longer around. She did not know what fate had in store for her...Laughing at herself, she lifts her bags and carries them down the stairs. Once down, she hugs P and whispers something to him. One last look of longing and she was ready to leave.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Cerculetze

After hours of sightseeing and casual desperately tourist shopping, Cer returns to the tavern, decided to check iNN after hearing certain rumours about the quality of room service.
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~“I knew nothing but shadows and I thought them to be real."~

Morrandir

Mor quickly stuffed the boring taxes notices he was writing under the bar and got up to greet Cer.

"Welcome, welcome.. take a load off, if you will."

Word had reached Mor that Cynth had apparently mentioned that there was room service in their tavern and now Mor was at a total loss on how to make good on her words. Cynth must have still been mad at him for the unceremonious sent off she had been subjected to the last time she left Sevenoaks. Mor sighed.

He quickly shoved a frothy ale, and then three more as Mor remembered Cer was a Canterburian, on the table in front of her, in the hopes that if he got her good and drunk, she wouldn't notice the complete lack of room service. "Some ale perhaps," he mentioned casually.

"How was your day of sightseeing?"
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Cerculetze

Cer lets herself fall on a chair,feeling her ankles swollen and sore "Ah, lovely town! I wouldnt know what to say about monuments,architecture, but the shopping experience was totally worth it!"

Noticing the ale display on the table, Cer rolls her eyes:"Geesh...do I look that thirsty?" Then she takes a pint, drinks it up and whispers: "If I didn't know better, I'd think you are trying to get me drunk. The inn's policy to distract people from poor room service?" Then she takes the second pint "Bottoms up!" and the third seconds later.

Feeling a little dizzy already:" Now, you think you can give me the keys to my room?"
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~“I knew nothing but shadows and I thought them to be real."~

Morrandir

Quickly turning about, hiding the grin on his face for his insidious plan having worked better than expected, Mor replies jovially.

"But of course, milady. How remiss of me."

Running his finger down the room reservations page of his ledger, as if there were actually people staying in his establishment, Mor puts on a good show by frowning for a moment. "Hmm.. crowded," he mutters quietly.

"Oh, here we are! A room with a grand view of the local market and also of Sevenoaks Forest." Basically it was just a view of market stands from one set of windows and oak tree after oak tree from a different set of windows, but didn't hurt to try and make it sound like it was something special. Maybe she would catch a glimpse of someone tanned down below on the street level. Mor grins as he writes her name next to the room number.

Going back to the table, Mor hands Cer a key and makes sure her mug wasn't empty. "Here you go, your key, milady. You know, a noble Lady once stayed in that room."

Mor sits down too and takes a long swig of ale, when Ycpy and P both suddenly wake up and make their way to the table, yapping excitedly.

"Oh, this reminds me... there was some talk of taking care of the puppies, no? I distinctly remember an exhange along those lines back in Canterbury..."

Deftly pushing both puppies towards Cer under the table with his foot, Mor took another gulp of ale.
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Cerculetze

Cer stares at Mor browsing through the reservation register. She giggles when she hears him mumble something about the inn being crowded. She was pretty sure there were only 2 visitors around: herself and her almost numb-drunk ego.

She takes another drink while he's going on and on about the view and some noble lady staying in the same room. As tired as she was, she could as well sleep in a barn, in the ducks kernel or any place similar. "You sure know how to run your business...Probably most ladies would be over-excited to sleep in a bed where some royalty slept. I'll sleep pretty much anywhere now!
Then Cer suddenly sees the playful dogs Cynth has been telling her about." Sweet...which is which? I was dying to meet them...Pee and..." Cer scratches her head.....and..Hmmm can't remember!

Cer frowns when hearing about taking care of the puppies. Didn't he know she was on holiday? Who works during holidays? However she smiles and nods.
Ah..course! But not just now! I need to get some serious sleep first! Then she takes the key and leans over to pat the dogs on her way to the room... Aww...aren't you two the cuttest thing ever? Then her feet stumble and everything turns pitch black. Oh the sleeping anywhere part...
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~“I knew nothing but shadows and I thought them to be real."~

Morrandir

As Mor was about to wish Cer a goodnight, P suddenly let out an alarmed bark. Now, if it had been Ycpy, the reason could have been that the puppy had run out of ale and was simply bringing this to Mor's attention, but as P was much more the reliable guard dog type, something was definitely not right.

Immediately the seasoned woodsman in Mor surfaced and his senses heightened. Right hand distinctively went for the axe handle under his cloak and left hand clutched his ale tankard more firmly. There was but one master in Fortuitous Tale tavern and anyone looking for trouble here would soon be taught the error of their ways.

From the corner of his eye Mor caught a glimpse of Cer as her posture seemed to slouch slightly. Time seemed to slow down for Mor as he quickly gathered what P's bark had meant. The situation was not threatening, but still needed immediate handling.

A foot from under the table swept against a chair as Mor sprung into action. The chair spun around and settled perfectly behind Cer to significantly shorten her pending fall. Without losing any forward momentum, the axes handle was disregarded as Mor stood up faster than would have been thought possible.

Reaching forward with his extended hand, Mor carefully supported Cer's head as she surprisingly gracefully sat down on the chair. She might have been out cold, but still earned high marks for style.

Both puppies let out a couple victorious barks as Mor stood there looking all tall and grinning. "Yep, that's right boys.. you can take the man out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the man." Both puppies probably rolled their eyes at his silliness.

One final, ceremonial gulp emptied his tankard and then Mor very tentatively lifted Cer onto his arms and proceeded to carry her up the stairs to her room. No way Mor could let her sleep there on that chair. Cynth had, after all, promised room service..

Having entered the third floor room and laying her down on the large bed, Mor folded the other half of the sizeable blanket and covered her with it.

After having taken off her shoes and placed them on the floor, Mor fetched some water for the wash bowl on the night stand. Some bread and wine for breakfast on the small table next to the large windows and all seemed to be set up. Leaving a couple candles alight on the table away from the bed, Mor tiptoed out and closed the door.

Soon he was downstairs, passed out and leaning against a table. Snoring and resting his head on his hands. Holding a half finished tankard of ale in his hand. P and Ycpy using his feet as pillows. For all anyone else knew, the heroics might have just been a drunken dream...
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Cerculetze

Waking up with a terrible headache, Cer spends the next minutes trying to remember last night's events. There was definitely ale involved, judging by the headache and the head spin. It wasn't something she hadn't lived before. She gets of the bed,stumbles to the wash bowl and sinks her head in the cold water. She wipes her face and changes her clothes to something more suitable for traveling.Then, she carefully wraps the piece of bread to take it for the road. When seeing the wine Cer suddenly feels nauseous, missing her hangover remedy back home.

Realising it was still very early in the morning, she writes a quick note and places it on the night stand,smiling. " Thanks for everything! I must be on my way now. Send the bill to Canterbury Town Hall! And, for the love of Jah, hire qualified room service staff!"
One more glance through the large window, then she takes her bag and descends ,heading to the door while hearing Morr snoring and seeing P and Ycpy licking his face.
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~“I knew nothing but shadows and I thought them to be real."~

Cynth

Cynth coughs as she opens the door to the Tale. The dust had settled in...She frowns and makes a mental note to ask the barmaid what she had been doing. At that thought she smirks and mutters something incomprehensible.

She hesitatingly touches the chair where she remembered him sitting reading his paperwork. As if the touch would make him appear magically she lovingly holds the back of the chair. She chuckles softly at this display of her sillyness. Before she could do something insane like sniffing the furniture a loud "woof" greets her. "P" Exclaiming loudly she crouches below just as the huskey starts licking her. The sound of their incessant giggling and yapping was further increased by the descent of Ycpy in the fray.

Cynth was half sprawled on the floor with the puppies running up and down her. She was trying hard to avoid the cold button nose of ycpy. Laughing helplessly she yells "Morr!!! honey, where are you?!!!" Not hearing anything for a while, she realises he might not be home.

Sighing she pets the puppies and goes out to continue her travels..
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

Morrandir

After some quieter days in the tavern, there was once again some much needed commotion in the Tale as an affable group of travellers from Wiltshire had made their way to Sevenoaks. Mor recalled meeting, albeit quite briefly, the same fine people on his last visit to Wiltshire and indeed they all seemed to be as courteous as guests as they had been hosts.

Yet, after enjoying their lively company for a little over day, Mor had to take his leave. He had already decided to join his beloved Cynth for a wedding in Somerset, to which they both had been invited. Besides that, as his mayorship had now ended, this felt like a fitting time to do a bit of travelling.

Gathering some simple wares for trading, Mor ushered the two puppies, P and Ycpy, outside, where his travel companions were already impatiently waiting.

Having nodded hellos to both Ali and her "cushion", aka Kendor, everything seemed ready for departure. Mor made a quick stop at Siying's home to drop off a set of keys for the tavern and then the three, plus two highly energetic puppies, were on their way to Lewes and eventually out of Sussex...
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Soulsea

On her way out of town Soulsea stopped by to thank the tavern-owner for such a fine time. She knocked...but no one seemed to be home. She joined her large group and continued on their tour through Sussex.
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Cynth

Cynth was returning from yet another of her travels and seeing the tavern open she hurriedly enters and leaves a note for Morrandir.

Dear Owner,

I love you.

Your,
Cynth

She blows a kiss towards the tavern as she leaves.
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Thank you Haylen for the banner || Que Sera Sera

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[ORP]Fortuitous Tale - tavern and home of Mor Payne.