8th of Eleasis, After Midnight to Night

  8th of Eleasis 

Chapter 1: Keeping Watch 

Atalaya sat of Vasilya’s lap, her head leaning against his shoulder as she watched Sorrow sleep.  He had been asleep ever since Mother Bettewhyte had placed her hands over his eyes and said some type of prayer over him.  Atalaya felt the tension and anger leave Vasilya’s body as he watched Sorrow’s chest slowly and evenly rise and fall with his breaths.  She could hear Nevil and Inman talking with Skarne; their voices heard but not distinct enough for her to make out what was being said.  The dim light within the room and providing her with more than enough light to see clearly, she found herself watching the flickering shadows as she rested.  Vasilya’s arms around her waist held her firmly in place were comforting as she thought about what had happened that evening.  Finally she sighed and speaking softly so that she would not disturb Sorrow, Atalaya mused, “We came so close to losing him tonight.  When that fiend was draining his life force… that it had made itself look like Joan made it even worse.”  Her voice trailed off as the memories of their recent past swirled through her 

thoughts.  

Vaz’s arms tightened around Atalaya as she spoke to him.   “And that is why it kept up the pretense of being Joan.  It was done solely to hurt us.”  A soft and slightly angry chuckle escaped his lips.  “Joan is going to be furious when she learns about this.  And she is going to be really ticked that she can’t be the one to kill Pencheska herself.”  

After a short pause, Vaz continued, “The priestess is coming back tomorrow, yes?  We need to be sure that we get her to do that purification ritual.  I don’t want there to be any chance that Pencheska creature can ever get its claws into Sorrow again.  Or any of the rest of us.”

Atalaya nodded into his shoulder.  “Yes, she is coming back tomorrow.  And yes, we will be sure to ask her about the ritual.  I don’t know if she can do it here or if we will need to go to the temple.  Either way, that will be one of the day’s priorities.”  

The two grew silent as they continued to watch over Sorrow as he slept.  Atalaya’s hand lightly stroking the leather armor that Vasilya was still wearing.  She wished he wasn’t wearing it, but understood why he hadn’t taken it off.  Afterall, she was still wearing hers.  No one was going to disturb Sorrow’s rest for the remaining hours of this night.

As the ship quieted and Sorrows's night watch set in, Nevil made her way to his room.  The door was slightly ajar.  When Nevil opened the door quietly and slipped her head in, a cat danced delicately around her feet to investigate the unusual gathering. Alalaya and Boz looked over with concern.  Nevil gestured for them to remain. Then she whispered, "everything is fine."  Nevil studied Sorrow then turned back to the pair, "we will relieve you in a few hours."  The pair nodded and settled back into their watch.

The cat, finding no perch with Boz and Atalaya, jumped into Sorrow’s hammock and began to knead its front paws into the blanket.  Pleased with the warmth it found, the cat began to pur.  Nevil smiled and removed the cat, lightly tossing it back into the galley.  Inman had just finished cleaning the tea and coffee cups and he was wiping his hands while leaning on the counter. 

Entering their cabin, both began to silently remove armor, getting ready for bed.  Nevil, in her soreness from the evening's battle, was having trouble pulling her shirt over her head.  She started groaning and laughing at herself.  Inman helped her out of her confines and noticed several bruises, "A hard night."  Inman's examining gaze and playful but exhausted smile was too much for Nevil.  She kissed him slowly and sweetly.  Inman traced a finger over the split still in her lip and then down her shoulder. "Didn't get enough earlier?  I hope none of these were from our "acting."

Nevil touched her lip and grinned, "You know it takes more than that."  She looked over her bruised shoulders and chest.  "No, these are from our Thayain friends." Inman pointed to the bed. "Sit down," he instructed while retrieving a tin from their chest.  He crawled behind her and began to tenderly rub an ointment into her shoulders. "I don't know if I have the energy tonight," Nevil said, groaning at the pressure he applied.  Inman chuckled, "for as much as I love that thought, neither do I. But I would fear Atalaya’s admonitions for not treating your bruises."  Nevil smiled to herself and let Inman continue.  When he was done, she stood to place the tin on the table as Inman rolled down the covers and got into bed.  Nevil turned down the lamp and slipped in next to him.  Inman pulled her close. "I get second watch, you get third."  Nevil grunted softly in relaxed agreement and drifted off to sleep.

A few hours later, Inman softly knocked on Sorrow’s cracked door.

Atalaya’s hand moved quickly towards her sword as she heard the soft knock.  Both her head and Vasilya’s turned and saw Inman’s face peering through the slowly opening door.  Atalaya looked suspiciously at Inman.  “Is something wrong?  Did you hear something?”  She looks back at Sorrow.  “It’s been quiet here.  Sorrow is sleeping soundly.  And I was just about to send Vaz to bed.”

With a book in hand, Inman leaned a shoulder on the door frame, his shirt untucked and loose over his breaches.  His dark hair was wet and slicked back.  It was about as informal as anyone on the ship, other than Nevil, had seen him. An odd blue glow fell on him from above as a small orb lazily danced over his head and then behind his back.

He spoke softly as he looked to Sorrow, "Everything is fine.  You're still on edge. Go with Boz and meditate to settle your mind." Looking back to the pair with a comforting sincerity, "Nevil and I got the next bits.  When you finish meditating, come relieve her.”

Atalaya searches Inman’s face and then slowly nods.  “All right, if you are sure.”  Arching her back as she stretches, she gets to her feet and turns to reach out her hand to Vasilya.  When he takes it, she gives a steady pull to assist him to stand.  “Call me if there are any problems.  But I don’t expect there will be.  Mother Bette seems to have put him into a very deep sleep.  He has barely moved since she left.”

As she passes Inman Atalaya places a hand on his forearm.  “Is Nevil okay?  She took an awful lot of hits tonight.  

Speaking with Atalaya just outside the room, Inman's smile remained but it was tinged with concern. "She did.  I looked her over.  She’ll be alright by morning."

Seeing the pair retire to their cabin, Inman sits.  He watches Sorrow for a moment, then pulls out his book, lifting a page mark as the little blue orb rests over his shoulder.

Vasilya and Atalaya silently move through the common room to their cabin.  Once inside Atalaya gives Vaz a little push towards the bed.  “Let’s get you out of that armor.  I don’t think you are going to need it tonight.  I think that if the Thayians were going to retaliate tonight they would have done so already.  Or they will come at dawn.  So, you need to get some good sleep before then.  Atalaya starts unbuckling his armor and assists him with doffing it.  She lays the pieces out neatly on the chest, “Just in case you need to put it on quickly,” she mumbles when he casts her a questioning look.  While Atalaya does that, Vaz works his boots off his feet and kicks them across the room.  Seeing that Atalaya makes no moves towards removing her own armor he grumbles, “You aren’t joining me, are you?”

Atalaya comes over and gives him a light kiss on the forehead and then a longer one on his lips.  “Not tonight, love.  I’m going to trance and then send whoever is with Sorrow when I come out of it back to bed.”  He watches as Atalaya removes her boots and settles in a tailor sit at the end of the bed.  She slowly relaxes her body and moves into a healing trance. Shaking his head, Vasilya watches her for several minutes.  Fingering his dreamcatcher briefly, he returns it to its tack above their pillows and lays down to sleep.  

Nevil woke.  Lazily searching for Inman's warmth and finding none, her mind immediately cleared and she remembered her watch was nearing.  She cleaned up, grabbed a few items, and went to find Inman.

Inman was sitting in a chair against the wall near Sorrow's hammock.  Bent over with his elbows on his knees, his spell book was held closed in one hand.  He was whispering something and stopped when he heard someone approach.  Looking up to the door he smiled, seeing Nevil draw closer and into the light of the little orb he commanded to move into the great room. 

Nevil set her small bag just inside the door. Inman set his book down and stood to meet her in the doorway.  He reached an arm for her waist as she approached and drew her to him.  She lay her head on his shoulder, then whispering in his ear, "what were you saying to Sorrow?"

Inman held her tightly for a moment as they watched Sorrow. Then he whispered into the top of her head,  "I was encouraging him." 

"Is he getting worse?"

"No, I was just thinking about why the demon kept choosing him."  He paused, "they use your longings and fears as bait and prefer prey whose moral loss or pain would be deeper." They sat in silence for a moment.  "It's been women both times he was seduced."  

"It's not a surprise that Sorrow chases women." Nevil said stoically.

"No, carnal pleasures are easy to find.  A man that attractive and talented could have a woman every night. But you saw the way he brightened up when he saw Joan. I think he's longing for something more."

"You think he's in love?" Nevil asked.

"Or he really wants to be and can't... I know what that's like. I was encouraging him."

Nevil's gut felt empty thinking about what may be for Sorrow and what Inman endured, for her.  She gently pulled from Inman to see his face.  She had been wanting his touch, when they weren't "acting", since their little ruse but the situation was never right. Finding his wet eyes, she couldn't hold her desire back.  She pulled him out of the doorway and around the side of the wall of the great room.  She pushed her lips into his, kissing him passionately as his back landed against the wall.  Hands were wandering and exploring options as Inman extinguished the orb.   

Then in darkness they froze to hear Sorrow's short groan and rolling in his hammock to a more comfortable position.  Then silence.  

Nevil stepped back and peered around the door as Inman cast another orb and floated it into the room over her shoulder.  Sorrow was still asleep.  

She returned to Inman with a short gentle kiss, "We should talk to him when the time is right."  Inman nodded. Nevil giggled, "and you should go back to bed before we wake him."

"That's probably a good idea."  He lit a lamp on the wall with a snap of his fingers for Nevil.  Then picking up the items at the door, he handed Nevil her bag and kissed her forehead before walking to their room.  

Nevil pulled out her prayer book and sash. Draping the sash over her shoulders and wrapping it over one hand, she held the book in her other hand and began to pray for Sorrow’s peace until someone came or Sorrow woke.

The darkness was just starting to turn to twilight as Atalaya emerged from her trance.  She stretched and then turned to watch Vasilya.  His steady breathing told her that he was still deeply asleep.  Moving as quietly as she could, Atalaya stood up and moved to the desk.  Pouring some water from the filled ewer into the wash basin she stripped her armor off and then her clothing.  Her quick wash up over, she pulled out some new clothes and dressed for the morning.  She was about to toss the used clothing with the rest of their dirty clothes, but realized that Inman’s magical cleaning of their clothing and armor the night before had negated the need for that.  She folded and replaced last night’s clothing.  That done, she donned her armor, strapped on her sword and quiver, and picked up her bow as she headed out of the room.  

As soon as the door opened, Dorian meowed loudly and raced for the bed.  As he approached the bed he made a flying leap and landed on top of Vasilya and immediately walked across his chest and started batting at his beard.  Atalaya muffled a laugh as Vasilya immediately flung his arms out searching for his dagger as he sat up.  The gentle Gurrish coming out of his mouth was a sharp contrast to the actual meaning of the words as he explained to the cat that its behavior left much to be desired.  

Atalaya sat down on the edge of the bed, leaned over and placed her hand over his mouth.  “Such language love,” she teased.  “He was just excited to see you.  And perhaps a bit upset about not being invited in last night.”  Kissing his lips to further curtail his soft cursing she patted his head and then Dorian’s head.  “Go back to sleep, it’s still really early.  We have a busy day ahead of us and you have only had a few hours.  I’ll take Dorian with me so it will be safe.”

Vasilya grumbled, but he reached out pulled Atalaya closer.  “You are a cruel woman to unleash that little hellion on me this early.  I think you owe me more than one little kiss to make up for that.”

Atalaya laughed.  “Perhaps.  But sleep now.  Perhaps I’ll let you take me out on the town tonight for real… just keep us far away from Frost’s Place please.”  Her fingers tangled in his beard, Atalaya pulled his face close for a final kiss and then pulled out of his grasp.  I’ll see you in a couple of hours, but for now, I need to relieve whoever is watching over Sorrow. Atalaya reached for Dorian but Vasilya shook his head.  “He’s fine here.  He has made his presence known, he’ll calm down and sleep now.”

Atalaya smiled to herself as she made her way to the stove and filled a mug with hot water and added one of her herbal teas to it.  Refilling the water in the kettle and placing it back on the stove she waited for the tea to seep.  Once it was ready she headed for Sorrow’s room.

A quick peek into the room showed her that Nevil was sitting with him, her stole wrapped around her arm.  She appeared to be deeply in prayer.  Atalaya stopped, uncertain whether or not she should say anything to her.  Finally deciding to wait for her to complete her devotions, Atalaya checked on Sorrow and then sat on the chest, leaning against the wall as she watched over the sleeping man.  

Nevil was finishing her morning prayers.  ...and peace unto the world.  Aware of Atalaya’s presence, Nevil stirred.  She opened her eyes and sat up from her bowed vigil near Sorrow.  Nevil stood and gestured to the great room where they could speak.

Nevil whispered, "It's a natural sleep now.  Whatever Bette did is wearing off.  He turns and rolls but peacefully.  I think she was right about just needing rest.  Even in sleep, he looks stronger. Did I hear the workings of a stove?  Coffee sounds good.”

“I’m glad to hear that Sorrow is improving.  Now, we just need to keep him from isolating himself from the rest of us.  His leaving was as bad as his possession the last time.  And Joan isn’t here to go with him to keep him safe until he gets his emotions straightened out again.”  Atalaya’s worry can be seen in the wrinkles in her brow as she watches Sorrow.  She notes his even breathing and the small movements he makes and she sips on her tea, trying to hide the immense relief she feels at seeing him look much stronger than the night before.  

“I didn’t start the coffee, but the kettle is full and heating.  There did seem to be a little coffee left that the watch crew didn’t finish last night, but I wouldn’t touch it.  Why don’t you make yourself a nice herbal tea and then head back to bed.  It’s just dawn.  You can get another couple of hours of sleep in before we try to start the day.”  Atalaya turned her full attention to Nevil, noting the newly healing cut on her lip.  “Go on, finish your rest.  I’ve got Sorrow and I’ll have some coffee and maybe some biscuits ready when you get back up.”

Nevil nods, accepting Atalaya’s advice. "I will.  But when he left last time, what was that like? He didn't talk to any of you?  He didn't say what she showed him?”

Atalaya looked sad.  “Not to us.  He just said that he had to leave for ‘awhile.’  Maybe he said something to Joan.  She wouldn’t let him leave alone.  As far as I know, she’s never said anything much about what happened, other than they ended up in Waterdeep.  I was just glad they returned.  I was afraid they wouldn’t.  We all were.”  Atalaya turned her gaze back to Sorrow.  “I hope we can help him this time without him needing to leave us.” 

Nevil looks contemplative and concerned. "Do you think we are going to have to pull it out of him? or should we?  Whatever it is, it festers in him.  Inman thinks it's a desire for love either lost or out of reach.  But that may be his own thoughts clouding his view.”

Atalaya shakes her head.  “I have no idea.  I have to hope that either having Mother Bette attend to him immediately afterward will lessen the effects of being charmed again or, having gone through this once, he is better prepared to fight off the effects this time.  I really do wish that Joan, the real Joan, was here.”  She thinks for a moment as she continues to knead the dough.  “You know, I’m not sure which deity, if any, he worships.  Maybe we should be looking for a priest or priestess of his own faith to counsel or pray with him.” 

Nevil listened carefully, her face was still, and she thought for a while.  "Unless you think you or Boz would be more effective, I'll talk to him.  It's not my first climb with someone.  There were a lot of refugees in Tribor.  This morning we just listen.”

“He might open up to Vaz, since neither Joan nor Seraphina are here.  I don’t know.  But we should all be willing to listen, if he chooses to talk to any of us.”  Atalaya pauses and then continues, “He’s strong, stronger than I think even he knows.  He will make it through this.  Especially if he has friends at this side.”  

Nevil stood placing a warm hand on Atalaya’s shoulder, “then we wait and see.”

Nevil left for her room. She quietly opened the door to her cabin.  Inman was deeply asleep on his side, facing the door.  Even in the dim light, his silhouette called to Nevil.  She smiled to herself, pulled off her boots, and crawled in bed behind him.  An arm over his waist, pulling herself to him, she buried her face in the muscles of his back and slept.

Atalaya watched Nevil as she made her way out of Sorrow’s room.  Standing, she checked Sorrow again and then sat down in the chair that Nevil had drawn up close to the hammock.  Wishing she had some handwork, she pulled her meditation token out of her belt pouch and started to flip it around in her fingers as she kept watch, her thoughts tumbling around her head as she wondered and worried about what she could do to lessen the chance of Sorrow going into another period of depression when he realized that he had been in the control of the demon and charmed, and used to attack his friends yet again.  

After an hour had passed, Atalaya slipped out of the room and headed to the galley.  She started the coffee and mixed the dough for some yeast rolls  .  Covering the bowl and placing it near the heat of the stove to rise, she returned to Sorrow’s room.  

Sorrow seemed a bit more restless, his sleep lighter.  He seemed to be going into another dream sequence, his eyes fluttering under their lids and his facial expressions changing showing a wide range of emotions.    Atalaya judged that he should wake up soon.  Sitting down again, she continued her vigil.

About a half hour or so later Vasilya softly knocked on the door and stuck his head into the room, his coffee mug full and filling the room with its delicious aroma.  Seeing Atalaya he stepped into the room, his eyes going immediately to Sorrow.  

Atalaya quickly reassured him, “He’s just sleeping now.  He was dreaming a few minutes ago.”
Vasilya nodded.  “Your bread has risen.  I’ll watch him and let you do whatever needs to be done to your dough.”   He waited for Atalaya to stand.  When she did, he pulled her into his arms.  After giving her a hug, he reluctantly let go.  “Go on.  You don’t want me ruining whatever your plans were for that dough.”

Atalaya laughed.  “True enough.”  She made her way out of the room and headed towards the galley, the smell of coffee and yeast filling the more enclosed area of the galley.  Rinsing and drying her hands, she began punching down the dough and then kneading it.

Light from the porthole was heating the sheets to a stifling degree for sleep.  She awoke to find Inman's eyes and soft grin. He touched her cheek with his hand and gently kissed her. "Good morning," he said onto her lips.  Nevil grinned as she pushed the hot sheets off her fully clothed body, "and how long have you been waiting for that?"  

"Not long enough," he smiled as he sat up, shirtless, on one arm, "you're beautiful in the morning."  Inman exaggerated his playful reproach as he fingered her shirt, "but you have on entirely too many layers in my bed."  Nevil scoffed with a raised brow.  She started to get up, "making rules now? and your bed?"  Inman laid back, enjoying her lazy and playful retreat.  She continued as she stood, "we will have to discuss those terms later."  Walking round the bed, and sitting to put on her boots.  Inman rolled over, dragging the sheets on his waist, to curl behind where she sat.  "Perhaps we can find some neutral territory in town tonight to discuss our terms.  If we can settle some other business first of course."  Nevil smiled as he kissed her arm looking up for her response. "Perhaps we can," she bent to kiss him again before leaving the room.

Nevil walked to the counter where Atalaya was kneading dough.  She poured two cups of coffee, left one out, and cupped the other warmly in her hands. "Still sleeping?”

“He is.  Vaz is with him right now.  I thought I’d treat everyone to some yeast rolls for breakfast rather than biscuits, since I was awake anyway.  Or at least those who stay on the ship.”  Atalaya covered the bowl again and nodded towards the cooling cup of coffee.  “You planning on drinking from two cups this morning?  Or is that for Inman?”  Atalaya looks at her nearly empty mug, swallows the last of the tea and pours herself her first cup of coffee.  Adding a copious amount of sugar and cream to it she gingerly tasted it.  Smiling, she adjusted the bowl of dough slightly and headed towards the hanging couches.  As she was walking she asked, “What time do you need to meet the Harpers at the Wind Rose?”

Nevil whispered, "I am sure you would agree that we should get Skarne off the boat as quickly as possible.  So, I'd like to go soon after Sorrow wakes. It should probably be just you and I.  Cirilli and Inman need to stay, Boz will want to be with…”

 

They turned their heads at the creak of a deck board behind them. Sorrow and Boz were shuffling toward the table. "I'm fine, brother," Sorrow said softly, sitting down. "I feel better. I just need some coffee." 

Chapter 2: Sorrow Wakes

Sorrow was disheveled and still disoriented from sleep. His long, black hair hung in disarray, tangled in his horns like strands of dark moss among tree limbs, giving him an uncharacteristic wild look. He was barefooted and clad only in his knee-length undertrews, and the marks of his blankets were pressed into his body. Still, he was clearly much stronger and steady on his feet. "There's parts of last night I don't remember," he said, his voice quiet. "But parts I do. I harmed some of you." He looked at Atalaya sadly. "I'm sorry. I wouldn't have if it was up to me. I can't forgive myself.." He leans forward on his elbows. "I kinda remember us talking last night. If I didn't say it, thank you."

Turning quickly at the sound of Sorrow’s voice Atalaya made her way to the table absentmindedly placing her coffee down on the table on her way to the men.

        Having noticed full voices, Inman popped out of the door still buttoning his shirt.  Nevil handed him the cup of coffee she poured earlier and both stood back to let the family, who had embraced them just recently, heal.  Nevil clutching her coffee leaned into Inman who drew an arm around her hip, sipping the cup with his other hand.

       Coming up behind Sorrow, Atalaya wrapped her arms around him and squeezed, her head resting on his shoulder as she said, “We are all fine.  And anything that happened was not your fault, so there is nothing to forgive.  It wasn’t you, it was Pencheska.”  Kissing him lightly on the cheek she added, “One coffee coming up.  Sorry, breakfast isn’t ready yet, but coffee, that we have.”  

Sensing that Sorrow was still upset she released her hug and moved to his side, sitting next to him.  Her hand cupped his cheek as she gently turned it towards her, so that she could look him in his eyes.  “You didn’t hurt me Sorrow.  I don’t know what she was telling you to do, but you were still able to pick something that might have seemed awful, but it didn’t really hurt me.  And once I got past the initial shock and realized it was one of your illusions I was able to break free of it.  I’m really okay.”  Atalaya lightly tweaked his cheek and then gave it a little pat.  “And now I’m off to get you some coffee.  Wait here.”  Picking up Vaz’s empty cup, she headed towards the coffee pot. 

Sorrow shook his head. "I can kill with that," he muttered softly. "I'm glad I didn't hurt you much. I could have. You don't know..." He took in breath and let it out slowly. "Hope...that...thing...taught me some things. Dark things. It was easy for me. Let's not forget what I am." He looks over at Atalaya. "I'm so glad you hit me with that paralysis so I couldn't..." He turns back to his coffee cup. "Feeling out of control like that is awful. That time I accidently threw flames at Mac. The way she looked at me..." The water brimming along his black lashes swirled with molten silver. He impatiently wiped his eyes with his fingers. "Sorry." He sniffed. "That just finished me off. I couldn't take it if..." He shook his head again and leaned miserably forward onto his elbow and took another gulp of coffee. 

Inman held back as Nevil left to sit across the table from Sorrow. "Sorrow, you have no more fault or need for shame on you than when I was cursed. You helped me understand myself then. I'd be happy to return the favor. Only I can't get into your head like you got into mine.  I know you just woke up, but if you need to talk, at any point, I'm sure any of us would understand."  

"Thank you," he said gratefully, meeting her gaze. "Though I don't know if you would. I literally have devils in my head." He gave Nevil a sad, helpless smile. "I'm afraid of them."

Atalaya picked her way around the obstacles to get to the galley.  Checking the coffee pot, she filled both Sorrow’s   and Vasilya’s mugs.  Checking the coals in the stove she added a little more wood.  A peek under the cloth covering the bowl with the dough proved that it needed a bit more time to finish rising.  Recovering it, she picked up the coffee and made her way back to the dining table.  Once she had delivered coffee to Sorrow and Vasilya she picked up her own mug and seated herself next to Sorrow, unconcerned about the heat that radiated off his body.  “I’m making rolls for those who remain on the ship for breakfast, but I haven’t thought much past that.  Nevil has a breakfast meeting she needs to make at the Wind Rose and I’m going to be her backup for that.  The rest of you will be responsible for the rest of the meal and for not letting the rolls burn once I get them into the oven.  

The door to Cirilli’s room opened as Atalaya finished her instructions.  The bleary eyed youth made her way to the table, her breath gasping when she saw Sorrow sitting there.  With a happy cry she made her way around the table to him and wiggled past Vasilya so that she could sit next to him.  “You are awake!” she exclaimed happily.  "Are you alright? I was so worried!" She took in his bedraggled appearance and wrinkled her nose.  "I'm going to brush your hair.  And then … “

Vasilya placed his hand on her shoulder.  “Easy girl.  Let’s let him drink his coffee.”         

"It's alright," Sorrow said, Cirilli's joy seemingly dissipating some of his funk. He slipped an arm around her and pulled her close. "Lemme finish this and I'll let you give me a comb out. I know I need it." He rubbed the black stubble across his chin. "I need to take care of this, too."

Nevil stood and walked around the table. "Atalaya’s right I need to go get ready. We have some business in town."   Sorrow's eyes were still damp when he looked up as Nevil bent to his open ear on the far side of Cirilli.

She whispered,  "Demons or not, I understand more than you know.  We all have darkness calling.  She chose you as a conquest.  Someone beautifully strong to break. Remember she had to control your will to bring them out. And you give that power away, when you believe you are alone, and forget that you are so much more.  My door is open to you, at any hour, and I have really good smoke."

Sorrow smiled softly, muttering, "I'll take you up on that." He reached up and gently placed his palm over her hand when she squeezed his shoulder and gave him a mischievous grin as she passed him on the way to her cabin.

Nevil squeezed his shoulder with a warm but mischievous grin and walked into her room to prepare for her meeting at the Wind Rose.

Atalaya slid over slightly to allow Nevil access to Sorrow.  She couldn’t quite catch all that Nevil said to him, but realized that it had something to do with devils and talking to her and smoking her nightcap.  Deciding that she was offering to let Sorrow talk to her as they had discussed earlier, she smiled, thinking that talking would be good for both of them.  

She turned to Cirilli as Nevil left to get ready for the trip to the Wind Rose.  Let Sorrow finish his coffee.  I’m going to put you in charge of baking the rolls.  Let's get them started and I’ll tell you what to watch for as they bake.  She waited as Cirilli gave Sorrow another hug and then shepherded her to the galley.  Together they formed the rolls and placed them in an iron skillet.  Once the skillet was filled it was placed in the oven.  Atalaya covered the remaining dough.  “Once these bake and are nicely browned on top you need to remove them from the skillet.  Then you can start the next batch.  Keep the dough warming here until you are ready to form it.  

Cirilli nods as Atalaya demonstrates and explains the process.  “I can do this Atalaya,” she finally inserts into Atalaya’s monologue.  I’ve done this with Seraphina and Grinda.  I’ll finish these up, no problems.  You better get ready too,” she says as she shoos Atalaya out of the galley.

Atalaya nodded and after giving Cirilli a gentle shoulder squeeze, she headed to the back of the ship and entered her cabin.  She quickly brushed her hair and braided it so that it stayed out of her face.  Grabbing her ever present backpack with the bag of holding in it, she headed back to Sorrow’s room to pick up her bow.  Finally ready, she made her way back to the table and sat again next to Sorrow as she waited for Nevil to return.

Boz took in her weapons and the backpack as he made his way over to her.  “Where are you going?” 

“Were you not listening?” Atalaya teased.  “I’m escorting Nevil to the Wind Rose to meet with the Harpers.”  Noting his expression she added, “And you are staying here and being the friend that Sorrow needs right now.  We will be fine.  And we will be heading back here afterwards to wait for Mother Bette to come back, so you don’t need to look so worried.”

“But… “  Vasilya looked torn.  

“But Sorrow needs you now.  Joan isn’t here.  Seraphina isn’t here.  You are.  Nevil and I will be fine.  And if any long lost friends from either of our pasts show up, we will sprinkle them with holy water before believing it is really them.”  I wonder what Nevil needs to make the holy water.  We need to be sure that we have plenty of that in our stores.  

Inman, who was standing with a shoulder against the wall dividing the galley from the great room,  took note of Boz's concern. Then he added, "It really is a low risk assignment at this point."  Then teasing with a grin,  "the meeting with Hawk later is the worst of today's tasks.  And unfortunately, you do get to attend that one."

Nevil came out ready to go. Her hair freshly braided and skin still damp. She was notably wearing the same thing she did when she made contact with Shen the first night, her simple grey gambeson, a crisp white prayer cloth, dual short swords slung to the side, and simple belt pouch.  She looked light and refreshed.  Only a slight mark on her lip showed any sign of the scuffle the previous night.  

Inman added, looking directly at Nevil, "The ladies take all the fun assignments."

Nevil's expression showed playful agreement and she brushed past Inman.  "Says the man staying on the boat for most of today." 

Inman sipped his coffee, "Duty is duty. Someone has to watch Skarne."

Nevil nodded to Atalaya, and walked toward the stairs. "This shouldn't take that long.  If it takes longer than lunch time, we will send word."

Nevil paused and turned back, "Oh, Sorrow.  Don't let Inman fool you.  He's not staying to watch Skarne.  After you freshen up  , you should ask him what he picked up at the countess's library.  He's holding out on you."  Inman feigned a guilty expression and shooed Nevil up the stairs.

    [Sorrow?]

From our game notes

After breakfast on the Hond Ebrath

Once we are safely aboard the Hond Ebrath Nevil and Atalaya discuss where and when to meet with Captain Hawk.  We eventually decide that going back to the Bistro where we met before will be an appropriate meeting place for both parties.  Eight o’clock is decided as a good time to meet, allowing us to either remove Skarne before or after our meeting with Hawk.  Atalaya writes a note to Captain Hawk and Nevil finds the runner from the other night to deliver the message to Captain Hawk.  The plan is for Atalaya, Nevil, Boz and Sorrow to meet with Captain Hawk.  The rest of us will stay on the ship.

(Sometime mid morning)  Mother Bettewhyte returns to the ship to check on Sorrow.  She feels that he is much better.  She explains that sometimes demons will drain the life force from someone.  It takes rest to recover from that and it appears that this is what had happened to Sorrow.  She tells Sorrow that he is much better.  

Nevil asks Mother Bettewhyte to check the guys for curses and other nasty effects as she did for Atalaya and her.  She agrees to do this.  She gets out her chalk, draws markings on the deck, sprinkles holy water and a golden glow is seen.  She says that she does not find anything unexpected on either Boz or Sorrow.  Inman is under a light binding of some sort (he says that is probably the result of his oath to the War Wizards).  Cirilli seems to have some weird darkness on her that is tied to her bloodline, but not an active curse on her.  She thinks that they are all right. 

We ask Bettewhyte if she is able to perform the ritual of purification on the demon’s head.  And whether she can do it here or if we need to go to the temple.  Bettewhyte says that there is no reason not to do it right here.  She consecrates some salt, draws a circle with her chalk and performs the one hour ritual.  During which we burn the head in the burn barrel.  

Nevil asks Mother Bettewhyte if it would be alright if we come tomorrow instead of today to pick up the books from the temple.  She says that is not a problem.  

Notes come to us from both Captain Hawk and Shen.  

Chapter 3: Lunch Time / Nigel's Introduction

Atalaya stood at the end of the gangplank leading off the ship to the docks as she watched Mother Bettewhyte make her way through the crowded dock area as she headed back to her temple.  I sincerely hope that is the utter end of Pencheska.  Or at the very least the end of its ability to enter our world.  Atalaya continued to contemplate on what she had just witnessed as Mother Bettewhyte disappeared into the crowd.  My mother would like her, I think, if they ever met each other.  I wonder if that is what she would have been like if she had chosen to become a healing cleric.  

Atalaya slowly walked away from the gangplank, still deep in thought.  Hearing her friends talking to each other she pushed away the thoughts of her mother and took in the scene around her.  Kyle and Rogelio were swabbing the decks, removing the last vestiges of the chalk circle and markings that Mother Bette had drawn during the ritual.  

“So, what are we having for lunch?” she asked the group.  “Any thoughts?”

Ivar approached as Atalaya finished speaking.  “Well… I had Annie get us some fresh chicken.  I thought since we were in port it might be nice to have something that wasn’t salted.”  He had a slightly hopeful look about him, but a second glance showed an impish twinkle in his eye.  “I know most of you are planning to have a late dinner with Hawk, so maybe some baked chicken now?”

Atalaya nodded.  “Baked chicken it is.  I better get that started or it’s going to be a very late lunch.”  Seeing Cirilli nearby she asked, “How many rolls are left from breakfast?”

“Just a few.  They were really good.  The crew were really excited to not have biscuits for a change,” Cirilli explained.

“Okay then.”  Fishing into her coin pouch she pulled out three silver pieces.  “Let’s buy some fresh bread.  See if you can find one of the dock runners.  Give them a silver piece and ask them to bring back 5 loaves of fresh bread.  That should come to 10 coppers or 1 silver.  Promise them a silver of their own when they get the bread here.  If they get back within 30 minutes, give them another silver piece.”

“I can get the bread for you,” Cirilli pleaded.   

“No.  No one leaves by themselves.  It just isn’t safe.  Even Nevil took me with her this morning.  You will get off the ship tomorrow when we go back to the temple and then head off to the manor.”  Seeing both resignation and hope reflected on her face Atalaya added, “And I hope that this afternoon we can get another fighter practice in, so you’ll be busy this afternoon.  Nevil and I talked about it on the way back to the ship this morning, but didn’t put anything in writing since we were certain when Mother Bettewhyte would get here.  But it seems to me that there should be time.  I plan to practice anyway.”

Atalaya finally saw some excitement reflected in Cirilli’s eyes.  “Okay.  I’ll find a runner.  Then can I help you make lunch?”

“Certainly.  I always love to have help in the kitchen, or I guess I should say galley.”  Atalaya smiled as Cirilli scampered across the gangplank to find a runner. 

Seeing Kyle, she quickly made her way over to him.  “Cirilli is engaging a runner for me,” she said as she pointed to where Cirilli stood.  “Please keep her in sight and make sure she comes back on board.  Raise an alarm if she doesn’t come right back please.”  

Kyle puffs his chest out a bit, pleased to be given such a light task.  “Of course milady.”

A few minutes later Atalaya made her way into the hold, looking for the chicken and for some fresh vegetables to add to the meal.  

As Atalaya passed through she noticed Inman and Sorrow lounging comfortably on the couches reading over the rare books recently acquired from the Countess.  Each grinning widely and stopping occasionally to share a titbit. The consecration of the head was time consuming and each had their own reason for skipping the rite.  

Nevil was exiting her cabin with armor and tool box in hand as Atalaya began cleaning chickens.  She raised a brow at the unexpected treat. "You need any help?"

Atalaya looked up to see Nevil had other work to attend to, "No, Cirilli is excited to assist.  That should be enough hands for now."

Nevil nodded and pulled up a chair to the little side table between the great room and the galley. That way she could still chat with Atalaya while they worked. With a wood block, a small steel punch, and a wooden mallet, Nevil began to repair a few bent links in her chain in hope that a trip to the smith could be avoided.  

Inman laughed, "Tyern's theory on the movements of the weave were rejected at first, because, get this, it was considered 'too crude for polite company'."  Sorrow looked over his book, letting it fall to his chest.  Chuckling at Inman's reading, "stuffy old men. That put them back years."  A moment passes.  Then Sorrow adds with a laugh, "wait until they hear "Ulthean's treatise."  The two giggled like school boys.

Cirilli came bounding through with the energy of a landslide.  "Where can I help?”

“You can wash your hands and then help clean the chickens or scrub some potatoes.  While baked potatoes sound good, I think we are going to boil and mash them.  They will be done sooner that way.  Actually, please help me with the chickens.  We’ll get them in the oven and then we can tackle the potatoes.”

Cirilli smiled as she reached for one of the aprons and after wrapping it around her she shoved her hands into the wash basin, gave them a half hearted rub on the bar of soap and was drying them on the apron.  “Ready” she piped happily, looking to Atalaya for further instructions. 

Atalaya shook her head in mock exasperation.  “On second thought, go ask Inman to clean your hands for you please.”  Cirilli looked puzzled but made her way to the hanging couches.  Tugging on Inman’s sleeve she waited to catch his attention.  When he looked up from his book she shuffled her foot slightly and asked in a mostly meek voice, “Atalaya says that I need to ask you to clean my hands before I can help her.”

Inman raised an eyebrow as he looked swiftly at her slightly damp hands.  “You washed them first?” he asked.

“Well, sort of,” she responded.

Inman nodded and spoke a word softly under his breath while his fingers made a flicking motion towards her hand.  

Cirilli laughed as the dirt and water magically disappeared leaving her hands clean and dry.  “Thanks!” she gave Inman a quick smile as she turned to go.   “I need to be able to do that,” she muttered under her breath as she headed back to the galley. 

Back in the galley, Atalaya was plucking feathers.  Pointing towards the carton holding the beheaded chickens she smiled.  “Take you pick.  Remove all the feathers.  I’ll gut them and cut them up.”  

Cirilli looked puzzled.  “My mother said it was easier to roast them whole, maybe with a little stuffing in them.”

“That’s true,” Atalaya allowed.  But they will cook faster if we cut them up.  And since we are starting a bit late, baked chicken will have to do.”  Atalaya held up the chicken she had been working on.  She rotated it slowly to be sure that she had not missed any feathers. Seeing none, she placed it on a cutting board.  Before she started cutting it up Atalaya stopped, placed her hand on the body and gave thanks for the life that had been taken.  

Cirilli looked at her.  It was easy to read the puzzlement on her face.  “You didn’t kill that chicken.  Why are you doing that?  Thanking it?”

Atalaya looked up as she finished the short grace.  “Because I don’t know if this was done by the butcher here.  I don’t know him.  I don’t know what was done before the birds arrived here.”

Cirilli turned to face Atalaya directly.  “Did you give ‘thanks’ to the Thayians and that demon?” she asked angrily.

“No, no thanks.  But during my meditation last night I did acknowledge the deaths of the Thayians.  They are people after all, even though they are highly misguided evil people.  Pencheska is different.  She’s a monster, a demon.  As a ranger we are called to protect the forests and our peoples from monsters.  When I must kill one of those, I ask that any evil that they might have contaminated me with be removed from me.”

Cirilli stilled while Atalaya was speaking, listening intently to what she said.  But, she made no comment on her own thoughts of the matter.  She did start to energetically pluck the feathers and after a few minutes began chatting about her plans for the next day. 

Nevil alternated between sets of mallet strikes and little noises of agreement as she listened to Atalaya’s instruction.  She smiled as Cirilli spoke with excitement, "...maybe I can find an old tree to climb and sit and listen to the wind?  Or play in a creek for a little bit?  It's been so stuffy on this boat."

Cirilli exchanged her plucked chicken for another and began working feathers again. "Will we have time in town to look for books and games?"  

Nevil moved the pin to another link and inspected the lie of the chain. "I don't see why not. It would be good for all of us." The mallet stuck several times and Nevil reinspected the link.

Atalaya dropped the chicken she was cutting and moved around the corner so that she could see Nevil.  “We could do that this afternoon.  I think tomorrow is going to be a long day.”  Is she hurting more than she is letting on?  An afternoon of shopping it is then.

 

Nevil looks to Atalaya, "I completely agree, a short practice first.  Then a short shopping trip, if we haven't heard from Skarne’s new friends by then." She placed the pin again and tapped several times.  "...worst case, you could ask Inman to escort you this afternoon.  He can't go to either of the meetings and might have a few items to grab in town anyway."

Inman should come with us anyway.  He’s supposed to be looking for books, he should check out the bookstores.  Cirilli, you need to think of something that you might enjoy doing during the long trip ahead of us.  I enjoy drawing and leatherwork.  Do you have anything that you enjoy doing that can be done at sea?  Needlework?  Drawing?  Painting?  You should pick up any supplies or tools that you need for that while we are here.

Cirilli looks thoughtful as she thinks about what she was just asked.  Finally she answers, “I always preferred to do activities that took me away from the house.  Fishing was fun.  Summer and Sandy would let me use their fishing rods sometimes.  The best thing was just exploring in the woods around Parabor.  And I think I told you before that sometimes we played cards in the tree house we built.   I didn’t really do the kind of things you are asking about.  If I was at home I had to do chores or study.”

Atalaya struggled to keep her feelings off her face.  “Well just think about it.  If something has interested you, or if there is something that you are curious about, now would be the time to try it.”

Nevil perked up.  So many memories of grandfather taking me fishing on the sound.  Everything is still and peaceful.  My girls were just getting old enough to enjoy it.  "You know, fishing is something I did a lot of growing up.  If you want a buddy sometime."

“I’ve never fished in the ocean or on a ship.  Is it the same as fishing in a lake?  Do you use the same things?  I guess I thought that fishermen used nets when they were fishing in the ocean.”  Cirilli looks at Nevil in anticipation.  “Fishing was always more fun when Sandy and Summer were there with me.  I’d like a fishing buddy.”

Nevil added, "Well I didn't say we'd be fishing at sea.  But the boat has to stop sometimes and we do go ashore occasionally."  Nevil smiles, "I think we can make that happen.”

Cirilli’s face looked thoughtful.  “That will be fun.  We could maybe fish from the tenders, right?  If we were anchored somewhere.  Thanks Nevil.  I would like to go fishing with you.

After a moment, Atalaya added, “We need to find the livery too.  We are going to need to rent some horses again.”  

Cirilli perked up when Atalaya mentioned horses.  “Horses!  Tomorrow is going to be a fun day.”

  "A new local friend of ours suggested we ride to save time in the day.  I'm looking forward to seeing an old friend again. Will you need your own mount? Or do you need to join one of us?"  

“I’ve been learning when I was staying with the Greenleafs.  They have lots of horses.  I can walk and trot on a horse and control it pretty well Raven says.  I’ve even cantered a time or two, but that’s really scary. The horse is going so fast.  I’m not any good at shooting while I’m riding though.  But I can’t do that if I’m riding behind someone either.”

"Let's hope there will not be a need for mounted combat tomorrow.”  Nevil stopped her work and considered. “Cirilli, would you be interested in riding Shep tomorrow?  You haven't met him yet, but he is my summoned mount.  He's a gentle giant that I'd trust to keep you in the saddle better than a rented horse." 

Cirilli’s eyes got big.  “A summoned horse?  What’s that?”  Looking a little confused she added, “A giant horse?  Where is he?”   Cirilli handed the last plucked chicken to Atalaya.  “What should I do next?” she asked Atalaya.

Nevil looked intrigued.  She does know what a familiar is right?  "Shep is like Inman's familiar.  Only, unlike a familiar, his form can never change.  He will always look the same and he remembers everything.  He is a gift granted by the still mother.  We've been all over the vale together. You've seen familiars before right?"

“A familiar?  Like the witches have in the story books?  I haven’t ever met a witch.”  She ponders what she has just said, looking confused.  “Atalaya calls Inman a ‘War Wizard.’  Is a war wizard a witch?”  

“Mac and Grinda could turn themselves into animals, but I don’t think that is what you mean.”

Nevil looked a little surprised.  Really? No one has explained this? "Well we just found part of your lesson for today.  Finish with Atalaya first.  Then we will go ask Inman and Sorrow about the weave and you can meet Nigel.”

Cirilli turned so quickly to ask Atalaya what was next she almost dropped the wet chicken.  “What can I…”

“Why don’t you take the feathers to Inman and have him clean them and your hands again and then you can clean potatoes and cut them up.  I have a pot ready for them.”  Atalaya started cutting up the last of the chicken.  When she was finished she added herbs and salt and pepper to the chicken pieces and placed the pan in the oven.

Cirilli half ran to Inman again, holding her hands and a bowl of feathers out before him.  “Inman can you…” Inman looked over his book with a grin.  “Tell Atalaya she's getting spoiled.”  

Cirilli looked uncertain, “I can't tell her that!” Inman laughed and waved his hand removing the chicken grime.  “Thanks! Nevil says we are going to ask you about the weave and Nigel today.”  Inman's brow raised, “Is that so?”  

Cirilli went prancing back into the galley, she dove into the pile of potatoes and began cleaning and peeling them.  Though in her excited rush, several spots were missed.

Atalaya looked around for something to put the feathers into.  Seeing nothing at hand, she rolled them up in one of the dish towels and set them aside.  They will make good practice feathers when I have Cirilli start practicing fletching.  A ranger needs to be able to repair her arrows herself.  That finished, she picked up her knife and took it to the wash basin to clean it.  Then she carefully wiped down the area she had been working in.  The area clean again, she gathered several bunches of carrots and began peeling and slicing them.  She watched as Cirilli rushed her way through the potatoes, a slight glimmer lighting her eyes as she remembered the joy she had when learning of the world from her father.  Checking Cirilli’s pot she said, “I think that’s enough for the crew and us.  It sounds like you are about to have an interesting discussion with Nevil and Inman.  Just clean your tools and you are done here.”

Putting down her knife she walked out to where Nevil was working.  In a lowered voice she said, “Just remember how little time she has actually been with us.  We haven’t had a mage with us before, just Druids and Minstrels.  And they haven’t had time to teach her.  This is all new to her.”

Nevil looked at the repaired spot of her chainmail with satisfaction before looking to Atalaya. "It is a wide world and no one learns it all, especially at her age.  Don't worry, you've done a great job.  Sometimes it's easy to forget she is so young."

Cirilli, finished with her clean up, bounded out of the galley.  “I’m done, Nevil!  Will you tell me about Shep now?”  

Nevil set the armor down and grinned at Cirilli. "Well, it's easier to show you."  Nevil motioned for her to follow and they walked to the couches where Sorrow and Inman were reading. 

Inman sat up and put his book down when she approached.  He patted the couch beside himself and offered a seat to Cirilli.   "So, some questions about magic?"  

Cirilli eagerly sat, though she still faced Inman quite directly. "Nevil has a magic horse named Shep? Where has she been keeping him?" 

Sorrow seemed quite amused and sat up to make room for Nevil who sat back with Sorrow to watch.

Inman laughed, "Yes, she does.  And he doesn't get tired, or cold, or hungry."

Nevil interrupted, "I thought an introduction to Nigel would be a little easier as an explanation."  Inman nodded, "I see. Well look closely."

Inman held out his hand in front of Cirilli and worked to manifest the gray ship rat in his palm as slowly as he could manage.  He used his free hand to delicately linger upon the strands of the weave. 

 "Everything in this world, and through all planes of existence, is made of energy. And it is all intricately connected together like a fabric."  He guided each strand, pulling from different directions to amass the makings of the familiar.  

"All magic uses this energy called the weave.  Nevil's ability to use it is granted by her devotion to Eldeth.  Atalaya's through her connection to life and the power in nature. I pull pieces of the weave from everywhere, but I had to learn like an apprentice, through intense study."  As the strands neared each other they became visible as blue whisps of smoke. They formed almost crude scaffolding before forming a skin of the recognizable shapes and textures of a rat. Cirilli gasped.  

"Others have raw talent by heritage, or by deals with other extra worldly beings. But it is all through the weave."  Sorrow, appreciating the finesse required for such a prolonged summoning, gave a nod to Inman.

"Cirilli, meet Nigel."  The rat sat on Inman’s hand and stared at Cirilli with a curious look.  "Touch him. He is as real as any other rat."  Inman touched his temple, "But he can help me because he and I are linked in here. So he is really friendly."

Nevil's heart swelled.  He has always been a good teacher.  He was so good with my girls.

Cirilli searches Inman’s face before reaching out to touch Nigel.  She recoils slightly as she first touches him, but recovers quickly and starts to pet the back of his head lightly.  “He feels real, she whispered in awe.  Like a real animal.  Nigel turned his head to look into Cirilli’s eyes as she started to scratch behind his ear.  “He likes that?” she asked, turning back to  Inman.  

Inman softly smiled appreciating the child's wonder.  "Yes, he does."  The rat closed his eyes and leaned into her massage.  When Cirilli stopped, the rat lazily came around.  Inman chuckled, “you know what else he likes to do in this form?"  Cirilli looked eagerly at Inman; the two in their own world. 

"He likes wrestle tickles."  Cirilli looked confused as Inman set the rat down on the couch.  He quickly arched his hand in a claw shape, mimicking another small animal, and moved it playfully across the couch.  The rat sprang upon his hand and wrestled with his foe, his little claws and teeth gentle.  His tail wrapped Inman's wrist as he was flipped on his back.  Inman's fingers tickling his belly, the rat squealed in what may have been delight.  When Inman stopped, the rat ran up his arm, across his shoulder, behind his neck, and down into his shirt. Inman chuckled and pretended to protest patting and tickling the rat through his shirt. After a few minutes, "Alright Nigel, there are people watching." The rat's head poked through and he ran back on the couch before Cirilli. 

Cirilli thought carefully, “I don’t understand what you mean when you say ‘the weave.’  I know that the priestesses get their magic from the gods.  And Atalaya and Mac always said that their ability to use magic comes from nature or sometimes from the land.  Atalaya says that is why I can mark an enemy and track them and why sometimes I can call fire to come out of my sword when I’m fighting.   What does that have to do with this ‘weave’ you are talking about?”    

Inman nodded as Cirilli examined the rat.  “The weave is the essence of creation or destruction.  It is the bonds between all things.  And there are different ways to gain the knowledge or instinct to use it.  So, it's not the power that is granted, but the ability to use it.”

“You can play with him if you want to.” Inman offered. “I was thinkinging about a bird or maybe a dog, but a rat works pretty well on a ship.”

Dorian and Llywillan poked their heads out of the armory where they had been playing, stalking through the jumble of wooden pells, practice gambesons and practice weapons.  The rat’s squeal had caught their attention and their noses told them exactly what was in the other room.  Their job clear in their minds they began their careful and silent approach.  Months of life aboard the ship had honed their hunting skills.  Each and every snake or rat that attempted to take over the ship was considered an affront to their very existence.  It had been a week since they had needed to go into stealth mode, but since they were so close to land again it was inevitable.  But they were on the job and this invasion would be quickly dealt with.  

Dorian glanced quickly at his brother in confusion.  What was that thing doing sitting on the big male’s lap?  Never mind, they could still rid the ship of that nasty creature.  He watched as Llywillan made his way carefully around the edge of the room to get behind the hanging beds that had recently been added to the room.  Waiting until the rat’s focus was placed on the big man and the girl child he sprinted towards the couch, and with one flying leap landed on the other of the man’s legs facing the cat.  Llywillan bounded up and then over the back of the couch landing on the girl’s lap and began hissing at the rat to distract the rat.  Dorian laughed to himself.  This was almost too easy.  As soon as the four footed prey turned its attention to Llywillan he sprang, claws extended for the back of the neck, ready to take his prey down.   

Inman scooped up the rat.  Then drawing him eye to eye, "you ready for this? If you're going to stay in this form, they've got to learn sometime that you're different."  Inman petted the rat muttering words in his ear.  [cast prestidigitation to make the rat taste truly awful, like the most bitter taste of death]

To Cirilli’s horror Inman tossed the rat on the top of the empty couch and he sat back.  The eyes of the two cats followed the arc of the rodent intently.  As did Sorrow's with the mischievous curl of his lip.

[when the cats pounce, Inman will cast prestidigitation again through the rat to create a shocking burst of electric sparks and crackles emanating from the rodent. The rat would then go on the offensive. Up to three instances can be active at a time.  If he dies he dies.]

Dorian, hisses as his back arches and his claws dig into the big man’s leg as he readies himself for another leap to the next couch.  He senses his brother's readiness and launches himself onto the arm of the swaying couch.  He lands and digs his claws into the wood to hold on.  Judging the swaying of both couches he makes his next leap, intending to land directly on the prey’s back.  An angry growl leaves his mouth as he pounces again, his trajectory perfect, only to find that the nasty little rat had seen him coming and dodged out of reach.  Meowing in frustration, he watched as Llywillan made his attack.  

Llywillan launched himself to the floor as Dorian started his attack.  Watching the swing of the couch he readied himself to jump up, but just as he did, Dorian’s landing jostled the couch, throwing off the timing of the swing.  Llywillan landed under the couch as it swung back over him.  His fur standing on end as he yowled his displeasure.  He quickly scampered out from under the couch to ready himself for his next attack.

Nigel, watching the two cats warily, decided that the angry cat next to him was the bigger threat.  Turning towards it he bared his teeth, and looking for just the right opportunity moved in quickly and sank his teeth into the cat’s leg, biting just enough to piece its skin.  

Dorian howled.  Jumping back he hissed at the rat in front of him.  After venting his anger he pounced, aiming for the rat’s chest.  His paw slashed out, leaving a trail of scratches down the chest of the rat. At the same time his eyes register a flash of brightness and he hears a crackling sound emanating from the light.  Shaking his head in confusion he tries to see where the prey has gone, but the sparks of light make that impossible.  

Llywillan, startled by the light and noise, sees his brother in trouble and launches himself at the couch again.  This time he lands easily and stealths his way towards the rat.  He attempts to bite the tasty looking tail but Nigel whips around to face him.  The sparks flying in Llywillans face, he backs away, shaking his head and blinking his eyes.  

His teeth ready, Nigel lunges towards Llywillan, seeking to bite his leg too, but Llywillan, already attempting to get away from the bright light, somehow manages to avoid the rat’s bite.

Dorian, having retreated to the far end of the couch lies down, rubbing his face trying to remove whatever is causing the bright light and the accompanying noise.  When he can finally see again, his hunting drive and anger come to the fore again.  Stalking his way across the couch he approaches Nigel’s back.  Pleasure that the sneaky little rat had focused all his attention on Llywillan coursed through his body.  Silently he inched his way closer and then finally pounced onto the vile creature’s back.  Elation flowed through him as he bit into the rat’s neck.  

Then, to his utter astonishment several things seemed to happen at the same time.  More of the lights and the crackling noise erupted around him, once again blinding him.  At the same time his mouth puckered with a vile taste of the thing he had just bitten.  The rat screamed in pain.   As he tried to remove his teeth from the vile tasting creature it suddenly wasn’t there.  Hissing and sputtering and trying to spit the bitter taste out of his mouth, Dorian looked widely around him, searching for the little sneak.  But as his sight slowly came back to him, all he could see was his brother also looking confused and angry.  Where is that creature?  I’ve got to find him.  My eyes hurt.  Where did he go?  

Cirilli jumped off the couch in alarm.  "Is he dead! Where did he go?" 

Inman looked surprised and a bit guilty. "Well that didn't go as well as I was hoping.  He's not dead, just tucked away.  It turns out our ship cats are a bit scrappier than dorm cats."  

Nevil laughed, "We need a different strategy if you are going to keep your rat on the ship."  

Sorrow looked over with a chuckle, "I'll say."

Inman looked discouraged, "I really hope we can make it work.  Rats are just perfect city scouts; commonly overlooked, climbers, swimmers.  We have to try again."

Nevil held out her hand, "Come on we can figure this out. Give him here."

Inman gestured and a wounded Nigel appeared in Nevil’s hand.  The trembling rat with blood and saliva streaked fur was a pathetic sight. Nevil stroked the rat, laying hands to heal him.  "That was a rough start.  Let's see if we can do better."  

The cats were still searching around the vacant couch and had not noticed the reappearance of Nigel.  "Inman, a clean, a noxious taste, and sage and citrus please."  

Sorrow looked over at Inman, "Oh, that's your scent combination?  Sage I got, but citrus, not what I expected."  

Cirilli looks between Inman and Nevil.  “I understand the part about the noxious taste.  That’s so the cats won’t want to bite Nigel.  But what is the sage and citrus for?  Are they going to be wearing that?  I could chain a little sage collar for him.”

Nevil looked at Inman for confirmation.  "Well it's a scent Nigel will get off Inman.  Augmenting that is probably a good idea for now. So, yes. If you think you can make one he can wear without being too much a burden. They need some way to see that he's different.”

Actually, a collar made of sage probably wouldn’t work.  It wouldn’t last, and Nigel would probably figure out some way to remove it.  

Inman shook his head.  “If I asked him to wear it, he would.  But you are right, a plant collar won’t last.”

“I think what we really need to do is ask Atalaya to make a leather collar for him.  She can use the leather dyes to make it a color that would be easy to see.  That will keep the rest of us from thinking that he is a wild rat that needs to be killed before it starts eating our stores and chewing holes in the ship.”  Cirilli looked at Nevil, “The cats have collars.  We could make one for Nigel too, right?”

“I suppose it couldn't hurt to try.” Nevil replied.

“I’ll ask Atalaya later.  I’m sure she will be able to come up with something,” Cirilli decided.  “Maybe something that goes around his chest and shoulders so it won't   come off as easily?  I’m sure Atalaya could make something”

Cirilli went to stand near Nevil to inspect Nigel as Inman cast several cantrips in quick succession.  The rat looked completely mended, his fur clean and eyes bright again.  When she moved, it drew the cats' attention and they stood at Nevil's feet eyeing the poor beast.  They might have jumped up, but the couch was too crowded with Sorrow, Nevil, and half of Cirilli.  "You're not going to toss him to the cats again are you?" Cirilli asked.

"No, they need a little more time to feel each other out.  Even then it's probably going to take a while.  We may have to get creative and do some rat-sitting."  Nevil got up to sit on the floor.  She held the rat in her cupped hands and waited for the cats to inspect their prey. "Inman get ready with the fireworks again."

[Nevil will try to startle the cats with loud and quick movements if they do anything hostile. Hopefully Nevil's presence abates their full attack]

Scenting that his prey had appeared on the couch with the new woman and the tiefling Dorian quickly made his way towards it.  Llywillan immediately noticed Dorian’s target and joined him, winding his way between the legs of the humans who were inexplicably harboring the pesky animal.  Llywillan was disgusted.  Even the girl child was giving all her attention to the prey rather than to him.  And she had not had even a single word of praise or pat for the defense the two of them had made just moments before.  

Dorian eyed the two big people sitting on the couch.  His mind whirled with attack plans.  Eyeing the tiefling’s horns, he decided that they were close enough to a tree branch and he gracefully leapt into Sorrow’s lap, butting his head against Sorrow’s stomach and enjoying the warmth emanating from him for just a moment or two.  Then he began to stealthily climb onto the shoulder.  What?  What is she doing now?  Dorian stopped his attempt at climbing as he watched the new woman seat herself on the floor, still holding the prey in her hands.  Dorian made his way back down to the tiefling’s lap, kneaded the thigh several times and then positioned himself stretched out along his thigh, his head peering over Sorrow’s knee as he watched the woman fondle the rat.  

As his muscles bunched to leap down the tiefling’s hand rested firmly on his shoulders, pinning him to his perch as his other hand began to gently pet him.  Dorian froze momentarily, uncertain as to whether he should enjoy the attention he was getting or struggle to get free and complete his strike at the troublesome rodent below him.  

Llywillan, in the meantime had begun a frontal assault, stalking forward one step at a time, freezing and then repeating with another step to slowly approach the woman and the rat.  As he got closer the scent of sage and citrus filled his nose.  Llywillan stopped, suddenly uncertain.  I see a rat, but it doesn’t smell like a rat.  Llywillan swung his gaze up to Dorian, looking for guidance from his brother.  

Dorian, his anger overriding his sense, lunges forward, trying to attack, but the hand just tightens around him, holding him in place.  Meowing in anger, he struggled briefly before pretending to relax again.  As soon as he felt the grip on his shoulders lessen he tried again, straining and wiggling and finally pulling out of the tiefling’s grasp.  In a rush he bounded down toward the rat with claws extended, aiming to land on its back once again.  

Llywillan, seeing Dorian’s leap, pounces, ready to slice the rat’s face with his paw.  He seethes as the rat just manages to pull away at the last minute.  

Inman, worried for his friend, missed his cue [animal handling roll of 7] and prematurely cast sparks causing Dorian to bolt under the empty couch and then turn with an appearance of self-loathing and confusion.  

The sparks did little to deter Llywillan who was already mid-lunge.  Nevil shouted and sharply nudged and turned the cat away with the fingers of one hand. [animal handling roll of 10].  "Ah, no.  Mine."  Nevil kept a hand on the cat.  The cat was taken back by this unorthodox behavior but quickly regrouped and turned around again to face the rat. But the rat did not move.   What the hell?!  I saw it first.  Llywillan glared at Nevil.

Sensing something amiss, Dorian inched closer, low to the ground, as if hiding behind the cover of Nevil’s leg and under her hand toward the infuriatingly calm rat. He slipped in beside his brother.  Llywillan lunged tepidly and Nevil stopped his advance, pinning the animal on the ground by the shoulders. "No, mine." Both cats looked confused.  Is it dead?

 Nigel started to groom his whiskers.  The motion attracted attention and the cats' wild eyes focused again on the rat now inches away.  Keeping a hand out, toward the cats, as if drawing a menacing line of demarcation.  Nevil allowed the pair to approach to a point that there was an awkward stalemate of advancement. [animal handling roll 15].  What is this odd thing?  It does not act correctly.  And that smell.

The pair sat with their paws tucked under their bodies for several minutes, ears back, studying everything.  It was Llywillan who approached first, cautiously.   Nevil spoke harshly, "gentle" and put a hand to block contact.  Llywillan settled again onto his paws, looking perturbed. Is she claiming this prize?

Cirilli watched Nevil’s interactions with Dorian and Llywillan.  Smiling at the cats’ confusion, she sat down next to them and started petting each of them and told them what good cats they were to not hurt their new friend Nigel.  The cats looked suspiciously at her, but after deciding that they were enjoying the gentle strokes and the first positive words they had heard recently remained still, allowing her to stroke their backs.  (Animal handling check for Cirilli=17.)   Cirilli scooped Dorian into her lap and continued to absentmindedly pet him.  Llywillan meowed in protest and butted his head against her leg.  Cirilli laughed and scratched behind his ear.  “Just a moment.  I was getting to you.”  To Llywillan’s intense satisfaction he felt Cirilli gently pick him up and place her on her lap next to Dorian.  Gently batting her hand with his paw he settled in and started purring.  His eyes were slightly slitted open as he moved his head to get the itchy spot on his neck directly under the girl’s fingers.  Sighing in contentment he began purring even louder. 

Dorian, suddenly jealous of the attention that Llywillan was getting shifted his position also, and sneaked his head under Cirilli’s other hand, arching his neck in a blatant request for scratches.  When the girl appropriately reciprocated with the desired scratches his own purrs were heard mingled with Llywillan’s.  The weird lights and crackling noises were forgotten although he could not quite block out the weird sagey citrusy smell emanating from the rat that was currently sitting on the new woman’s lap.  Rat!!!!  Enemy!!  Kill!!!  

Dorian suddenly jumped out of Cirilli’s lap intent on reaching the rat.  His purring immediately silenced as he focused all his attention on reaching the creature in front of him.  

The sparkling flashes of light and the strange sounds stopped him in mid pounce.  The tap on his nose from the girl child brought a protesting meow from him.  

“Be gentle Dorian, this is your new friend Nigel,” he heard coming from the girl.  Slinking back to the girl’s side he huddled next to her, trying to decide what to do as he blinked trying to restore his vision.

Llywillan watched Dorian’s averted attack, burying his head into the girl child’s lap when the sparkly lights started up again.  Once the girl had finished chastising Dorian, he felt her firm calming strokes along his back again and heard her mummering directly to him, “It’s okay little one.  The nasty lights are not going to hurt you if you leave Nigel alone.”  Enjoying the girl’s touch he began to ponder the girl’s words. “It’s okay,” I understand that and she doesn’t seem upset or scared.  But what is a “Nigel?”  The humans are using that word a lot.   For the moment, Llywillan decided that resting safely in the girl’s lap and enjoying the soothing strokes to his back was a good plan.  

Nigel sat quivering in Nevil’s hand when the white cat began yet another attack, but her hold on him prevented both his ability to attack or escape.  Trying to push his nose through her fingers he blinked when the bright lights flashed in front of the pouncing cat.  What is Inman thinking? Sparks and crackles?  Does he really think that those cats are going to stop attacking anytime soon?  I am going to sink my teeth into those cats if they don’t leave me alone.”  Nigel relaxed as the latest of the attacks was averted.  Chittering softly to himself he curled up in the healer’s hand, positioning himself so that he could maintain visual contact with the ship’s cats.  Really, what was Inman thinking?  Crazy wizard.  

Cirilli watched the three animals and finally made a decision.  Reaching for Dorian, she quickly picked him up and held him up towards Sorrow.  “You need to hold on to Dorian.  Each animal gets a person.”  When Sorrow just looked at her without moving she added, “Take him.  I can’t get up or we’ll lose Llywillan.”

Sorrow looked at her sadly, you know animals don’t tend to like me, right?”

Cirilli looked startled.  “Oh right.  I forgot.”  She looked around the room.  I still hear Atalaya in the galley.  Where is Boz?  Standing up, keeping Llywillan in her arms she looked around but did not see Boz.  “I’ll be back in a moment.  We need Boz.”

Feeling Nigel's disapproval, Inman stood and gestured for Nevil to take the cat from Cirilli.  Nevil stood and handed Nigel to Inman.  She then turned to Cirilli and reached for Dorian, then sat back down to hold and lavish attention on the cat.  "Here, I can handle that job.  Cirilli I don't know what you have planned, but animal advice from a ranger does seem more prudent."

Inman remained standing and Nigel ran up to his shoulder.  There he watched the cats from his tall removed perch.  Inman bent his neck to look at his friend.  "I'm sorry buddy, it's like the academy. They will get used to having you around."  Inman laughed, perhaps it was the bond, but he could swear the rat's expression implied profanity.  Inman held out his thumb in apology. Nigel's chest heaved in a little sigh.  He softened and rubbed his head upon the digit in forgiveness.

Cirilli leaned back on one hand as she looked up at where Nigel was watching from Inman’s shoulder.  “That won’t work.  You are going to need to sit here with Nevil and myself.  And hold on to Nigel.”  

Inman glanced at Nevil, quirked an eyebrow as he thought about Cirilli’s instruction.  Finally nodding in agreement, he reached for Nigel and settled him into the palm of his hand.  That accomplished he sat down next to Nevil.  “Okay.  What next Cirilli?”

Cirilli scooched over to Inman, holding Llywillan firmly as she moved.  The cat had lifted his head, his eyes observing the changing positions of the humans and the animals.  Cirilli turned her attention back to Llywillan petting and scratching his neck until he settled again, his purrs filling the space around the three humans sitting on the floor.  Slowly, Cirilli started to remove her hand from the cat and reached towards Nigel.  “You have that sage and citrus scent on Nigel now?” she asked Inman.

Inman looked up, “Oh, yes, it lasts about an hour. Should I remove it?”

“No, but you should probably keep it on him longer than that if you can.  Or keep putting it on him.  At least for a while.”  Cirilli watched Llywillan carefully as she reached for Nigel.  “Can you tell him that I’m going to pet him and to not move, please,” she asked Inman.  Cirilli waited until she saw him nod and then carefully ran her hand over Nigel several times.  Her other hand holding Llywillan against her leg.  While the purring stopped, Llywillan didn’t try to lunge at the rat or to leave her lap.  

Cirilli smiled.  Well, that part worked at least.  Bringing her hand carefully back to Llywillian she held it in front of the cat’s nose.  A hiss and a swipe with its paw demonstrated his displeasure at the scent.  Cirilli shook her head.  “Gentle.  You need to be gentle, you little minx,” Cirilli admonished.  And no more claws.  You can’t hurt either Nigel or me.  That was naughty.  [Cirilli fails Animal Handling (8)]  

Cirilli focuses on Lywillan again, giving him lots of pets and scratches, especially with the hand that had petted Nigel.  Then after a quick glance at Inman, she slowly reached for Nigel again.  As soon as her hand moved in the direction of the rat, Llywillan growled and nipped at Cirilli’s leg.  “Bad kitty,” Cirilli admonished again.  “You need to learn to be a nice gentle kitty with your friends.”  [Animal handling failed (1)]  Once Llywillian settled she tried again to reach for Nigel.  Llywillan watched, a low growl emanating from his throat, but he made no move to stop Cirilli’s movement.  Cirilli thoroughly petted Nigel, trying to cover him with as much cat scent as she could while getting Nigel’s scent on her hand again.  

Looking over at Inman and Nevil she said, “Let’s see if I have the scents mingled enough now.”  Once again she offered her hand in front of Llywillan's nose.  This time he sniffed the hand, his eyes darting from the hand to Cirilli and then to Nigel, but he didn’t try to get away from Cirilli or to scratch or bite her hand.  Smiling broadly Cirilli began praising Llywillan and giving him loving cuddles and scratches.  (Cirilli Animal Handling–Natural 20–19 total)

Cirilli turned to Nevil.  “Your turn now.  You’ve been petting Dorian so you should have plenty of his scent on your hands.  Carefully move one of your hands away from him and pet Nigel.  You need to transfer Dorian’s scent to Nigel and Nigel’s to Dorian just like I did.”

Nevil stroked and massaged the cat for good measure.  Dorian closed his eyes and lay his head in Nevil's hands, turning his head to focus her attention.  "Sure, it's worth a try."  After a liberal application of cat affection, Inman leaned over to give Nigel to Nevil.  Nevil massaged the rat in a similar manner with equal results.  [ animal handling = 6] Only Nevil did not stand or restrain Dorian for this step.  The cat did not see the transfer of the rat and became jealous of withheld attention.  Dorian finding himself face to face with Nigel became very still and tense. 

Leaning face first toward Nevil's cupped hands, he only smelt his own scent and an oddly powerful smell of sage that reminded him of the quiet new man.  What is that small thing? Is that a rat? It doesn't smell like one...

Dorian relaxed but kept his attention on Nevil's hands.  I must be sure. His face drew up, his lips parted, and he showed his teeth while breathing over his tongue (stinky cat face).  But Nevil believed this to be aggression and pushed the cat off her lap. [animal handling = 5].  "Dorian, some space please."

Nevil rubbed Nigel thoroughly.  Then she looked at Cirilli. "Now what?"

Cirilli watched the two adults, her mouth dropping open as Inman stood and placed Nigel in Nevil’s hands near Dorian.  Her strangled cry of “Wait, don’t!” went unheeded by the two of them.  She tightened her hold on Llywillian and pushed herself back away from what she was sure was going to be another big fight between the two animals.  

At Nevil’s question Cirilli just shook her head.  Speaking softly to Dorian, she told him what a good boy he was being.  Keeping her focus on Dorian, her hold on Lywillan she said, “Inman, what did you do?  Pick up Nigel but move slowly when you do.  And hold him while you sit there.  Nevil, just let Dorian sniff your hands.  He was almost ready to let you pet him before you pushed him off your lap.  Tell him what a good boy he is, let him smell your hands and then pet him.  After that, put him in your lap again and keep him there.”  I can’t believe they did that.  We are lucky we didn’t have another huge fight.  

 Nevil paused, "...you said..."  She took another look at Cirilli’s exacerbation and laughed, "OK, OK, We clearly don't know what we are doing.  You were definitely meant to be a ranger."  Inman chuckled and held out his hands with a speed that could have been used to transfer the most unstable alchemical combinations.  Nevil laughed harder and slowly placed Nigel in Inman’s hands. "We are going to listen carefully wise teacher."

 Nevil then slid over to make space on the floor for Inman.  He slowly sat next to Nevil.  Nevil twisted her body towards Dorian.  She clicked her fingers and made soft noises trying to entice Dorian to return. "Spss, Spss, here sweat kitten.  Come get some more rubs." Dorian feigned being aloof, still mildly insulted from being dumped off her lap.  But he returned with the promise of a spoiled affection and potential for more excitement.  Dorian stopped on approach and showed great interest in Nevil’s hand.  Placing his nose in several spots and repeating the strange open mouth grin.  Nevil looked at Cirilli. "See he's mad again. What do I do?”

Cirilli watches Dorian’s response to being petted by Nevil.  “No, he’s not mad, he’s smelling your hands.  Just let him.  I think he is probably going to start asking for you to pet him.  When he does, give him some pets and scratches.  If he bites or scratches, tell him ‘No’ and ‘Be gentle’ or something like that.  But I don’t think he is going to do that, if you wait for him to request the handling.”

Cirilli continues to watch Nevil and Dorian.  “See, he is calming down.  Once he starts purring or starts butting your hand with his head you can pet him. (Cirilli Animal Handling=12 pass)  Cirilli starts soothing Llywillan with loving strokes from his head and down his back.  Llywillan’s purrs were loud and seemed to calm Dorian. 

Dorian watched Llywillan get all the girl child’s attention.  Not fair!  I need pets and my ear really needs to be scratched right now.  He sniffed the hand one more time.  The scents of rat, sage, citrus and the woman’s own scent combined into a strange mix on her hands.  The rat’s still here, but the new man seems to be keeping it out of reach.  Maybe just a few scratches…  Dorian closed his mouth and nudged against Nevil’s hands, arching his neck in a blatant bid for some scratches.  

Nevil looked over at Cirilli for confirmation to begin praising the cat.  Cirilli nodded and Nevil began to stroke the length of Dorian’s back. The cat held his tail high and he raised his head seeking the beginning of every stroke. "Good boy, Dorian."  

Nevil looked at Cirilli, "that's good right?"  Inman laughed in disbelief, "come on, you had cats around growing up." Nevil looked at Inman while still ravishing affection on Dorian, "Yeah, but they were all scrappy dock cats.  Little shits all of them."  Dorian began to knead biscuits with his paws.  "We kept a small ratting dog in the shop and later in the inn.  Grandfather didn't like cats for some reason. I think he thought them too temperamental."  As Nevil spoke Inman reassured Nigel, rubbing a finger over his head.  

Nevil looked at Cirilli, "they look calm? what is the plan now?"

Cirilli watched all three of the animals as they accepted the touches from the persons holding them.  Smiling down at Llywillan, Cirilli spoke with a loving but teasing inflection in her voice.  “So little one, do you want to meet your new friend?”  (Cirilli Animal Handling=4, failure)  She stopped petting and reached toward Inman and Nigel.  

Once Cirilli stopped petting, Llywillan meowed in protest and stood to push his head against her hand once again.  Cirilli sighed, but compiled with the insistent cat.  Looking up at Nevil and Inman she replied, “We keep this up until they let us introduce Nigel to them without their attacking him.”

She watched the cats a little longer and then said, “Okay Nevil, try scooting a little closer to Inman and rest your head on his shoulder.”   (Nevil Animal Handling 9)  

As she moved Dorian lifted his head and surveyed his surroundings while issuing a soft growl. “Slowly,” Cirilli cautioned.  “And don’t stop petting him while you move.”  

Inman continued to speak reassuringly to Nigel via their telepathic link while he cuddled the rat.  Turning his attention back to Cirilli he asked, “What about me?”

“Wait for … stay seated… and wait for Dorian and Llywillan to settle again.  Once he is purring again, place your hand on Nevil’s knee.”

Sorrow smirked at Cirilli’s latest command, but managed to swallow his laughter.  He leaned forward slightly hoping for a better view of what he assumed would quickly become chaos.  Cirilli caught his movement and frowned.  “Careful Sorrow, don’t antagonize any of them.  Please.”  

Inman, his eyes twinkling as he looked at Nevil.  “You heard her.  I’m supposed to hold you.”  With that, he reached out to grasp Nevil’s knee.  Giving her a gentle squeeze and a big smile he turned back to Cirilli.  “And now?”  Dorian watched the encroaching hand, but when it came no farther than Nevil’s knee he put his head back down and enjoyed the caresses.

Cirilli watched Dorian’s response and sighed in relief when he settled back down.  Reaching her own hand towards Inman’s leg, brought Llywillan’s ire out again with him getting up and stretching out across Cirilli’s arm to pin it down (Cirilli Animal Handling 1, failure) 

Shaking her head, she turned back to Inman.  “Dorian seems pretty calm right now.  Try to bring your hand closer to his nose.  Once he is aware of it, stop and wait for him to smell your hand.”  While she was speaking to Inman, Cirilli carefully worked her arm free from its pinning.  She whispered in the cat’s ear, “Be a good boy.  I just need a little cooperation from you.  Please.”  Reaching her hand out she managed to scratch under Nigel’s chin without upsetting either of the animals.  (Cirilli Animal Handling 11)  Sighing with relief she gently stroked the rat’s head while keeping up her stroking of Llywillan.  Llywillan watched Cirilli’s hand as she continued to pet the rat, but as she didn’t stop petting him he remained complacent.    

Looking at Inman she said, “Okay Inman.  Try to get him to smell your hand.”

Inman's sheltering hand around Nigel remained as he looked to Nevil, "give a man some help?"  Inman simply lifted his hand a few inches up off of Nevil’s knee and waited.  With each stroke, Nevil's hand moved closer to Inman's, such that it happened at the beginning of a stroke, that Dorian's face remained with interest, focused on Inman's hand and did not follow Nevil's. Nevil and Inman both froze, not wanting to make a wrong move.  Dorian lingered and then leaned in and began to rub his cheeks all over Inman's ratty hand.  The three held their breath.

Cirilli held her breath as Inman began to move his hand towards Dorian.  When Dorian actually began rubbing his face on Inman’s fingers she sighed in relief.  “That’s good.  That’s really good.  When he actually asks for petting or scratches, indulge him.  

Llywillan watched as his brother started getting attention from the two large humans.  He meowed in discontent as he realized that Cirilli was dividing her attention between himself and the rat.  Wait!  Rat!  An angry hiss escaped as he glared at Cirilli’s offending hand.  Mine.  My scratches.  Llywillan swatted at the arm reaching across to the rat.  Mine!   Cirilli sighed as she looked down at the jealous cat in her lap.  

“Be nice.  You need to make friends with Nigel,” she admonished yet again.  Every other rat you are welcome to hunt.  But not Nigel.  He has a name and he is Inman’s friend.  We don’t hurt the friends of our friends.”

Llywillan just meowed and batted at her hand yet again.  When that didn’t bring it back to him he began trying to nudge his head under the arm to lift it off the rat.  (Cirilli Animal handling=2)

  

Atalaya, finishing the dinner preparations, looks down at the pots of boiling potatoes and carrots and smiles.  Putting the last of the scrapings into the scrap barrel she straightens and then picks up the salad bowl. A few quick steps and it is placed on the table.  As she heads back towards the galley she notices the cluster of people sitting on the new floor by the hanging couches.  Curious, she makes her way over to them, looking over Sorrow’s shoulder to see why everyone else is on the floor.  She just manages to overhear Cirilli’s remark about “We don’t hurt the friends of friends.”

“So, what’s going on here?  You made all these beautiful soft couches and you are sitting on the floor?”

Seven heads turn in her direction.  Llywillan meows pitifully, trying to call Atalaya over to him.  

Cirilli looks up hopefully at Atalaya.  “We have to get them to be friends.  Dorian and Llywillan want to kill Nigel.  They think he is just another rat,” she added sorrowfully. 

Atalaya walks around the couch and sits down next to Sorrow.  “So tell me, what have you been doing to get them to like each other?”

Cirilli gulps.  “Well first Inman threw Nigel on that…” Cirilli pointed at the couch across from them, “...couch.  And then Dorian and Llywillan attacked him.  And he disappeared, but Inman brought him back.  And then I said we needed to get them used to each other.  So, we have been sharing their scents with Nigel so he will have cat scent on him and Inman put a sage and citrus scent on Nigel that we are sharing with the cats and we are trying to get them to tolerate that so we can get them near each other without them fighting.”  Cirilli finally slowed and took a breath.

Atalaya, following the rambling recitation did her best to contain her laughter.  “Well, you are on the right track.  What’s the problem?”

Cirilli sighed.  “Well, the cats are tolerating Nigel’s scent better, but is going so slowly.  Inman started by trying to shock them with light and sound to keep them away from Nigel, but that seemed to make them angrier and more focused on hunting.  So we have just been cuddling and trying to get them closer to each other.  They aren’t hissing and their claws have remained hidden in their paws for the last little while.  But… that’s as far as I have been able to get them.  

Atalaya looked the animals over and noted their current state of bliss as they are each being petted and loved on.  Looking at Inman she asks, “Will you trust me with your friend?” 

Inman carefully brings his hand back from Dorian’s head and gathers Nigel between his two hands.  “Of course.”  

Atalaya gets up and moves to Inman’s side.  “Come here little friend.  It’s time to make some new friends.”  Nigel looks uncertainly at Inman, but when Inman gives him a telepathic assurance he hops onto Atalaya’s open palm.  “Such a brave lad,” Atalaya croons.  

Hearing Llywillan’s call once again, Atalaya sat down beside Cirilli.  She ruffled Llywillan’s head and then gave him a little scratch behind his ear.  The cat responded by kneading Cirilli’s leg.  “That’s right.  We are all friends here,” Atalaya praised.  Keeping her hand on Llywillan’s head she slowly brought Nigel closer to the cat.  As soon as she felt any tension in the cat’s body she stopped and left her hand holding Nigel in place.  “Just a new friend for you, she crooned.  Be easy.”   

Turning to Cirilli she added, “Keep petting him.”  Cirilli nodded.  Taking a deep breath, Atalaya centered herself reaching for the peace of the forest and that which her meditations gave her.  Once Llywillan was calm again, she brought Nigel even closer, talking to both animals in her calming meditation inducing voice.  “Good boys.  You are going to be so gentle with each other.”  Seeing Sorrow's mirth, Atalaya quickly looked back down at the group on the floor, trying to remain focused on the task at hand.  She continued her soothing patter explaining what great friends they were about to become. 

Llywillan watched the strange smelling rat get closer and closer to him.  He sniffed cautiously.  It looked like a rat, but it smelled of Dorian, himself and the strange sage and citrus odor that he was coming to associate with the new big man.  There was a bit of rat in there too, but the other scents covered the rat smell.  It does smell a bit like my brother and me.  He picked up his head and brought it a bit closer to Atalaya’s hand.  Yes, it does smell like Dorian.  And the humans.  And Atalaya.  Our prey does not smell like this.  He takes another quick sniff opening his mouth to taste the scent better.  Yes.  Atalaya and Dorian and Cirilli and the sage man.  

Atalaya, seeing and feeling the tension release from Llywillan finally brings Nigel directly in front of Llywillan.  She continues in her guiding voice to encourage them to be friends and to be gentle with each other.  But her one hand remains on the cat’s head and neck ready to intervene if needed.  But this time the two animals just look at each other.  Llywillan makes a tentative meow and blinks in surprise when the rat inches forward in Atalaya’s hand to touch noses with him.  

Cirilli looks with surprise at Atalaya.  How did you get them to do that?  

“By being at peace with myself and them, and then getting them to share that peace with each other.  It’s a benefit obtained by being able to reach a relaxed and meditative state.  When you are tense, the animals pick up on that and think that there must be some danger.  And then they look for something to be that danger.”  

Turning her attention back to the animals she adds in her other voice, “That’s right, isn’t it.  Nothing to fear here.  We are all friends.”  

When Cirilli turns her attention back to the animals they are busily sniffing each other.  

Atalaya allows them several minutes to explore each other, slowly loosening her grasp on Llywillan as she sees him switch over to active curiosity in his interactions with Nigel.  At her urging Cirilli also loosens her grasp.  Finally, giving Llywillan another couple of pats and words of praise, Atalaya slowly brought Nigel back towards her in preparation for standing up again.  Llywillan gave a plaintive meow with the loss of Atalaya’s touch and the almost rat she held. 

“Well, that went well.”  She looked at the three people sitting on the floor.  “You did a great job preparing them for that.” 

Nevil and Inman stayed the course and waited for instruction. Inman gawked at the ease with which Atalaya managed the creatures. "Yep, I'll never try to do a ranger's business again."  Nevil smiled, "we aren't even in the same league."  Looking down at Dorian. "What about him?”   

Atalaya stood and looked at Dorian.  He still had a slightly wary look to him.  Atalaya made her way around Cirilli and eased herself into a seated position next to Nevil.  “We do more of the same.  Dorian has always seemed to be the leader to me.  He might be a little more difficult than Llywillan.  But, I think if we just remain patient with him we will be able to successfully introduce him to Nigel also.  

She looked over at Inman.  “How is Nigel doing?  Is he okay with meeting Dorian?”

Inman leaned close to Atalaya to look Nigel in the eye as he clung to Atalaya shirt.  His whiskers and nose searching for scents.  He craned his head around to see what was in front of Atalaya. Nigel looked into Inman's eyes.  This earth woman knows what she's doing.  Let's do it her way from now on.

Inman laughed, "Yeah, he's good.”

Atalaya gave Nigel an ear scratch and then lifted him to her face so that she could whisper to him, “You are a brave one, aren’t you.”  Lowering him back into her lap she contemplated Dorian again.  Reaching out to him she patted his head.  Dorian blinked and then meowed. With a sniff of disdain he shifted himself back towards Nevil while continuing to assess Atalaya.  (Atalaya Animal Handling=10)  Taking a deep breath, Atalaya sought her center and feeling peace wash over her again, she began talking to Dorian.  “Come now my mighty hunter.  It’s time to meet Nigel, your new friend.  It’s okay.  All the other rats might be food, but Nigel is not.  He belongs with Inman.  It’s okay to be friends with him.”   While she was talking to Dorian she began to gently pet him, waiting until he finally relaxed into her caresses and then beginning to gently massage him.  “That’s a good boy.  That feels good doesn’t it.”

Dorian nestled into Nevil’s lap.  He eyed the creature held in Atalaya’s hand with disgust.  What does see in that creature?  It’s prey, food.  Oh yes, right there.  And maybe over here too.  Yes, that feels good.  What is she saying?  Something about Inman, that’s the big new man and the prey being friends.  Oh, that is even better than scratches, what is she doing?  I like that.  Nigel? Friend?  Maybe if I move just a bit that way… Oh yes, that is the spot.”  

Atalaya smiled as Dorian melted under her touch.  Judging that the time was right she said, “It’s time.  Nigel, meet Dorian.”  She carefully moved him towards Dorian as she continued to caress Dorian.  Dorian didn’t even move, his eyes closed although Atalaya could see his nose twitching as the odor wafted by him.  Finally he opened his eyes and peered at Nigel.  

Dorian sighed.  Friend…friend…friend.  This creature is a friend.  Atalaya says so.  Seeing Nigel’s inquisitive face and taking in his scent, he finally took the time to analyze what he was smelling.  Yes, there is rat scent.  But he also smells like my brother and Cirilli.  Yes and that sagey citrusy smell is just like that of the new man.  … And he smells of the new woman and Atalaya.  

Nigel, sensing a softening in Dorian’s attitude, took a step forward.  And then a second one.  Touching noses with Dorian he chittered animatedly.  Dorian meowed softly, remaining relaxed in Nevil’s grasp.  Dorian blinked and looked again.  The Nigel was in fact right in front of him, with no scent of fear on him.  Prey are always afraid.  But this Nigel is not afraid.  Not prey.  Purring softly he finally looked into the rat’s eyes without anger or thoughts of hunting.  Dorian crept into Atalaya’s lap, softly nudged Nigel and settled down as he continued to listen to Atalaya tell him that he was a smart and loving friend.  (Atalaya Animal Handling 18)

Atalaya finally let her words fade away and sat watching the two animals now sitting next to each other in her lap.  She gave Nigel several caresses of his own.  

“Okay, Inman, I think you can reclaim Nigel.  “I wouldn’t let him run around unescorted yet.  In fact the next few meetings should most definitely be supervised, but I think they are much more accepting of him now.  “How are you planning on keeping the crew from trying to take him out if they see him?”  

Cirilli, who had been very quiet and had been totally focused on what Atalaya had been doing, spoke at then.  “I was thinking that you could make him a collar or maybe a harness that he could wear when he is on the ship.  If you made it colorful, we could see it easily and know that he is Nigel and not just some random rat that we need to get rid of.”  She looked eagerly at Atalaya.  “You can make a collar right?”

“I can.  I would need to get a buckle that was small enough so that Inman can put it on and take it off as needed.  And I would need the right kind of leather.  Thin and supple.”

Turning back to Inman she asked, “Do you have a color preference Inman?  If I haven’t got that color dye, I’ll need to pick that up too.”

Inman retrieved his friend who quickly ran to his shoulder and started a self-soothing groom.  Inman looked relieved, “Well that was harder than I anticipated.  Thank you ladies."  

Then Inman looked uncertain.  "An easy way to identify him for now is not a bad idea, but I really don't know if he is going to want a collar on him long term. Let's try it but we can also see if people can get used to him, his coloration, and see that his behavior is different from wild rats. I mean he hasn't needed one before, but then again nearly all the rats in the dorms were familiars."  Inman considered his friend, "natural leather or even string is fine, nothing fancy.”

Natural leather isn’t going to contrast enough.  Red?  Blue?  Orange?  Green?  Purple?  Pink?  Give me a little help please?”  Atalaya waited a moment for a response from Inman.  Not getting one she mused, “I guess I could make a collar for Nigel and a belt for you in bright pink… then the two of you could match.”

Cirilli snickered as she looked at Inman, imagining him wearing a pink belt.

Inman looked at Nevil, "I don't know if it has to contrast. I mean any rat wearing a harness is going to stick out." He looked resigned, "But if we must, then orange because lighter colors will stick out more."   He turns to Nigel, "I'm sorry buddy.”

Nevil looked amused, “Give it a chance, think of the options it allows, he can pull string, pass notes, and I'm sure we'll think of other neat things.  Atalaya knows animals.  Give it a fair shot.”

Atalaya gave Nigel a thoughtful look.  “Yes.  Notes.  I can easily work a little pocket into the design where a note could be wedged.  Maybe two collars, one in a contrasting color for here on the ship and when you want him to stand out with his message carrying.  And one that matches his fur, for when he needs to sneak in and out to get to whoever you want to receive the message.”  

She looks around at the people seated around her.  “So who’s hungry?  I think it is lunchtime.  The food should be cooked by now.  Cirilli please round up our missing friends and let Ivar know that he and the crew can come get their meals whenever they like now. 

Cirilli nodded and eased Llywillan out of her lap.  She gave Nigel and each of the cats a final caress before running off. 

Atalaya carefully lifted Dorian out of her lap and set him on the deck.  “Be good cats now my fierce hunters.  Search out other prey, but leave your friend Nigel alone.”  Atalaya made her way back to the galley where she quickly removed the chicken from the oven and put it on a platter.  Draining the potatoes and adding butter and a little cream she mashed the potatoes and placed them into a bowl.  As she turned to set the potatoes aside the bowl was taken out of her hands by Vasilya.  

“Here, let me,” Vasilya requested.  Atalaya nodded as she reached for a bowl for the carrots. 

Nevil follows on the heels of Atalaya.  Darn we got so distracted with Nigel while Atalaya did all this work.  Nevil quickly worked to set the table and assist with preparations.  While they worked, "Did you want to do some meditation work with Cirilli today?"

“Not today.  It sounds like we already have an awful lot going on with shopping and fighter practice.  I don’t think that we will have time for a meditation lesson too.  Or are you no longer planning on weapon practice?”

Nevil offered, "Well I was thinking of an abbreviated but intense practice, and that might be a bad idea right after lunch.”

“What about a semi quick shopping trip and then you can have a fighter practice with Cirilli.  Cirilli will be staying on the ship tonight while we deliver Skarne and meet with Captain Hawk.  You can work her hard without her needing to be ready to leave to meet the Harpers.  Have we heard back from them with a meeting time?

Nevil nodded, “That works. No, I expect we will hear something mid-afternoon.”

“That works.  We can judge the length of the fighter practice once we get the response,” Atalaya agreed.

Inman spent a moment with Nigel, letting the rat work his way into his pocket for some quiet darkness.  He then gave a little nod to Sorrow and the two came to sit at the table.

  The table was laden with food as Atalaya came out with a platter filled with toasted garlic bread.  She placed it in the center of the table and sat down next to Vasilya.   Vasilya whispered in her ear, “This looks delicious.  I should have helped.  Why didn’t you ask me?”

Atalaya rolled her eyes.  “Why didn’t you come by and offer to help?”  Seeing his confused expression she continued.  “I didn’t see you when I came back from escorting Mother Bette off the ship.  I got started and then was too involved in cooking to search out helpers.  Cirilli did help pluck the chickens though.”

“Sorry Iubet, I got involved in my own practicing.  What was everyone else doing then?”

Atalaya winked at Cirilli as she said, “I believe that they were playing with a rat and two cats.”

Cirilli’s burst out laughing at Vasilya’s confused expression.  “It all started when I asked about Shep.”  Her brow furled as she looked at Nevil.  “You never did explain about Shep.”  

Nevil made rounds filling cups behind everyone.  "Well, Shep is a conjured war horse similar to Nigel but with a few differences. Inman can change Nigel's form, share his sight, and cast through him, but I can do none of those things with Shep.  But Shep can also be more independent.  He's very intelligent for a horse and has quite a personality."

Inman laughed as he served both his plate and Nevil's plate from the dishes making rounds.  "I'll say.  There was a period in time that he hated me.  It took weeks to get back on his good side."  

Nevil looked a little guilty, "He's protective and likes the ladies.  And he likes you now." 

Inman looked up as Nevil sat near him.  "You think he remembers me?"  

Nevil shrugged, "I would think so, but we'll see."

Inman took a moment before beginning to eat to acknowledge Atalaya and Cirilli.  "This looks really good, ladies. Thank you."  He turned to Boz, "Were you working on your sight this morning?"

Turning to Sorrow, "By the way, Sorrow, if no one has told you, Boz used his sight to find exactly where you were.  He has every reason to be proud."

Vasilya shrugged, “I’m glad it worked. I guess the practicing has been helping.  Not having a huge headache afterwards was a relief.”  

Cirilli got still in her chair, her thoughts turning inward and the fork in her hand forgotten.  She made no acknowledgement of the conversation going on around her.  Finally, looking up she asked, “Inman, we can practice our fighting skills to get better with them, I can practice meditation to get better at that, you study and practice your magic to get better with that, Boz is practicing to get better with his ability to use his mind abilities.  What can Sorrow and I practice to make it so that people can’t command us to do something we don’t want to or to charm us into doing things we don’t want to?  I really didn’t like having to run away from everyone when those Aynat cultists made me.”

There was a pause in the activity at the table as all present thought how to answer the young girl. 

Inman began, "Cirilli the truth is we are all vulnerable; for different reasons and to different degrees.  This was one of the reasons Nevil asked you to stay home last night. Unfortunately, there is no good way to practice defense against this type of attack."

Nevil looked around the table with gentle concern.  "But there is something we can do.  Just like with physical combat, the best defense is to make yourself a small target.  Walking alone with pain, anger, or fear makes you a big target. So, the best defense is to search yourself, for whatever insecurities you have, and bring them into the light, with someone you trust here in the family."  

Nevil looks to Atalaya and Inman,  "if there is anything I've learned in the last few weeks, it is that we are stronger together and no one walks alone.”

Atalaya watched Cirilli closely as Nevil spoke with her, nodding to herself as Inman and Nevil attempted to answer Cirilli’s question.  She doesn’t ask easy questions, does she.  Nor is there an easy answer for this question.  Seeking comfort, her hand reached for Vasilya’s as she watched Cirilli struggle with the answers she had been given.  

After Cirilli seemed to have digested Nevil’s comments, Atalaya asked, “Nevil and I have been thinking about what to do this afternoon.  We thought another trip through town to do some shopping is needed.  Cirilli is interested in looking for some games that we can play together.  And I need to pick up a few more leather working supplies.  And I thought we could look to see what else might be available.  I’m not sure about our trip past here.  I don’t think there are many ports between here and Baldar’s Gate.  So, if anyone needs supplies or materials to keep themselves occupied between here and there, this is the place to look for them.  

“We plan to get back in time for a short fighter practice.  Nevil?  Any comments on that?”

Finishing a mouthful of chicken, Nevil grins. "Yep, after we stock up on recreation items and let lunch settle, Cirilli and I are going to abbreviate the practice today and hit strength training and first form.   Metal swords and no armor today."  

Inman and Sorrow groan.  Inman quips with a grimace, "Careful Cirilli, the master's abbreviated lessons were the worst."  Sorrow nods with an avoidant side glance of confirmation.  Nevil smiles, "yes, gentlemen, it will be short but hard.  Anyone else want to earn their keep?"

Inman labored his agreement, "Well, with no meetings off boat today, I might as well."

Nevil looked at the others.

Cirilli turned to look at Atalaya.  “Are you going to practice too?”

Atalaya ruffled her hair.  “I’ll certainly be joining you when you are working on your form.  But I need to work on the dual sword forms I learned from Inman,  And maybe pull him away for a few minutes to remind me who to do the 3rd form.  If I can pull him away from the strength training anyway.”  

Inman looked over to Atalaya with a smile, “Of course.  It would be my pleasure.” He looked mischievously at Nevil, “I'm sure I have enough energy for both of you.”  Nevil smacks his leg under the table with a mildly disapproving glance.

Atalaya felt Vaz’s body tense up briefly at Inman’s reply and then relax as he took in Nevil’s response.  His hand caressed Atalaya’s leg even as he deadpanned, “That’s okay, I’ll keep Nevil busy.”

 

After the innuendos faded away, Atalaya turned her attention to Vaz.  “How about you?  Are you actually going to join us for fighter practice?  I know your physic practice is important, but you need to do something physical too.”

Vasilya settled his arm around Atalaya’s waist and pulled her close to him so that he could see Cirilli more easily.  “Of course I want to watch Cirilli’s form work,” his gaze turns to Nevil, “and I remember well Nevil’s rules.  I’ll work out with her, or do something appropriate for my needs, depending on what Nevil has her doing.  

Seeing the grin that spread across Cirilli’s face Vasilya decided that the sweat payment was going to be totally worth it.  His gaze on the women he asked, “So is this shopping trip a girls only event or can I join you?”

 “Please do.” Nevil started. “I don't want any complaining that the games were rigged to my favor when you start losing.”  Inman nodded with a knowing look, “You've probably already guessed she is competitive.  You've been warned.”

They finished the meal with continued talking and laughter.  Atalaya relaxed next to Vasilya as she sipped her tea.  Finishing it, she sighed.  “If we are going to have time to practice, we need to get these dishes done and head out.  And someone needs to take some food to Skarne.”  Atalaya watched the startled glances fly between the men at the table. 

Boz grimaced.  “Right.”  He caught Inman’s eyes as he stood up and headed to the galley.  Inman made his way to the storage room and retrieved the hammer.  When Boz returned with a plate filled with food they pulled out the nails and handed the plate to Skarne.  When Skarne asked about being able to stretch his legs on the deck Boz replied curtly, “You’ll get your walking in later, when you start on your way with the Harpers.”  

As they resecured the door, Boz muttered under his breath, “Good thing we are getting rid of him.  If we do this again we need a real lock for this door.”  

Meanwhile Atalaya began gathering up the dishes on the table and headed to the galley to set it up for washing the dishes.  Cirilli gathered up the rest of the dishes and placed them into the soapy water.  “I’ll wash them,” she explained.  “I was supposed to help cook the meal and never got back to you.  

Atalaya took in her ward’s squared shoulders and her hands on her hips and backed up theatrically.  “They are all yours Cirilli.”  Then stepping up to her and placing her hands on the child’s shoulders she whispered in her ear, “Thank you.”  Atalaya stood watching Cirilli as she started washing.  

Ivar made his way down the stairs into the galley.  Seeing Nevil walking into the galley, he grinned.  Just got this from a deck runner.  It’s for you Nevil.”  Ivar handed a sealed envelope to her and made his way back up the stairs, calling out “Thanks for the chicken Atalaya!” on his way up.

Nevil stepped up to help Cirilli, "I'm part of the reason you got distracted."  She picks up a small towel and looks at Cirilli.  "I'll dry."  

Then Ivar arrives and hands Nevil the note.  Nevil tosses the towel over her shoulder and quickly opens it to read the message. Speaking to Atalaya, "Shen has given us a place and time.  We have a few hours."  She hands the note to Atalaya then picks up a cleaned plate from Cirilli’s stack and begins drying.  "After we finish here, I should be good to go.  I'm still town worthy from this morning, plus a good bit of cat hair.”

“I’ll just make sure we have some easily accessible coinage then.  I’ll wait for you on the deck.”  Looking at Cirilli she adds, “You should bring some money along too.  You may find some things that you like and want to buy for yourself.”

“Okay.  Like what?” Cirilli asked, a little confused.  

“Like whatever you might want for yourself.  A new tunic or boots, a book that you want to read rather than one I pick out for your ranger training, fishing supplies, a journal, really anything that you might want for yourself and that you can keep in your room,” Atalaya coaches.

“I can pick it out all by myself?” Cirilli looked increasingly excited as she started considering her possibilities. 

 “Yes, if you are using your own money to pay for it.  Didn’t Nevil and Inman give you some specifically so that you could get yourself something?”  

Cirilli looked between Nevil and Atalaya.  “They did.  And you have given me money before too.  What if I spent it all on candy?” Cirilli watched them carefully to see their reaction to her question.

Atalaya laughed.  “Well you could.  Do you have enough space in your room for that much candy?”   

“Really?   You will let me spend it all on candy?” she asked, looking a bit bewildered.

“It’s your money.  If you ask for advice or opinions, I will give them.  But in the end it is your choice how you spend it.  I would just add that once it is spent, it’s spent.  You won’t have more until you earn it.”

Cirilli looked down at the floor as she gathered her thoughts.  “I have never bought anything for myself with my own money.  My parents didn’t let me have money.  They said that I was a little brat with no sense and couldn’t be trusted to use money wisely.”

Atalaya’s heart tore in half as she heard Cirilli’s words. A rather harsh and colorful elvish word erupted from her lips as her eyes searched for Nevil’s over Cirilli’s head.  Pulling Cirilli into her arms the words started tumbling out of her mouth. “That is nothing but hogwash.  Nothing in that statement bears any reality to the truth.  You are not a brat in any way.  You are a smart bright young lady. You have learned a lot of new skills very quickly and well.  You have a heart full of love that you share with others. You…”  Atalaya finally stops to take a breath.  “And one learns to use money wisely by being given the chance to do so.”

Nevil was drying the last of the dishes as Atalaya embraced her young ward.  The two shared glances of understanding.  "Our list is growing.  We should divide and conquer for time sake.  Inman and Sorrow and I can get the basics; fishing gear, general entertainment books, cards, dice, chess sets.  Why don't you three go as a family and peruse the hobby and attire options for Cirilli and see what peaks her interest.  We can meet at one of the larger general stores that is likely to have basic musical instruments and games.  As I recall we still need one of those too."  

“Well, Sorrow did say that he was going to give her a musical instrument and lessons if it was one that he is able to play.  I think that they should decide on that together.  I do need to get some leather supplies for Nigel’s collar or harness.  I’m still not sure which would be better for Nigel. Why don’t we go to the general store first, together, and see what we can find there.  Then we can split up the list of remaining items.”

Cirili finally pulled away from Atalaya.  “I’d forgotten about Sorrow’s promise.  Learning to play my instrument will be an on board activity, right?”

“It will,” agreed Atalaya.  “But we can still look to see if anything else interests you.”

“You two finish up.  I’ll meet you on deck,” Atalaya said as she exited from the galley.

Nevil responded, "that makes a lot more sense." Walking into the great room, "Inman, Boz, you ready? Sorrow,  we were going instrument shopping for Cirilli.  Your help and company would be welcome. Not to mention we're shopping for a chess set."

Inman stood, "let me grab a few things."  He briefly ducked into their shared cabin and returned pocketing a small coin pouch. "Ready." 

Sorrow had been quiet since lunch had finished.  He looked up from the table, having been caught lost in thought. "..ah... yes, give me a moment."  He briefly ducked into his cabin and returned pocketing something.

Cirilli stowed the last of the dishes in their cabinet.  Then she ran to her cabin, grabbing the door frame to quickly make the turn.  She popped out a minute later with a big grin and ran up the stairs to find Atalaya.

Inman, Sorrow, and Nevil made their way on deck as well.  Not seeing Boz, it was assumed he was already hip to hip with Atalaya on deck.

Atalaya spent a couple minutes in her cabin filling a pouch with coins and placing it inside the backpack, tying the closure tightly.  Another handful she placed in her belt pouch.  When Vasilya entered the room to gather his own funds he saw Atalaya wiping tears away from her eyes.  He pulled her into his arms as he sat on the edge of the bed.  “What’s wrong, Iubet?”    

“I would really like to take Cirilli’s parents and wring their necks,” she said, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand.  “They are utterly terrible people who should never have had any children.”  She continued on in Elvish for a bit, before finally getting control over herself again.  

Vasilya wisely kept silent while the Elvish was filling the cabin.  When silence finally filled the cabin he asked, “What can I do for you?”

Atalaya shook her head sadly, “Just keep me from killing them if we ever get back to Parabor.”  She stood up and headed for the ewer and getting a washcloth wiped her face. “Let’s head up.  Everyone is supposed to meet there.  Heading out the cabin and up the stern stairs they saw everyone else exiting the other stairwell.

Chapter 4: Shopping:  Game sets

 The afternoon breeze carried a surprising coolness and the smell of salt and damp.  Nevil looked out over the sound that led toward the open sea. Afternoon storms held heavy on the horizon. Sea birds bobbed and dipped on the breeze, contrasting their white against the gray clouds.  She breathed deep and looked at Inman, "looks like we might miss the afternoon rain today."  Pointing to wispy clouds above and the field of blue open sky that followed,  "They are blowing off."  

Inman nodded, "at least it's cooled us down a little."

Given the settling of recent events, the afternoon felt lighter.  The pair joined the rest of the group by the gang plank.  Cirilli was grinning ear to ear, "where are we going first?" She ran down the plank turning to the others to hear the answer.

"To see how good the selection at the general store is.  The more we can find there, the less we have to hunt around town."  Added Nevil following behind.  "I think it's a couple blocks up.  Halfway toward the east gate."  Once on the dock, Nevil turned to Atalaya who was descending hand in hand with Boz. "Does that sound about right?”

Atalaya shrugged.  “I’m sure if we start walking we will find someone who can give us directions.  Let’s find the general store and then we can see where else we need to go.”  Atalaya took Vasilya’s arm and they made their way across the gang plank to join Cirilli.  Calling her over, Atalaya whispered in her ear, “Why don’t you let Sorrow escort you today?”  

Cirilli’s eyes widened in surprise.  “Really?  I’m just… are you sure that he would want to do that?”

“Why don’t you find out.  I think he would be very happy to do that for you,” Atalaya replied.  “I think he misses Joan and Seraphina a lot.  Just ask him if you can walk with him today.”

Cirilli looked very serious.  “That’s a good idea.  I’ll ask.”

Atalaya nodded just as seriously.  “It is.”  As she watches Cirilli sidled up to Sorrow,  Atalaya said in a quick aside to Vasilya, “I hope they don’t get into too much mischief together.  I may regret suggesting this.”

Cirilli made her way over to Sorrow and reached for his hand.  “Can I walk with you?”  Standing up on her tiptoes to try to whisper in his ear, “I think Atalaya and Boz want to walk alone today.”

Sorrow's steps quickened as he neared the end of the gang plank. Its unbalanced lay was unsettling as it tapped and clicked, rocking with each step.

Sorrow eagerly went ahead alone.  He held his breath with hope and almost craned his neck to look ahead, searching for familiar faces in the crowd.   Not finding what he was seeking, his eyes dulled, his surroundings faded, and his thoughts turned deeply inward.  A foolish dream, to think...  His tail swished in discontent. His pace slowed as he turned inward and he hardly noticed when the others caught up behind him. 

Then, with a pull on his coat pocket, he was shaken from his descent.  A light grin formed as he bent forward to allow Cirilli to reach his ear.  A spark of life flashed through him and a fully engulfing charm emanated again from his eyes.  He bowed fully toward Cirilli and extended his half-curled hand before her.  "It would be the delight of my day.”

Atalaya watched as Cirilli caught up to Sorrow and noted the uplift in his demeanor when Cirilli began whispering in his ear.  “Yes, spending the day with Cirilli will be good for Sorrow,” she said to Vaz.  

Calling out a bit louder to catch everyone’s attention.  Let’s try the shops and stores along the waterfront first as we work our way towards the town’s entrance.  I’m not sure whether or not we will find a general store, but we might find someplace that sells games.  And I do need leather and other materials.  There might be a tannery outside the city gates too.  It can be a smelly process.  Atalaya began strolling down the dock, her eyes searching for signage indicating any of their needs or for a general store.  The breeze off the ocean helped to cool the summer heat as they walked.  Atalaya watched as Cirilli pulled Sorrow to one display and then to another as she chattered about what she might buy for herself.  Atalaya started chuckling as she pointed out to the rest of the party when Sorrow fully embraced the fun by starting to pull Cirilli towards more and more outlandish items:  cart wheels, exotic feather fans, a hobbyhorse and then baby dolls.  When Vaz started holding up different outfits for the dolls Atalaya rolled her eyes and leaving the laughing group sought out Nevil and Inman.  

“Sorrow seems to be feeling a little better than earlier.  But I’m still worried about him.  I’m glad that he is able to play around with Cirilli.  

Nevil watched the pair over Atalaya’s shoulder, “It will take time.”

You did bring your holy water with you, right?  I have mine.  I’m afraid that I don’t trust anyone that he thinks he knows besides us at this point.”

 Inman nodded in agreement as Nevil gestured to her belt pouch.  "Yes, I never left home without it before.  Now I keep extra."  

“What material or ingredients do you need to make it, besides water?  I think that is something else we should stock up on.  Surely the voyage south will allow you time to work making more vials?

Nevil understood and nodded. “I've been well stocked on vials since Saltmarsh. The ingredients are very simple, an offering of any material equivalent to about fifty gold, and of course water.”  Nevil smiled, “So it's not terribly hard to find materials.” 

“Well, we certainly have gems that you can use for the 50 gp items.  Be sure to get some from me when you plan to make more holy water.” 

“Given our current trends, yes. I will make it a habit to keep our stocks up and will let you know.”  

“Sounds good,” Atalaya commented.

While Nevil was explaining, Inman walked over to and then past Cirilli.  Noting the abundant collection of dolls and accessories, he looked more carefully at the wares. The small hidden shop, nestled between two larger establishments, was no bigger in size than a wagon. It was packed with trinkets, mobiles, winding toys, painted figures, collections of gears springs, all imaginings of curiosity and joy.

An aged voice came from behind a tall counter, "Looking for anything in particular?  I have many things in my collection not on display."   

Inman, at first seeing nothing, then the top of a bald head, then a staggered rise from behind the counter, the figure of a shockingly old gnome, perhaps climbing a small stool or ladder.  He was wrinkled beyond reason, his features perhaps permanently locked in a nearsighted squint behind thick spectacles.  He wore a fitted suede vest, festooned with small tools of craft. 

Inman drew closer to the counter and could then see a small workbench, illuminated by a small open window, littered with boxes and parts.  In a small vise he had locked the base of a tin figure, with small brushes and paints scattered in work.  Pleased with his discovery, Inman replied, "Yes, one moment."  Inman took the two steps needed to find the front of the store and alerted the rest.  "I think we are in luck.  Come see this."

Atalaya searched for Inman and having found him, she headed in that direction.  Cirilli pulled Sorrow and Boz with her towards the tiny shop he had found.  “What?  What did you find?  Something better than dolls and doll clothes I hope.”  She tries to peek around Inman to see what had caught his interest.

 Inman nudged Sorrow in the side when he saw the carved wooden boxes high on the shelf behind the counter.  A slick grin formed across Sorrow's face.  Inman gestured, "are those chess sets?" 

The glint in the gnome's eye, showed his fondness for the game. "Yes, I have a few.  As well as some sets of matched tiles."  The hunched gnome groaned and wobbled, taking his first step down his ladder. "Let me just get them..." 

Inman sent his mage hand up to the top shelf.  "No, no, master tinker, let me."  The gnome looked up at the illuminated and translucent hand. The old gnome, half-croaked and purred with his exhale, "Ah, good.  Yes, that one and the one to its right."  He stepped back to the height of his stool and patted the velvet cloth on the counter. "Set them here, and I will show you."

Inman set a simply designed yet beautifully stained and finely sanded hinged box upon the worn velvet.  The second hinged box of darker wood was far more utilitarian yet masterfully worked.  The gnome ran his stubby fingers over the checkered surface of the first box.  "Oiled black oak and white cedar base.  Dense wood, very scratch and insect resistant, all fitted joints, no pitch or glue." 

He opened the case, turning it to the side, revealing cloth lined slots holding finely carved wooden chess pieces. "matching materials for the pieces, all a single carving.  Take care of it and this set will outlast all of you."  The gnome beamed with pride.

Sorrow and Inman ogled the set, both handling and inspecting its craftsmanship. 

Atalaya made her way over to Sorrow, and looking over his shoulder gasped in surprise at the chess set.  Finally taking one of the carved pieces she examined it carefully as she looked for the owner of the shop.  Seeing the elder gnome and taking in the workbench with its tools, she questioned him asking, “Is this your work?  The craftsmanship is exquisite.”

The gnome offered the simple flirty grin of a man who knew he was addressing a lady beyond his reach.  "Thank you, It's not every day I get to show my best items to so fair a lady.  Everyone wants babbles and silly trinkets these days."  Watching several of the party appreciate his craft the gnome turned to the second box.  Unlike the first box that was designed to unfold and lay flat, the second box's depth was far greater and intended only as a storage vessel.  While simple in design, the attention to symmetrical wood grain patterns and the evenness of the jointing bely a master's handiwork.   "A simple walnut box with liner.  110 walnut tiles of 52 matching pairs and 26 quartets, suitable for numerous games of skill and chance."  The gnome lifted several tiles and laid them out.  Each one was polished smooth, stained, carved and delicately painted. "Very beautiful don't you think?”

Atalaya and Vasilya were both drawn to the beautiful work.  Glancing at the gnome for permission, Boz picked up a couple of the tiles to examine more closely.  “Well done, Master.  Well done indeed,” he said as he handed them back to the gnome.

Cirilli crowded forward to see what Boz was looking at.  She reached out tentatively towards the tiles and then pulled her hand back quickly without touching them.  “What do you do with them?” she asked, looking between Boz, Inman and the gnome.  “They are very pretty,” she added.  

The tinker looked pleased at the inquisitive nature of the young girl.  "My dear this is a universal tile set.  There are hundreds of games across all regions and cultures that use sets like these."  He looked at the adults in the group and sized them up.  "I have no doubt your friends here already know about a dozen games appropriate for these tiles."  He leans in to Cirilli but does not lower his voice.  "...and they are evenly weighted and buffed.  There will be no cheating with this set."  He looked at Atalaya and Inman, " I will accept 75 gold pieces for the chess set and if you want to add the tile set.”  He thinks for a minute while sorting through the tiles.  “For 80 gold pieces I will let you buy both.”

Cirilli looked at Sorrow, “Do you know games to play with these too?   They are pretty.  I bet I could make up games to play with them,” she said as she looked at the tiles, finally touching them gently with her index finger to stir them around so that she could see the different patterns.  

Sorrow looked over the tile set.  There are several games that we could play with these that I already know.  But Sorrow’s gaze continually returns to the chess set.  “This is as fine a set as the one Ivar has.  Are you interested in this set, Inman?”

       Inman ran his fingers over the chess board one more time knowing he didn't have the money for such an extravagance. "I.."

Nevil saw the look on both Sorrow and Inman’s faces.  She could almost see the future; Sorrow and he with late night games and discussions on the arcane, teaching Cirilli, bets and banter with all the makings of a family.  Then she could see Inman at a home, their home, in front of an evening's fire, playing as this family returned or visited years from now.

 She cut in, "WE would be happy with such a fair price master tinker."  Inman and Sorrow turned to look at Nevil with surprise. Nevil interjected, "We only have one lifetime and we've been working hard. I expect to see you all at my hearthside from time to time when this is all said and done. Even if you have to use this as an excuse to visit.”

Cirilli picks up several of the tiles and shakes them in her hand, letting them fall onto the counter, enjoying the clattering of the tiles as they move in her hand and the clinks and clacks as they scatter across the countertop.  She tugs on Nevil’s hand.  “Can we get both sets?  I have the extra five gold pieces for the tiles.”  

           Nevil looks at Cirilli then to Atalaya, "Are you sure you wish to own this set?  Five gold is half your money and who knows what else we will find today.”  

 

“It is half of what you and Inman gave me.  But, I have some that I earned while we were adventuring and some that Atalaya has given me.   These are so pretty.  I’d really like to learn some games that use them.  

Nevil continued looking again for Atalaya’s input, “You will care for this set?  Master tinker spent a lot of time crafting it.  These tiles are not easily replaced if one is lost.”

Atalaya gave Nevil a discreet nod as Cirilli explained that she had more than the 10 gold pieces. 

“I’ll be careful with them.  Really.”  Cirilli becomes thoughtful as she thinks about how to keep all the things she hopes the group will buy this afternoon safe.  “We could make a special cupboard to keep all our new games in.  I’ll help you. You could teach me how to build stuff while we make it.  Please!”

Nevil raises a brow.  “That does sound like a fun project.”

The gnome watches the discussions, his eyes gleaming happily with their appreciation of his work.  “So good lady, do you wish these sets?  80 gold for the two is a very fair price.  They are sure to become family heirlooms.  Treasured items to pass down to like minded granddaughters and grandsons.”

Nevil reached for her coin pouch.  "Yes we would love to make a home for this fine chess set.  Would you please ensure your mark is with this piece?" 

She looks at Cirilli as she begins to loosen the string and count out the gold.  "but the purchase of the tile set is entirely the choice of this young lady.  She is of age and has worked hard to earn her money."

The gnome looked very happy.  "Splendid!  A glow with pride, he turned the chess case around and pointed.  Next to to one of the brass hinges was a tiny overlapping V and M    "Vorjin (vor-yen) Maquuel.  Pleased to meet you."  He extended a hand to Nevil, who shook the stout limb with warmth.  "It is our honor, master Maquuel." 

The gnome turned to Cirilli, "And what of the tile set my young lass?  Will it find a home with you?”

“Oh yes!  Please.  You said it was 5 gold pieces.  I have that much.”  She stirs the tiles around and finds two matching tiles.  They are so pretty.  I bet there are lots of fun games to play with these.”  

Master Maquuel watches as she starts to pull out the golden coins.  “Well I did say that when you bought both, I would sell the tile game for 5 gold.  But your friend bought the chess set.  On it’s own the tiles cost 8 gold.”

Cirilli, finding a reason for the first time in ages to channel her mother, turned a practiced eye on him.  “Yes, but you are in fact selling them together.  The fact that Nevil doesn’t have enough gold pieces to pay the whole sum herself doesn’t negate the fact that they are being bought together.  You may wrap them up in a single bundle, if that helps to show it is a single purchase.”

The gnome looked pleased as he listened to the teen child’s effort at negotiation.  “Well perhaps I could let these go for 6 gold and 5 silver pieces.  Both the tiles and the box that contains them are master quality work, youngling.”

Cirilli looked sadly at the tiles as she started to pick up her gold pieces.  “I’m sorry.  Five gold is what I can spend on this.  I have other items that I must buy today.”  Her saddened face gazed down at the gold pieces as she slowly picked them up in preparation for returning them to her pouch.  

The gnome shook his head as he gently taped her hand.  “Well now, perhaps I could consider this a part of the Lady’s purchase, as a favor to her and to you.  Five gold pieces and your promise to take good care of my special work.”

“Oh yes, good master.  I have already promised this to Nevil and I will make that promise to you too.  I will take very good care of your tiles.  And I will learn as many games to play with them as I can.  And who knows?  If we stop here on our way home perhaps I can tell you about all those games.  Would you like that?”  Cirilli holds out her hand with the five gold pieces in it.  When the gnome brings his hand underneath hers, she carefully drops the coins into his palm.  

Master Maquual closes his fingers around the coins as he pats Cirilli’s hand with his left hand.  “Thank you child.  I would be most interested to learn what games you have found to play with my little treasures.”  The coins seem to magically disappear somewhere deep in his robes or perhaps in a container under the counter, Cirilli isn’t sure.  The tinker then turns and finding some brown paper quickly wraps up the two purchases.   

Nevil has an amused look watching Cirilli haggle with the gnome.  It's kind of him to treat her so.  A good man.  Inman drew near to her side and leaned into her ear. "You didn't have to do that."  

Nevil smiled and whispered in return. "I know, but at least now, when my bed is cold because the two of you are up into the wee hours locked in battle, I can claim my board and send you both to bed."

Inman audibly laughed.  "I see, good luck with that."

The gnome hands the chess set to Nevil and the tiles to Cirilli.  “And what other things are you looking for, young miss?”

Cirilli looked pensive.  “I’m supposed to get books, new clothing, and I’m supposed to think of some handicraft to start learning.  And I need to buy a flute.”  Her eyes light on Atalaya and she adds,  “Oh yes, Atalaya needs to find someone to sell her some leather and leather dyes.”  

Master Maquual considered her list of items.  There is a good tannery dockside near the edge of the shops.  It’s too smelly of an operation to allow inside the city gates.  But Master Joseph does good work.  And if you wind your way around the corner over there and head down that pathway, you will find a general market.  They should have some clothing there.  If you go into the town proper there are several tailor shops and a bookstore called the Stumpy’s Fallen Leaves.  The Stumpy is an interesting character, and you never know what books you will find there.”  

He thinks for a bit before adding, “There is a music store a few shops past Stumpy’s.  You should check there to see if they have any flutes.  Just tell Mistress Michelle that Master Maquual sent you.  She runs the shop.  She’s one of my cousin’s daughters.  You will enjoy looking through her shop.  It’s full of many fine instruments and quite a bit of musical scores. 

Sorrow perks up at the mention of musical scores.  “Really?  We will definitely stop by there.  Thank you.  That is very useful information.”

As the group moves away, Cirilli contemplates her package.  Looking first at Atalaya, but then stopping and pulling her back pack off she opens it and places the bundled tiles box into the pack.  

As the group departs the small store, Nevil gives a final nod, "Take care Master Maquual.  May your hands be ever steady."  The gnome was already descending  his stool when Nevil spoke.  He offered a quick wave and smile, which threw off his balance enough to cause a grunt and a wobble as he teetered down to his workbench.

Chapter 5:  Shopping: The Music Store

Cirilli slips her hand back into Sorrow’s as they make their way towards the general market suggested by Maquual.  A couple of tugs convince him to stoop a bit so that she can whisper in his ear, “That’s the first thing I have ever bought for myself.  And I did it with my own money.”   She takes a few more steps before calling out to the group in general, so what next?  Cards? Or maybe some marbles for Boz to practice with?”

  Nevil looked at the sun's angle and the lengthening of the shadows and considered Cirilli’s question.  "Well we should hit the instrument shop next.  Then we can divide and conquer the rest of the items.  We don't have a lot of time."  Nevil looked to Atalaya for confirmation.

Atalaya nodded.  Yes, an instrument and leather on the way back.  If we don’t get everything done today, we can always take another day after our trip to the manor.  Or find another port farther south.  Surely there are more towns between here and Baldar’s gate.

The group increased their walking pace as they moved more determinedly to the town gates.  They quickly made their way past Stumpy’s Fallen Leaves.  Several more steps and the music shop came into view.  The sound of someone playing a lap harp was heard through the open windows and doorway. This immediately caught Sorrow’s attention.  His eyes softened as he listened to the intricate melody skillfully performed.  Squeezing Cirill’s hand, he quickened his pace, drawn towards the music.  “I have a good feeling about this shop, Cirilli.  I’m sure we will find you a more than suitable instrument.  

 Cirilli peered eagerly into the store as they reached it.  “Oh!  Look!  I’ve never seen so many instruments in one place before.”  

Sorrow grinned and gave her a gentle nudge into the building.  As the two entered, the music came to a halt as the musical phrase was completed. A light alto voice called out a greeting as the rest of the party entered behind Cirilli and Sorrow.  

[This is Mistress Michelle, although the portrait was painted when she was a bit younger.  Currently her face reflects a few more years, with some laugh lines around her eyes and more mature facial features. She still has the freckles across her cheek bones though.   See the story for a description of what she is wearing today.]

“Welcome.  Come in, come in.  Welcome to my little music shop.  My name is Michelle. How may I help you?”  An elegantly dressed youngish gnome made her way around a low shelving unit filled with scrolls and books.  The light weight dress of subtly shaded greens flowed around her body as she moved through the shop.  The silver threads throughout caught the sunlight and created a wispy waterfall effect.  

Her gaze took in the six people standing just inside the shop as she waited for a response.  

Cirilli was still looking around the shop, taking in all the instruments and their paraphernalia.  Her hands itched to try out everything she saw and she purposely clasped them together to keep from touching them.  

Sorrow placed his hand on Cirilli’s shoulder.  “This young lady has earned a musical instrument of her choice.  She has expressed interest in a recorder.  Or something else she can easily carry safely in her backpack when we are traveling.  What choices do you have along those lines?”

"Ah, a recorder is a fine choice for a long traveling young woman.  Will this be your first piece? 

Cirilli nods wide-eyed taking in the store as the woman moves elegantly, sizing up the group.  The woman notes an earthy sort of utilitarian yet elegant refinement.  Only half-masked behind a poised formality, she looked thrilled at the challenge.

Nevil and Inman, feeling very out of their element, sit across from each other on couches near the middle of the store.  The shop has a soft yet refined air, perhaps seeking a middle ground to appeal to both the aristocratic and working man.  The shops walls are lined with hooks and stands holding of a variety of instruments, sectioned by class, as would be expected.  The polished metals, rich earthy stained woods, and the smell of oil and leather were a mild assault to the senses.  However, much like the aged tomes of a library, or the memory of the smell of an elder’s pipeweeds, the effect was deeply calming and brought nostalgia to most.

"What an exciting day.  Are you open to other ideas or would you like to only look at my reedless woodwinds?"

"Yes, something easy to maintain, with fewer delicate parts. Let's see what fun pieces we can find." She looks around the open shop at her wares as if searching for inspiration.  

Mistress Michelle moved towards a cabinet that held a large number of woodwind instruments.  “There should be some good choices in here.”  She moves her hand over the various instruments, finally stopping at one of them which she picks up and puts into a pocket in her skirt.  She searches again, pulling out several more instruments before closing the cabinet and moving back to Sorrow and Cirilli.  “Come, sit down here and let’s take a look at these.”  She guides Cirill to a chair placed in front of a music stand.  She pulls over a couple other chairs, one for Sorrow and another for herself.  “Let’s see how you like these.  While they will all take practice to get steady pure tones out, you need to find what is easiest for you.  The type of breath and lip control needed for a recorder is different from that needed for a flute.  

She holds up a flute.  “A flute is a sturdier instrument and would need less protection while you are traveling.  See, you hold it like this, position your lips like this and blow into the mouthpiece here, like this.”  A single pure note sounds, filling the shop.”  Mistress Michelle hands the flute to Cirilli and helps her position it and to place her fingers appropriately to make the same note.  “Good now, give a steady breath out through your lips”

Cirilli tries, but there is no sound coming from the flute.  “Watch my lips, try again like this.”

Cirilli tries again, with minimal sound coming out of the instrument, and certainly nowhere near the note the shop owner had made.  Cirilli shook her head.  I don’t think I can play this,” she said as she handed the flute back to Mistress Michelle.

The gnome accepted the instrument and handed her a recorder.  “Well, you did in fact come in here looking for a recorder.  This is a descant recorder.  You hold it like this.  Try blowing through it without covering any of the holes.”

Cirilli took the recorder, copied Mistress Michelle’s hand position and tentatively blew through it.  Cirilli almost dropped the instrument in surprise as a clear loud note sounded from it.  Sorrow exchanged an amused look at Mistress Michelle but quickly wiped it from his face as Cirilli looked up at him.  “I did it.  I played the note, right?” 

“You most certainly did youngling.”  Taking the recorder from her he showed her the hole on the  back side of it.  “Watch.  Now try this, blow through it again holding your finger over this hole.  Then blow through it without your finger on this hole.”

Cirilli reached eagerly for the recorder and followed Sorrow’s directions.  Her eyes widened as she listened to the changing tone of the note as she covered and uncovered the hole.  She did that several times and then as she switched to covering the hole again, a squeaky sound emerged from the recorder.  “What? Why did that happen?” she asked. 
Mistress Michelle, wiped the smile from her face and eyes and turned to Cirilli.  “You didn’t get the hole covered securely.  You will learn to do that with practice.  Now try this.”  

Cirilli watched carefully as she played three separate notes and then repeated them.  “Do you think you can do that?”

Cirilli bit her lip as she reached for the recorder.  “Maybe,” she answered.  Placing her fingers in position for the first note she blew into the recorder.  Shifting to the next hand position she also played the requested note.  As she moved her fingers into position for the third note, she heard a squeaky sound again, rather than the tone she was expecting.

“That’s okay.  Position your fingers for that note and try again.”

Very seriously Cirilli did so and then sounded the note again.  This time a clear tone filled the room.  She looked up at both Sorrow and Mistress Michelle.  Sorrow indicated that she should continue playing the notes.  Taking a deep breath she quickly played the three notes in succession, a smile appearing on her mouth as she did so.
Mistress Michelle beamed as she extended her hand for the recorder.  “So you can learn this instrument.  We need now to determine which recorder for you.  I want you to listen to the range this instrument has.  I’ll play some scales and then a simple song.  Then I’m going to do the same with this treble recorder.  I think you are grown enough to be able to handle the size of this one as well.  Think about which range of sounds is most pleasing to you while I play.”

Mistress Michelle then took the soprano recorder and played several scales and then moved into a simple well known folk melody.  Putting down the recorder she picked up the second and repeated the process with the treble recorder.  The notes were lower overall.  Cirilli listened closely, watching carefully as the mistress played both recorders.  

“I don’t know.  I like them both.  Sorrow, which one do you think I should get?”

“There are reasons to have either.  You may find the fingering easier on the soprano recorder for a while as your hands continue to grow.  But once you learn one, you can always learn the other if you choose.  The finger will be different, but I know that you would be capable of playing both if you wished to.  If you want others to sing while you play the treble might be the better choice.  If you just wanted to play for yourself or as a descant to others you might like the soprano one.”

Cirilli glanced between the two recorders.  “Okay, maybe the treble one then.”

Mistress Michelle nodded and handed that recorder to her after showing her how to position her hands on it.  “Okay, you try placing your fingers like that.”  

Cirill did, just getting her fingers into position.  

“Hmm, you’ll have to work a bit to make the notes requiring you to cover the lower holes, but you should be able to play this.”  She reaches her hand out for the instrument and then demonstrates a 3 note run.  “Your turn,” she added as she handed the instrument back to Cirill.

Cirilli attempted the run, only squeaking on one note.  Taking another breath she tried again, getting all the notes on pitch.  Her eyes lit up as she did.

Mistress Michelle nodded.  “So the next choice is what type of wood you want your instrument made out of.”  She turned to Sorrow, “You are buying this for her?  Do you have a preference?  Or a price range you want to stay within?  I have many different recorders to choose from.”

Sorrow, looked thoughtfully at Cirilli.  “This is a beginning instrument for her.  She isn’t going to be performing with it.  So a soft wood rather than  a hard wood I think.  Maybe pear or maple.”

“Ah yes, both of those woods are wonderful for the beginning player.  Let me see…”  She heads towards the cabinet again and rummages through the instruments, taking out four different ones.   When she returns to the two she holds them out to Sorrow.  “These are all worthy instruments, Sir.  Would you care to inspect them?”

Sorrow takes them and looks them over carefully.  Finally picking out one of them he plays the melody that Mistress Michelle had demonstrated to Cirilli earlier.  “Nice.  This is pear wood, correct?”

“It is indeed.  You are familiar with playing this instrument?”

Sorrow simply nods, rather than answering her.  He holds the two maple wood instruments in his hands and finally picks one, blowing a test note and then moving into the same song.  He smiled at the tone of this one as he asks, “Maple”  At her nod he moves into a more complicated folk melody and nods again.   He then placed the two instruments in front of Cirilli.  “Try them both.  Listen to them and get a feel for both.  The right one for you should speak to you in your heart.  That is what tells you an instrument is right for you.”

Cirilli looks as if she is uncertain as to what exactly Sorrow means, but dutifully picks up the pearwood recorder and tries it out.  Then she does the same with the maplewood one.  

As she finishes Mistress Michelle picks up the original treble instrument and asks, “Do you know the song ‘Mary Had A Little Lamb’?  Seeing Cirilli’s nod she played it on the recorder.  And then slowly repeated the first phrase.  “Can you do that?”
Cirilli nodded and copied the phrase.  “Excellent.  Now try the next one.”  She demonstrated and Crilli copied her.  “Yes, very nice.  “Now we add this.”  Cirilli copied her again until they finished the short song.  “Now try putting it all together.” 

Cirilli played the simple children’s song with only a couple of missed notes, which she quickly corrected.  

“Good job.  Now why don’t you play it on the other recorder,”  Mistress Michelle instructed.

Cirilli switched recorders and played the song again, managing to get her fingering correct for the entire song on only getting one squeaky note.  

Sorrow nodded at her playing and then asked, "Which one feels like it should be yours?”

Cirilli took a deep breath as she looked at the two instruments again.  “That one,” she said, indicating the pearwood one.  “It sounds just a little different, and I like how it feels and looks.”  Looking up a Sorrow, “At least I think I do.”

Sorrow nodded.  “The pearwood treble recorder it is then.  Now, you will need a few more things for that.”  He turned back to the shop owner.  “She will need a solid case, some sweet almond oil and a cleaning rod and cloth.”

Mistress Michelle beamed as he recited his list of needs.  “Of course she will.”  Reaching into her pocket she took out a well made wooden case.  “How about this, to start with?”  The case was made out of a hardwood that while not the same color as the pearwood, complemented it nicely.  A thin metal scroll design surrounded the case, giving it more strength.  Inside, it was padded with soft velvet in a rich tawny color that contrasted well with the dark stained pearwood.  

Sorrow picked up the box and took his time looking at it.  “Made by your cousin, Master Maquual?”

The young gnome looked startled.  “You know Maquual?”

“Let us say that we have met him today.  He sent us here.  This is his work, is it not?”  

“Yes, yes it is.  He is such a fine craftsman.”

Sorrow looks again at the box and then says,  “Oil?  Cleaning supplies?”

Mistress Michelle nods and reaches for the final items and places them near the box.  Cirilli in the meantime is turning the chosen recorder over and over in her hands, examining it closely. 

One more thing, I think.  Have you a beginners songbook for lessoning her?”

“Of course I have.  Let’s go over here.”  She leads Sorrow and Cirilli to the back of the shops, to a bookcase full of different books.  After pulling out and replacing several items, she hands Sorrow three different books.  “These are all good teaching books.  Take your time and pick which you would like.”  

Sorrow looked through the books and finally handed two back to the gnome.  “We will take this one,” he said, indicating the one still in his hand.  “So how much is this going to cost me?” he said with a heavy voice, while winking at the proprietor? 

“Well let’s see.  I think I am going to consider the cleaning items a part of the initial recorder, so no extra charge for those.  2 gold pieces for the recorder itself and another 3 gold pieces and 5 silver for the case.  She looks at the music book and finds a keyed marking in the back corner and adds, “And another 7 silver pieces for the book.”

Sorrow looks at the book and the box again and then nods.  “So a total of 6 gold pieces and 2 silver ones.  You have a deal mistress.  Sorrow reaches into his money pouch and pulls out the required coins and places them on the counter near the desired items.  After the gnome counts the coins and places them in her cash box he turns to Cirilli.  “You should pick up your items and pack them away.”

Cirilli throws her arms around Sorrow.  “Thank you.  Thank you so much.  I’ll take good care of these.  You are going to teach me right?”  At his nod, she gathers up the items.  She placed the cleaning items into the protective case and then looked at the oil.  “How do I keep from breaking this bottle?” she asked.  

“Well, for now, wrap it in something soft and let Atalaya keep it in her bag.  Later, you can either buy or maybe get Nevil to help you make a wooden box that it will fit into.”

Cirilli nodded and looked into her back, finally taking out a practice tunic to wrap the bottle in.  Carrying her new items she made her way to the sitting area that the others had been waiting in.  Shyly, she held out the recorder to Atalaya.  “It’s really nice, isn’t it?” she asked.  Atalaya smiled and agreed with her.  “Will you keep the oil in the bag of holding for now? I have it bundled up.”

Again Atalaya agreed and took the bundled tunic wrapped oil bottle from her and quickly deposited it in the bag of holding.  Do you want me to keep the recorder for you also?”

“Oh no.  I can keep that safe in this case.  It was made by Master Maguual.  See.”  She gave her the case to examine.  

“He does good work,” commented Boz, looking over Atalaya’s shoulder.  

“That he does,” replied Atalaya while she handed it back to Cirilli.  “You best put it away for now, then.”

Cirilli nodded and put it into the box before putting it into her case.  Then turning to Nevil and Inman asked, “Where are we going next?”

Nevil and Inman relaxed on the couches and watched from a distance.  Both happy for a quiet moment.  Well relatively quiet.  As the squeals and shrieks of a beginner's recorder begin, Nevil and Inman exchange grins. Inman leaned in closer to Nevil's ear.  "We are going to be in a ship's tight quarters while she practices that thing over and over."  Nevil giggled, "She's a fast learner.  It will not be that bad and the ship's walls are not that thin."  Inman laughed, "good thing too."  

Nevil blushed as Cirilli bounded over.  Nevil responded, looking to Atalaya for her thoughts. "Well I suppose we could all go to Stumpy’s as there are several who would be interested in his inventory.  After that, we may best divide and conquer?  Inman and I were going to hit the general store and herbalist at some point.  Thoughts?”

Chapter 6:  Shopping: Bookstore

Atalaya looks around the group, seeing the interest and Sorrow and Inman’s faces.  “Bookstores are always fun.  There didn’t seem to be anything that we can use in Candlekeep, but there could always be just general reading material to enjoy on our trip south.  And maybe the raven will come back?”

Cirilli looked up, “You mean the one that brought you that book?”

Atalaya nods.  “Who knows what might happen.  And it’s just a couple of shops from here.”

Cirilli takes Sorrow’s hand, “Let’s go!”  Then seeing the ‘look’ Atalaya was giving her, she turned back to Mistress MIchelle.  “Thank you for your help.  I love the recorder and the case.”

“It was a pleasure to serve you, dear.  When you need some more music or another recorder you come back here and we’ll find what you need.”

Cirilli nodded, shifting her pack on her shoulders and then tugged on Sorrow’s hand.  

Sorrow smiled at the young gnome.  “Whenever I return to Blue Haven I’ll be sure to stop by.  Perhaps to look for something for myself.”

The group makes their way down the street, Cirilli obviously scanning the sky for ravens but sees none.  

They enter the shop looking for Stumpy.  

Sorrow stepped to the side of the large oak archway and gestured through the open door into Stumpy’s. "My lady, let's see what we may find to delight our minds."  Cirilli smiled at the formality and half skipped over the stone threshold.  Sorrow glanced slyly at Inman, straightening his vest before racing Inman through the door.  Nevil chuckled, turning to Atalaya, "like two boys eager to see their toys."

"The shop is a little cramped for the whole crew.  I think I'll wait out here."

Nevil stood outside in the shade of a striped cloth awning watching life go on.  She too looked at the roof tops, perches, and gutters for ravens.  But only a magpie bombing a street cat accentuated the business traffic in the street.  Light chatter of housewives’ gossip floated over from an alley between two stores as washings were squeezed and hung.

Inside Sorrow began to read the sections outloud to Cirilli as they went shelf to shelf, "history, religion, lore, poetry, fiction, instructions on craft..."  Inman followed close behind, stopping in the section on lore.  Then from between two shelves, a smartly yet comfortably dressed middle age gnome (by comparison to Master Maquuel) stepped from a high ladder.  "Anything you're looking for today?”

Cirilli looked up at Sorrow.  “What are we looking for here?  Atalaya and Nevil looked here already, didn’t they?”

Sorrow shook his head slightly as he sighed.  “There are always treasures to be found in a bookstore, right Inman?”  As Inman nodded sagely, Sorrow continued.  “We come to bookstores to explore and find hidden treasures.  One never knows what can be found in a bookstore.  A better question might be, what do you want to find here today?  A book full of exciting adventure?  Something that teaches you a new skill?  A bit of history of the Sword Coast?  Or maybe the High Forest since perhaps one day you will be living there with Atalaya?  Or maybe something to aid you in your quest to become a ranger?  A bit of fluff to rest your brain and amuse yourself as we sail?”  His expression shifted slightly, “Or perhaps a bit of philosophy or a mighty tome about the gods and goddesses of this world and how they formed it?”

Cirilli took a couple steps back.  “Not that last one for sure.  Maybe an adventure story.  Do you think there is an adventure story that happens in the High Forest?  Or maybe something about the Wild Ride?  I think riding a unicorn would be really fun.”

Sorrow tapped his chin while he thought.  “Well, let’s take a look in the fiction area and perhaps for something about Mielikki and the Wild Ride.  There are some songs about the Wild Ride that I can teach you too.”  Sorrow began searching through the fiction section, pulling out several books as he perused the shelves.  Handing them to her he encouraged her to look through them and see if she might enjoy any of them.  Then he continued to peruse the shelves, looking for histories that might contain something new to him.  

Outside the shop, Nevil and Atalaya waited and watched the people of Blue Haven as they made their way past the shop.  The two watched as small groups of women strolled down the street, stopping to look in the windows of the shops or as they disappeared into the interior of the buildings.  The hot humid air was mitigated by the breeze blowing off the coast and winding its way through the town’s streets.  The magpie had given up on harassing the alley cat and was now attempting to defend a bread crust he had found dropped on the road from a dive bombing sea gull.  

Atalaya finally turned her gaze from the birds’ struggle to Nevil.  “So, do you think we will survive Cirilli’s first lessons with her recorder?”

Nevil chuckles as she looks at Atalaya, "I'd be lying if I said Inman and I hadn't asked each other the same thing earlier in the shop."   Nevil leaned against the wall, shifting her weight to the other leg, "of course we will. She's a fast learner.  Of course it's less the squealing at first but the endless repetition of a limited repertoire that grinds the nerves."  She shrugs, "but it will be good for her to have a creative outlet."  

Nevil looked at the sun's position in the sky. "Where shall we go from here?  Dress shopping with Cirilli?  Leather goods?"

Atalaya read the sky to determine how much time was left in the day.  “I do need to acquire some leather and supplies.  How much time do you want for her weapons practice?  It’s midafternoon already.  Perhaps you should take her back to the ship?  New clothes are not a necessity.  They can wait until another port if need be.  Maybe the guys can hunt up some cards or other games at the general market, and maybe a couple of sketch books.  I will find the things I need at the tannery.  We will get to the Hond Ebrarth as quickly as we can, but you can still have time enough for some lesson work with Cirilli.  

Nevil nodded as the assessment made logical sense.  "We can do that."  Though something tugged on her heart.  "...but she needs to see the depth and color of life too... she's still waking up."  Nevil grinned.  "I know you remember how much effort can be squeezed into an hour or less; and there are more important things in life than combat." 

Nevil looked back through the window to catch a look of excitement in Cirilli’s face as she searched through the available selections. Nevil looked to Atalaya, "Perhaps we should let her judge what to do with the time?”

Atalaya smiled, laughed softly and shook her head.  “You are her armsmaster.  If you are willing to give up the time you claimed we can certainly continue shopping if that is what she wants.  I’ll let you ask her though, after she finishes here, so that I’m not undermining your authority.”  

Nevil nodded.

Meanwhile, Stumpy walked over to offer his advice to Cirilli,  "Ah, adventure.  Good choices there." Pointing to a green leather tome, "Skylark, is a classic.  A girl, about your age, finds nature's calling as she begins a great journey to save her cursed best friend. This hero has to work against social conventions and builds a community of "watchers" that protect an unknowing world."  Seeing Cirilli’s eyes perk up, he adds, "And if you like it, there are two more that build on this first one."  

He points to a red covered book, "Mistwalker is a little different.  A young man, an orphan, has an unusual gift.  He and his gathered young friends navigate the manipulations of several mysterious characters after his gift begins to awaken and strange things start to happen. It's more of an adventure mystery and is an excellent re-read even after knowing the ending."  He looks up to Cirilli, "both do have some very descriptive scenes of the "ride."  Either strike your fancy?"

Inman pulled three books out and waited by the counter.  

Cirilli sat down on the floor of the shop and opened the first book and read the first page.  Then, she snuck a peek around her to be sure no one was watching too closely and flipped to somewhere near the middle of the book, her eyebrows furrowed as she read an action filled paragraph.  She then shifted to the second book, repeating her actions.  Returning to Skylark she read another random paragraph.  Finally, standing she looked around to find the others.  She made her way to Stumpy and catching his gaze said “ I can’t pick.  They are both so good.  How much do they cost?”

Stumpy picks up the books again, weighing them in his hands.  “Five gold a piece, young lady.”  Seeing her crestfallen expression he continued, “For new books of this length and quality that is a very fair price youngling.  He flipped through the pages to a page containing a wood etching print.  And illustrated too.  There are a number of prints throughout both of the books.”

Cirilli took the books back and quickly turned the pages to search out the illustrations.  “I can only get one at that price.”  She looked between them a bit more, her fingers carefully tracing the pictures.  “I think this one, sir,” she said as she held up Mistwalker.  “You did say it was still good when you reread it.”

Stumpy nods in agreement.  “That it is, youngling.  That it is.  A very fine story for an adventurer like yourself.”

Cirilli nods and hands him back the Skylark book.  “Maybe another day I can buy this one.”  Then she pulled out her money pouch and counted out the five gold pieces and handed them to the gnome shopkeeper.  “Here.  Five gold pieces for this book.”  

Stumpy accepted the coins and carefully placed them in his cashbox.  Reaching under the counter he pulled out a sheet of butcher paper and carefully wrapped the book in it.  “Take good care of this and it will give you much pleasure as you read it.  And when you are ready for another book, be sure to visit again.  I always like the chance to share my love of reading with another bibliophile.”

Cirilli eagerly reached for the wrapped book and carefully placed it into her pack.  “I certainly will.  I like your store.  I’ve never seen so many books in one place.”

Stumpy smiled and patted her hand.  “You’re a good one, youngling.  Keep reading.”

Then noticing that another of their group was patiently waiting with two books in his hand he made his way down the counter asking, “And what can I do for you, good sir?”

Cirilli went bounding out of the store and running up to Atalaya holding the wrapped book before her, "I found one! I can't wait to start."

Atalaya braced Cirilli’s arms to keep her from running into her.  “I see.  You look excited.  What is this book about?”

“It’s about this orphan boy who has some type of a gift and he goes with his friends on adventures.  And there is a mystery and the Unicorn Wild Ride is in there and… well, it’s supposed to still be good even when you are re-reading it.”  Her face is flushed with excitement.  “That sounds like fun reading, doesn’t it?”  Her face got serious for a moment and she added, “You know, if the clergy teachers had given us fun stuff like this to read, maybe we all would have tried harder in class.  It’s a little bit hard, but I think I can read it.  But I might have to ask you for help with some of the words.”  With trust in her face she looks at Atalaya, “But I know you’ll help me and without yelling or hitting me, right?”

Atalaya felt her blood start to boil with Cirilli’s last words, but schooled her face and simply answered, “Of course you can ask for help when you need it.  I might just start reading over your shoulder.  It sounds like an interesting book.”

Cirilli laughed.  “That would be silly.  I’ll let you read it after I have finished it.”  Turning to Boz, she asked, “Are you going to want to read it too?  It is about a boy.”

Boz laughed and ruffled her hair.  “Maybe I’ll just have you read it to me.  Then we will both get to know what happens at the same time.”   

Cirilli looked pensive at Boz’s words.  “Summer and Sandy’s mother used to do that at night with my friends.  Summer said that they would all take turns reading the book.  My parents didn’t do that.”

Boz pulled her into a side hug. “Well then, let’s do that.  Then as many people as are willing to take a turn reading can hear the story at the same time.”

Cirilli’s eyes shone.  “That would be fun.”  Remaining within Boz’s embrace she reached for Atalaya’s hand as she looked into the shop to see what was happening. 

Inman slid three books to Stumpy.  He looked over his shoulder to see Cirilli had left, then he gestured for the gnome to add Skylark to his pile.  But Sorrow held out his hand to grab the gnome's attention, “add that one and its matched volumes to my pile.”  Inman looked up, are you sure?” Sorrow with the softest grin, “I get to spoil her too you know.”

With a little grin, Stumpy thumbed through Inman's selections.  "18 gold?" He asked for the three.  Inman nodded and the gnome turned to gather wrapping materials.  Sorrow reached over with curiosity to read the titles of Inman's selections.  A benign expression as he placed the first book back on the counter.  A sly smirk and glance of respectful understanding for the second.  Inman laughed, "not everyone is a bard you know.”

Nevil stepped forward, off her lean upon the storefront.  "Cirilli you owe me some practice work today.  But I also know this is going to be the best port town for a while.  I will get a certain amount of effort out of you today.  The choice is yours.  But if you choose a little more time in town, expect an increased intensity of practice. There is value either way."

As Sorrow conducted his business with the gnome, Inman stepped up in time to hear the end of the conversation.  His eyebrows raised with concern.  "Short can be way worse.  Careful choosing."

Cirilli worried her lip with her teeth as she considered Nevil’s offer.  She quickly glanced up and down the street, her eyes seeming to burr their way through the shop walls.  Squaring her shoulders she looked into Nevil’s eyes.  “Maybe just one more shop?  I was going to try to get a new outfit, something just a little nice to wear when we go to eat in a tavern.  I’ll try to be quick and then I’ll work really hard for you at practice.  I can do hard work.  Especially since I know why you are working me hard, so that I can keep myself alive when I have to.”

"Alright, run on then.  Time is your responsibility to keep. I will meet you back at home."  Cirilli grabbed Atalaya and Boz's hands and started to pull them out into the street.  "We have to hurry."    Boz looked up to Sorrow.  As he felt pulled between two needs he hesitated.  Sorrow grinned reassuring Boz as he turned to Inman and Nevil, "Oh, don't worry.  I will chaperone these two. Can't have them wandering alone."  The group began to part ways, then Nevil called back to the youth with a smirk. "Cirilli, come back with something nice or it will be a poor trade of time."  Even at several paces away, Cirilli's smile was prominent.

Inman grinned, "I thought she was hellbent on training."  Nevil watched Cirilli skipping beside Atalaya in the distance.  "Oh she is, but her heart needs something close to normal now and we aren't going to have a lot of that for a while."  

Sorrow looked to Nevil, "Hope I'm not a third wheel."  Nevil playfully took Sorrow's arm as the three turned toward the direction of the ship.  Inman fell into step on the Nevil's other side.  His arms full with books and the chess board, when Nevil reassured Sorrow. "Never.  Anyway, let’s not pretend you two aren't going to dive right into books and games when we get back.  Just, promise you won't keep me up all night."

Inman looked to Sorrow with anticipation and a cock in his brow, "That entirely depends on how good Sorrow is."  Without hesitation and patting Nevil’s hand in the bend of his arm, while looking calmly and straight-faced between the two.  "Oh, I am very good.  Not bad at chess either."  A hint of a smirk and then a blush appeared on Nevil’s face as she glanced between the two handsome men.  Inman's laughter rolled into the street as Nevil realized she was caught red faced.  Sorrow chuckled as he played like he didn't notice.  "You two are awful." She laughed.

Chapter 7:  Shopping: Cirilli’s New Outfit

Atalaya jogged to keep up with the excited girl as she made her way up and down the streets looking for a clothing shop.  Finally she stopped at an establishment with a sign hanging above the door proclaiming it to be  Nanna’s Creations.  Stylized clothing surrounded the shop name and the sounds of women conversing could just be made out as they looked into the doorway.  “Come on,” urged Cilli.  “This place looks nice and I have to hurry.  But I have to find something nice too.”  Still holding Atalaya’s and Boz’s hands she plowed her way into the shop, and then just stood still, looking around at the racks of clothing.  Whispering to Atalaya she said, “One grandmother couldn’t possibly make all these dresses.”  

Atalaya was also looking around.  “I believe you are correct,” she whispered back.  “Perhaps the shop’s name has been handed down through the family.”  As they made their way to the first of the racks two teenaged half elves looked up and made their way to their new customers.  

“Good afternoon and welcome to Nanna’s Creations.  How may I serve you today?  We have many fine garments for your consideration,” the eager lass added as she surveyed the young family.  Her long blonde hair was braided into a single braid down her back and contrasted with the deep burgundy of the tunic she wore.  Atalaya approved of the simple lines of the tunic and the finely tanned black leather threws she wore with them.  

The second teen added, “Yes, we have many garments for both women and men.  We will be happy to help you find whatever it is that you are looking for, and to tailor it if needed.  My name is Mercy and my sister is called Solana.”  Her light brown curly tresses flowed freely down her back, reaching below her shoulder blades.  Her outfit consisted of a lightweight woven linen underdress in a medium lavender shade.  Over this was worn a wrap around tunic of dark purple trimmed with an embroidered lavender band along its edges and at the bottoms of the sleeves.  A variety of wildflowers alternated on the trim.   The two girls shared soft green eyes that twinkled in excitement, anticipating showing off the shop’s goods and making a sale.

Atalaya smiled as she watched Cirilli scan the shop and then the two teenagers, remembering a similar shopping trip several months ago in Riverport and how she and Joan had to almost drag Cirilli into the store.  She is growing in grace and confidence almost daily now.  All the loving and lessoning and adventures seem to be easing her heart.  I see more and more of the child she should have been coming through.  Thank the goddesses that we were able to take her out of that home when we did.  Another year or two and they might have truly destroyed her.  

Cirilli took a deep breath, glanced at Atalaya and said, “I want to buy a nice outfit.  Something to wear when we have a special night in town.”  She turned to Mercy, “I really like the tunic you are wearing, but does it have to go over a dress?  I prefer pants or leggings.”

Mercy’s eyes flitted from Cirilli to Atalaya and then back to Cirilli.  She took in the clothing the three newcomers were wearing and all their weapons and packs.  “Something special is what we love to offer our customers.  There are many ways to make use of this type of tunic.  Of course it can be paired with pants.  Do you think you would like those to be made of linen also, or leather like Solana’s?”

Solana had mentally measured Cirilli and was headed towards a rack of clothing when Cirilli turned to consider what she was wearing.  

Mercy noted the confusion in Cirilli’s face and continued.  “There are pros and cons for both types.  The leather is more durable for those with an active lifestyle.  They look wonderful when fitted appropriately, but the material is a bit difficult to work with and design choices are limited by that.  Cloth pants can be made out of a variety of weights of cloth to provide something that accommodates the weather conditions.  They tend to be easier to work with and can be cut into a much wider variety of styles.  They are more easily torn and will wear out sooner than leather pants.”

As Mercy finished speaking, Solana returned. Over her arms were several tunics in a variety of colors.  “Come this way.  You will need to try these on.  Then we will know your size and can start figuring out what best suits you.”

Mercy turned to the two adults, “Does this meet with your approval?  And are either of you also looking to buy something for yourselves?”

Atalaya winked at Vaz.  “Yes, let’s find something for Cirilli.  That was our plan for the day.  And while I’m sure that there are many things in here that both Vasilya and myself would love to own, we are a bit short on time today.  Perhaps another day we can shop for ourselves.”

Mercy looked slightly disappointed for a moment, but quickly covered it by indicating that they should follow Cirilli and Solana.  The far corner of the shop had been sectioned off with screens.  The area in front of there held several comfortable looking chairs and a sofa.  Mercy indicated that they should seat themselves.  “Just relax there, and we will help your daughter.  When she is ready she can come out and model her choices for you.”

Vasilya looked relieved when he saw the couch and made his way over to it, pulling Atalaya with him.  “Ah yes, a most civilized shop this is, Iubet.”  Then in Gurrish he added, “I have plenty of clothes.  No need to come back here for me.”  

Atalaya shook her head before replying in Gurrish, “If we had more time we would both be looking for something new that will match Cirilli’s splendor.  But, not today.  We do not have the time if we want to be sure that she does not suffer unduly at practice today.”  

The two watched as Mercy and Solana ran out of the screened area several times to bring more garments to Cirilli, but in less time than Atalaya expected, Cirilli stood before them, her face full of anticipation as she waited for Atalaya’s attention.  She was wearing black leather pants that fitted into her boots.  A black shirt with long close fitting sleeves was covered by a wrap around tunic in a royal blue with gold trim.  On the trim were bear claws printed onto the fabric edging the tunic as on Mercy’s tunic.  Lavender ties held the tunic closed.  Over this she wore a light woollen plaid cape of purples and blues.  The hood was pushed down on her shoulders.  It tied at the neck.  

“I love this, don’t you love it too?” Cirilli asked Atalaya and Vasilya as she stood before them.  “I never thought I would want anything with purple in it, but then I changed my mind when I saw the cape with the tunic.  It’s just right.”

Vasilya stood up and walked around Cirilli, observing the outfit from all sides before answering her.  “It is perfect for you, Cirilli.”

Atalaya also approached her.  She felt the weight of the cape and tunic, tested the seams on the sleeves and the stitching of the trim to the tunic.  Glancing at Cirilli for permission, she brushed her hands down the pants, checking the leather and noting that it fit a bit loose.   Her eyes smiled in approval as she looked over the outfit.  “A good choice, daughter of my heart,” she pronounced.  

Solona spoke up then, “We suggest that the leather pants be a bit large for her, they still fit well, but will allow her to grow a bit before they will need to be replaced.  The tunic is long enough for growth too, and of course the wrap around design allows for growth also.  The cape has been oiled to provide some protection from rain during a light rainfall.  It won’t withstand a downpour though. It’s not a travel cloak, but just something to accent the outfit.  Does this meet with your approval?”

Atalaya caught Cirilli’s eyes as she replied, “It does.  The work is excellent.  You made this here?”

Solana sighed in relief.  “Oh yes.  Everything is made here.  Nanna will be so pleased.  She keeps us on our toes.  Everything must pass her inspection before we are allowed to put it on display.”

“So, what is the cost of these pieces?” Atalaya inquired.

“Well the cape costs __4 silver pieces____.  The trimmed tunic top is 23 silver pieces and pants are 5 gold pieces.  That totals 77 silver pieces or 7 gold and 7 silver pieces.

Cirilli takes a deep breath and looking at Atalaya nods.  “That seems fair.  Seeing Atalaya nod back she asks, “Can I wear them back to the ship?”

“Of course, if that is what you want to do,” Atalaya assured her.  

“I do.”  Turning to Solana and Mercy she adds, “My money is with my things.”  Cirilli turns and heads back behind the screens, stuffs her old clothing into her backpack and carries her money pouch out in her hands.  As she begins to pull out the coins, Mercy stops her.  

“Let’s go over to the sales counter.  We will need to record the purchase there and lock up your payment.”  Cirilli nods and follows the two sisters to the counter.  Mercy carefully records the purchase in a large ledger sitting on the counter.  “This way we know what we sold you, the size etc.  We can use this to provide information if you choose to commission something.  Now, where do you live?”   

Cirilli looked quickly to Atalaya, unsure of what to say.  Atalaya, hearing the question answered for Cirilli.  “We are guests in your town.  You can reach us at the Wind Rose if you need a local place of residence.”

“Certainly,” Mercy replied.  Then she waited as Cirilli carefully counted out the required coins before placing them in her lock box.  “We hope that these bring you much joy, Cirilli”

“Oh yes.  Thank you.  They are wonderful.”  Turning to Atalaya she said, “Now I need to get back to Nevil so that we can have practice.  I can’t be too late.”  

Atalaya nodded.  “Even so, daughter of my heart.  Let’s head back.”  Turning to the two sisters, “We thank you for your assistance today.”

The half elves smiled as they led them out of the shop.  “Please come back soon.  We always have the most creative and fashionable choices here at Nanna’s Creations.”

Cirilli took Atalaya and Vasilya’s hands again and began hurrying through the town and out the gates to make her way back to the ship.  Atalaya noted the tannery as they passed it, but allowed her ward to make her way back to the ship as quickly as possible.  At the dock, they waited and watched as she ran up to the ship and hurried aboard, looking for Nevil.  

Cirilli’s new outfit.  The cape is actually a plaid of blues and purples, with blue being the dominant color.  The gold trim has bearclaws stamped on it.  

Chapter 8:  Return to the Hond Ebrarth/Time for Chess?

As expected Inman and Sorrow practically raced up the gangway to get on board.  Ivar was mid-deck when they arrived.  Sorrow touched his back to get his attention on his way past, "you're going to want to take a break and come see this."  Ivar looked up with keen interest.  Then he followed the train of arrivals below deck.  

Ivar stretched, grabbing the low beam above and leaning his length down the stair.  Groaning, "What? what did you find?" Inman, sitting at the table, began unwrapping his prize.  "We found an amazing craftsman today. Look at this..." 

Sorrow walked into the galley. Nevil followed him and dropped some items off in her room. Sorrow had just finished placing some wood in the stove.  His reach to the kettle was interrupted by Nevil's hand. "I'll make you a deal, take the two pells upstairs for me and I'll make you boys some tea and a small snack for your games."  Sorrow softly grinned.  "Alright. Happy to oblige, my lady." 

Nevil set a kettle of water on the stove as Sorrow dug into the storage room.  Then from the table Ivar's voice came clear, "Oh, that's nice.  Let me show you the one we found a while back."

Nevil went into her room to change into older clothes for the sweat to come and she quickly retied her hair.  She entered the galley gathering a small selection of fruits, cheeses, and bread on a platter.  She was taking down some mugs and reaching for the tin of pale jade when Inman walked in with the biggest grin.  He slowed taking in the sight of Nevil on the ends of her toes.  

Nevil laughed at his gawking and her awkward position.  "Give a girl a hand?"  Inman's grin grew a little darker and he stalked over behind Nevil.  But instead of reaching up, he grabbed her hips with both hands and pulled her close from behind.  The hair of his beard brushing her neck  "I will be thanking you for some time. You spoiled me today."  Nevil laughed, "Well spoil me and grab that tin."  Inman kissed her neck, taking his time, as his mage hand slowly placed the tin before her on the counter. "That's what I'm doing my love."  Nevil forgot herself for a moment, caught a little off guard. She leaned back into him and offered him more of her neck.  But chatter and footsteps from the direction of the table gave them pause and separated the pair.  They exchanged knowing glances of desire as Nevil handed Inman the platter and sent him off.  Sorrow rounded the corner studying the pair.  A tail swished of intrigue.  Nevil handed him a tray of tea tins and mugs without saying a word.  Sorrow's brow raised, and his lips parted to speak, but Nevil cut him off. "Nope, not a word."  Sorrow chuckled and departed for the table followed by Nevil.  

The group sat and watched Inman and Sorrow play chess while waiting for the others to return.  

About an hour or an hour and a quarter Cirilli scampered across the gangplank and began looking for Nevil.  She noted the pells set up on the main deck but saw no sign of Nevil.  She headed down the stairs leading to the galley.  At the bottom she called out, “Nevil, I’m back.  Where are you?”  She grabbed a mug and dipped a ladle full of water into it as she headed towards her room, sipping the somewhat cool liquid as she made her way past the hanging couches towards her room.  

Seeing Nevil seated at the large common table watching Inman and Sorrow playing chess she altered her trajectory and made her way to her weapons master.  Dropping her pack and carefully placing the mug on the table she gleefully spun around in front of Nevil.  “What do you think of this?  Is it something nice enough?  Is it going to be a good trade?” 

Nevil watched Cirilli parade her new outfit with joy. Nevil stood from the table. "Firstly, it doesn't matter what I think.  Do you feel as beautiful as you are in it?  If so, then yes it probably is a fair trade.  but only you will be able to judge that.  And after we finish.  Nevil picked up her cup. "Go change and meet me top deck.  No armor, metal swords."  Nevil turned looking for Boz.  "Boz change his mind?  Mmmm…"

“I do like it.  A lot.  You could even wear this tunic over an underdress.  The girl in the shop was doing that.  But it works so well with the pants too.  And I like it better this way.”  Cirilli finally registered Nevil’s last question.  “Oh, Boz and Atalaya are still shopping.  They brought me straight back to the ship so that we can practice, but Atalaya still has some things she wants to get.  Leather stuff.  I’m going to change.  I’ll be right back,” she says as she picks up her pack and mug and heads to her room.

Once her door closes, she carefully places her pack on her bed and takes out the box containing the tile set and places it into her trunk.  She then pushes the clothing around until she finds some older garb to practice in and quickly changes clothing.  As quickly as she was moving she still slowed down and folded her new garments and placed them carefully into the trunk.  Then she grabbed her shortsword and belted it around her waist.  She swallowed the rest of the water in the mug and headed back out to the table with the mug in hand. 

A quick scan of the common room indicated that Nevil had already headed to the top deck.  She hurriedly followed her, filling her mug on the way up and sipped slowly as she searched the deck for Nevil after exiting the stairway.

Nevil was completing a warm up set and was stretching.  Cirilli came over eager to start.  Nevil instructed, "Lead us in a warm-up then we'll get started."  

Nevil watched Cirilli’s form, selection, and set count to see if Cirilli remembered from before.  Satisfied, Nevil began, "We are going to work muscles hard today then end with point control.  Hitting something with control is easy, doing it when your muscles are nearly spent is hard.  But to be effective you need to anticipate your accuracy given the strength you have remaining." 

"We start with rope ladder climbs, but no legs, unless you are too tired and need to break. I get port, you get starboard.  It's not a race. Be safe. "  Nevil stood under the inside of the shrouds and pulled herself up a few rungs of the ladder with her arms.  She hopped down to watch Cirilli.  Satisfied, she began again completing several ascents.  Before joining Cirilli again.

Cirilli watched as Nevil demonstrated what she meant by no legs and then moved to the starboard side and started pulling herself up the shrouds.  After the first couple of pulls she looked up the mast and tried to hide her thoughts behind a determined face.  This is going to be hard work.  I’m glad it’s not a race, but that doesn’t really matter in the end.  She carefully pulled herself up several more rungs.  Keeping her eyes on the next rung above her she slowly pulled herself up to the top.  Reaching the top she carefully placed her feet on the rungs and took several long slow breaths and then carefully climbed down the ladder to repeat the process, trying to rest her arms as much as she could on the way down.  

Reaching the bottom and seeing Nevil about half way up her second ascent, she resolutely grabbed the ropes and made her way up again, her arms trembling as she pulled herself up.  About half way up she stopped and rested briefly before pulling herself upwards again.  This time when she reached the top her arms shook with the effort to pull herself up.  Looking out over the sails of the ships around her she reached for the gumption needed to head down the ladder to repeat the process.  This descent was slower and she worked to maintain her balance as she lowered herself to the deck again.  

When she reached the deck she shook her arms out as she gazed above her.  Once again seeing Nevil far above her and moving easily from rung to rung she gritted her teeth and began her third ascent.  This time she needed to stop frequently to rest as continued to pull herself up.  About ten feet above the deck her left hand slipped and she frantically tried to grab the ladder.  Her hand missed and she hung briefly for several seconds by just her right hand as her feet scrambled to find their footing on the rungs.  Finally getting her feet secured and bringing the left hand back to the ladder she hung, not moving.  

[Strength rolls 10, 10, 6-fail.   Saving Strength roll 4-fail]

Nevil quickly instructed Cirilli,   "wrap your leg and sit if you need to rest."  Cirilli awkwardly looped a leg through and around the ropes as she hugged the shroud.  Nevil hurried down the port shroud,  lowering herself one arm length at a time with her legs bent behind her as if she was kneeling.   "When you're ready, come down.  You're done with arms."

Nevil's feet hit the deck as she walked over to the starboard shroud and looked up to Cirilli.  "You pushed too hard.  Being aware of your limits is important.  Falling in practice is a poor way to impress me."  Cirilli looked annoyed as she slowly came down.  Both stood and rubbed their arms. 

Then Nevil explained, "now we work legs and give our arms a little time to rest.  Do as I do."  Nevil walked to the foredeck stairs and began a circuit of squats, stair climbs, and lunges. Nevil slapped her legs in demonstration, "thighs parallel here.  Stay low between motions."  Raising her hands in a pincer gesture, "Like an awkward crab."  Cirilli giggled as Nevil's slight lean, glance, and continued pinching suggested that she might really perform the exercise pretending to be a crab.  But the continued squat and path up and down from the  foredeck, quickly took the fun out of the activity.  Especially as Nevil frequently reminded Cirilli, "parallel.  Lower. Keep the pace."  

When it became clear that Cirilli could no longer maintain the position, Nevil called her to the area near the pells. "Come, it's time to limber and stretch again before the fun part."  At the mention of any hope of fun, Cirilli perked up.  As both slapped their backs, slinging their arms across their chest, Nevil asked.  "Still think the time trade was worth it?"

Cirilli looked frankly into Nevil’s gaze as she decided how to answer her.  “Well, at the moment, I’m not sure.  I hurt everywhere, but you know that.  But, I want to be able to go with everyone when you are out doing exciting things, so I know I need to be better with my swordwork and to do that I have to be stronger.  So, I think that after this practice I’ll think that the trade was worth it.  Right now, I can’t help wondering what this practice would have been like if I went back to the ship when you did.”

Nevil finished stretching while listening to Cirilli.  She groaned a bit while bending to get short swords, "unfortunately, strength training is always a literal pain. It doesn't matter how good you get, it's necessary to stay conditioned."

Handing one to Cirilli and looking quite serious, "honestly, today was going to be hard on you no matter how long you took in town.   After what you said last night."  Cirilli looked surprised and mixed with feelings remembering their argument the day before.  Nevil calmly explained, not an ounce of anger in her,  "But not as a punishment. I know you're frustrated with the pace of training.  Alright, I can understand that. So, I did some thinking.  We are going to start learning ways you can condition yourself outside of our lessons.  You want it? There is only one way to get there.  Show me you want it.  On your own time, with your own motivation.”

Nevil softened, “that way we can use our lesson time to polish your technique."    Nevil continued, "just don't over do it and stick with what we've gone over together."  Nevil studied Cirilli "Sound good?"

Cirilli looked over the ship's rail, focusing somewhere within herself.  Turning back to Nevil she gathered her determination as she gazed directly into Nevil’s eyes.  “I was scared last night.  Scared for Sorrow.  Scared for what might happen to Atalaya, Boz and all the rest of you.  And scared that I might be left by myself, without anyone.  I wanted to help Sorrow.  I wanted to be with my family.”  Finally lowering her gaze she added, “I know I am still learning.  I even know that I have a lot of years of learning and growing ahead of me, even if I don’t really like to think about that.”  Looking back into Nevil’s eyes she continued, “So, yes.  Yes, I can work on these kinds of exercises on my own.  And yes, it sounds good.   I’ll try not to overdo them.  I’ll especially try not to underdo them.  But sometimes I would like to do them with you too, so you can remind me of stuff if I am doing it wrong or maybe if I have forgotten something.  Or show me new things to do.  I am only thirteen afterall.  Sometimes I need reminders.”

Nevil listened intently, noting the urgency of Cirilli’s tone.  Then smiling with Cirilli’s agreement.  "Alright then.  We have a plan."

Cirilli nodded.  “Okay.  So what’s next?”

Standing just outside of a lunge's reach from the pell, Nevil asked, "ready for something more fun?"  Cirilli stepped up beside Nevil and addressed the second pell shaking her arms out. "Oh, definitely."

Nevil grinned, "You see those disks hanging on the pell?"  

Indeed, hanging off the canvas body of the pell, were several wooden disks strapped over critical areas.  "Heart, liver, vital arteries," Nevil entered a swordsman stance, lunged and struck a disk, sharply pinning it."  

She straightened.   "Footwork, spacing, point control.  Think reposts from our first form in your mind while picking a target."  Nevil demonstrated several strikes pacing back and forth to the target. "Constant motions with specific purpose."  Nevil straightened again and faced Cirilli. "Think you got it? Let's see what you got."

Cirilli hefted the sword in her hand, adjusting her grip slightly.  She shook out her shoulders a final time and tested the feel of the fighting stance, feeling the ache already in her quads as she held the position.  “I understand.  You want me to use the thrusts and not the slashes from the first form we have been practicing to stab the hanging rings into the pell.”  Cirilli eyed the pell and the targets and shifted to a distance from the pell where she could reach it with her thrusts.  Cirilli tried to copy the attack that Nevil had just completed on the heart target.  She then shifted slightly and attacked the ring indicating a liver shot.  She then disengaged and turned to Nevil.  “Is this what you want?  Constant attacks on the target without attempting to simulate any blocks?”

"Yep, that's it." Nevil reassured.  Cirilli turned to the targets with laser focus and she threw herself into the exercise.  Nevil watched carefully as Cirilli worked the deck in front of the pell.  Nevil offered encouragement with each strike.  "Good hit.  Keep it up.  Don't slow down."

Cirilli worked hard and sweat began running down her brow. Nevil pushed her further, "Pull deep!  Again!"  Then Cirilli missed the target.  Her aim was faltering as she wore down the remaining strength in her body. Nevil pushed, "Hit it!  Cirilli growled as she willed her arm to rise.  She hit the pell, but fell short of the target.  

Nevil interrupted, "alright, shake it out." Cirilli stepped back, slinging her arms and listening to Nevil's instruction. "If you ever get to this point in battle. Run.  If you can't, you have to adjust your technique."  Nevil addressed the pell with her blade.  "Watch your spacing carefully.  Bring in the distance just an inch or so and aim a little higher." Nevil inched closer then thrust slowly toward the target. "This will give you a few more precise strikes.  After that, full defense and attacks of opportunity only."  Nevil stepped out of the way, "Understand?  Take the last few you have in you and make them count. Let's see it.”

Cirilli, her sword in her off hand, stood watching and listening closely to Nevil as she continued to shake out her sword arm.  She nodded as she took in the instructions both for the changed position for attacking and the information about disengaging and getting out of the fight.  As Nevil moved out of the way, she took up her fighting stance again, a bit closer to the pell this time and eyed her targets.  Then, remembering to aim a bit higher she thrust towards the target, just hitting it.  Smiling to herself she drew back and readied for the next attack.  Thrusting forward again she aimed for and hit the next target.  Hearing Nevil’s encouragement to keep going she repositioned herself for the next attack, this at the ring simulating the neck arteries.  Her thrust just made the mark, but was noticeably a lighter touch that the first two had been.  Gritting her teeth she attempted another heart shot and missed the target.  When she repeated the thrust she was off target by a greater distance. 

Cirilli turned to Nevil.  “I would have to switch to defense now, if I couldn’t run.”  She stepped back from the pell, wiping the sweat off her forehead.  She gazed at the targets on the pell and then turned back to Nevil.  “When I had my first lesson with you, I had to hit the pell X times.  When I couldn’t complete all the hits using my sword hand I finished those with my off hand.  Should I be doing some of this with my off hand now?”

Nevil smiled, "No, no.  Not today.  You are going to be really sore tomorrow as it is, and that's enough for today.  

"Atalaya and Boz should be home soon and I need to get ready for our meeting with Hawk.  Run down stairs and see if one of the boys will help with the pells."

Cirilli was halfway to the stairs when Nevil called to her and she turned to listen.  "Cirilli, good job today." With a contented smile she ran below while Nevil lowered the pells to the deck.

Ivar and Sorrow were in the middle of an intense chess match.  Well, intense for Sorrow and Inman, who were carefully studying the board.  Ivar was pouring another cup of coffee in the galley while Sorrow was contemplating his turn.  Ivar teased, "Just give up, if you can't see it, you're doomed."

Inman whispered to Sorrow as Cirilli ran up to the table and waited.  "I think he's bluffing." 

Sorrow looked to Inman, assessed the board one more time, and moved the bishop across the board to check Ivar's king.  "Check."  Sorrow stood and paced as Ivar came in cup in hand to approach the table.  He hardly glanced at the board, while taking in the anticipatory glares of both Sorrow and Inman. Then taking his sweet time, he stood sipping his coffee, "rook to bishop."

Sorrow and Inman studied the move intensely after Sorrow removed his bishop from the board.  Both hunched over the table.  Cirilli, seeing no end to the match, cut in, "Nevil wants to know if one of you would help store the pells."  

Ivar set his cup down on the table, "sure.  It will give these two some time to see their end."  Sorrow looked up to Ivar to assess his demeanor for deception, seeing none, he studied the board again.  Ivar stood at the bottom of the stairs as Nevil carried a pell over her shoulder past him.  Inman shrugged and watched Sorrow's deliberations.  As Ivar climbed the stairs, Sorrow moved a queen across the board.  He called up to Ivar, "queen to F6." 

Then, not hearing an immediate response, a grin of satisfaction appeared on Sorrow's face and Inman’s brow rose.  Cirilli opened the door as Nevil flopped the pell to the floor of the closet.  Ivar walked below, hefting the second pell.  He didn't even stop to look at the board and casually said, "Bishop to F2, checkmate in two," before dumping the second pell in the closet.  

Nevil and Cirilli stood to the side as Inman and Sorrow looked incredulously at the board.  Inman started first, "What? No, no." Sorrow set a foot upon the bench to lean on his knee.  He looked hard at the board then deflated.  Pointing the placements to Inman, "He's right."  Ivar approached the table to shake Sorrow’s hand while Inman still studied the game.  "Always a pleasure,"  said Ivar. Sorrow smiled, "at least we didn't wager."  Inman approached placing a hand on Ivar's shoulder, "I can see my game is going to improve on our trip.  Well done."  

Nevil started to unbutton her gambeson as Inman approached, "Would you warm some basin water for Cirilli and I?"  Inman smiled, "Of course.”

Hearing that Inman was going to heat up some water for her, Cirilli ducked into her room to grab her water ewer and headed to one of the water barrels to fill.  Bringing it to Inman she watched as he first waved his hand over her clothing and she felt the fabric change from clammy and wet to dry and pressed.  She smiled up at him.  “Please heat the water now, because I really want to clean up before I need to ask you to do that again.”  Shaking her head in amazement she felt the pitcher warm as he held one hand against the side of the ewer and quickly moved his other hand in a subtle pattern over the top while he muttered a phrase she couldn’t quite understand.  “Thank you!” she exclaimed as she hurried back towards her room, anticipating the feeling of being clean again.    

Chapter 9:  Atalaya and Vaz return

Atalaya and Vasilya approached the docks, their hands clasped as Atalaya  laughed at something Vaz was saying.  As they drew near, Atalaya searched for any signs of a fighter practice, but seeing and hearing nothing she checked the sun’s position and pouted.  “We are late.  They have already finished Cirilli’s practice.  We are going to need to get ready to move Skarne and then meet with Captain Hawk.  There just were not enough hours in this day.  Tomorrow should be better though.  I’m ready for a jaunt into the countryside.”

Vasilay looked dubious.  “If you say so.  Let’s see if Cirilli has survived her lesson.”

“Oh, I’m sure she is hurting this evening.  After her demands last night and the limited time she had for practicing I’m sure that Nevil will have focused on strength training.”  Sighing, she added, “Some of that is my fault.  I shouldn’t have said that she could go with us.  I didn’t want her to go with us, but somehow or another I couldn’t dispute it with her.  I know what my masters would have done if I had talked back to them as she did.  I only tried that a couple of times before I learned to keep my mouth shut and say ‘Yes Mam’ or 'Yes Sir’ and smile.”

At Vaz’s puzzled look she added, “The armsmaster is in control of the pace of their apprentices’ learning, just as any other master is with their apprentices.  It’s a lesson all younglings need to learn.  It’s just hard on the parents and child alike.  I’m going to need to remember that.”

Vaz looked distressed.  “We can comfort her though, right?  If she needs it?”

Atalaya patted his shoulder as they made their way across the ship’s deck.  “We can always love on her.  But don’t try to undo any of the lessons she will have learned today.  If Nevil did what I think she will have, Cirilli will be sore, but she should also be proud of how hard she worked and what was accomplished this afternoon.  She’s a smart girl and much older than she should be in many ways.  I think she will understand and will push herself all the more.  She is certainly more driven than I was at that age.  Maybe it’s because she is fully human?  I was just generally a bit more immature at that age and my cousins even more so.”  Seeing Vaz’s raised eyebrow she added, “Lot’s of congratulations for her hard work and amazement at what she managed to do.  And no mention of ‘I don’t know why Nevil would have you do that’ and you’ll be fine.”

They made their way down the stern staircase and ducked into their room.  Atalaya tossed her pack onto the bed and headed back out to the common area, looking for a drink and Nevil.  As she made her way through the common area she noticed the chess set on the table and Sorrow and Cirilli sitting on one of the hanging couches.  They had their heads close together, talking and didn’t notice as Atalaya made her way past them to the galley.  

As Atalaya passes them, Sorrow motions Cirilli to come closer. He reaches into his waistcoat and pulls out a book. Skylark. The dimple in his cheek appears and he hands it over, holding a conspiratorial finger to his lips. "Books and music are two things you will never have to budget for as long as I'm around," he whispers. "Enjoy."

Cirilli’s eyes widened as she turned the book over in her hands.  “Did you get this for me?  Thank you.  I really wanted it, but I couldn’t afford to buy both books.”  Placing the book on the couch she threw her arms around him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.  Settling against his side, she picked up the book and opened it up.  After flipping through some of the pages she held it up to him, “See it even has some pictures.  I wonder how they were able to do that.”  

Sorrow dutifully looked at the woodprint.  Seeing her interest he answered.  “They get an artist who can carve the picture into a wood block and then they stamp it on the page. It is then added to the book as they bind it.  

Cirilli nods and begins reading the book aloud to Sorrow.  He tucks her into his side, his eyes following the text as she reads and subtly helping her pronounce some of the words.  

The door to Nevil's cabin cracked and stayed mostly closed for a minute before it opened revealing the couple exiting together.

Nevil was freshly dressed, her hair pulled back in a functional crisp braid, and she lingered in the doorway looking back at Inman.  Her fingers slipped out of his grasp as she walked toward Atalaya with a grin.  Inman wiping his lip with the pad of his thumb. He watched her leave and for some time even after he packed the chessboard and went to the galley to begin supper preparations for those not attending the meeting with Hawk.

Nevil stepped beside Atalaya, "how was your brief date with Vas?"  Noting Atalaya’s subtle inspection of Cirilli and herself, "Relax mama bear.  It wasn’t like you remember.  Ask her what we did and why. She did really well. You'd be proud.”

“I’m not sure that Vaz would call it a date.  We found the tannery and I got some nice soft leather to make Nigel a harness and bought enough to make some leather vests.  And some leather that I can use to repair leather armor when needed.”  

“My mother could make beautiful leather pants too, but I never was very good at that.  You don’t want to be wearing pants and have the seams come apart.  But the vests, those don’t take as much stress and I learned to do a fair job with those.  It will be something to do at sea when we aren’t practicing.  We also found the general market and picked up some cards and a couple of other games that looked fun.  We can pull them out over time when we need something new to do.  I also picked up a couple jump ropes.  They can get the heart pumping as much as running can, and will hopefully not annoy the sailors as much as our trying to run around the boat.  I thought they were a toy until I met Master Raloris.  I completely changed my mind after that.  And a watermelon.  I love those and it’s very refreshing after a long practice.  We can enjoy it after we have another group practice.

Atalaya finally stops and takes a deep breath.  “She did well today?  I’m glad to hear that.  Will she be able to move tomorrow when we head off to the manor?”

Nevil smiled, "only slightly more sore than our other practices, and only because we were covering conditioning exercises that she can do on her own."  Pointing out Cirilli's snuggle with Sorrow, "No doubt Sorrow’s heat feels pretty good to her muscles."  Nevil looked back to Atalaya, "So, help me watch her if you would.  I think she has more drive than her body can handle at this point, but it will give her more control over her progress."

“She’ll like that, having some control over her progress.  This is still very new for her.  Cirilli is still very driven by all that has happened to her and that is keeping her focused.  She pushes herself a lot so that she can protect herself from all the hurts she has experienced.  So, we will all need to be sure she isn’t over doing it.  But, I see more and more of the little girl who wants to be loved and to explore her world emerging every day.  She asked to go to a clothing shop today.  The last time Joan and I had to practically drag her into the shop to get a new dressy outfit.  

Nevil watched Cirilli and Sorrow read while Atalaya spoke.  It seems that Sorrow had a side in him that he held just for Cirilli.  The normally stoic and hard to read bard, was as expressive and giddy as Cirilli at times.  “That is a noticeable improvement.  They are so cute together.”

“They are.  Cirilli is good for Sorrow.  She’s much more sure of herself now than the last time Sorrow was charmed.  Sorrow’s captivity was different from what she experienced, but she also has been held against her will.  They have that in common.  I hope that they can help each other.”  

Nevil nodded. “It seems we all have our roles to play in this family.  A good balance I think.”

“Yes.  I think so too.  I worry at times that without Grinda being here, she has no one her own age to talk to and be able to let off steam with.  But Sorrow can maybe provide her with someone to play with.  Someone that she doesn’t have lessons with but who maybe needs her friendship as much as she needs his.  

Are we ready for our tasks tonight?  I’m certainly ready to say goodbye to Skarne.

Nevil nodded.  “Me too. His hand off should be easy.  Then there is our dinner with Hawk.”  After a moment she added,  "So, you, Boz, and I for sure with Hawk's meeting.  Are we taking Sorrow?  I mean she already knows him right?”

“She does know him.  I think that it would be alright for him to come with us.  We aren’t going far, and we know to be on the lookout for anyone trying to charm him.  Let’s agree that he is not allowed to separate himself from the group.  Inman is still keeping a low profile in town, right?  So he and Cirilli will stay on board.  They can have some time to play with their new game sets.  I’m sure that she will miss her personal heating pad, but I hope by then she will be a little less sore.”  

Atalaya looked over to where Cirilli and Sorrow were reading.  Her face softened as she watched the two of them.  Cirilli passed the book to Sorrow and his soft musical voice could be heard as he continued the story.  Her head rested on his shoulder as she listened, her eyes eagerly trained on the book.  

Atalaya looked at her now empty mug and shrugged.  “It must have been good,” she remarks as she picks it up again.  “I need to get ready for our evening excursions.  Something simple and low key for our drop off of Skarne and a change of clothing for something more appropriate for our dinner with the Captain already set out for when we return.”  She walked over to the water barrel and used the ladle to fill her mug.  When she entered her cabin she saw Vaz seated at the desk, his cards spread out across its surface.  He startled as she entered the room and then quickly scooped up the cards, returning them to their case. 

Atalaya quickly crossed the room to where he sat and drew him into a hug.  “You don’t have to put those away just because I came in.”  Bringing her hands up to the back of his neck she massaged it gently.  “So tight?  Should I send you to Sorrow with Cirilli for some of his heat therapy?”

Vasilya relaxed as he chuckled at the thought.  “The two of them seem happily engaged in reading her new book.  I guess I’ve been replaced as her reading partner.”  He reached up, catching her arms and pulling them around him.  “I’ve been good all day, surely I’ve earned a bit of a reward by now.”  He gently guided her to sit on his lap and claimed a kiss.  

Surrendering to the inevitable, Atalaya enjoyed this moment as Vaz slowly increased the intensity of his kiss. Finally reason reasserted itself and Atalaya pulled away slightly.  “Little did I know that a short shopping trip could make you so amorous.  I’ll have to remember that and bring you along much more often.  

Vasilya frowned slightly.  “That is totally not fair!”  Then smirking he added, “There are much better ways you can encourage a more amorous response from me.”  As he noticed the instant blush in her cheeks he added, “Ah, I see you can think of better methods too.”  His finger brushed gently along each cheek.  Muttering in Gurrish to himself he added, “I really need to get us alone sometime soon.”

Atalaya, getting the gist of what he had just said, stood up, removed his hands from her body and shook her head.   “We still have more work to do yet.  It’s almost time to get Skarne off our hands.  I need to get ready. We should be armored for that.  And then we need to change into something a bit nicer when we meet with Captain Hawk.”  She looked him over, “You too.  You are a part of both meetings.”

Atalaya stripped off the clothing she had been wearing and pulled out a clean fighter’s outfit to wear under her armor.  Trying to ignore Vasilya, she filled the wash basin and quickly rinsed off before donning the clean clothing.  Donning her elven boots she then began the process of donning her armor.  Vasilya, already in his armor at this point, came over and taking the pieces from her, placed and secured each piece.  

“Ever the warrior.  You sure you don’t want to wear this when we meet with Captain Hawk?”  

“I was thinking that this was supposed to be a civilized dinner.  So no bow and arrows, but I’ll wear my sword.  And well… we can see what Nevil and Sorrow are going to be wearing.”

“Let’s check on Cirilli before we leave.  I haven’t actually gotten to speak to her about her practice session yet.

    Nevil was in the galley with Inman making the beginnings of a roast and fresh bread for later. Sorrow was nowhere to be seen. Cirilli, inspired by the boys parading their new chessboard, had anticipated an evening of games.  She had placed a cloth on the table and was excitedly sorting through and inspecting the tiles of her new purchase.  As Atalaya approached, Cirilli noticed her looking around.  "Sorrow is in his room.  Look how pretty these are.  I can't wait to learn something with them.”

Atalaya sits down at the round table next to Cirilli and examines the tiles with her.  “These are beautiful.  Master Maquuel is very skilled.”  They begin to sort the like tiles.  As Atalaya placed two red threes together she asked, “How was your practice today?  I didn’t make it back in time to watch any of it.”

Cirilli groaned.  “It was hard.  I was working on strengthening my arms and legs.  I hurt, although not as much as right afterwards.  I kind of wish we could have soaked in the bath basin today.”

Atalaya nodded.  “Yes, especially a hot soak is helpful.  This harbor isn’t a good place to swim, the water’s filthy here, but as we make our way down the coast I’m hoping that there will be places we can pull into shore and swim.”

Cirilli turned over another handful of tiles and began to sort them.  “Nevil had me climb the shrouds using only my arms.  That was really hard.  And then we did squats and stairs and lunges and she made me pretend to be a crab during that.”  Placing two tiles together she asked, “What did you do when you were my age to get stronger?”

Atalaya put down the tile she was holding as she thought back.  “Well, it changed over the years as I got older.  At first my father and I just played.  We would race running through the trails or have swimming races when we were near water that he felt it was safe to swim in.  I climbed trees and practiced shooting my ‘toy’ bow and arrows.  And I did things to help around the home, digging up the garden each spring, fetching water was a favorite of my father.  If my mother didn’t need it, the garden would.  Sometimes I was to fetch it from the well, turning the crank to fill many buckets of water.  Sometimes I had to carry it from the river bucket by bucket, or rather a bucket per hand.”  With a wry smile she added,  “We had some lush gardens while I was growing up.”  When I was older and started more formal training with Master Raloris we did a lot of pell work, calisthenics, jump roping, and worked with something he called a medicine ball.  That was basically a weighted ball that we had to throw, catch and carry while running.  Swimming was also still a part of our training.  I’ll admit that was my favorite strengthening activity.  And as I learned the katas I would spend a lot of time practicing those.  Control with the sword and being able to move from one move to the next with precision and control are the goals of the katas.  But, with repetition, they are also a strengthening task.”   Picking up another tile and studying it she added it to a pile of flowers and then continued.  Another training exercise that I enjoyed was the obstacle run.  There is a loop trail around the village of Oleascoa.  Along the way there are stops with a variety of obstacles that must be completed before you continue on your way.  A rope that must be climbed, another one that you need to use to swing over a mud pit, a place to do chin ups, etc.  Some of the stations were always the same.  Others Master Raloris would change or move to different parts of the loop.  It was fun.  As we got older and stronger we started wearing a pack while we did this, with the weight increasing as we got stronger.”

“Will I be doing all that? Cirilli asked.

Probably not all of that while we are on this ship.  And remember, I didn’t do those all at once.  They changed as I grew stronger and older.”

“Nevil says that I can start working on my own to do the strengthening stuff.”

“That’s good.  You will need to be sure that you make time for that in your day then.  But listen to what she tells you to do.  Don’t do too much.  My father’s recommendation was to vary the exercises so that you don’t overdo any muscle group.  Nevil will help you decide how to group the things that you can do on ship.”

Looking at the piles of tiles they had separated, Atalaya started picking up pairs.  “You know, there is a simple game that you can play with yourself with these tiles.  You pick out pairs, mix them up and then try to find the pairs by turning over two tiles.  If they match you keep them, if they don’t you turn them back and try again.  It’s a good way to relax after a hard practice or stressful day.  And it can be played with others.  You get to keep finding pairs until you miss one, and then it moves to the next player.  Why don’t you try that?”

“I need to speak to Nevil and get ready to leave with Skarne.  But we will be back briefly between that and dinner with Captain Hawk.”

Nevil was relaxing on a swinging couch.  Her armor and mace piled against the wall. She was ready to go but waiting for the others.  Inman slid the roast in the oven and approached the table as Atalaya got up.  "Whatcha playing?"  He asked Cirilli.

Cirilli looked up from mixing the paired tiles.  The soft clink of the wood chattered through the room.  "Atalaya described a matching game.  Want to play?"  Inman sat and began helping to mix and layout rows of tiles.  "Sure, that roast is going to take a while.  Want to help with some sides later?  The two of us are stuck on board tonight.  We might as well stick together.”

Cirilli gives Inman a sly glance.  “Of course.  That way we will be sure to have something really good.  You wouldn’t want Sorrow helping you, right?  Coals and ash are not that appetizing.”  Then she breaks into giggles.  “Your face Inman.  You know he wouldn’t really put those on the table for us to eat.”

Cirilli looks at the tiles that have been mixed and placed in a grid on the table.  “So, you get to turn over two and if they match, you go again, until you miss making a match.  Then it’s the other person's turn.  I’ll let you go first.”

“You let me go first?  Really?  You are trying to scam me, aren’t you Cirilli?  You know that the chance of making a match on the first pass is almost nil.”  Inman reaches out and flips over two of the tiles, exposing a red 3 and a yellow 8.  He shakes his head.  “So are we just matching numbers or numbers and colors?”

“Numbers and colors, but only two colors,” Cirilli said.  “I didn’t know that anyone was going to play with me, so I wanted the game to take awhile to finish.”  Cirilli reached out her hand slowly moving over the tiles.  She finally turned one corner tile, finding a yellow 1.  Sighing, she randomly picked a tile finding a yellow 2.  “No match,” she proclaimed as she turned them back over.

Inman rubbed his hands together.  “Alright, my turn to find a match.”  

Atalaya smiled as she made her way from the table to the couches where Nevil was waiting.  Sitting down next to her she asked, “So, are we ready for tonight.  Anything I need to know about meeting the people who are coming for Skarne?

Nevil was leaning back with her legs propped up. When Atalaya approached, she sat up to make room. "Well, that's the beauty of a network that prizes anonymity.  It could be anyone.  Fortunately, in this case we have a time, a location, and a pass code. If those three things match, then we are good. I would expect it to be more than one person and for things to go very quickly.  

Nevil stood, walked to the door to Skarne’s room, and picked up the hammer on the floor.  "Are you ready to uncork this bottle and let him breathe before we go?”

“It is almost time to do that.  Let’s get this done and then we can get ready to meet with Hawk.  I’ll find Vaz and then we can open the door and make sure he is ready to leave.  I guess we should give him something to eat, who knows what your agents will do about that.  Some bread, cheese and a piece of fruit should be appropriate, right?”  Atalaya gets up and makes her way to the galley to grab those few items.  Thinking about it, she adds a mug of coffee.  Bringing the items back to the common table she grins at Nevil.  “Now to find Vaz.”  She heads back towards her cabin and returns quickly with Vaz in tow to find Nevil standing in front of Skarne’s door, hammer in hand. 

Boz holds his hand out to Nevil and accepts the hammer when she hands it to him.  He makes quick work of opening the door and releasing Skarne.  Atalaya and Nevil guide him to the table and encourage him to eat what is provided.  Once he finishes, they head out into Blue Haven, making their way to the alley near Stumpy’s.   

Chapter 10:  Night Watches

Atalaya watched Nevil and Inman head back to their cabin so that Nevil could prepare herself for taking the watch.  Sorrow and Vasilya continued to pour over the little  journal, going back and forth looking for specific passages as Vasilya tried to memorize the information he was gleaning on the daily life of this group of traveling Gurs.  Cirilli eased her way to Atalaya and, pitching her voice low, said, “We should copy that book for Boz, shouldn’t we?  He would really like that I think.”

Atalaya nodded.  “Yes we should.  I think that would be a very nice gift.  Would you like to do that and give it to him as a Highharvestide gift?  That would give you almost two months to copy it.”

Cirilli looked over Boz’s shoulder at the journal as she thought about copying the journal.  Making her way back to Atalaya she added, “I think it should be from both of us.  I’ll copy the words, but you could add pictures about what is happening.”  She became more excited as she thought about it.  “That would make it really special and more of a gift, right?  They wouldn’t need to be whole page pictures like in the book I bought, but just something to break up all the words.”

Atalaya read the level of Cirilli’s excitement and noticed that she was holding her breath.  She nodded.  “I think I can add some illustrations.  Not for every entry.  But sometime when you are not training with either Nevil or with me, we can look through the journal and pick which entries talk about something that would make a good illustration, and that I think I know enough about to draw accurately.”  Cirilli let out her breath and gave Atalaya a surreptitious hug.  

“I’m going with you tomorrow, right?” she inquired.

“You are.  Both Nevil and I have agreed to this.  You will need to listen to both Nevil and me on this trip.  But should anything I ask of you contradict or otherwise conflict with something Nevil has asked you to do, just tell me.  Her instructions and requests will take precedence as weapon master.”

Cirilli nodded solemnly. “I will.  I guess I better get to bed then.  I don’t want you leaving me because I was asleep when you were leaving.”

“Good idea, Daughter of my Heart.  Sleep well.  I will see you in the morning.”  Atalaya gives her a hug and watches as she says goodnight to both Sorrow and Boz.  

After she leaves, Atalaya breaks into the men’s conversation.  “Vaz, it’s time for us to turn in too.  Or at least for me to.  If you want to keep watch with me in the morning…”  

Vasilya nods.  “You’re right.  It’s late and it has been a long day.”  He closes the journal after replacing the map between random pages and hands it to Atalaya.  “Here.  It can go back into the bag of holding.”

Atalaya accepts the journal from him and keeps hold of his hand afterwards as they walk towards the stairs.  Their soft voices carried indistinctly across the deck as they disappeared into the stairwell. 

Sorrow sat on a crate, his eyes sweeping the skies and his heart heavy.   

Nevil traded passage up the stairs with Atalaya and Boz who were coming down.  It had been a long day.  Nevil walked the perimeter of the deck checking approaches and moorings.  

As Sorrow sat looking out at the flickering lights around the town he came to a decision.  Standing he followed Atalaya and Vasilya to their cabin.  Knocking on the door he called out softly, “Atalaya?”

After a short pause Atalaya opened the door, looking concerned.  “Sorrow?  What’s wrong?  Do you need something?”

Sorrow raised a hand in negation.  “No, I’m fine.  I just wanted to borrow your panflute, if that’s okay?”

Atalaya gave him a searching look before nodding her acquiesce. Opening the door wider, she invited him in as she made her way to her pack and searching one of the outer pockets pulled out her panflute.  Holding it out to him she asked again, “Are you sure you are okay?  Do you need someone to talk to? Or to just sit with you?”

Sorrow shook his head.  “I’m fine.  Really.  I’m just going to sit on the deck and play for a bit.  Nevil will be up there keeping the watch, so I won’t be alone.  You and Boz need your rest.”  His demeanor turns slightly snarky.  “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t,” he says with a wink.  “Thank you for this.  I’ll get it back to you in the morning.”  He turns and walks out of the room, closing the door with a gentle clink as it latched into place.

He bounded up the steps and looked for a place to play.  Seating himself on a crate, he began playing the panflute softly, its  haunting tunes filling the space around him.  After playing several lonely sounding songs he became lost in the music, each song shifting to the next without pause.  

With the toils of men absent from the dock, the melody draping itself over the deck drew forefront in the minds of all to hear.  This was something different.

Seeing all was still on watch, she stepped quietly beside Sorrow and leaned back onto the crate upon which he held perch.  His eyes were closed as he played. His body moved smoothly with the music, for the most part.  But occasionally, like breaths between two phrases of song,  his body strained, with pained pause, hitched in memory.  He was pouring more than music upon the deck.

Nevil only listened as Sorrow played, her mind carried on as she reached into the fold pocket of her gambeson.   Slowly and with little thought, she packed her long clay pipe as the music wept. Then she waited, until the song softened, as if in exhale, to then inhale deeply to light the nightcap, holding it out for Sorrow.  

Sorrow held the last note, allowing it to fade away into the darkness of the night.  He lowered the instrument and allowed it to rest comfortably on his lap as he stared out at the stars again, looking past Nevil.  As the fumes of the nightcap pipe make their way into his consciousness, he turns to Nevil and smiles ruefully.  Seeing her offering, he reaches out and takes the pipe, and draws deeply on it.  After a few puffs, he begins to feel the effects of the nightcap and he passes the pipe back to Nevil.  

After several more minutes he asks, “Will it bother you if I stay on deck and play a while longer?  I need to play, but I need the open space too.  I need to see the stars and feel the breeze.”  He looks at Nevil, waiting for her response.

"This has been your home far longer than mine.  Take whatever you need.  It makes the watch time easier."  Nevil lingered, accepting the pipe, taking a contemplative draw.  The feel of it in her hands had always provoked thought as much as it calmed.   She waited, looking over the harbor, in case Sorrow had something on his mind.

Sorrow nodded as he allowed the nightcap to ease its way into his thoughts, blurring the pain.  After a few moments he reached again for Atalaya’s panflute, running through C minor scale, more as a stall to let him choose his next song than his need to remember the scale.  He allowed himself to pick another sorrowful tune, easing slowly into it as it filled the empty spaces within him.  He continued his playing lost in his thoughts and unaware of the passage of time.  

***********************************************************

Atalaya and Vasilya entered their cabin, the raven’s journal held in her hand.  Vasilya started to reach for it, but Atalaya held it away from him.  “In the morning love.  If you start looking through this again, you will be up all night.  We have a busy day and a long trek ahead of us.  You need sleep.  And I need to trance.  I’ll just put this in the desk drawer.  You can get it when you have finished at least eight hours of sleeping.”

“Bossy,” Vasilya declared.  “But…”  he sat down and started removing his boots.  “....but I will concede your point.  But I claim a forfeit.”  He stood up, and pulled her into his arms.  “One kiss for letting you put the journal away and another for…”  His kiss cuts off whatever it was he was going to say.  

Atalaya let the journal drop to the floor as her arms wound their way around Vasilya’s neck.  After what seemed to be forever, she finally pushed away and bent to pick the journal back up.  “No fair,” she complained.  “At least let me put this away,” she says as she heads towards the desk, missing Vasilya’s eye roll.  On her return she saw that Vasilya had removed his swordbelt was pulling off his shirt.  Happy with what appeared to be his acquiesce to the need to end the evening, she sat down in the chair to begin removing her boots, belts and her leather body armor.   Setting them on top of the chest for easy retrieval if needed, she jumped up on the bed, moved to the foot of it, and began the center herself for her meditations and trancing.  

Vasilya scowled.  “I am still owed a toll before you leave me, Iubita mea.  Or you could come sleep with me rather than trancing,” he continued hopefully.

Atalaya sighed.  I would, but I promised to take a watch so that Inman and Nevil can get their rest too.  But if you sleep now, you’ll be able to join me for the end of the watch… we can watch the sunrise together,” she cajoled. 

Vasilay sighed.  “A toll it is then.”  Crawling onto the bed he made his way to Atalaya and drew her in for another kiss and a grope which quickly turned into a tickle assault.  Laughing, Atalaya pounced on him and tickled back with a vengeance.  Finally the two of them spent and breathing deeply Atalaya turned to him.  “Sleep deeply and soundly my love.  I’ll be waiting for you in the morning.  Cupping his cheek, she gave him a final kiss and then settled herself into a tailor sit and once again began her centering exercises.  

Vasilay sighed and finished getting ready for bed.  Casting a glance at Atalaya and seeing her already settled into her trance, he got into bed, opened the porthole to let a bit of breeze into the cabin and pulled the sheet over him.  He fell asleep with the sounds of Sorrow’s music filling the room. 

Nevil made rounds periodically while Sorrow continued to play.  It was not until Inman walked up the steps to take watch from Nevil, that she realized a few hours had passed.  And Sorrow played on.  

Inman met Nevil by the dockside rail mid-deck and drew her into a hug.  Nevil was tired and Inman was warm.  She closed her eyes resting against his chest, breathing in what was beginning to smell like home. After a few minutes, Inman whispered, "Quiet night?"  Nevil willed herself off his chest and looked toward Sorrow, whose back was turned to the couple.  "Yes and No. The quiet is hard on a heavy heart. So, he speaks the way he knows best."

Inman moved stray hair from Nevil's brow.  "See if he'll go to bed with you.  Well... " Inman grinned, "you know what I mean."  Inman kissed her forehead, "I will find you after watch." 

Nevil walked to Sorrow who was still playing to the dark horizon.  His eyes lost in thought, he did not register her presence until she reached for his hand.   Then softly, "Sorrow, come with me. You need sleep and Inman said I can tuck you in if I have to."

Inman looked over his shoulder, back to Nevil, and smiled.

Sorrow looked up at Nevil, shaking away the spell his music had induced within him.  A slight smirk crossed his face.  “Yes momma.  Bed.”  He takes a moment to shake out his hands and to stretch his fingersk.  He sneaks a look at Nevil, but she continues to watch and wait, not willing to let him evade the sleep he needs.  Seeing that, he rises and gives her his arm, “Let me escort you below, milady.  Our beds await.”

He leads Nevil down the stairs and into the galley.  Stopping at her doorway he disengages his arm and pushes her gently towards the doorway.  “Go, rest.  Your bed is calling you,” he said amiably.  Turning he headed to the stove, mentally thanked whoever had last filled the kettle and rummaged through the crate of teas looking for the one that Atalaya had labeled “Night Time Brew.”  Finding it, he filled a tea strainer and placed it into a mug of steaming water.  Checking the oven, he added a small log to be sure it would burn through the night, added water into the kettle and picked up his mug and headed to the couches.  Stretching, he settled himself into one and turned inward once again as he waited for his tea to seep. 

Nevil placed her gear by the door, untucked her shirt, and pulled off her shoes.  Hearing continued noises in the galley, she walked back into the main room and sat on another couch near Sorrow. "I was once a mother of two girls who thought they were sneaky enough to get out of bed."  Sorrow held his mug in a relaxed recline and looked toward Nevil.  She continued, "Tomorrow should be fun and you're still healing.  I'm not going to bed unless you are too."

Sorrow closed his silver eyes and after about a minute opened them again.  “Alright.  You win.”  He finished his tea and handed his mug to her.  Making his way to his room, he stripped off his shirt, kicked off his boots and climbed up into the hammock.  Hearing Nevil moving somewhere near his door, he called out in a low voice, “Good night Mom.”  

Nevil took a deep breath and opened her mouth to retort but she stopped.  Maybe he's right.  Maybe it is too much. Then she spoke through the door.

       "I'm sorry, I…”  just know battles of the mind can be hard enough when you're well rested.  “I'll give you more space. Goodnight, Sorrow.”

Nevil checked the galley once more before entering her cabin.  Closing the door behind herself, illuminated only by the moonlight, she took off her pants and overshirt and slipped into bed.  For some reason her heart felt heavier than usual. She pulled Inman's pillow to chest, buried    her face to find his smell, and closed her eyes.

Inman walked the deck with Nigel perched on his shoulder.  Seeing no sign of the cats, he raised an arm to the shrouds.  Nigel happily ran the length of his arm and began to play on the ropes of the ship.  "It's all one big playground to you isn't it?”

Inman then sat and unfolded the flap of a tailor's kit the group had purchased in Stamfort and some extra scraps of cloth and rope leftover from the couch project.  He spoke to Nigel who looked down from his perch, inspecting Inman's workings with curiosity. "I'm not very crafty, but we can make do."  Inman pinched and folded the cloth scraps, running a needle through the corners several times, pulling them together like a little coin pouch with one sagging side.  He then made a loop of string for the top of the purse and held it before himself.  "It's a start."  He shredded bits of scrap cloth and rope, stuffing them into the pouch, and he waited for Nigel.  After a good while of exploration and play Nigel came down and jumped to Inman's shoulder.  Inman asked, turning his face to the rat, "You ready to see it?"  Holding the makeshift pouch up, he held out his hand and transfered Nigel into the little sagging doorway.  Nigel immediately rolled and tossed the contents about to make a little nest.  After a moment he stuck a tired head out of the hole and almost seemed to smile at Inman as he rested his head.  Inman scratched the side of his cheeks.  "I thought you might like an elevated nest in our cabin.  One the cats can't get to.”

Atalaya opened her eyes and stretched.  A glance at Vasilya showed her that he was sleeping deeply.  Moving warily off the bed, trying to not wake Vasilya, she made her way to the chest.  She donned her armor and pulled on her boots.  Belting on her sword and quiver, she looped her bow over her shoulder.  Then, rummaging through the desk drawer, she pulled out her sketch pad and bag of colored pencils.  Stopping by the sleeping Vasilya she lightly kissed his forehead before making her way to relieve the watch.

When she reached the open deck she searched for Inman and seeing him leaning on the railing and gazing across the docks joined him.  She made sure to make a bit of noise as she approached, not wanting to take Inman off guard.  Resting against the rail she asked, “Quiet night?  Did you see anything to be worried about?”

Inman smiled when Atalaya approached.  "No, just a usual late night on the docks, sailors strolling home from the taverns and specklings of laughter.  Our neighboring ship across the dock is having problems with a snoring boson.  He may find himself sleeping on the deck soon.  So that should be entertaining."  Inman turned his back to the rail.  Everything quiet below?  Nevil had to run Sorrow off to bed.  I think he would have played all night.”

“I think I heard his music weaving itself into my trancing tonight.  It was haunting and beautiful.  It’s all quiet down there now.  No one is out and about down there.  There is hot water on the stove if you need some tea to help you relax before turning in.”  Atalaya scans the waterfront before turning to Inman.  “You need to head below.  Tomorrow’s going to be a long day I think.  Making our way to this ruined manor and back.  Get what rest you can now.”  Atalaya walks with Inman as he makes his way across the deck to where he left Rigel sleeping nestled in the pouch.  Atalaya stays his hand as she takes in the sleeping rat buried deep in the scraps of torn cloth and bits of rope.  “He looks very happy in there.  Have the cats been leaving him alone?”

        Inman smiles, "you don't have to tell me twice."  He holds up the pouch by the string.  Nigel pokes his head out sniffing the air.  "No, the cats have left us alone.  Dorian made an appearance briefly but there are so many places to climb up here, I don't think he noticed."  

Atalaya watches as Inman picks up the little nest and then shoos him down the stairs.  “I’ll see you in the morning.”

        Inman on his way below, "good night."

As Inman disappears Atalaya turns back and crosses the deck again.  She listens to the sounds of the night and then makes her way around the ship, taking in the positions of the other ships docked around them and peering through the shadows, making sure that nothing is hiding in the shadows.  After completing several rounds of the ship, she stood by the rail watching a pair of sailors staggering their way to a ship docked a couple of piers away from the Hond Ebrath.  Their rowdy comments loud in the night’s quiet.  They stumbled and nearly crashed to the ground.  Atalaya shook her head in dismay, glad that they were not any of the crew on the Hond Ebrath.  Finding a crate near the railing she sat down and opened her sketchbook.  Finding an unused page she quickly sketched Nigel sleeping all curled up in his little pocket nest.  Nodding to herself as she finished the rough sketch, sure that it would guide her in making a more detailed picture later.  Putting the pencil away and closing the sketchpad she placed both on the crate and started another set of walks around the ship.  The light from the half moon illuminating the wavelets as they moved through the harbor sparkled brightly, reminding her of the dancing movements of fireflies in the High Forest.  Atalaya smiles at the remembrance as she continues to slowly make her way around the ship, her eyes searching for anything out of place. 

Inman cracked the door to the cabin and a little blue orb floated in before him.  He gently closed it and walked to the corner of the room to hang Nigel’s pouch nest.  Then turning, the ball illuminating more of the bed, he saw Nevil curled with his pillow. Almost there love.  He began to drop gear and boots and clothes on his way to the bed. Then he gently lifted the sheets to slip in behind Nevil.  She stirred as he propped on an elbow, reaching over her to grab the last unclaimed pillow.

Half awake she reached back to find him and pull him to her.   When she squeezed the back of his thigh, he couldn't resist kissing her neck, taking his time not to wake her more, before whispering in her ear, "Sleep my love, morning will come soon enough."  Nevil smiled, mumbled softly, and relaxed into his touch, as Inman slid an arm under her pillow and drew the other around her chest to pull her tightly to him. 

  Atalaya stood along the rail of the ship, her eyes on the docks.  It was either very late or very early, depending on how you wanted to think about it.  She searched the sky, noting the movement of the moon and the position of the stars.  It must be some time around 5:00 to 5:30 in the morning.  The sun should be rising within the next hour.  I should walk the ship again.  She began to stroll along the side of the ship moving towards the stern of the ship.  Straining to see any movement on Captain’s Hawk’s ship she does not notice anything. Atalaya continues around the ship, searching for movement or changes in ship position, but doesn’t see anything of concern.   Picking up her sketchbook, she leaned against the railing, resting the book on top of the rail as she carefully sketched the dockside in front of her.   As she worked there was an increase in movement along the docks as those who needed to arrive early for their jobs made their way into the various shops.  Atalaya noted the cooks making their way to both the Wind Rose and to the little Bistro.  The smell of baking bread could soon be smelled when the breeze blew towards the ship.  

She finished the sketch and placed the book onto the crate she had occasionally rested on during the night.  She began to make her way around the ship again when she heard the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs.  Turning quickly she focused on the area, relaxing when she saw Annie exiting through the doorway.  She waited for her to reach her.  “You are up early.  Problems?”

Annie shook her head.  “No, just couldn’t sleep.  I guess I’ve gotten too used to having an early watch.  She moved towards the railing and looked over the dockyard.  “The day is beginning.  The early workers are out and about.”  After another moment she asked, “How is Sorrow?  We were all so worried for him.  He’s going to be alright, isn’t he?  I heard him playing for a long time last night.  His music sounded so sad.”  She looked taken aback from what she had just said.  “It was beautiful, mind you, but so sad.”  

Atalaya moved up next to her at the rail.  “We hope so.  He seems stronger than he was in Mirtul.  And he wasn’t under the demon’s control as long, just a day this time.  I would rather he use his music to work through what happened than for him to leave us again.”

Annie nods to herself as Atalaya is speaking.  “Let him know that the crew cares about him too.  If that demon or her minions had tried to take the ship that night we would have fought her off and hoped that would make it easier for you to free him.”

Atalaya claps her hand on Annie’s shoulder.  “We appreciate the loyalty of this crew.  I’ll let Sorrow know what you said.  And I give you my thanks for your concern.  He might not be able to voice his thanks right now, but I know that your concern and the crew’s concern will be important to him once he has worked through his feelings about the abduction.”

“Thank you.”  Annie looked over the docks.  I’m just going to walk the ship and then I’ll head back down. I've an hour or two before I need to be on deck.”  Annie pushes herself off the rail and heads towards the stern of the ship, checking the rigging and  equipment as she walks the ship.  When she completes her circle she heads below decks to her hammock.  

Atalaya leans against the rail waiting for the rays of the sun to finally peek over the horizon.   

No sooner did the hint of color begin to appear in the sky, than Boz strolled up the stairs.  He scanned the deck and saw no one but his love. He was still bed disheveled, his shirt loose and barefooted.  A contented and sly smile grew as he found her eyes watching him approach.  He reached to gently pull her off the rail and into his arms, "This is no substitute for waking by your side." Before Atalaya could retort, he cut her off, "where I have the time..." He worked his fingers over her hips and around, to pull her closer, "and the privacy..."  His breath a warm promise in her ear, "to find every beautiful part of you that the world never sees..."

[response]

With little warning Cirilli came bounding up the stairs.  She began stretching and warm up exercises on the main deck.

Boz growled low then whispered again into Atalaya’s ear, “Let’s make some time.”

       [Open]