Like Leaves Of A Book

Tales from the Atreblan Valley

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Querylon
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Post by Querylon »

”Hello, Major derKorst.” Asegard acknowledged the introduction with a slight nod of his head. “It is a pleasure.”

Julian glanced to Querylon. She nodded ever so slightly. Then Julian turned to Asegard.

“Good evening, Lord Asegard. Please, do join us for a while.” A wave of Julian’s hand invited Asegard to take a seat next to Ghranit. “And allow me to introduce you to Lady Querylon, an excellent herb woman of considerable talent and good friend. Querylon, meet Lord Asegard from Nadellica, currently a guest of Tormay Eludes and obviously a friend of Ghranit.”

“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, milord.” Querylon regarded Asegard with a polite smile. While the man’s hair was white and experience marked his features, he appeared younger to her than Julian.

“The pleasure is mine, milady.” Asegard nodded his head to her and sat down next to Ghranit.

Julian turned toward Querylon and reminded her with a slightly lowered voice, “Your coffee is getting cold.” Then turned to Ghranit again. ”You give me too much credit. I am merely available should any of the duelists require additional practice.”

“Or perhaps he does not give enough credit? How good are you?” Asegard saw a battle hardened man, exuding experience, when he looked at Julian and the words he had introduced him with suggested that the major’s information network was excellent.

“Aye, and I never took advantage of it.” Ghranit shook his head. “I may have done better if I had.”

“Perhaps. Did you know that Lady Querylon has dueled for Atrebla at some point as well?” Julian gave Querylon’s shoulder a gentle squeeze, guessing what went through her mind at just that moment.

“Really, I was unaware of that.” Ghranit looked to Querylon with even more respect.

“That was years ago, Julian, and only for a half a season. It is merely history now, Ghranit. I have not dueled at all on any team last season.” Hardly anyone remembered that, and it surprised Querylon that Julian had. She did pick up her cup now and brought it to her lips to sip from it, though Julian had been perfectly correct about the coffee in it cooling. When she set the cup down again it was considerably closer to empty.

“I am sure your skill hasn't faded at all, milady.” Ghranit nodded.

There you go again, hiding your light under a chair.” Julian gave her shoulder another well meaning and supportive squeeze as he turned to Ghranit. “She has been one of the four in the recent secret tournament.”

“You continue to amaze me. How did you fare?” Ghranit inquired of Querylon.

“While I did enjoy every minute of the competition with truly skilled opponents I did not win. Lord Ar'Daumon was the Champion of the tournament.”

“Ah, I am not surprised.” Ghranit nodded, obviously familiar with the name.

“Neither was I surprised by the outcome.” Querylon agreed.
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Querylon
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Post by Querylon »

“You win some, you loose some. A few practices with the Commander and you'll win the next one, Querylon.” Julian kept a close watch on the lady beside him. He wasn't about to miss any cue.

“That is highly unlikely as the next tournament is likely before I will be able to find the time for practices at times that Lady Topaz is available.”

“You may just have to make do with me as your sparing partner, then.” Julian gave Querylon a quick wink in the hope to draw a smile.

“I maybe able to offer my services as a training assistant as well.” Ghranit offered readily.

“If you could be available around the noon hour I may just take you up on your generous offer.” She would be in the valley then, preparing for her afternoon visit with Mr. Corwell.

Julian turned his gaze to Asegard. “You are quiet, milord. Do you not share their passion for fencing?”

“My apologies. I am not a fan of standard fencing, but I am a swordsman no doubt.” Asegard responded, placing his right hand on the scepter under his cloak.

Julian smiled and nodded. “No apology is required. My skill with the sword has been honed on fields of battle and I am not comfortable with fencing as a sport for myself. But I do enjoy the watching of those skilled in the art of fencing and willing to demonstrate it.”

“Indeed, my blade has seen many wars in its time as well, and our opinions of the fencing sport are similar.”

“That skill requires constant practice as well, though.” Julian had not forgotten Asegard's earlier question.

“Indeed, but nearly half can become an instinct.” Asegard appeared to continue that line of conversation

“But the battle field offers no topic of conversation suitable for gentle company.” Julian gently reminded him that a lady was present.

“If you have the interest in it, you could come by the shop some time.” Ghranit invited Querylon. “Anyone from Atrebla is welcome to a free gift, my own handiwork too.”

“That is true, but as it seems none of us are that gentle.” Asegard said.

“I beg your pardon?” Julian's mean frosted over as he fixed Asegard with a cold look after a pointed glance to the gorgeous red-head seated next to him.

“I should like that, Ghranit, thank you. Where would I find your shop should I find myself with the time to spare for such a special treat? Though let me assure you that the bribe of a gift is entirely unnecessary.”

“It is just a street over from the marketplace. A bribe?” Ghranit held his hand to his chest in mock offense. “A dwarf never bribes.”

“Then it will be my pleasure to visit your shop at the earliest opportunity.” Querylon politely ignored Asegard's faux pas and smiled to Ghranit

“Simply that we are all in some way accustomed to battle, none are gentle all the way through.” Asegard’s left hand pushed back some his longer, silvery hair, completely ignoring the lady’s presence. “It is a balance within us to not be completely gentle.”

“I eagerly await your visit.” Ghranit grinned big enough to Querylon for his teeth to show through his beard. Then he turned to Julian. “I do believe he means to exclude the lady, of course.”

Julian turned to Querylon. “Milady, the hour has grown late, much more so than I was aware of. My I offer to serve as your escort home?”

“Did I offend?” Asegard appeared oblivious.

“Thank you, your offer is quite is welcome.” Querylon smiled to Julian.

Julian stood immediately and offered Querylon his hand. She placed her hand into the offered one accepting the assistance to slide from the booth.

“A curse this office holds, I see the Balance and move according to my own title.” Asegard sighed.

As soon as Querylon stood Julian placed her hand on his arm. Only then did he fix his gaze on Asegard.

“You were making assumptions you should not have and missed the opportunity to rectify the mistake. Good evening.” His voice was like cold steel. Then he turned to Ghranit with a much milder and warmer expression. “If you would please excuse us I shall surrender the table to you. I am looking forward to seeing you at the dance if not sooner.” Julian bowed correctly.

“I shall see you then. I wish you both a pleasant evening.” Ghranit nodded to both.

“A good night to you Lord Asegard, and to you as well, Ghranit. Until soon.”

“Assumptions, I make none of the such. As the Keeper of Balance, I see what I do within people that wield their weapons in any way against another.” Asegard sounded offended, but he did bow his head to their leaving, “Good night, milady,” and watched as Julian escorted the vision in white with the luscious coppery curls across the floor and out the door.
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Post by Querylon »

Strawberries – Fruits of Labor
(2005)

Querylon slipped the ace of all suits under the wrist of her sleeve. She had just put the finishing touches on the charm after placing the small baking pans into the heating oven. Hopefully an opportunity would present itself during the course of the day to give it to Robert, she thought, as she transferred the small cake rounds from the cooling tray to the two plates sitting out on the counter and covered them with a cloth before she turned around. Her gaze swept over her kitchen. A wriggle of her cute nose saw the dirtied baking equipment into the washbasin outback. Now everything was as ready as it could be.

Paying off the bet had been waiting for the strawberry season. The bet had been silly and Querylon had almost forgotten about it over everything else that had happened during the last few days, but it provided an excuse for her to have invited Robert over. The first half of their afternoon spent at the Jasmine had left both of them in an odd mood. Robert had looked tired and as disappointed as she had felt by the time they were done. But there was no reason for that. Robert had been immensely patient explaining the hostess’ duties to her, and she didn’t have to ask many questions. She should have been happy that her duties appeared much easier than she had imagined and elated over all the care Robert had taken to relate those duties to her in familiar terms.

As Querylon was trying to think of what in her actions or words might have been at fault, and what might be within her abilities to turn the mood, the bet had popped into her mind and put a smile on her lips. At the next opportunity, which had presented itself only moments later, she had given him the reminder he had originally asked for and suggested that today would be a good day for picking strawberries.

The rest of the afternoon had passed in a flurry of activity for Querylon. She had briefly met most of the third floor girls – though she found the term to be rather misleading. As different as they were from each other, they were all of them very polished and sophisticated women. Initially Querylon felt gauche and awkward that they should look to her for direction, but once they had given her their lists of things that still needed to be taken care of before the grand opening, she was too busy planning, organizing, delegating some errands, and running others herself to entertain any feelings of inadequacy.

It wasn’t until Robert caught up with her again in the evening and called an end to the workday, that she noticed just how tired she was. Tired, and pleased at how much she had accomplished with the girls’ cooperation. They had spent a relaxing hour together before Robert had taken her home. A wistful smile was on her lips as she recalled his reminder that they’d be picking strawberries in the morning and his good night kiss.

“Meow.” To Robert’s surprise a cat brushed against Robert’s pant-leg in way of a friendly greeting. He paused to stare at the feline. It was Querylon’s cat; there could not be another black cat around with gray-banded paws like Boots. Robert reached down to pet it.

“I don't have any food if that's what you're thinking.” Boots offered up his left ear for a good scratching before he took himself off across the yard with another short meow. Robert rose slowly, wiped his hands and muttered about the animal as he moved to the door and gave it a sharp knock.

Querylon once again garbed in the faded purple gown and with a warm, welcoming smile on her lips opened the door before he had time to drop his hand again. It was a dress as nondescript as could be but to Robert it was a full ball gown. A woman didn't need to spend thousands on her looks to be compelling. She needed to have strength of heart and spirit to carry her clothing. A low cut dress may raise eyebrows but a chin held high lifted spirits.

“Good morning, Robert.”

Robert removed his hat and offered a quick, stiff bow. “Good mornin' my lady.” His eyes found the sky and squinted at the sun. “Fine day to be out hunting strawberries.” He took a deep breath of the clear morning air and exhaled sharply, which sent him into a coughing fit. Last nights hangover obviously had not been quite shaken off by his morning washing.

“Are you going to be all right?” Robert held his hand out in a stop-like fashion and waved it as she voiced her concern for him. “Please, do come in. It is indeed a fine day for strawberries. Would you care to sit for a spell, and perhaps have a glass of something before we set out?”

“I'm fine, just getting old.” Robert kissed her cheek as he slid by her, not wanting to kiss her on the lips after coughing like that. “You are sweet to worry about me. You mind if I wash my hands?” He held up his hands and looked at her with a smile. “If I go to touch you I don't want my germs getting all over your pretty dress.”

“My thanks for the compliment, and of course I have no objections to you washing your hands. This way, please.” Querylon led the way to the washbasin outback. “There is a bar of soap, the water is still fairly fresh, and you may use the towel over here.” She pointed out the two objects. “Just ignore the baking pans in the bottom of the basin.”

“Thank you.” Robert eyed the pans and then proceeded to wash up. He took his time washing his hands and then took some of the cool water and rubbed it over his face with a bit of a sigh before drying off with the offered towel. “I can see you’ve been busy.”

“We will need cake to go with the strawberries, no? That is, I was hoping you might have enough time to enjoy the fruits of your labor afterwards. Do you think you might? The patch is really a very small one.”

“Strawberry...fruits of labor” Robert chuckled at Querylon’s choice of words, “and here I was worried about your sense of humor. I actually don't eat much sweets, but I would love to sit with you for a time should you care to eat some. I sense I have been overworking you already. I thought maybe you would enjoy yourself more if we just relaxed some.” He finished wiping his hands and folded the towel neatly.

“I do not at all feel like you have been overworking me. There was no manual labor yet at any rate, and it felt good to actually be doing something for a few hours that felt like work. But I would indeed very much enjoy relaxing with you just the same. Do you not care for strawberries at all, or is it the cake you object to?”

“The worst kind of work is the kind that doesn't involve any sweat, just lots of words and instructions. I imagine if I asked you to dig a post hole you would be a lot more pleased than what I've told you at the Jasmine, but maybe that's just me.” Robert shook his head. “No strawberries are just fine, I just don't have occasion to eat very often and never developed much of a taste for sweet things. Most of my meals are on the run and dessert usually come last.”

“At least I would already know how to dig a hole.” This was a good a time as any to bring up the subject and her questions. “Not that I was displeased at the Jasmine. It is just that I am still trying to figure out what is okay to say and do and what is not. Mayhap you can help me with that?” Querylon indicated two medium sized baskets sitting at the edge of the back. “Shall we head for the berries?”
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Querylon
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Post by Querylon »

Robert picked up both baskets and Querylon led the way to the four rows of strawberry plants at the far end of her back yard. Four rows didn’t really qualify as a patch, but at least it wasn’t a long walk.

“I think you think to much sometimes sweetie. You can say and do as you like with the noted exception of kissing me on the job. It's really not that difficult...well…” Robert stopped walking and reconsidered. “Well it *is* hard to keep from kissing me... so I don't blame you for being confused now that I think about it.” He resumed his pace and nodded to himself. “Even though it is hard you must refrain from doing it.”

“You are completely in the right about it.” Querylon agreed with Robert’s assessment. “I love your kisses and it is indeed difficult to refrain from going after them.” Querylon halted her steps as they arrived at the edge of the rows of strawberries.

“You do say everything else is permissible to do and say. And yet my instincts are telling me to be cautious. I find myself wanting to relate the days events, things from the past, feelings, and ideas to you, but I do not know how or when it would be okay to do so. More when, I think, than how. Not just at the Jasmine. But I am very much at a loss about what topics it is okay to talk about or do when at the Jasmine, and does it make a difference if there are customers or not. For example - when you looked so tired yesterday I was about to rise and walk up behind you to massage your neck and shoulders to put some energy back into you, but then I remembered your words and it no longer appeared as good an idea. Or getting the clothes, but I was unsure about that, too.”

Robert had set down the baskets, pitched his hat aside and unbuttoned his shirt while he listened to Querylon.

“Every conversation we have is not going to be in front of other people. If you are unsure of something you can always pull me aside and speak to me privately. If I am running a card game however, it needs to be quite important to bother me.” He shrugged out of his shirt, folded it and placed it on top of his hat. Noticing Querylon’s eyes on him he stretched and let his bones crack. “Been an age since I worked in the sun, reminds me of being a boy again.”

“The bottom line is this, we just can't give the appearance of a married couple when we work together. People will know that we are seeing each other, the rumors will fly and we will be seen together in other places. It is important to me however that my customers know my focus is on them when they are at the Jasmine, not on my girlfriend or what have you.”

“Aye, I understand that. No being overly distracted by your presence when customers are around, nor distracting you.” Querylon ducked down and started to pick berries, setting them into the basket carefully. Robert had a way of avoiding direct answers that she just couldn’t let him get away with. “So you would not have gotten annoyed with me had I acted upon any of my impulses earlier?” She looked up briefly and smiled to him as the rest of his words sunk in. He saw the radiance in her eyes before she asked with a little catch in her breath, “I am your girl friend?”

“That is as good a word as any.” Robert leaned down and began to work quickly. He appeared oddly focused on the task at hand. “I think saying "yur my woman" is a bit cave mannish, or at least that has been what I have been told. I am not seeing anyone else now, and I enjoy your company.” Querylon’s smile deepened at his words and her heart skipped a beat, though he wasn’t telling her any news.

“I am happy with either word.” Her reply must have pleased him, for he leaned forward and kissed her quickly.

“Well I am glad. I am also glad to see that this” He waved his hand at the patch and the baskets, “has made you found your tongue. I was two steps away from breaking my own rule and kiss you at the Jasmine just so I could see if a tongue was still in your mouth or if you had given up speech for lack of the appropriate appendage.” They both returned to work.

“Perhaps you should have. But then, that would make breaking the rule dangerously easy the next time.” For a time they worked quietly, each busy with their own thoughts while they filled the baskets. There was a surprising amount of ripe berries on the plants.

“You have asked me repeatedly to be more chatty, to let you know what goes through my mind. I do want to. Not only because it is ever so important to me to please you - it is you know - but because I find I like it so very much when we do get to talk almost as much as your embraces and kisses. I wish I had more experience with such.”

“I have talked to and at people my whole life. If you want my advice don't censor yourself. Say what you have to say when you have to say it. I might get angry with you, I might yell and scream, you will learn however that most of my anger is not true rage. It's just my way, I would never strike you or be truly angry with you for long. You will find when you talk with TSC that our relationship is much more…” Robert paused to search for softer words than the kind he normally used. “Physical in regard to my displeasure at his performance. I do not treat all people the same way.”

“I will keep that firmly in mind.” Querylon nodded at Robert’s words. She wasn’t worried that Robert would ever be violent toward her. “You have yet to really get angry with me, and I hope I will never give you cause to.”

“It's imperative for job at the Jasmine that you speak to me openly and honestly. If something goes wrong I don't need you stumbling around words. As for our personal life,” Robert dusted off his hands and stood up. “I think I would it be a benefit. I have run through a lot of relationships because I didn't speak with the person I was with or vice versa. Others, I just got plain bored with what they had to say. I am interested in your opinion and enjoy speaking with you. If you ask me, that is a tremendous advantage for you.” He wiped his brow. “I would not lose that advantage by refraining from speech to find the perfect words.”

“I would like to avoid ever boring you with what I do or say.” She rose quickly once she noticed Robert had gotten up and added the current handful of berries into her basket. “Do you think we have enough berries for now?”
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Post by Querylon »

“You are the cook, you hold my marker. I am afraid I am at your disposal until you say so. I will say this is more honest work than I have done in a decade, if you press me to hard I might keel over and die.” The satisfied smile on his lips let her know he had enjoyed the work.

“I would not like that one bit. I would much rather you would still be energetic enough to enjoy the relaxation without falling asleep. I may mistake such as a sure sign that I bored you to sleep with whatever I might be saying at the time. You shall have your marker back as soon as we step through the door, and desert as soon after as you want.”

“Good, I will put you to work directly after you return my marker to me.” Robert picked up the nearly full baskets, leaving Querylon to pick up his hat and shirt. “There is something in the car I need to give you.” He started toward the house. His voice held some of the impatient excitement he felt. “I need you to help me lift out. With all of the back breaking labor you had me do today I am not sure I can lift it on my own.”

“Ah. Now I am even more curious.” Querylon left his hat and shirt next to washbasin and washed her hands before she opened the door for Robert.

“Well there, that was far less painless than I had in mind. Where should I put these?”

“On the kitchen table seems the right spot for it. Thank you. It was the best thing to bet over I could think of at the time.” Querylon fetched the marker from her desk before she followed him to the kitchen.

“Working for me you will learn to think quicker on your feet.” He turned to look at her with a wink. “Next time you will really make me pay for losing a wager. Fear not however, I knew that what you gave me was worth far more than the price of a few strawberries. Taking in mind your youth, innocence, and of course your beauty,” he inclined his body in a partial bow. “I was sure to get something that would last you a bit longer than these strawberries will.” She was surprised at the tender expression on his face, which made her heart turn over in her chest.

“It was a dance.” She handed him the scrap of paper with a soft smile.

“Such a sweet girl.” He quickly kissed her cheek. “It will break my heart when I ruin your life.” His green eyes looked at her sadly for the briefest of moments. Then the look was gone, replaced by a smile as he tapped her chin. “No I have something a bit more solid to give to you today.”

“Is that really your intention, to ruin my life? Somehow I cannot imagine you doing that.” Robert shook his head and ignored her question for the moment.

“So do you want this damn thing I got in the car or not? I tell you it was a bear to get in so if you don't want it I am taking it right back.”

“I would feel much better had you answered the question. But since you went through that much trouble of getting it - whatever it is - into the car, I should at least have a look at it.” She gave him on of those imperfect winks.

“Out of courtesy I will answer your question. In the past relationships and I have not always done well. Most of the women leave me and their lives are somehow less for having been with me. I on the other hand keep moving on and suffer only the briefest of sadness, a moment of which you just witnessed. Now if we can dispense with the drama.” They stepped out the front door while he was talking. “Your wink still needs work. Don't squint so much.”

“Thank you, Robert.” She replied with a chuckle. “ I am practicing.” Querylon wondered what the blue tarp bulging out of the trunk of Robert’s car might be hiding.

“You are doing well, don't give up. It is a heart stopper for sure, when you have it perfected you will need all your magic to keep men away, or maybe it is your magic that draws me to you...In any event,” He paused at the back of the El Camino and held out his hands. “Here it is. What do you think?”
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Post by Querylon »

“If it is magic, you must be doing magic, too. You have grown very dear to me, and continue to do so. Sometimes the strength of those feelings and emotions scares me. Especially when they are in no logical relation to what either of us is doing or saying. And then you say or do something, and everything seems so desirable rather than scary. It is likely a handsome shade of blue under the dust? What is the tarp hiding? A cello or a harp?”

“It's just love sweetie.” Robert bumped his hip to hers. “I love you talking but you don't have to use that many words.” Robert smiled and laughed. “A Harp...no...I got you the blue tarp...you don't like it?” A feigned hurt expression crossed his face.

“Ohlala, I should have that in writing, that I do talk too much. Really? Oh, that is a wonderful idea. What do you think I had best be using it for?”

“Maybe it's the arrangement of the words not the amount. Use small ones sweetheart. I don't have any formal education so the use of large words frightens me.” He rolled his eyes. “Just give the tarp a yank my dear if you would.”

“I certainly do not want you to be afraid of me.” Querylon gave the tarp the requested yank, and then a two handed one, as it hadn’t budged much at first. Once tugged free, the tarp slid to the ground. Querylon’s eyes lit up as she beheld the elegant Victorian-style dark copper bathtub. Apart from an elated ‘Oh’ Robert’s surprise for her left her speechless for the moment, despite her best intentions to be chatty.

“Two grand and all I get is an oh? Oh is cheap... That is like a thousand dollars a letter, could I at least get a "wow" so I can feel my money was well spent?” He smiled at her with amusement as he tried to put her at ease with his teasing words.

“Silly.” She turned and put her arms around him and kissed him. Robert felt a little quiver go through her as he slid his arm around her and pulled her closer. “It is ever so beautiful. I have never seen anything quite like it. May I touch it?”

“Well now you know what kind of stakes to play for the next time we bet. I am glad you like it. We will have to see about getting you some inside plumbing. But for now we can just fill it by hand.” He put a strong emphasis on every ‘we’. “It belongs to you. Of course you may touch it.”

“I am looking forward to that, when do you think we can do that?” Querylon adopted Robert’s emphasis and lifted her fingertips to the rim of the tub and brushed them over the cool surface with adoration.

“Well, I imagine that we need to get it out of the car first. After that, I am sure I could be convinced of using it sometime in the not so distant future.”

“Of course. It would be kind of odd to bathe with it still in the car.” Querylon giggled at the idea. “This is much better than strawberries and a charm.” She kissed him again quickly. “It appears like more back breaking labor before you get to enjoy relaxation with berries.”

“Well,” Robert ran a hand through his short hair. “You got magic or something that will handle this? I was thinking on it in the car and I was wondering if you could like bibbity bobitty boo it in the house. He attempted to impersonate her nose wriggle but succeeded only in producing a few extra wrinkles. But he was rewarded for his efforts with another of Querylon’s chuckles.

“Good thinking. You are ever so adorable.” She studied the claw-footed tub and its dimensions in regards to magical transportation. “I think I could that. It is definitely worth a try. How does the bedroom between the door and the curtain sound for the current location?”

“It's your house hun. I am not much of a decorator, TSC does all the stuff at the Jasmine. Long as the thing holds water that is all I care about.”

“It will hold water, I am convinced of that.” Querylon paused and with a wriggle of her cute nose the tub was gone from the trunk.

“Holy Jesus.” Robert took a step back as he saw the heavy tub go right up in thin air. “I tell you what, promise never to do something like that to me,” he waved a hand where the tub used to be, “and you don't have to worry bout thanking me.”

“I promise not to do anything like that to you unless you expressly release me from this promise for whatever reason in the future.” The seriousness in her voice matched the gravity of the promise made, but the smile on her lips stayed while she looked at him. “Shall we go see if it arrived safely?”

“Fair enough.” Robert nodded his agreement. “Yeah you bet. I am curious myself.” They turned and headed back up the path, leaving the trunk open and the tarp to be picked up later.

“I am not the least bit worried that it did arrive safely, or I would not have risked the magic on this wonderful, and more importantly so, first real present from you to me. I do not get presents that often to treat any of them lightly. I have definitely never gotten anything near this fine. She again smiled brightly to Robert. “It is so beautiful, in every little detail. Thank you is a poor phrase to express how happy your gift makes me.”

“Well,” Robert was a little embarrassed because of all the gushing and waved a hand, “use it wisely.”

“With your assistance I hope.” Querylon stopped just before the newest addition of furniture to her house. The tub had indeed arrived safely.

“Well I will be god damned. That is a useful thing to be able to do. You tell TSC you can do that I will never be able to get his lazy behind to lift anything ever again.”

“Are you asking me not to tell him?”

“Nah he actually handles magic better than I do. He won't mind you doing anything like this, I am just a bit old fashioned I guess. I have been able to get used to machines but this,” Robert waved his hand at the presence of the tub, “This I am still getting used to.”

“To me your machines are the new fashioned things and this is the old fashioned way.” Querylon smiled, enjoying the shirtless view. “We did carry the berries in without machines or magic. Though how they can even remotely hope to compete with this,” she gave the tub a soft look, “I do not know.”

He slid an arm around her and held her against his chest. Then as her lips met his she felt as though her heart turned a somersault within her chest. For the moment everything seemed to stand still. She knew now that she had been in love with him almost from the first moment she saw him. He was so magnificent, so imperious, so wonderful, and even at the same time a little frightening.

Robert lifted his head and asked, “I suppose this is your way to get me to fill the tub, rub your back while feeding you fresh strawberries?” He moved his hands to his hips and looked at her, making her laugh as he intended.
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Post by Querylon »

“You have the most amazing ideas. I do like this one. Are you offering?”

“It would be almost criminal of me to bring a fine piece of bathware to your home and not make a courteous offer. I have spent enough time behind bars not to get caught in such an offense.” He rose from his chair and taking her hand pulled her with him, indicating he meant to act upon his offer instantly. However, he didn’t have the slightest idea of how getting water was accomplished in this particular home. A frown flickered over his features as he thought of the pump out back and how much effort it would take to heat water. He again reminded himself to send someone over first thing in the morning to have running water installed.

“The water from the cistern will due just nicely. There's only one. You cannot miss it. It is right off the porch.” Querylon accompanied him and together they quickly had the tub filled with sun-warmed water.

“This will do. Thank you.”

“Well good enough then. Strip.” Querylon greeted his command with a quiet chuckle. Robert watched her undo the buttons at the wrist of her left sleeve and picked up his whiskey bottle. He spun it in his hand and set it back down. He had expected to be asked to leave the room. “I would offer to leave, you know, if it makes you feel more comfortable.” He offered with a grin.

“I doubt that would help.” Robert sitting in the kitchen while she bathed would do little to calm her. But her thoughts were on the good luck charm she now was pulling from her sleeve and on how to best present him with it.

Robert watched her, soaked her in and was rather enjoying to just stare at her even though he knew it was not the chivalrous thing to do. Finally he couldn’t stand her slow pace anymore. “Can I give you a hand?”

“Uhm, sure. Take this.” She reached over and handed him the charm. “It's nothing like a tub and should not get wet. Though I doubt water could harm it.”

“What is this?” Robert spun the charm in his hand and looked at it.

“The ace of all suits.”

“This is very cute.” He found the ace of hearts. “This is my...” his focus was entirely on the charm. As his finger brushed over the heart the "short stack" of cards sprang open, inside under the thinnest bit of glass he saw a coppery curl. Her hair, he recognized at once. The hinges and clasp were so well set into the wood; they had been unnoticeable at first and would be again as soon as he closed the charm.

“It is to bring you luck.”

Robert smiled at the gift; the thoughtfulness behind it kept him from looking to her. He was touched and speechless. He was unused to having to formulate proper words of gratitude that were not laced with the lines of a joke. The quality of his smile and his utter concentration upon the small thing told Querylon far more than any words could.

“Did you mention strawberries?”

Her softly voiced question made him jump with a start. “Yes, of course forgive me.”

“I am sorry. I did not mean to startle you.” Querylon tried to put him at his ease. “Would you perhaps be more comfortable with a chair from the kitchen?”

“Of course what was I thinking.” As if he was still in a trance Robert moved to the kitchen. Querylon smiled at his back, immensely pleased and happy with his reaction. She followed him a moment later. The new bathtub she would make use of after he had left.
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Post by Querylon »

Querylon turned to prepare the berries she asked, “What would you prefer to drink?”

“I’m all set.” Robert already held the whiskey bottle in his hand and gave it a shake. Finding a seat he cracked the top off. He considered a glass but then gave a shrug. He knew she wasn’t likely ever to touch the bottle so he may as well christen it himself. The likelihood the amber liquid would survive past when the sun would set was narrow anyway. He took a long swallow. His eyes watered a bit and his face twisted into a sneer.

The shortcakes were prepared quickly. Querylon set the plates on the table together with a bowl of cleaned berries. She poured herself a glass of milk before she sat down on the only other available chair.

Not wanting to offend her Robert took a small bite of the cake. It was much sweeter than he had a taste for but it was not totally inedible. He raised the fork to her in a brief salute.

“It's very nice.”

“Thank you. You already told me you do really not care for sweets much. I will not be offended if you just pick the berries off the cake.”

Robert set the fork down on the plate and leaned back. The bottle rested casually on his leg. His hand stroked over his bare stomach and he smiled. “I have to watch what I eat, I don't want to lose my figure.” He gave her a wink and took a slug of the bottle again.

“A fine figure it is, too.” She gave that compliment almost without blushing. “Might you like stuffed fowl or roasted rabbit any better, mayhap the next time you get to be over?”

“I usually just eat what's on hand. I don't get much pleasure from food so I don't mind what is on the menu.” But he did derive pleasure from watching Querylon enjoy the treat in front of her. “There is always work to be done, people to go and meet. Having a meal is just another venue to accomplishing a more important goal.”

“There is definitely always something that needs doing. I somehow will need to find the time to collect a few items and make the potions the apothecary ordered. I wonder how that does fit in with the pressure to open the Jasmine. What do you think?”

He considered her words his eyes narrowing as he mulled over her words. His fingers rapped against the bottle.

“Your presence will not be needed as often as mine. You will have more free time than I will. I imagine you will have enough time to do your own work when you desire. If need to be the Jasmine has plenty of rooms. I am sure I could clear one for you to work in if need be. You would just have to promise me you wouldn't blow the damn place up.”

“It will not take a whole room. But now that you mention the possibility, especially once the Jasmine is open, having the use of its kitchen now and then while it is not needed otherwise might be a good idea and would save some traveling back and forth. I do not imagine I will have as much time for the potions by then anyway. Currently I am more concerned about keeping my promise to the apothecary.” Robert nodded to her words and sipped slowly as she finished speaking.

“I won't force you to break any commitments you already have. Till this point potion making has been your life so I am not quick to ask you to dump your profession. If for whatever reason you don't like the work, or it doesn't work out it would be wise to keep your business contacts.” He coughed and set the bottle on the table. “Having your own room is not a matter of space, it is to keep what you do hidden from other people. If you do use the … I would just ask that you don't have bat heads, or uncommon items on the counter tops. Seeing things like that would upset the staff.” Querylon gave a chuckle as he suggested bats be one of the ingredients she worked with.

“My potions are not near as exotic as you may think them. Most of what you or anyone will see on a countertop are plants.” She waved a hand at the kitchen they were sitting in. “There is nothing like bat heads here.” She took a drink from her glass. “So, would it be okay for me to plan an outing for tomorrow?”

Robert nodded, “I have some people to meet so you will not need to come to the Jasmine tomorrow. You may consider it a day off, I would enjoy it, there may not be another one for a few weeks after.”

“I will keep that in mind and try to breathe as much fresh forest air as possible.” She gave him one of those still slightly imperfect winks. Querylon knew she would enjoy walking through the forest. She also knew it took more than a pleasant walk to make potions. A day of rest this would not be, nor would she be able to get everything done in only one day.

Robert peered at her in an amused fashion then took another drink from his bottle. His words came hallow as he lowered the lip of the bottle just enough to speak. “Don't get mauled by a bear or something. It would be a damn bit of inconvenience to lose you now.”

“I do know how to avoid raiding the same bush for berries as the bears.” Querylon pushed her now empty plate away. She picked up her glass and leaned back in her chair. Her dark blue gaze rested gently on Robert to his amusement.

“You have something to say?”

“No. I do like what I see, is all.”

“Maybe I should be drinking that instead of this” He nodded toward her milk and sloshed the contents of his bottle around. “It seems to give more courage.” His eyes looked around the house and he continued, “If this place was a bit bigger I would have the Jasmine's customers come here so they could see the bolder side of Lady Q, instead of the shy timid girl that shimmies her cute behind through my double doors.” He scooted his chair up to hers and slid his arm around her shoulders while he talked.

She dropped her gaze to the glass in her hand with a thoughtful little sound. “It is easy to forget the past with all it strictures here. Mayhap you should hear some of it.”

Robert shifted in his chair kicking his legs up on the table but leaving his boots clear of the tabletop. He squeezed her to him briefly and breathed in the spicy-herbal scent of her soft curls.

“Sure, I love a good story.”
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Post by Querylon »

“A story then. Though it may not be good.” Querylon took a drink from her glass. The gained seconds weren't enough to make finding a starting point any easier. But she had to start somewhere.

“I really liked Sister Josephine, the nun in the nursery. I still do, but ...” she paused briefly, “but differently so now. I still like her best of anyone I met while at St Martins. She was warm and always there. At least in the oldest memories I have. Relationships between students and nuns was discouraged. Especially after the children left the nursery.”

Robert merely nodded not wanting to interrupt the tale.

“I felt hurt when Sister Josephine told me we would no longer be greeting each other in public with a hug, just there never was anything but public for the most part. The memory of that interfered with what you were trying to say the other day.” She gave Robert an apologetic smile.
“I know it's not the same circumstances, nor do I believe the results to be similar in the least. Now I know it wasn't even what she wanted but that she simply had to obey the rules. And she did make an effort over the years to keep in contact.”

Querylon took another drink from her glass, more to order her thoughts than for being thirsty. He knew she wouldn't take it and given the disastrous effects of milk and whiskey he hoped she wouldn't try but he felt compelled to offer his bottle to her anyway.

“The mother superior, Mother Rahel, handed out punishment, or penance as she called it. Sometimes it was deserved but more often I ended up on some sort of punishment for things the other girls said I had done but I had not. Arguing about it only made the situation worse.” Querylon shook her head slightly at the memories and at the offered whiskey bottle. “Nun's do not make loving parents.” She smiled for a moment at the absurdity of her next thought. “They have this weird idea of something vaguely imagined should take care of love, comfort, and confidant.”

“I was raised under an interesting assortment of ideas. I would not wish a harsh childhood on a small girl, however.” Robert nodded. He knew he did not need to twist his body showing his deeply scared back. Querylon had seen them before and wondered where he had gotten those scars since she first saw them.

“As bad as your scars are, there are worse things than bodily injury. Small rooms with naught to do, lots of work, isolation, limited food and drink, looks or words of disgust or hate.” She saw no need to elaborate further. She did not want his pity for the girl she was then but his understanding for the person she was now.

“There were these two girls, Tina and Elisabeth, I used to get along with fabulously. I thought us friends for years. They had arrived at St. Martins on the same day, just a week or so after I had been sent from the nursery to live in the wing with the older children. They were close but appeared to be only too happy to include me in most of what they were doing.”

Her voice remained even and neutral when she continued. “One day I was called to the mother superior's office. I was curious as to why, because I could not think of anything I had done of late that violated the rules.”

Querylon turned her head and her gaze shifted from the past to Robert so she would see whatever reaction might be visible in his features. “She was very angry and disappointed. It took me a while to piece together what had her so upset with me. During inspection they found the holy book in my things utterly mistreated, with a greasy sandwich smeared between the pages, pages ripped and torn, devil signs and ugly words in the margins.”

Robert continued to listen impassively, his face showed as little emotion as her voice held. He felt for the girl but at the same time respected her too much to give her a sad look or pitying expression. Having enough of his own sad tales he knew how disgusting it was to have someone try and sympathize with a situation they are incapable of understanding.

“I recognized the sandwich. It was Tina's favorite, only the afternoon before she had mentioned she needed to get rid of it because that day she hadn't felt like eating it. The pretty angel picture sister Josephine had given me years before and I kept in that book had its head neatly torn out. I was stunned that a friend could do such a thing. And stunned that mother Rahel was so ready to believe I had done this. It wasn't even in question with her. After her words I didn't much care what she was handing out as penance, ‘It is no wonder the little darlings wanted to see you burn at the stake and this’ - here she waved the smelly book at me – ‘makes me sorry I interrupted them. You may get the Lord's forgiveness but never mine.’ Weeks later, after the punishment was over, I tried talking with Tina, hoping for denial or an explanation. She avoided me and when I cornered Elisabeth on the subject, she said I was mean for bothering either of them with it.”

Querylon barely paused for a breath. She wanted to get the telling over with quickly. “They were just having fun, they just had wanted to see what was so much fun to the other kids in being mean to my face rather than as they had been doing, behind my back. And she mentioned how dumb I was not to have noticed for years how much fun they had on my account ever since they met me. In theory I know few people are like that once grown up, nor are very many as mother Rahel was, so easy to believe the worst of someone. But knowing and feeling are not the same thing.” She drank down the rest of the milk and set the glass back on the table before settling back against Robert.
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Post by Querylon »

“And you never fought back?” The idea of being insulted without his enemies feeling the sharp stab of his revenge were a total foreign concept to Robert.

“That would have been against the rules, too. Mother Rahel did not believe me anyway. And what's the word of one against evidence and the word of everyone else?”

“Any rules that harbor someone that would seek to do you harm aren't rules worth living by anyway.” He gave a cynical chuckle. “I found that it is better to live in the street than to be at the mercy of those who would harm me. It's an unpleasant tale. I feel for a girl so young to be treated in such a fashion. Yet I will not lie to you Q, you will find that people are horridly cruel and self-serving. You can live among them, and even be kind to them, but never take your eyes of them.” His wide smile was at odds with his words, “or they will be your ruin.”

“I did meet people over the years, especially after leaving St Martins, some of them I may have enjoyed getting to be friends with. It just didn't happen. There was the TDL season I spent with Atrebla and the adventure with Devarrah when we found the injured cook of the Guardians and returned him home. But nothing much came of that either. Devarrah left town shortly thereafter and I never got to meet the cook once he got better. The Guardians still purchase potions now and then, but it's a sort of business relationship and naught else. For a while felt like I was part of things. The season with EnFuego it was a different experience. I promised Dustin to be available for the next season.”

“It is important to be a part of something. I enjoy my independence but I have fought under flags and banded about with others in order to feel wanted.”

“Being wanted is rather a nice feeling, like belonging.” Querylon stretched out a hand and reached for a strawberry from the bowl.

Robert nodded. “You can't sit back and wait to be wanted Q. You have to go out, make your mark. You will find that if you have the sufficient courage to be willing to live life alone and still accomplish your goals people will find their way into your life.” He chuckled and gave her shoulders another squeeze. “I have long since given up being friendly yet I still somehow always manage to meet the most fascinating people.”

I have tried that.” She grinned. “Even being awarded the most valuable player title did not work, much.”

“You were awarded the title, but tell me ... did you act like the most valuable player?” His eyes teased and he pulled the bottle back she hadn’t touched.

“I do not know that I ought to have acted any differently from how I did.” She gave a soft chuckle. “I certainly would not want to behave like some braggart.”

“You will learn how to interact with people in a more” he paused “rewarding fashion when you work for me. You will not swagger like some of the trollops in the arena but you will learn that you are valuable and you will enjoy the quiet confidence that I think you desire. Your lifestyle has kept you surrounded mostly with your potions. When you go to the arena you expect people to interact with you and nothing can be further from the truth. In the duels people huddle together in their little groups because they do not want to appear that they are alone. Much in the same manner no one goes to a restaurant without someone to dine alone,” he chuckled. “To actually be sociable and reach out to others takes a tremendous amount of self-confidence and will. Much of which most people lack. I myself find that I am unwilling to be pleasant at the duels anymore, yet mine is for a different reason.”

“What is your reason?”

“Because I am old and tired” he gave a cynical sounding chuckle “and don't have the energy anymore. I have come to the conclusion that I am quite happy with who I am and really don't need to force myself on other people. When I ran Fists it got all my time and attention. Well I do not run Fists anymore and the Jasmine needs me now. The Duels are a place to go and fight and sometimes make some cash now. The other large reason I hung around the duels was to find women to sleep with.” Now his chuckle held a happier note. “I don't need to do that anymore either.”

“The light in which you put the Jasmine makes me think I may well come to enjoy spending my time there more than just about anywhere else away from here.” The smile with which she looked to Robert was warm and sincere.

“The Jasmine was created by me to offer an alternative to what I saw in the duels. I do not think the duels are horrid or have fallen off like others go around preaching. I just think the environment that I created is different. Many of the people who come through my doors have never heard of the duels and I think I like it that way.”

“They are not horrid. That is not want I meant to imply. I do enjoy the fencing or watching you fight. But imagine I will come to enjoy people wanting to talk to me as they walk through the door. And that is not the case at the duels.” She reached for another berry and enjoyed it. Robert caught her glance through the doorway at the filled tub with a glint in her eyes. It was time that he took his leave that so she might enjoy his present.
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Post by Querylon »

Morning Coffee
(2008)

Querylon, dressed for a day's work in a faded and mended green summer muslin was on her to the portal that would get her to Atrebla when she passed the Inn. The warm morning promised a hot day, just as it should this time of year. On the spur of the moment she decided to slip in for a cup of coffee before continuing on her way.

Only one other customer was in the commons. A woman with long dark hair was perched on the far end of the bar top itself, performing coin toss tricks in a ritual that saw her flicking a dark silver coin over her knuckles, between the gaps in her fingers, into the air and catching it.

"A good morning to you." Querylon offered with a polite nod as she approached the bar.

"Heads, or tails", the woman called out. "Heads, I make you a coffee, tails, you make me one", she said with a smirk to Querylon in response, as she smugly worked her coin trick magic, but a silver line danced through the air, so deftly she managed it.

"That sounds acceptable." The trick reminded Querylon of some of Robert's tricks and of her days spent at the Jasmine. She guessed that less chance and more skill would influence the result of the coin toss after having watched the routine, but she did not mind that this morning. "The coin does have two different sides, correct?"

Querylon received a friendly wink, and the coin was snatched from the air by an ultra white knuckled fist, green painted nails fluttered to close over the back of the opposite hand. Beneath lifelines and the shadow of the covering hand, who knew ones luck.

"Maybe" The woman allowed and kept her hand covering the coin.

"Do you have to look for the result?" Querylon's gaze had followed the path of the coin and now rested on the white hands, expecting to be the one brewing the coffee.

"Guess I'm yours this morning," The woman raised her feet and swiveled her bottom to drop her legs to the tender side of the counter, and then slid off. She unveiled the coin and raised it up for Querylon to see the head of a crow.

"My gratitude, milady. I will savor not being the one preparing morning coffee today." Positive surprise registered on Querylon’s face as she raised her gaze from the coin to the skilled woman's face, her smile was much warmer now. A gregarious laugh was the woman's response and a few nods as she tucked the coin into one of the numerous pockets of her snug leather jacket.

The jacket itself was a curiosity, embroidered as it is with shiny black feathers which in certain lights caught colors of blue, pale green or reddish brown.

"Yer name?” She thrusted out a hand, smiling crookedly. "I'm Cricket"

"I'm Querylon." She took the offered hand for a moment with a warm grasp for a moment, noting the coolness of the other's hand. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Cricket."

"Pretty name, stranger." The warmth that emanated from the other’s demeanor and hand was welcome. Cricket clasped the other’s hand firmly. She wiggled one of those black brows and then dropped the other's hand. "So, how do you take it? Sugar or no, milk, or no?"

"Thank you. I like coffee best with a little cream and no sugar." Querylon moved onto one of the barstools. There would be plenty of standing and walking filling her day soon enough.

"Mmm, cream does sound good. You know, I never do think of cream. I always have it black", spinning on a heel with a grin flashed wide, Cricket headed for some porcelain mugs and the canisters', and soon readied, started the percolator and awaited the filling of the jug.

"You from around 'ere?" Cricket asked over a shoulder with the glance of vivid indigo eyes.

"I was raised in town, but if I am from here or from somewhere else, that knowledge I lack." Querylon's gaze followed Cricket's quick and efficient movements. Sharing that tidbit of information seemed harmless enough.

"Curious, me too!" She chirped with a lilt of her voice with the surprise of the truth, heading towards Querylon one arm out further than the other with the creamed coffee. "Here," a soft look met the other’s gaze a moment, before she raised her cup to her mouth. She hesitated... "I don't know if I'm from Paris or Boot Hill. It was really a whole other life time ago, indeed...," she mused, half to herself, mostly to Querylon. "So, the knowledge never was?"

"Really?" Surprise made that word slip out. "No, the knowledge never was. I was found in a crate with the word Querylon stamped on the side that could have come from just about anywhere by one of the nun's of Saint Martin's."

Cricket gave a few nods with a maudlin smile, and then a sigh. "Suppose we're both lost. But as was said by some so and so, 'not all who wander are lost', really, now are they?" She lowered her mug, tapping her nails against its side. "And you have never sought the background? I have tried myself, years back, but was overcome by... well, terror, and stopped" Cricket made a face, her lips twisted up and frowning a bit, and then took a very quick sip. "Cheers to mixed up lives!" She held out her mug quite suddenly, with a broad smile.

"There was a time when I attempted to find more information, but it turned out to have been a fruitless search." Querylon picked up the cup and, after having returned the toast with a smile, brought it to her lips for a sip. She wondered why such inquiry should cause terror, but their acquaintance was too short and she deemed it impolite to turn that thought into a question.

"We can try. All we can do. Sail away, aye!" Cricket had a lopsided smile, maybe with the tracings of some misgiving. Then Cricket took a couple short back steps, to rest against the back bar. "Is the coffee okay?"

"The coffee is better than merely okay; you somehow managed to get it just the way I like it best. Thank you very much for your effort." Querylon's smile as she set down her cup revealed a row of perfectly good teeth and the enjoyment of good coffee just the way she liked it showed in her expressive features. She wondered at the perceived misgiving and retreat and if perhaps it was caused by something she had said.

"Good!” Cricket was delighted, the charge of joy visible in her clear eyes. She raised her shoulders with the tension of the feeling, and grinned. “So, your plans today, are you working?"

"Yes, work is my plan for today, the only plan for after coffee. It should keep me occupied until well after dark. Do you have plans for today as well?" Another sip of the perfect coffee was savored by her as she listened for Cricket's reply.

"You like it then, to work so long?" Cricket tilted her head and gave a bidding nod before she continued. "As for I... heading to the home I've been away from for... well, years. Setting up there again, and then attending to my job. I was on holiday. Back to the chalk, now", she left off mentioning where she worked. She still had an issue with the disclosure of her profession for fear she'd get off to the wrong start with the right sort.

"At times I think there is nothing else I enjoy nearly as much as working. The forest, fields and mountains, the handling of plants in the process of making potions and medicines, it all is very relaxing and enjoyable to me." Plants did not seek to make her blush with compliments nor did they chide her when she made a mistake, and that suited her just fine. That was certainly more to her taste than hosting and, to a large extend, it kept her mind from troubling thoughts.

"Ya know, I must say...," a wistful look caught Cricket then and she treaded forward, to lean against the counter’s surface. "Green houses have always appealed to me, there's a magic inherent to them... hot houses, roses blooming... Something that quickens me blood. You're a magic lady", she stated with a gentle smile to Querylon, "I am almost bewitched", she gave a cheer to the air with her mug and then took a long sip. "And truly so, too... Never told anyone or myself that I liked them, but I do... I like being inside all the green", she curled an arm over her stomach and smiled.

"It is odd that you should use that particular word. Allow me to assure you that bewitching is definitely not among my magical talents." Querylon offered another, far less certain smile before she continued. "I often have found the green of the forest and the leaves rustling comforting enough to make the ills of what life puts in my way seem more manageable or even somewhat forgettable." Querylon was surprised at herself and her sharing of that particular thought. Such confidence was not her character upon such short acquaintance. Her next words surprised her even more.

"Perhaps you would enjoy accompanying me some time. I could always use another hand to carry a basket for what might offer itself to be collected upon a hike." The coffee cup was empty now and she set it down on the counter.

"Tell me..." Cricket said with a dreamy smile as she rested her chin to her knuckles.

"For now the day's work demands attention." Querylon replied with regret that time should pass so quickly. Already she had shared more than she was comfortable with to share with strangers, but there was something about the black haired woman that invited trust.

"That would be grand, Querylon." Cricket said with a warmed look to her and forgave herself for mistaking a pulse beneath her wrist, that tiny drum in her fingertip. Cricket was remiss too - time went all too fast, always, even if you were dead. An eternity was not all pleasure. "Have yourself a fine day"

"You do the same, Cricket." Another smile came easy as Querylon slipped from the stool. "Until soon, I hope, and thank you again for the coffee."

"Anytime! Next time though, I'll rig us the game, give me the tails", Cricked warned with a playful wink.

"I am looking forward to that." Then she turned and walked toward the door, her steps much lighter now then they had been upon arriving earlier for the company enjoyed over coffee. She would indeed like to meet Cricket again.
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Post by Querylon »

Invitation
(2008)

Greetings effendi,

I will be sponsering a small tournament soon. I have sent out invitations to four duelists that I would like to see compete in this tournament. Your consistent skill with your weapon, and your accomplishments in the Team Dueling League have brought me to offer you an invitation to participate in this tournament.

Four duelists, One Tournament, Round-Robin; I will call, myself. The winner of this Invitational will be offered my Overlord's Grant to challenge a Baron for their mantle. I am keeping the names of the tournament's combatants quiet, in an effort to generate more publicity for the small event.

If you are interested, write a missive in reply to mine, and also make it known when your availability is most flexible.

~Rakeesh Sah Tarna~



Greetings Rakeesh Sah Tarna Overlord of the Duel of Swords,

I thank you for your great compliments and the compliment of the invitation as well as your trust. You do me a great honor by inviting me to this quiet tournament in which only four select duelers are to compete.

It is with great pleasure that I accept your invitation. With a little prior notice as to date and time, I should be able to make arrangements that allow me to be present and on time.

Best regards,
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Tournament of Four
(2008)

The evening of the ‘secret tournament’ had arrived. The tournament itself was not a secret, the time and date had been advertised, nor was the prize to be won a secret, the Overlord would give a grant to the champion. The part that had been kept utterly secret was the list. Not even those invited knew who they may be facing in the ring that night.

Querylon was surprisingly calm as she readied to head to the arena in the basement of the inn, where the tournament was to be held. That was due mostly to her having been above average busy. For the last few weeks she had spent every waking hour either with the making of one particular potion, the gathering of ingredients for it, or the working of magic. She had not even found the time for her usual morning practice with the blade.

Neither had there been time to acquire a new outfit befitting the occasion. So Querylon arrived at the arena garbed for an evening of fencing in her faded and mended purple gown that she half suspected of being lucky and her coppery curls tied back with a ribbon and only a little before the supposed starting time of the festivities.

Querylon nodded and smiled greetings to the few people present; Rena, an official from Twilight Isle and last season’s team captain of Atrebla sat with Topaz, the Commander of the Guardians and Coordinator of the magic duels. The legendary Overlord Dalamar Ar’Daumon was present as well, conversing with the two ladies but seated at a separate table.

Other people started to arrive and the tables and chairs in the arena filled quickly. Querylon only recognized Lord Mues among them, though. He must have remembered her as well and positively so, for he flashed her what must be his best smile in way of a greeting.

Then the painted red wooden doors creaked again with the ache of many years, and the pain and wearying wonder of the things they have witnessed, drawing Querylon’s gaze to the top of the stairs. Through them passed the old Liontaur, bearing a white sash across his red-brown fur covered upper-torso. He was quite a sight to see, his four legs worked in natural, animalistic union to trot him gracefully down the stairs and through the Arena commons.

Querylon inclined her head respectfully toward the Overlord when he happened to glance into her direction. Rakeesh received similarly respectful greetings from everyone present and he returned each and every one of them by dipping his white-mane covered head in slow, gentle nods, a warm smile tugged upward at the corner of his lips.

After the ritual of greeting those present at the Arena this evening, the old liontaur ambled his way into a simple, sand-floored ring. He situated himself there before he turned to regard the gathered crowd with a broad and regal smile.

“Would the chosen Champions step within the wards of the ring, and present their name and weapon of choice for this tournament, please?” The Overlord’s booming bass filled with age, wisdom, and just a hint of excitement invited the four to reveal their identities.

Lord Ar'Daumon set down his glass and unclasped his cloak, letting it fall and drape over the back of his chair. With a quirk of a brow, his lips playing in a small grin, he rose from his chair and stepped into the ring, taking a place in one corner and facing the Overlord. He extended his arm and muttered a few words under his breath, causing Vengeance to appear in a flash of silver light.
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Querylon
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Post by Querylon »

Lord Mues untied his robes and draped them over his chair before he pushed himself to his feet and unsheathed one of his blades. Ivan, Querylon remembered the name of his blade. After exchanging a few words with the gentleman at his table he made his way into the ring. Querylon stepped into the ring at nearly the same time.

“My thanks for the opportunity, Overlord.” Lord Ar'Daumon saluted to Rakeesh before he turned to acknowledge Lord Mues and Querylon.

A wriggle of Querylon’s cute nose brought her slender bladed sword to her right. She then took a step toward Rakeesh and presented her weapon.

"Querylon." She offered a bow of her head along with her name.

“Best of luck to you tonight.” Lord Ar’Daumon wished with a nod to Querylon before he turned to Lord Mues. “And to you as well, Xeric.” Then his ruby eyes surveyed the crowd, waiting for the final person to enter the ring.

“To you as well, Lord Ar'Daumon.” She returned his smile with one of her own. The competition would be a tough one and Querylon was not at all sure if she would be up to it, not even having touched her blade in weeks.

Lord Ar'Daumon grinned as a half orc approached the ring after having guzzled down his ale, and nodded to him. “How good of you to join us, Jake.”

“It sounded like fun.” Jake grinned back.

“I know the feeling.” Lord Ar’Daumon agreed with a slight chuckle and turned back to the Overlord.

“Jake Thrash.” The half orc nodded to the Overlord and offered his plain old sword for inspection. “It's got a few years on it, but it still holds an edge.”

Querylon offered a polite nod of her head to Sir Thrash and received one in return. She paled slightly as she remembered what she had read and heard of his fencing career and about his person. While she knew Lord Ar’Daumon and Lord Mues to be gentleman, and that they tended to display skill over brawn when in the rings with a female opponent, she did not have that knowledge of Sir Thrash. The man looked perfectly able of defeating anyone of her stature outside the ring with a single strike, no matter the skill.

Rakeesh stepped forward, his broad shoulders pulled back majestically to raise the liontaur to his actual, imposingly tall height.

“Dalamar Ar'Daumon. Your history is infused into this ring, this Arena, and in the minds and hearts of every duelist who has competed here for blood, glory, and honor. It is an honor, effendi.” His reddish eyes slipped then from Dalamar to Querylon, beside him.

Lord Ar’Daumon inclined his head respectfully to the Overlord's words.

“Querylon. What you have accomplished in the Dueling League is incredible. You give face to every champion who proves to us that heart and skill are greater virtues than size and might. To have you here is an honor.” After a kindly old smile, the liontaur then looked onto Jake Thrash.

Pale pink rose to Querylon’s cheeks at his words, which she acknowledged with a slight nod.

“Jake Thrash. You are the flip of Querylon's coin. Yet you are no mere brute in the rings. It is your leadership, wisdom, and skills that make me admire what you can accomplish in the ring. And it is your Badsider Ale that I likely have to thank my current position for. To have you compete, it is an honor, effendi.” Rakeesh turned to look at the quiet figure of Xeric.
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Querylon
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Post by Querylon »

Sir Thrash chuckled and raised his mug in salute.

“Xeric Mues. You are a polarizing figure, and one that I am intrigued of. You are certainly skilled, yet you have a self-righteous rage within that reminds me of my youth. May this experience add to your grace, and may you fight to the limit of your skill with a blade. It is an honor.”

Lord Mues bowed deeply with a slight grin. “Thanks, I think.”

“This will be a round robin tournament. There will only be one ring - the other duel taking place will give you new obstacles and challenges. You will duel under the current rules of rank, though this tournament has nothing to do with peer wins or official records. Are there any questions?” Rakeesh’s bass boomed louder then, the warmth of his earlier tone replaced by an official, emotionless call.

“Breaks for ale in between?” Sir Thrash voiced a question.

“If it'll pacify you, I'm all for it, Jake.” Lord Ar’Daumon chuckled his reply.

Rakeesh boomed loudly.” If someone would be so kind as to make sure Sir Thrash has ale waiting for him between duels? Perhaps an entire cask, under my tab?”

“So it's Sir Thrash now? Lord Ar’Daumon winked to Sir Thrash. “My, things have changed in my absence.”

“Rakeesh is the polite sort.” Sir Thrash chuckled and shrugged.

The liontaur carried himself regally from the ring, choosing to reside just outside of its ward - leaving the four champions alone there, in the sand.

Lord Ar'Daumon remained in the corner he was already occupying, his ruby eyes moved from the Overlord to the three other combatants in turn. Lord Mues twirled his blade as Querylon took up a position near the ropes.

“The first round will see Querylon face Jake Thrash, and Xeric face Dalamar Ar'Daumon. Skill and honor, effendis. You may begin.”

Lord Ar'Daumon bowed to Lord Mues. “Skill and Honor, Xeric.” He quirked a brow and brought up his blade to center, gripping the hilt in both hands.

Sir Thrash set up parallel to them and offered a nod to Querylon. “Luck to ya'.”

“Skill and Honor, milord.” Querylon replied with a brief nod and then the fight started.

Querylon would need every bit of strength, speed and skill she could muster against Sir Thrash. The need to remain out of the way of the other two and their blades while doing her best to escape the worst of Sir Thrash’s attacks as she tried to turn openings into points proved to be much more distracting than she had imagined that to be.

Sir Thrash moved suddenly and slipped past her defenses and under her swing to deliver a quick opening thrust, leaving neither room nor time for Querylon to attempt a last second escape. He nodded to Querylon as he backed off and reset his guard instead of pressing his advantage. He began a deceptively slow shuffle.

Querylon’s left held the skirt of her dress just enough as to not trip over the hem as moved around the ring. Her counter attack was as fast as his earlier one and Sir Thrash appeared distracted by the other combatants. He almost missed the sudden charge, but he had the required room to use a quick defense to keep her away.
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