Lessons In Becoming A Lily

[nairneadair]

‟ beauty shown in the light of day

Lore: The Greek male had only been a citizen of Turas Lan for a little over a week now and much of that time had been spent setting up his own shop. A man had to make a living after all. Though now the bowman's place of business had been set and soon enough he would make for his grand opening. In the mean time he found himself exploring the city for competition and that is when the sign of the Gilded Lily had caught his attention. Dressed in simple brown leathers and a leather tunic to match he made way for the door. Carefully making his entrance to close the door behind himself. The brisk cool of the winter carried in with him though the temperature seemed to go unnoticed by him. Dark eyes drift along the architecture, unsuspectingly gathering vantage points, exits and high points of access for future reference. Though to the unknowing eye, it would seem as though the man was nothing more then a curious new customer.

Nairne: Apparently the offer made the night before had not been taken, for Nairne had slept alone in her comfy bed and she'd been grouchy upon waking to find that out. She was always an early riser and had now been up since the crack of dawn, going about her lessons and messing with her herbs. A Courtesan never truly had a moment of leisure. Even now she was showing Moira how to artfully arrange curls to be just tempting enough and yet subtle. She had loaned the woman one of her own gowns for the day, adjusted a little with sewing skills, and a cloak to boot! Her new friend, and competition!, was amusing. Downstairs, Gerda, the housekeeper, greeted the new arrival,"Greetings sir and welcome to the Lily. Can I get you a drink?The wind is quite biting today."

Moira: Moira, being someone who had little skill in any of the ways of the life of a courtsean was soaking up everything Nairne was teaching and lecturing her about like a sponge. The loaned gown did now fit perfectly thanks to that other talent of sewing Nairne had. Moira could sew too, but not near as well, more or less she knew how to sew a hem or slap two pieces of cloth together so they would hold and not fall apart. "Nairne, I did need ask you of something." Speaking while the woman was still fiddling with her hair. Her question was one of not too great importance, but she stopped it when she heard a voice in the other room. "Well, I'll ask you later." There was time for her curosity another time, she wasn't going anywhere soon.

Lore: His attention was quickly swept to the house keeper that was now speaking to him. Sir? He gave a slow look back over his shoulder to be sure he wasn't blocking the entrance of some noble in his wake before peering back down at Gerda. "It is rather cold. I wouldn't mind a drink. Though I couldn't decide what." He hadn't moved so much as a muscle beyond speaking just yet. He did feel rather out of place just now, this was a place for the rich and wealthy by his first glance. A little more comfortable and calm then the usual tavern or inn he had found himself in more often then not. He looked down at his boots, just to make sure he wasn't going to track in any mud before taking a few steps further into the room almost expecting someone to start thumbing him toward the door at any moment.

Nairne: "Apple Cider? I make the best in Turas Lan or so the girls say. Come, come." Gerda would lead him toward the main sitting room, to a warm fire, and smile,"I will be back with it. Most of the girls are in their lessons, but one or two may wander down." And off went the bustling, spry housekeeper. Upstairs Nairne arranged her curls about her face, tucking the sable mass up with pins, and looked over at Moira. "You can ask me anything, Moira. We have a few more minutes before we can head downstairs." Nairne smiled kindly at the girl, indigo eyes brought out even more by the satin lilac gown she wore.

Moira: Moira got a look at herself in the mirror, something she really never did do was primp and preen before any mirror but now it had become important that she at least have a presentable appearance. She was amazed that Shaden even bothered with speaking to her, looking as she had last night. But Shaden may have seen something she never did. Either way, she stood now, looking at the dress Nairne loaned her and she liked it. It was made from silk, she never wore something entirely of silk before, and it was colored crimson with a neckline so low she about blushed the same color as the gown. "What is going on about this Urs.." She forgot the name, gods. "Well, you know who I mean I assume.. what'shername.." She left it at that.

Lore: He followed along behind Gerda listening to the talk of cider before he would nod. "Apple Cider, that would do fine." It sounded a little more sweet then his usual choice of drink but it would do in keeping in polite company. "Thank you, Miss?" Finding his way into the sitting room by her lead, Lore paused a moment looking around the room before finding a seat with the best sight line of the door before finding some comfort. Old habits did die hard it seemed. He lift his hand to run back through his hair before leaning back in the chair.

Nairne: At the mention of that name, Nairne's eyes narrowed a bit, seen in the reflection of the mirror. Wrinkling her nose, she muttered,"Ursula." A shake of her head had the two curls hanging at her temples swaying,"All the men think her so very...wonderful. She is not refined like they say. At least I do not think so. Watch her closely is all I must say." Rising from her chair, she smiled at Moira, any sign of bother gone from her face,"Come now. We should head downstairs." Arm offered, she waited for Moira to take it, and they'd head downstairs together. Gerda came back with the man's Apple Cider and a plate of warm biscuits,"What brings you to the Lily, sir?" A simple question, indeed.

Moira: She wondered what the woman had done to earn her such ill feelings from Nairne, and if any of the other girls felt that way and what this woman did that had men thinking her so highly. Obviously that one man from last night adored this Ursula woman. A curious thing indeed, unless she just happened to be really good at her job, who knew. But Moira shrugged it off and took Nairne's arm. "No tripping me down the stairs now, alright?" She still had to tease Nairne about last night. Eventually she'd stop kicking that dead horse. Maybe.

Lore: What did bring him to the Lily? He had to wonder sometimes himself as to why his curosity worked the way it had.
He did smile just a little perhaps to stall while the woman brought the biscuits and drink toward him. "Why else would a man come to a place like this?" Leaving the question truly unanswered seemed to best suit him. Let her answer the question with her own assumption.

Nairne: A hearty chuckle came from the housekeeper and she nodded,"A good answer indeed, sir." Her words paused for from the outer hall came the sweet sound of gentle laughter as Nairne walked down the stairs with Moira. Standing next to each other, their hair the same dark shade, their height about the same, one would wonder if the two were related. Nairne shook her head at her friend,"I am more subtle than that. A lady would never push another down the stairs." Winking playfully at Moira, she'd see Gerda's head peek from the sitting room,"About time you two came down. We have a visitor." A subtle hint and Nairne nodded quickly, looking to Moira,"Ready to practice those charms?"

Moira: "I did that just yesterday on Lucius. I don't know what I was thinking." She grinned, then turned her gaze to Gerda and chuckled. "It takes time to ready one's self for visitors." Darned if Moira knew much of anything until just today about preparing for anything other than what she did when she did it, but now things had changed, she just certainly hoped she could change with them. She didn't try to look at the visitor Gerda spoke of, that's all she'd need do.. look over anxious..even while still in the being mentored phase of her time here at the Lily, it was hard to keep that curiosity under control but she was somehow managing it.

Lore: "I thought so to." The sound of female laughter was cause for a look toward the door. He took that moment to lift his apple cider for a small sip to force down the sweet contents without protest before it was carefully set back on the table beside him. The small talk between them was absorbed silently. Women, always had to take just about forever in doing anything it seemed. Lore was no stranger to this as much as one might assume by his appearance though he spoke none of it.

Nairne: Giggling, Nairne whispered,"You were thinking that he was a handsome young lad. Must have come from fine stock." The slight suggestive lift of her brows let on what she meant. Perhaps Daddy was handsome if the son was taken. Nodding to Gerda, she stated softly,"We will entertain the visitor. Could we have some tea?" Gerda nodded, patted Nairne and Moira on the arm, and headed to the kitchen. Looking at Moira, she whispered,"Don't try too hard and remember to never say too much. Mystery is always something to have. It tends to lure a man." With that little bit of advice, Nairne gracefully moved into the sitting room, a slow walk that allowed the natural sway of hips. Indigo eyes locked on the man, lashes lowering in a shy manner, as she curtsy just low enough to give a brief glimpse of what her slightly daring neckline showed,"Welcome to the Lily, sir. I am Nairne Adair."

Moira: Oddly, Moira has little interest in Lucian, he was too young and fresh looking for her, not her choice in a man's appearance at all, but she had needed to practice and that was all yesterday was. Perhaps the lack of the interest came of her own liking toward more seasoned types, even she was uncertain and it didn't matter now anyway. A nod was sent in Nairne's direction as she followed her into the room that contained the visitor. Observing Nairne's welcome with a tiny grin. Alright, that would all need be learned, which must have been why Shaden spoke of the grace period, Moira would have to learn even that which was considered a normal way of welcoming a person here. Remaining back, she let Nairne go to work, Moira would observe and learn as was expected of her to do in the first place anyway.

Lore: The arrival of the duo had Lore's attention, he made no attempt to hide that much and while Nairne did curtsy he offered a charming smile. "Greetings Lady Adair." Even the entrance made to flirt would make any man stir a little. He had to grin some after before his attention was taken toward Moira giving her that same once over. He knew right off the placement of the Lady was a station of apprentice but he spoke none of it just yet. Instead his dark eyes returned to Nairne. "I am Lore...I'm a bit new to the city.. Do be gentle?"

Nairne: Rising slowly, not too hurried, until standing full, Nairne brushed the sable curl back from her eyes to appraise him in a curious manner. A gentle laugh at his words and a brow lifted, an impish light dancing in their indigo depths,"I am always gentle unless wished otherwise, Sir Lore." As if forgetting her manners, Nairne shook her head and rolled her eyes,"Oh dear, forgive me," A hand reached for Moira, bringing her forward,"This is Moira, my pupil and friend. Would you mind, sir, if we joined you?" Such a demure question.

Moira: Being drawn to step forward she did so, not tripping over her own feet in the sudden motion of movement. She chuckled and did nod politely to the man, had she attempted Nairne's bowed curtsy she likely would fall on her face. She'll save attempting that one for after she had Nairne show her a few times and after some practice first. It was interesting to watch anyway, she wanted to see how Nairne went about hooking a man and reeling him in.


Lore: Rhetorical question but polite and unassuming. He could enjoy this treatment a little while longer he was sure. Not something a man of his station was to custom to. Lore was a man of mystery himself, he carried it well and further study might have given away hints of his wealth from time to time but a well played part by his hand none the less. "I shall have to keep those talents in mind and use best judgement in my request to the entertainment of my entertainment." Once Moira was lured closer Lore tipped his chin just a little before offering another smile. "Lady Moira the pupil. .. I wouldn't have guessed." It was a lie no doubt but he didn't make it obvious or appear as sarcasm. It sounded sincere. "I should think the Gods favored you enough to be lovely with your natural gifts." He lift his dark eyes back toward Nairne with that smile teasing the corner of his lips just a little more. "But who am I to measure perfection?" Bringing his hand to pat the simple leathers of his thigh.

Nairne: Ah, this was not a man to be called naive. He clearly knew the ways of women! Nodding her head politely, she murmured,"You are a very kind gentleman." Stepping inside, allowing Moira to sit where she wished, Nairne's feet carried her to the couch where the man was seated. Sitting down, purposefully allowing the skirts of her satin gown to brush against his thigh, she offered a soft smile,"What brings you this day to the Lily, Sir Lore? It is not often we have visitors during the daylight hours." The light shadowing of indigo eyes, showing that he could answer only if he wished, as Gerda came back in with the tea. Sitting it down, she left the girls to their work, and gave a gentle smile to Moira for encouragement.

Lore: Kind was not something he had been described as to often but he allowed people to make their own judgements. "And it's kind of you to think me kind Lady Nairne." When she gained ground on him and nestled in on the couch beside him he hadn't moved, not even when the smooth fabric of her gown flirted with his thigh. "Nothing too extravagant I'm afraid, I find myself curious to the workings of the city I now call home.. And where better to start then with the warmth of female company?" It sounded good to him. Sounded better then saying he just happened to stumble by.

Nairne: Charming to boot! Leaning forward a bit, allowing him the view of her face in silhouette, she poured tea into two cups. Noting the third, Nairne artfully turned her head,"Would you like some?" As if the third cup had surprised her. In truth though she'd known Gerda would add it. The woman was brilliant like that. With the slim, fair hands holding the pot, poised in mid-motion to put it down, Nairne seemed innocent. As if she were! hah...

Lore: The third cup was noted, though un admittedly he hadn't paid notice until she made mention of it. His eyes were a bit more direct in admiring his current company as subtle as she allowed herself to seem. "I don't know, do you think I should?..I am trying to watch my figure." He licked his lips and brought his hands together to rest against his lap. Playing a bit more coy then moments before. He did lift his eyes to watch Gerda for a moment before shifting his attention toward Moira.

Nairne: Indigo eyes swept over his body at those words, a suggestive glow to them, as she raised a brow slightly,"You seem quite fit to me. What is there to watch?" She poured some tea into the third, placing the pot down, and passed the cup to him. She purposefully allowed the tips of her fingers to brush against his hand as he'd take it, smiling warmly, and looked to Moira,"You are quiet today, my friend." Nairne was hoping that Moira was not nervous! She hadn't even thought.

Moira: Moira snapped out of a sudden daze that had overcome her, she was thinking too much perhaps, putting too much into the ideal that every aspect of this new line of work needed to be thought out, but that was how she was at times, paranoid often to a fault. She glanced at Nairne and then the man, a slow grin coming across her lips. "My apologies, my mind was elsewhere but it has finally decided to return back to me once more." She hadn't noted much else of what was said before Nairne spoke of her silence, that was what had actually snapped her back to reality and she went back to paying better attention, hoping not to let herself drift off once again.

Lore: He did reach out to accept the cup, pausing before retracting his hand to allow her that touch between them before another charming smile was given with the slightest lift of his brow."Mm.. Well... maybe just this once I could." Meaning the drink of course. It was all in jest and he made no attempt to hide that. Then when Nairne looked toward Moira so would Lore. She was rather quiet in fact, much to his disappointment. "Well the last we need is your mind leaving you again Lady Moira..Is there something I can do to make you more comfortable?"

Nairne: Passing Moira her cup, Nairne gave a comforting smile to the woman, and at Lore's words a little hint to Moira by slightly cutting her indigo eyes to him. This was time to learn, to practice, and she had done so well when not trying to with Lucius. Ah! That thought made Nairne rise slowly, taking Moira's arm to usher her toward the doorway,"Excuse us one moment, Sir Lore. Gerda forgot something in the kitchen." A lie told so well and with such an endearing look of apology that one would not question it. "We will go fetch the tarts."

Moira MacArran: She took her cup from Nairne, perhaps it was nerves that were causing her to have such a personality shift from the person she seemed to be yesterday and then this new person today. She had to recall none of this was a test she couldn't pass. A little smile was sent in Lore's direction. "Ah, I could think of many a thing, but nothing that I believe would be acceptable in the view of other people." And the moment after those words left her she was near drug off with Nairne to fetch tarts, ah such a ploy, and just when she was getting herself back on that normal track again!

Nairne: Once in the kitchen, Nairne did indeed grab a tray of strawberry tarts, and glanced to Moira,"I never even
thought! The most important piece of advice. Never completely forget who you are. Being yourself is just as important as
learning the tricks." Hoping that would put her at ease, she also grinned, eyes sparkling,"I wonder how long we should make
him wait for our return? Sometimes allowing them to pine is a subtle tactic in itself."

Moira: "Good!" She looked grateful now. "I was ready to go place myself in a corner and hide for a loss of just what I should be doing and I don't think we ought to make him wait long. We can do that another time." Since Nairne had the tray of tarts Moira hooked her arm in Nairne's and pulled her along, back into the room they had just left, releasing her once the made it there. "Apologies, Nairne needed me to tell her which tarts to bring. She's a bit unsure of herself sometimes." An obvious jest as she smiled at Nairne for helping her ease her tensions and once again she returned to her seat, settling back into it.

Lore: Once they did return his dark eyes took their time in looking between the two of them. Both had his attention split between them, admiring their curves and the way they were used. "I understand." He wouldnt have left his own pupil alone for a moment either way and he wouldnt imagine Nairne would either. It was a skill he was sure. "So where were we?"

To Be Continued

[nairneadair]

‟ to curtsy, to dance, & to flirt

Nairne: Later that evening, after the departure of the fascinating man Lore, and many lessons, Nairne was in the more quiet of the sitting rooms with Moira. The other girls were being noisy in the main one and so it was too hard to get anything done. Smiling at Moira softly, no act being done as when not entertaining one could be themselves, Nairne's zest for life showed clearly in her fair face. "Now that we are alone...what did you learn today?" A simple question, more for curiosity, as Nairne didn't want to teach her something. Plus she could answer any questions had then too.

Moira: Was that a trick question? She had to ponder a moment over that, considering, much had gone on in the past few hours and she didn't have it all committed to memory, it was more or less recalled in actions. They spoke louder than words anyway, did they not? But she knew an answer was expected and so she gave the only one she could, the truth. "Let me see, hair, movements, how to bend over and show half of what's down one's dress." She chuckled, that one picked up more from watching. "Then there was serving tea, food, drinks, how to escape a room when at a loss for words and how to allow my own personality to dictate what I do than the constant worry over if I am doing the right or wrong thing in the first place." She worried nothing she had done today had been overly frowned upon, everyone would have a faux pas now and then, that much had to at least be expected, she hoped.

Nairne: Nodding her head with each word, Nairne showed open pleasure upon her features. "You are apt at paying attention. That is a point in your favor to my mind. Most Courtesans forget that listening and observing is just as important as speaking." Folding her hands in her lap, head canting to the side slightly, indigo eyes appraised Moira where she sat. Amusement appeared at recalling one on her list,"The trick is not to show what is down it. Instead it is to give the briefest of glimpses. Temptation." Grinning wider, she continued,"It is also important to know that there are different ways to curtsy. What I did earlier is a way to greet any visitor the the Lily in my opinion. On the other hand, when in public, that kind of deep curtsy, is only suitable for nobility. For royalty one literally is an inch from the ground."

Moira: She nodded, Nairne literally reading her mind, temptation was the word she was about to use next but as Nairne supplied it, it was no longer necessary to say. "I am learning, I think quickly.. I hate to believe this was something I was born to do over needing to learn to do." She chuckled. "I was off earlier with that man.. Lore, was it? Something about him unnerved me for a while, no matter how I tried not to let that happen it did anyway, and I was worried over impressing people. I do not with to give this place a bad name due to my own idiocy." Then the curtsey was spoken of, Moira picked up on the common one straight off, but the more complex one hadn't yet come to her. "I think I will need be shown that more than a couple of times." Gods, if anyone thought a courtesan's job was to just please and tease men was so horridly mistaken it wasn't even amusing. They did so very, very, much more.. this she was learning after spending a mere half a day with Nairne.

Nairne: If one asked a moral woman what a Courtesan was they would compare them to a common whore. Yet, they were not. There purpose was not only to spread their legs, but to provide companionship. To attend events or host them, to be flaunted on arms, or to entertain. There were many faces to them. "None of us wish to be born to such, but in truth...we are naught worse than a noblewoman per se. They are born to do all that we do as well. Except the bedding, of course." She spoke to Nairne as a mother would a child, even though they were so close in age,"It will get easier to entertain a visitor in time. He was technically your first experience. Never be nervous or if you are do not allow them to see it." Laughing softly at her words, Nairne rose easily, moving around to the front of the table where the tea was waiting. "Stand then and I will show you. Hold your gown like this," and she lifted it with one hand, tying it about her waist, enough to see the lower stocking parts of her legs.

Moira: Moira listened, she was a good listener, and she did wonder why so many woman had a bad opinion of a courtesan anyway, it was simply a job which they chose to do.. even Moira, before attempting this line of work, had no negative things to speak of any courtesan. She'd never had a negative experience with them in her life, though granted she didn't know any personally until now either. "You can tell if I am nervous, I go completely silent." She grinned, then stood up as instructed, not being overly careful with her movements now as it was only the two of them, hopefully eventually she could move more gracefully naturally, but even grace would have to be a learned skill, for her anyway. Taking hold now of the skirts of the dress she wore and looking at Nairne oddly. "We tie them up?" She was missing something, she knew it, but she wouldn't learn if she didn't ask questions, so she rarely held them back.

Nairne: "Well, the trick is to cover it. If you go silent try to make it look as though it is to think or even excuse yourself from the room for a breath. Or use it to your advantage. Lower your eyes shyly when you do." Nairne knew how to use certain emotions to the advantage. Even tears could be played on. Standing there, observing Moira do the same with her gown, Nairne laughed,"We do not tie them up." Then indigo eyes had a suggestive gleam,"Unless the client asks it of us." Going serious, she murmured,"Having the gown up allows you to see my legs and me to see yours. A deep curtsy can be tricky for you could end up with your feet over your head. You want to place your legs first..." Nairne stood straight, head high, back poised, and placed her right foot behind her left leg. It was bent at the knee, toe pointed, and slowly she lowered herself. "Allow your legs to bend, do not let the top of your body becoming too weighty..." and stopped, in the same curtsy as earlier. She slightly lowered her head then and smiled,"That is how to do the one of earlier."

Moira: For Moira.. playing emotions such as coy, shy, bashful.. they were difficult, none of which came naturally to her. She could be a flirt yes, but not to the point others could pull it off. It didn't seem to be in her to be much out the norm, but she figured what she could manage would do. If anyone had problems with how she acted she expected they would tell her, hopefully in detail. Watching Nairne she tilted her head, leaning near sideways to observe the actions that made up the curtsey and shaking her head slowly. "Gods woman, no one can manage that without being a contortionist!"

Nairne: "It is possible." Chuckling, Nairne, looked at the gown. Untying the skirts to let them cover her again, she stood again and this time her hands held the outer edges. She did the same motion,"Your hands hold the gown, only enough to reveal the tips of your slippers, out to each side, slightly curved, as if a circle is about you. That will aid you in balance. For royalty you just stop closer to the ground," this she did, seeming as if practically sitting on it,"and bow your head like this..." her head lowered until chin touched chest and only the top of the head was seen. "It shows that you recognize your place as well as theirs."

Moira: Again she was watching carefully, nodding as understanding of the action came to her while Nairne did another curtsey for her learning process. "I see, and I think I understand the workings of it. Being able to do it is another story completely but I still have the idea at least." She chuckled, pretty certain she could do it if need be, but she also knew she would need practice and that would have to come in the evenings, perhaps before she went to sleep each night she could spend some time working on the act. For as simple as an explanation of it was, she knew doing it and speaking it were two different things entirely.

Nairne: Rising slowly, letting it be known that, that was just as important, Nairne smiled at Moira. "It will take time. Practice it though in your room. If you wish to try it now I can watch you and save you if you might fall." Smiling gently, Nairne waited to see what Moira would say. She wanted the girl to know that aid was always offered.

Moira: Well, better now than never, she wasn't going to put off something just for worry it would be embarrassing should she mess up. If she couldn't make her mistakes in front of Nairne who was teaching her then she couldn't make them at all and that just wasn't possible. She held the skirt of her dress as demonstrated by Nairne and used it in that way of a like circle and for a point of balance, she shifted, her back straight as it always was by her natural way of holding it no matter. Lifting her head a touch more and moving her right foot behind her left one, bending at the knee and trying to keep the toe pointed out then lowering slowly, and recalling just now to tuck her chin too.. there were so many steps to this! Then she came back up just as slowly. Almost as though she were unfolding herself.

Nairne: Watching Moira quietly, indigo eyes taking in each detail, Nairne felt pride blossom inside her. Moira was much more brilliant than she realized. Once she was standing again, Nairne clapped joyfully and hugged her,"You did not fall!" That she hadn't landed flat on her face or rear were points in Moira's favor. "I fell so many times when I was being taught!" Smiling wide, stepping back, she nodded,"It was a bit stiff, as expected, but a few more times and nobody will ever know. A natural!" Motioning for Moira to sit again, if she wished, Nairne poured tea and slid off her slippers. Feet were tucked under her bottom as she sipped her tea. "Now, a talent! I, for example, play the Lyre. We also have one talented in the violin and a songstress."

Moira: She moved back to her seat, she did feel pride but at the same time she felt as though she had cheated a bit. Revealing that to Nairne may be a less than grand idea, but the secret of it was the only reason she hadn't ended up kissing the flooring underneath her feet. "I have a talent that let me accomplish that curtsey without falling flat on my face. Some years ago I was trained by my friends in England in the art of tumbling. You know, acrobatics, stretching, the like. I never tell anyone though for it was deemed improper for a woman to do such things lest she was doing it for more devious reasons. I can place my foot along side me on the wall.. " Letting a pause drop there, should she admit it? Well, she was half way already, "while standing, things of that sort." Blush. Smile. Sip!

Nairne: Now that was an interesting tidbit! Eyes widening slightly, in shock not anger, Nairne laughed softly,"Well, well, you are mysterious! That is a talent indeed. I do not believe any of the other girls can lay claim to such here. We use our talents to entertain clients." Sipping her tea, then lowering the cup thoughtfully, she looked at Moira a moment,"I imagine that will come in handy." A wink, a giggle, and then she got serious again. "Lessons for you will start on the morrow. Shaden believes that her Courtesans should be well-educated. We learn not only social skills, but formal ones as well. On top of that we are educated in reading, writing, language, arithmetic, art, and even politics. We have lessons in Etiquette and even are taught to handle hosting a gathering. For some men, usually widowers, will call upon a Courtesan to host an event for him."

Moira: "It may be a talent, but it's one that is hard to speak of. How does one go about telling anyone really.. that they are likely more limber than a willow branch without sounding.. erm.. improper?" She chuckled. "Even here, it isn't something to just insert into a conversation at random." Now the social skills she knew she could handle lesson in them, mostly for the reasoning she liked to learn such, she was no farm hand in her social mannerisms so improving upon them would be even fun for her but the math, language? She didn't know about that. "I am not adept at math, it is something that never did come to me easily at all. I can read and write though, but in English only. Politics are more foreign to me than religion, and I've only ever caused argument or people looking at me as though I were stupid to speak of either. I can draw, but I've never painted. I also like to ride and due to the other 'talent' it comes rather easily for me."

Nairne: "Improper? How so?" Teasingly, she raised a brow, then giggled. "Well, just let it be known that you are a performer. If asked what kind then you can show them. I doubt they will find it vulgar." Listening to Moira quietly, taking it all in, Nairne did not speak. She waited until Moira was done, wheels turning,"Then you could come riding with me in the mornings! I cannot go out of the city as....the times are dangerous. Though I can ride at the field and there is nothing like racing through the snow on horseback." Smiling wide, her voice full of wistful energy, Nairne continued on,"I was never talented in math either, honestly. Yet we will learn together. Shaden does not expect each girl to be a genius at each thing learned. Just that they have a basic grasp. Like dancing! I forgot...you will be taught to dance!"

Moira: "To be honest, the limberness of my muscles is not very impressive to be seen due to these skirts." Anyone in a massive skirt such as they wore could fake the ability, another reason she had not bothered to mention it until now. Then the mention of riding in the snow had her remembering past times. "My favorite is in the summer, through the fields, chasing the deer. Diving through the lakes." She smiled at the memory. "Until I had to sell my horse." Now that was not a good memory and she wiped it away with the stark fear that shot through her when Nairne mentioned dance. "Dancing? Oh, Gods. I am a miserable dancer." Worse than miserable, odd she had the acrobatic ability, but any and all dancing ability seemed to despise her for whatever reason, that could be too why she lacked a good deal of grace in movements and she was so stiff.

Nairne: "Then we will have to get you a horse! I believe the Lord Marshal, Sir Eammon of Eohmark, brother to the Duchess, is in Turas Lan. He is said to know horses better than anyone. We will have to arrange a visit!" Nairne had money tucked away. She could afford the gift of a horse to Moira. It would be wonderful to have a companion to ride with in the morning hours. Reaching out a hand to soothingly pat Moira's own, Nairne smiled softly,"You will do wonderful with dancing. It will, of course, take time. That is expected though. Courtesans are sometimes to be present upon the arm of a client at a social gathering such as a ball. Dancing is expected at those. We will make sure you are ready before attending any. A misstep there is hard as it is a most challenging environment with all those prudish gossiping women." Nairne wrinkled her nose in distaste.

Moira: Were Moira able to read Nairne's thoughts she would have dashed that plan of hers. "I am well enough with borrowing a horse from time to time." Horses were not cheap, that was no simple gift, a simple gift would be a flower! Which she would gladly accept, a horse was a whole different thing completely. And when Nairne went into explanation of what kind of dance was meant Moira relaxed so much it was visible, she had thought a different kind of dance had been meant. Nodding she spoke. "I think I could possibly learn that at the very least then. Give me but a few years and I will be ready." She smiled, another nod in Nairne's direction of agreement.

Nairne: "Nonsense. A borrowed horse is not nearly as good." Stubborn! That was Nairne. Moira would have her own horse, and that was that! Pouring more tea, Nairne laughed softly,"Dancing is not too hard. Honestly it's the environment. We are not looked upon pleasurably by some women, or even men. Do you understand?"

Moira: Nairne was possibly as stubborn as Moira. It was another personality trait they seemed to share. Had Moira known of it she would swear they were somehow related. Features were similar, dispositions, attitudes. It was odd. "Yes, I understand, and I will do my best. It may not sound like much but it's really all I can offer. If I have luck on my side, I won't fall flat on my face for that either." She chuckled and finally picked up that cup of now room temperature tea, sipping it again and only sipping. She did not favor tea but she could fake liking it as much as anyone else did.

Nairne: "That is all need be offered. It is not for my sake or the reputation of the Lily even that I mention it. It is for yours. They are like predators smelling fresh blood. You would think they'd give in and admit we are alike. They do much the same, to be honest. Fathers trade their daughters, with an offer of a dowry, to a man of good standing who may pad their pockets or give them something in exchange. Same concept honestly. We just don't have to marry and be forever trapped." Nairne shrugged, being honest, for that was how she looked at it. She had no reason to be ashamed when one of those uppity women turned up their snooty noses. Half of them were even married to men old enough to be their Father just for the money.

Moira: There was another thing about Nairne that had them seem so alike, they shared many of the same views of people who pretended to be something they weren't or even better than anyone else was. "Amusing part of that is, many of those men find their way to places like this for comfort and company." And that reason alone was why Moira would never let any snobbish woman treat her as though she were lower than dirt. Until that kind of women could at the very least hold onto their own men and keep them from straying, Moira would be less than likely to give their sort much of an iota of respect. Lest they came here, then she would do it for the sake of the name of the Lily and Shaden, and all her girls. She would never do anything to tarnish this place or those of it.

Nairne: Giggling, Nairne nodded, indigo gaze holding an unquenchable spirit in their depths,"Indeed! They come here to our arms and our beds for comfort. They seek us out to flaunt on their arms. For companionship, some, and for more from others. We are better than a common gutter whore. Far better. Remember that Moira."

Moira: "Oh, I don't worry over what they think or even what they say. Everyone has their own opinions and they are welcome to them. They matter not to me." She sat back in her chair, trying to get somewhat comfortable while she were able, these stiff backed chairs were murder on one's back after sitting in them for more than a short period of time. "Well, is there anything else we ought be doing today or do we save it for the 'morrow?"

Nairne: Nairne was pleased. Moira would not be one to cower. Looking thoughtful over the question, Nairne considered the other possibilities and shook her head,"Tomorrow I think. You will begin the lessons done with the girls and I. It will be quite entertaining, I promise. For now you have a bit of leisure time on your hands if you wish to use it."

Moira: Hmmm, leisure time. Whatever would she do with that? She wasn't sure. "You know, I did have a question." She was curious about everything, might as well ask what she could now just to be informed.

Nairne: "What is that?" Nairne smiled and adjusted, getting comfier in her corner of the couch. Moira was a pleasant person. It was nice to talk to someone. At times she felt as though not part of the group when it came to the other girls.

Moira: Moira would not allow other people to make her feel out of place. She figured however she felt in the presence of others was more her own doing, not theirs. "The furniture in the room, and there's even some clothing, does it all belong to someone else?" She did not want to be taking another girls room from her, Moira was not one to put people out, she's never that way.

Nairne: A gentle smile at her question and Nairne gave a negative shake of her head,"That is yours. The clothing are likely gifts from the other girls and even Shaden. The room itself? Shaden had wonderful work done when the place was built. You are more than welcome to change it to better suit you. Some of us came to Shaden with nothing. Dirt poor, living on streets even, and she changed that. Most judge her harshly for what she is, but they do not understand that deep down she is a loving, sweet woman."

Moira: "That was nice of them. I must thank them when I see them about more." She knew exactly what Nairne meant about people coming here dirt poor. It was what she had done. The last place she worked was the only reason she had a place to sleep at night since it was a bar, inn, and a place to eat combined. Plus, she gained most her meals there but she had finally decided it was time to move on and so she ended up here. "I like Shaden very much, she seems to be a very nice person. Does she live here or is her residence else where?" Moira wasn't trying to pry, she was simply curious in general.

Nairne: "I will give you a few gowns and cloaks as well. They will get you by until you start getting clients. Some of the money, of course, will be your own to keep. To do with as you wish." Propping her cheek on the palm of one hand, elbow on the arm of the cushion, Nairne studied Moira a moment. She could tell that the girl was just trying to get knowledge of her new home. "Shaden does live here. We all reside here. It is a place to call home for some of us never truly had one."

Moira: "The last home I had was in England, at least a dozen years ago if not more. I could have found other places to live but instead of residing in a run down shack I took jobs at places that could let me stay in them, such as the Briar Rose. I couldn't bring myself to live in some hovel that was colder inside than it was outside." So far she had made it, but just barely and she was tired of living like that, from one job to the next, she wanted a real home again. She missed having one. "I presume after here, I will end up returning to an old job unless I manage to save a whole hell of alot of money."

Nairne: Nairne made a tsking sound and shook her head, tucking a sable curl behind her ear,"That is not the way to think. Residing here, being one of the flowers of the Lily, opens the door to many opportunities. The money you can make or contracts. One of us has a Sole Patron. That is a boon in itself. There are many possibilities for your future and none have to involve returning to your former employment, or to your former style of living." Giving Moira some hope, Nairne smiled wide,"Does that not sound good?"

Moira: She chuckled and nodded. Perhaps that knowledge would help her to stop being such a negative person so often. "Do you have a sole patron?" She was curious again and had to ask, getting into asking more personal questions now. She hoped Nairne knew that she could tell Moira to shut up and stop asking questions at anytime.

Nairne: Personal questions. Nairne did not do well with those. Yet, luckily, this one was not too personal. "Actually, I do not. I've had several clients. Yet, not a single patron. In time though. I do not know if I'll ever want a Sole Patron to be honest. At least not for awhile yet."

Moira: "It sounds to me like a hassle really. Like to have some male courting you, but not courting you, if my thinking makes any sense." Moira had some concern over one aspect of the Lily actually, but she was still wary of telling anyone about it. Yet here she was, making friends with Nairne, and it seemed she could tell the woman anything. While Moira was a private person sometimes everyone needed to open up and let people in for the sake of their own sanity.

Nairne: "In truth it is being owned until the man decides otherwise. Some find happiness though in a Sole Patron. I just do not like the idea." Nairne was not one to open up too much. She had secrets in her past that were best left untouched. As for her reasons for not wanting a Sole Patron? Nairne had been owned once before. That nobleman had been horrific and heavy fisted, and he'd met his fate. He'd controlled her with an iron fist and she had hated every second.

Moira: Moira could easily have compared it to slavery, she just chose to not mention it, so many were very touchy about slavery it was normally a topic best left alone. She nodded her understanding though. "I agree with you on the ownership part." She paused to think once more, what she wanted to say was weighing more heavily on her mind now. "So out of curiosity, I was wondering, how do you think Shaden would react toward a woman who had never done..er..you know..with a man before, but had the knowledge from doing much of everything else but..it?"

Nairne: "Oh!" So that was what Moira was wondering about! Nairne knew that Shaden would have to be told of this. By Moira herself, preferably. Not that it was something that would anger Shaden, but it meant that Moira's first client--bedding wise-- would have to be picked with care. She could not have some sloppy, drunk, old fool ruining the experience for her. Nairne gave a gentle, soothing smile and reached out to pat Moira's hand. "Shaden will not be angered nor judgmental. You will, if you wish, in time take a client to your bed. Yet, Shaden should be told. Your first must be chosen with care and perhaps by you, or by Shaden as she is wise, for your sake."

Moira: "I didn't tell her for worry that she would not have given me a job. It was an act of self-preservation more than anything so I do hope you're right and she will not be angry. I don't think I could take upsetting her so instantly. I'd have to leave if I did. Though do you think leaving her a note would work?" She was still worried about telling Shaden, she had butterflies in her stomach just thinking about it. Taking a deep cleansing breath, trying to put the thought of Shaden being peeved with her out of her mind.

Nairne: "In person would be best I think." Squeezing her hand in comfort, offering strength, she stated,"I can go with you when you do if you like. Lend my support. Shaden will not get upset though. She is too sweet." Nairne had not been in that position when coming here. She'd lost hers when young. Yet, some of the others likely had.

Moira: "Thank you, Nairne. Honestly you have no idea how .. well.. just plain stupid I would feel even letting her or anyone else know. I mean to go through life for some twenty four years and never to have done.. that at least? It seems rather pathetic. Even to me. And I'm the one who hasn't done it." She chuckled, squeezing Nairne's hand in return, feeling somewhat better but she would be all the better off when she told Shaden her little secret and have it out and known with the woman.

Nairne: "There's no reason to feel that way. Now, since that is taken care of, what other questions do you have?" Gerda came in with more tea for the two and even some sweets before leaving. They were virtually alone as the others went about their business. Nairne grinned mischievously,"Perhaps Lore will return upon the morrow and you can tempt him with your newly learned lessons."

Moira: "Oh lord, I highly doubt he was more than curious." She nodded to Gerda in thanks for bringing them both food and refreshing the supply of tea, though she did doubt she could choke more of the stuff down. She wanted lemonade and rather badly. These hot drinks were only tolerated because it was that or go thirsty. She was near to the point that she would pay for lemonade with her soul. Winter did that to her sometimes. "Besides.." Continuing the conservation. "I was caught in a bad mode, nerves and all, and when they finally faded he left. I didn't see anything in him beyond a curious interest."

[nairneadair]

‟ to escape & entertain

Jean-Claude: The night had unfolded in velvet black as the sky fell in dark shadows over the land. It had been many weeks since the Frenchmen had been upon the doorstep of the Lily, but alas tonight would grant him entrance to the perfectly poised door of Shaden's home. His frame was tall as it was thin, accented in only the finest of fashion. Deep rich onyx silk suit fit as it should a man, and perhaps had him stand out as a delicate flower amongst thorns. His jet black strands of straight hair seemed to have life of their own as the rest seemed like stone. Kind eyes of endless night sky always moved in gracious wonders, and never in hungry appetite. The Lily's knew him well, as a mentor, and friend. However, they knew well his heart beat for only beat for one. In long pale hands, the cold fingers wrapped around the freshly cut stems of the richest red roses--no doubt for Shaden. "Bonsoir..Beau Lis." His voice was warm and soft as he gave nod to the few who gathered in the room Gerda showed him too. "How are you this fine frozen evening hmm?" The cool touch of his hand would press lightly under the chin of one of the ladies, whose eyes fell when he met her own, (NPC) and he would only smile. "Chin up, Chérie..He is not far behind."

Peregrin: "Mon Dieu! Je déteste le froid!!" The Pirate cursed of the night, bundling closer the heavy cloak of dark green. A ranger so it seemed lost in the dream of a childhood fantasy..Of shoes and ships, sealing wax--cabbages and kings. A petite figure compared to Jean-Claude, Peregrin was his opposite in almost every way. Blonde, blue eyes, he was out spoken and of course not as put together on the outside.

Shaden: Sometimes things seemed predetermined, fated or just well timed perfectly.. or not depending on where you stood.. This would be one of those occasions... as Jean Claude and Peregrin entered the Lily's common room.. the Mistress of the house would as well.. from the opposite way.. in fact fate as there was no way she could have known they had arrived.. coming from her office as she was... Midnight blue Russian velvet clad her now seven month pregnant figure.. something sure to attract Peregrin's mockery.. albeit good humored.. at least we will hope.. copper curls now brushed her shoulders having grown out from being chopped off some.. seven months ago.. from a boyish pixy look to a more feminine look that complimented her maternal glow.. and drew attention to those oddly colored glacial green hues.. upon seeing them.. she stopped.. as if shocked.. for a moment then recovered her graceful stride across the room..with barely any notice.. save the sweet stain of blush on her cheeks as her eyes caught Pere's and stayed there avoiding the piercing navy gaze that was Jean's.. " Peregrin... Jean Claude... " she dipped a shallow curtsey.. " I'm surprised to see you... here... " was there a lift in her tone at the end.. some amount of sarcasm.. or ire... yes.. and it was not directed at the one who was gifted her gaze.. but his dark tall handsome counterpart.. that was receiving the cold shoulder.. well as much as civilly possible.

Nairne: Well, the sound of voices was not hard to mistake. Nairne raised a brow and looked at Moira,"It seems the Lily has visitors again. Perhaps we will greet them?" She let Moira decide if she wished to come out with and sliding her shoes back on, took a minute to make sure her hair was perfectly in place still, sable curls pinned artfully with two loose at the temples. The gown was the same satin lilac of earlier, and she smoothed a few wrinkles before quietly making her way out to join the others. Standing back, watching the scene with curious indigo eyes, Nairne recognized at least one.

Danae: The Greek warrior was now a worried Commander. It seemed two of her men were missing, last known to be heading to this Gilded Lily. She had come the night before, waiting on them to finish up their business so they could all return to Red Wall together. After waiting for what she thought was a decent amount of time with no sign of them emerging, having her leave feeling a little more than irritated. Now however, they have had more than enough time to locate her and inform them of her whereabouts, which had yet come to be. So, she was back and ready to ask a few questions. After her leaving last night, it had snowed and there would be no way of tracking them. The only other way to find the answers she needed were to ask around, which is what had her walking into the establishment again this night. Tall, dark haired, copper skinned frame entered though the front door. Eyes were immediately set to locating her men, hoping that her worry was ill founded and not a fear that was slowly starting to eat away at her with the worse possible explanation in the back of her mind.

Peregrin: "Shaden!" The pirate grinned as he noticed the cold greeting they were given, and made it his goal to warm up the ice queen. Jean-Claude still stood just in the center of the room, the roses held within cold hands, and there would be no reason to discard them now. It was after all the winter, and where did one get such fresh flowers?

Jean-Claude: "Bonjour, Mistress Lily you look as a vision.." His voice fell to a whisper as the distance was closed between them. "For very tired eyes." If possible he looked paler, if possible he seemed darker, but more importantly he was well worked. Having spent many days now in the underbelly of the city working on a cure for the wolves disease. "How are you?" It was then with his quiet gentle nature he pinned her, to answer questions she did not want to answer and look into eyes that dared her to look away.

Peregrin: Instantly as the door opened he felt a chill of the winter rush in, but the same chill of a pair of ice blue eyes that he knew all too well. Like a cat rubbed the wrong way he tightened up and instantly slipped into the shadow.

Shaden: An actress's smile creased her lips.. as she leaned into Pere giving him a perfunctory kiss to his cheek, then stepped back.. her eyes drawn to Jean as he approached roses in hand.. his voice soft and beguiling, dark lashes lifted locked to Navy blue ones as the room seemed to recede, everyone else seemed to fade.. what manner of magic did he hold over her.. when she gazed into his eyes..? " I am well.. perfectly healthy.. and happy." Was there still a sting in her words.. a trace of hurt.. neglect maybe.. "And you... well I hope..?" there was a tightness to her, a spring wound to tight.. a powder keg set to blow with the minimalist of a spark... the words she uttered perfectly proper.. yet there was a chill that had nothing to do with winter between them.

Nairne: Observation was something Nairne prided herself on. She noticed quite easily the man trying to slip away. That was interesting. She had not missed Shaden's greeting, had wondered at it, and so with a polite "Excuse me" slipped around to corner her prey. So to speak. "Greetings, sir." A soft, sweet voice, the slight innocent lowering of lashes as she smiled at him. "The air is a bit chilly this evening. Would you like to join me by the fire?"

Danae: As she moved further in, taking those few idle steps while looking about, she felt a familar feeling come over her. One that only came when someone in particular was around. It was like she had a sixth sense when it came to the man, now making her study the faces and forms harder as she surveyed the room. She spotted him of course, along with his friend as they spoke with the Mistress of this place. Someone she would have to have a talk with and soon at that. She would of course wait her turn as Shaden seemed a little busy at the moment. Danae may be a little rough around the edges, nothing like the women here, but she did have manners - most of the time. She spotted Gerda, lifting a hand to wave her over. If and when the woman came, she'd request to speak with Shaden or any of the other women that weren't currently entertaining anyone at the moment. She had questions, hoping someone here had answers. Another look given to the man that seem to blend so well with the shadows, especially lately. Some had to wonder if the chill in the room was from winter, or tension between them and perhaps even a couple others.

Moira: Moira had sat on that couch, deep in thought, for some time even after Nairne got up and took her leave to the main room of the Lily. She had to think before she followed, considering their earlier conversation, but for now she had it figured that what she would need to tell Shaden could wait. It was not all that urgent to speak of now, especially since she was still under the tutoring's of Nairne until the woman deemed her educated enough to continue up the ladder. Rising to her feet she smoothed out the skirt of the crimson red silk gone loaned to her from Nairne and with silent steps she moved to the entryway of the other room, the main one most of them had gathered in. Pausing there to linger and simply observed who all were out and about before simply diving into the crowd of people.

Peregrin: Mmmm little huntress on the prowl; met her match..or equal. Dark blue eyes settled within the brightly painted pair of the Lily. "You will have to forgive me..fire does very little to warm me." The Pirate lied through his teeth, as he prepared to tuck his tail and run. "Perhaps another time?" He smoothed with a kind voice, one showing very little interest or thought. In fact all he was doing was trying to keep out of the line of sight from the Ranger.

Jean-Claude: "I am well now, Shaden as always your smile brings out the best in everyone." Or so he had come to learn. Shifting quickly his position within the room he came to stand beside her facing the rest of the Lily's as they worked. "You have been busy I see." Extending his hand he offered her the bouquet in hopes to move through this...thick block of ice she has walled around her. "How does your darling daughter fair? Ready to see the light of day?"

Shaden: "Busy... business as usual is all." She lifted her chin smiling to Nairne, and Moira.. with a soft nod of her head..then lifted a hand to wave greeting to Danae.. odd she was here.. but then again.. she was a ranger and in a mans profession.. she might have similar taste as her men.. and well.. there were Lily's who could.. and would.. accommodate her if she wished to spend the coin.. or maybe she was only window shopping.. those were her thoughts before Jean questioned her about the babe within. "Avery says she is healthy and strong.. and doing well.. and that she will be entering this world within 2 months time.. give or take." it was a slight thaw.. he played dirty knowing she was absolutely crazy in love with the little girl that grew inside her.. cheater.. how could she stay mad at him and talk about her child at the same time?

Nairne: Did he just give her the brush off? Oh no no, Nairne was not turned away that easily. The girl was too demn stubborn. Smiling playfully, she pouted pretty,"Won't you stay, sir, and give a pretty lass some company? I have been quite lonely this evening." Nairne could look cute and innocent with the best of them. Though she wasn't.

Danae: Danae spotted the wave from Shaden and in return gave a lift of her chin with a small, brief smile. Odd that she was here yes, but it wasn't because she was looking to be entertained, at least not by a woman. And if there were any men that wished to try their luck, let them... the would be far from hitting any jack pot here. After the type of dealings with her dear sweet loving Perry, heh.. men were the last thing on this one's mind. At least in the matters of intimate relationships. The only men she was currently seeking out were a couple under her command. Try as he may, Perry slipped into those shadows but not quick enough. She had already spotted him, smirked to herself and gave a shake of her head in a disgusted manner. He wasn't what she was here for and therefore the distance between herself, Shaden and the man that had kept her from beating Perry to a bloody mess was closed. "Excuse me, I don't mean to interrupt, but Shaden. I'm in need of your assistance... perhaps you or your... employees can help me. I'm looking for a couple of men. They are under my command and I've not seen them for an extended amount of time. I know they had intentions of coming here, but I am unsure if they ever arrived, and if they did, when they departed."

Moira: A slow smile crossed her lips, observing the others, Nairne in particular was fascinating to watch. A good thing she was too since Moira was to be learning from the woman. A good few minutes of playing the fly on the wall were now at an end as she moved completely through the doorway and just as silently as before headed to the couch to settle herself onto it, that was by far more comfortable than one of the stiff backed chairs, she could only sit on one of those for so long without having her own back begin to ache terribly. She glanced at Nairne, just a sideways glance, watching her work, though otherwise she made no move to disturb anyone just yet.

Jean-Claude: "Then it will be a long two months, but what better way to break the chill of winter then the promise of Spring, and your new baby." Her hand was taken within his still frozen palm and a gentle kiss would sweep across her knuckles. "Perhaps once you are settled we can sit by the fire? If the hour has grown too late, then tomorrow night will you accompany me? I will not have long..but what time I do have I wish to see you." Of course he wanted to hear of how many times Sir Nicholas warmed her bed, or what has kept her so busy..but for now he would wait.

Peregrin: "A pretty lass indeed. Tell me.." How quickly the Goblin King moved to snatch up his prey though that look from Danae only pressed him further. "You are new here.." As he knew all the Lily's or so it would seem. Dark eyes turned over the room and he made note of all the new faces.."Many are new here. Where is it you are from?" Idle small talk, oh how he hated it and the playboy would of course half listen should she start rambling..of course rambling to him was a woman speaking.

Shaden: Saved.. god bless the amazon type woman with the beautiful copper skin, "Danae..how lovely to see you again," she was greeted warmly, in exact opposition to what Pere and Jean had received, "Hmmmm," she thought outloud, "Give me their names and I will check my Ledgers.." Already she was turning to make way to her office.. as Jean's words..stilled her. "I look forward to the promise of spring.. when roses are in bloom.. and fill the air with their fragrance to herald her birth.. " a soft smile as she nodded her head.. the thaw resuming.. the more she talked of her daughter... "Of course.. if you wish.. to spend time with me Jean... of course." There a subtle hint to her anger.. fueled with both hormones, fear, and a bit of pride that had been pricked at his continued absence.. I mean come on.. how can you say you love someone.. spend the night in their arms...and then.. just walk away.. for weeks she had reason to be pissed... didn't she? The roses were lifted to her nose and inhaled deeply... before she turned waving Danae with her... "Come lets see if your missing men were here."

Nairne: New? No, not really. Well, a bit. Nairne knew that he wouldn't have seen her. She hid alot from the others. A shame really. "Oh, somewhat, sir. I am from Scotland. Where, exactly, is unimportant. Where are you from?" She did not know his name yet, but that could wait a little. Nairne didn't like to talk too much of herself, especially personal matters. Indigo eyes locked on his own, curious what had him appraising the room and wanting to leave. Had it been Shaden? Was he one of the men who wanted her too? Well, he'd have to get over that! Nairne laid claim to him tonight, for now, unless he proved to be dull.

Danae: She gave a curt nod to Jean-Claude, Perry better thank his lucky stars this man had arrived when he had the day the two were squaring off. She nodded to Shaden as her reply was given. "Of course...the first William Denham. He's about 6 feet and 2 inches tall. Lean build, sandy blonde hair, hazel eyes, dark skin. The second, Tristan Dimera...he's short for a man. I'm guessing roughly around 5 ft 7, black hair, short, lean build, and lighter than myself." Names and descriptions of her men given, praying to her Gods they had come. At least it would be a lead...a place to start, as to where to go from there...that would soon be determined. The tall copper-skinned warrior followed in behind the red-head Mistress. "If your ledgers show they were here, I'd like to speak to the women that they were with, if at all possible, please. I'm not here to cause any trouble, only locate my men and leave."

Moira: Restless. That was her mood tonight. It could have come of having been sitting in the other room and conversing for hours with Nairne but now she needed to do something and hoping she wasn't too conspicuous for sitting and then rising again no more than minutes later. But if she was, there was little she could do about it now. She drifted off toward the kitchen, curious and now time to investigate if there was more to drink in the place than apple cider or tea. Plus, well, it was something to do to help her work the kinks out of her back and the ones that had been starting in her legs.

Shaden: Into the office she went to her desk in particular to find the ledger.. as she lowered herself almost painfully..into the chair with a slight wince.. her back was killing her.. she sighed and flipped open the book.. looking over the past few days for the names..and not finding them.. "If they were here Danae.. I don't see their names. They might have used another.. but I do not remember them.. though it's possible.. that Ursula took their money and names. She is out tonight with a client..and she is the only other one who handles monies.. when I am not here to do so." She pushed the ledger toward Danae so the Ranger could look for herself.. there was nothing to hide. "Perhaps Nairne saw them.. she is in the great room with Pere.. perhaps you could speak to her...?"

Danae: Once reaching Shaden's office, Danae's arms crossed over her chest. The weight of her frame shifted between long lean legs allowing one hip to jut out slightly. Showing that the woman did have feminine curves after all, even if they were hidden under layers of clothes and gear majority of the time. Icy blue hues watched as Shaden looked over the ledgers and not finding the names of her men. The Commander sighed with an exhausted look. "I see... well, thank you. And yes, I'd like to speak with this Nairne. Maybe she'd be able to help at least tell me if they look or sound familiar." A hand came to rub at her temple, the woman was showing signs of being stressed out over this. It was so unlike these two to just up and vanish. Leaving no trail, no word or no note for their Commander. Danae nodded to Shaden and began to make her way toward the room where the woman Shaden spoke of was. Already preparing herself to deal with Perry, not looking for a fight but ready to give one back should he start his chyte.

Nairne: Nairne turned around to take a peek, to check on Moira, and when she turned back the man was...gone! Hands planted on her hips, she stared at the spot with something akin to outrage and wondered how he had done that! Stamping her foot slightly, she turned around and nearly walked into...Lady Galanos. Wasn't that what Alendral had called her? "Pardon me." She had no desire to speak to the woman, miffed as she was by the vanishing man!, but apparently it seemed she was not about to move.

Danae: Danae was quietly making her way out of the office and into the main room where she would surprisingly bump into the one woman she needed to speak with. "Excuse me, Nairne is it? And pardon me as well. But if I may, could I have a word with you?" She asked as she began to brush down her clothing. "I just have a few questions, looking for a couple of my men and hope that you or someone else here can be of assistance."

Shaden: Shaden had followed Danae out, partly to see Jean once again.. and partly to see that Danae did not beat an interrogation from Nairne. After all marks on the body was bad for business, and Shaden was rather fond of Nairne.. didn't want her hurt in anyway.. proctective of the Lily's, like a lioness.. do not think that little miss Shaden couldn't handle herself..what other woman would dare ride a horse about a sailing ship, in the middle of a sea battle..? Yes you got it.. Shaden.. first Calvary rescue at sea in history.. just ask Maahes and Ealora.. they were stunned too!

Nairne: Questions? Nairne was not in a mood to be questioned. The smile was missing from her face and those indigo eyes were a little cool when looking on Danae. "Men? If you mean Alendral then you can probably find him exploring Ursula somewhere." Eep! A tad bit...moody. She didn't know of Danae's position. She'd only briefly seen the woman the night before and flirting with Alendral.

Aegraine: She came walking to the Lily, looking back and forth, searching. The dogs Beo and Wulf accompanied her and on leashes, this time.

Danae: "Oh, no no no... Alendral is not whom I was thinking but thank you for that little bit of information." She said with a smirk. The next time Alendral tried to make moves on her or hint at anything of the sort, she had something else
to be armed with other than her intelligence and skills. "I wonder if maybe you have spoken with a couple men or even entertained them. Their names are William Denham and Tristan Dimera. Both under my Command. They seem to be....missing and its not like them to not inform me of their plans or whereabouts." Tsk tsk, for shame on all those to think Danae such a wild woman. This Head Ranger did not act out violently without just cause. Give her a reason to fight and you've got yourself a battle. Though many would attest to deal with the devil himself than to piss off this one.

Dora: "Hide me! Hello? Please, hide me; the mistress is after to beat me! Help!" the older woman with shawl wrapped over her head rapped upon the door of the Lily

Shaden: She had met Aegraine once before.. in Aberdeen.. the fish fork lady.. quite handy with those things... as she entered with the two wolfhounds... the small Yorkie would go spastic..barking in a shrill pitch and chasing round and round the two hounds.. bending Shaden would scoop up the miniature handful of fur..scolding her..and eyeing Aegraine.. "Looking for someone..?" as if in answer to that question the door was pounded upon..and Shaden moved toward the panicked hollering...pulling open the door, thinking perhaps another victim of the wolves... "Come in Come in out of the cold " she ushered the older lady inside.. "Please..come warm yourself by the fire. You are safe..no one will harm you here."

Nairne: "Oh, William?" There was a definite purr when that name was mentioned. Nairne gave an artful shrug of her shoulders,"Perhaps, I saw them, briefly, yesterday morning. Not for long mind you." She didn't say a word more though. Had she seen William any other time? Well, Danae could guess on that one.

Tiberius: Strangers to this part of the island, the pair of equine and humble fellow moved through the night. The quiet per-plop, per-plop of hooves carried him to the establishment. The slide of the man from the saddle brought him to the ground with a solid thud of leather boots. Midnight pools gave a small survey. Good a place as any to take a night's rest. If only he could be so lucky. He would tether the reigns to either a hitching post (if they had one) or a nearby tree. At least, for the time being. Then sure stride carried him up and into the establishment as cerulean gaze took survey of those gathered within.

Aegraine: "Here, Let me take them out; I was not aware of the Yorkie." She tied the large half Irish wolf hounds outside, where they did not block anyone's way to the entry door "Thank you; I have come in search of my maid, Widow Lynch"

Danae: A single dark brow arched as the tone in Nairne's voice gave way to the answer in more so than the reply itself. "I see.. did he say where he may be headed after your... interaction with him?" What her men did on their off time was none of her business as long as they didn't go causing or stirring up trouble in ways that were unacceptable in the eyes of the law. Danae glanced to a nearby window and the evening was well on its way. She needed to leave soon, there was now an urgency like no other. Her men needed to be found, an explanation for their missing made, and this fiery Greek warrior had every intention of finding out all she could by any means possible. She was beyond worried now...this was where a line was drawn between Commander and a very concerned friend.

Dora: Dora cowers in a corner, hiding her face and attempts to not be seen.

Shaden: Shaden gathered the woman into her arms pulling her toward the fire.. "No need to hide come.. come by the fire.. I will have Gerda get you something to drink.. " She practically drug the woman and settled her by the fire, passing Aegraine as she did "What makes you think your maid would come here?" an arched brow lifted as she saw the new Arrival.. Gerda nodded and moved to the kitchen to prepare hot mulled cider for the scared rabbit of a woman, but took the gentleman's coat first.. "Welcome to the Lily Sir.. can I fetch you a drink.. you look like.." a tilt of her aged silver head... "A cognac man to me?" blue eyes twinkled with good humor as she headed off not waiting for response.. she was good at knowing what the patrons wanted.. Shaden moved to greet the man as well.. "Hello... Welcome to the Lily.. won't you come and warm yourself by the fire.. " a delicate hand was lifted in greeting.. "I'm Shaden Aramoire.. Mistress of this house."

Nairne: "Perhaps..." Nairne went silent, mulling over the meeting with William yesterday morning before going to the market. Had he told her where...? Ah, right! Nodding, she stated simply,"He mentioned stopping by the blacksmith's shop. That..." Pausing, she searched for the name until it came to her,"Bolverk? That sounds about right. That is all I know. If you do find him...tell him that I wish to see him again." A suggestive smile and she went quiet.

Tiberius: Smoky grey cloak was untied at the neck and offered to the woman. It left to reveal a hunter green tunic beneath. "My gratitude, a cognac would be spot on." Then the next approached, deep blues taking her in broadly rather than being so coarse as to rake his gaze down her like a lover. Simply was not the way of courtly gentleman. He offered his hand palm up to her offered hand. The bow from his waist, lowering his torso a rough 45 to the ground, though his eyes held her countenance. "A pleasure Mistress Aramoire. Tiberius Grey at your service." The motion of a kiss to be bestowed to the back of her hand, though flesh of twin tiers never met the satin of her hand. He rose to his full height of 6'2", returning her hand to her. "My gratitude for your hospitality. Though perhaps you could point me in the direction of an inn?"

Aegraine: "Why? Because the dogs got her scent and it was to here they led me. " The old woman ran where she did not expect Aegraine would go, of course. " I mean no harm to Dora; I have forgiven her, if she will just listen and understand that." hesitates before she speaks, as Shaden has a visitor at this time.

Danae: Icy blue hues moved over to the newly entered faces of several people. Two women, one man... each face taken to memory for future references, just in case. A nod given to the two quieter ones and Danae watched the other more closely as Shaden moved the woman closer to the fire. Eyes drifted back to Nairne and she nodded slowly. "The blacksmith hm? And what of the other male? Tristan? Did William say anything about him or do you know Tristan as well?" She asked, all for the sake of finding her men. No harm was intended upon anyone here, not unless they had something to do with the two missing rangers. Another glance given to the one with dogs, then the woman Shaden seemed to be protecting. A clear picture was coming to mind...the Commander debating whether or not she should step in. No, for now, all seemed well but should Shaden need her, the Mistress need only ask. Eyes of ice blue returned to the very informative Lily for the moment. Awaiting more details should they be had.

Dora: Dorie sniffled and wiped her nose on her sleeve cuff. "You most kind to me, Miz Shaden. " Grateful, accepts the drink from Gerda. " I appreciate it; thankee."

Shaden: The hand kissed she nodded slightly.. turning her very pregnant form toward the great room and leading the Handsome blonde man inside... "I'm afraid most inns are full.. country folk coming in to hide from winters snows and such... but you are welcome to find accommodations here.. with or without company for the night..I would not send a traveler weary out into this cold " she smiled.. moving close to Dora.. a hand laying on her shoulder comfortingly... "Aegraine if you are hunting your Maid with dogs I can hardly blame her from running from you.. for shame " She showed an intense displeasure at the thought.. my god.. savages some people!

Dora: "Two horses, Mistress lePower. I lost them both; for rations in the forest. "The second one we ate for provisions." The old lady sipped the drink and did not look Aegraine in the face.

Nairne: "Tristan?" She thought about that a moment. "He was going to go with William there, but planned to stop by a jewelers. Something about a pretty ring for a pretty lass?" Nairne hadn't known who Tristan planned to buy it for though. "I hope you find them both, safe, Lady Galanos. If you will excuse me...I am feeling a bit unwell." Nodding politely, Nairne maneuvered around the woman and made for the stairs. To find sleep, alone, happy birthday to her!

Tiberius: He was lead easily enough. "Again, my gratitude, Mistress Aramoire." It took a moment for the words to sink in. With or without company? His gaze flittered about. "For now, I fear, I would gamble to say that I will need single accommodations for an unknown period of time." He quieted then, simply being taken about, deep blues surveying all that he could glean from the conversations about them.

Aegraine: "Ulster was long ago, almost a year ago, Dora." she tried to communicate with the old woman, here where she felt safer. "So you lost one of my horses; I cannot fault you that; war changes responsibilities. I do forgive that, if you will accept that. I brought the dogs, as I know you like them better than me. Stay or come back, as you please, Dora. It is your decision."

Danae: The next answer had Danae looking confused...had Tristan come to fancy a local female? Maybe one back at Red Wall? Hmm... if he had, she had no clue. "I see, well... thank you for your time. The information you provided me with will serve me well." Head did tilt as the woman excused herself, Danae nodded and added. "I hope you do feel better soon." Yes, even Danae could be nice at times. She watched the woman leave only to then have Danae turn and begin toward the door. She briefly stopped beside Shaden. "Thank you again Shaden... be safe and good night." A nod followed, then one given to all others just the same before the Greek warrior would continue the walk toward the door, then exit. Her destination? The Blacksmith.

Dora: "Even if I lost both horses?" makes sad puppy face and looks to Shaden for sympathy. "I will think on it."

Shaden: "I think you two should talk this out.. " she nodded between Aegraine and Dora.. the sad puppy face, pulling at her heart. Was Aegraine really so coldhearted..that the woman was actually trembling with fear?.. "I will let you be for now.. but I will be close." an admonishment to Aegraine and a comfort to Dora no doubt... as she turned to Tiberius.. "Yes we have several rooms that could accommodate your needs.. if you will step into my office.. we can get you settled in the ledger..." just as those words were spoke Gerda returned with hot cider for the ladies and his cognac.. handing it to him quietly.. she nodded looked like they were going to have yet another guest.

Tiberius: His smile was warm, pleasant and instantaneous. "Very well. I am but your servant. If there is something to do to help with maintenance, I offer my services. I am adept in many facets. After you, Mistress Aramore."

Aegraine: "Two horses? Both of them." Aegraine just shook her head and began to walk to the exit. "Perhaps I ought to go back now. I have to be at my post early on the morrow." She looked back at the old woman, one more time. Loss of both horses was not all that bad anymore; but it did bring the memories of Jerome and his untimely death, fresh anew. "Return when you like, if you wish. I will not pursue it further."

Dora: Old Dora drank and looked about, to who see might be there to give her symapthy for what she had done; to allay her guilt. " I will return, if we do not walk too fast; I wish you had a cart, Mistress, I do wish that." Luxury she hoped for, while working for a wealthy Captain Engineer.

Shaden: Shaden had led Tiberius into the small library that acted as an office, and offered him a seat , pulling out a ledger and quill she looked up.. " Name.. please " a woman who could read and write as well as cypher.. now that was impressive.

Tiberius: He looked her over once more. A small smile pulling at his features. Yes a woman who could read and write, business savvy and all while she was in a delicate condition. He was awed. "Tiberius Grey, Mistress Aramore." He held the cognac given to him, taking only a small taste.

Aegraine: "Thank you for allowing me to enter your home." She said to Gerda, but did mean this to Shaden, of course. "Good eve." She gave a military bow and walked out the door, to untie the dogs and go home.

Dora: Dora ran out to greet the dogs, left outside of the place, tell the truth she did like them best, but then she had liked those horses, too, "Good eve, all." she waved and headed back to the dwelling.

Shaden: She wrote for a moment then reached into her desk and pulled out a key, handing it to him.. "Breakfast is served family style in the kitchen at your leisure so is lunch. Dinner is formal in the dining room. The only people who have a key are you, myself and the head housekeeper Gerda, if you have valuables you wish to secret.. I have a safe here in my office.. the room is on a day to day basis, and does not include company.. that is extra " she smiled softly as the child in her belly kicked.. rubbing her hand over the bump.. as she stood.. awkwardly.. pressing her other hand to the small of her back.. "I will walk you up.. I was heading.. that way anyway."

Tiberius: Stretching to take the key from her. He gave a small nod, noting the meal periods and the state of his stay here. "No valuables per se, merely my horse, but I can find a stable if necessary." He rose to his full height, tucking the key into a small purse tied to his belt. He offered his arm to the woman to escort her proper. "The.. Company. I take it that this is primarily the function of this establishment?"

Shaden: "Yes the Lily is a Courtesan house." She took his arm and as they left the office she nodded to one of the guards at the door.. "See to Master Tiberius's horse.. stable and feed him well.. then lock up.. make sure you check all the doors... I am retiring for the night " She gave the guard a winsome smile... "The most famed in all of Turas Lan... you will meet the Lily's... our courtesans if you stay with us.. some of the most beautiful exotic girls..talented and educated... you would scarcely be able to tell them from nobility.. though the Lily's do have better manners. " She chuckled as they climbed the stairs.

Tiberius: He chuckled quietly. "I understand what you mean of nobles.. I have amassed a small wealth yet they treat me as if I am little more than a dog. I am no savage." He moved with her, his hand moving to cover hers on his arm. "I have a small confession.." He whispered quietly. "I am not a man of casual... affections. If I seek company, it will likely be nothing more than to alleviate boredom..n'est pas?" He blushed horridly, obviously not accustomed to speaking so frankly on these matters, let alone with a woman!

[BlackSmith]

Bolverk: The rimmed hat was pushed back and up upon his head so he could better see beyond the winds and the chill of the night. Lanterns flickered as the wind picked up, sending the cold all over this side of the world. A long black leather cloak fluttered in the wind as he moved towards the entrance of the Gilded Lily slowly, making those leather boots thump thump against the frozen dirt and cobble stone that made up the many roads within Turas lan. There was no shame in his steps, for though he did not often visit here, he did have his reasons and needs to do so every once in a while. Aregular whore house could be filled with filth, but here...ah here at the Lily, the women washed themselves, took care of themselves and were worth every bit of coin that could be spent on them. Any and all other thoughts were pushed aside from his mind as a rough and large hand moved up to press the front door opened. Warmth flowed around him, casting out the chills of the night as he reached up to remove his hat from his head and sent thick fingers through his long hair to push it back from his face. Two days worth of growth had already gathered, but like a gentleman, he had made sure to bath from his duties as a blacksmith before coming here. If the women were going to be kept clean, he would clean himself as well when coming to visit. The smith was a simple man, with simple needs; these among the few. Dark eyes moved under the thick brows to look at the few women who walked by, dressed to lure and seduce. Some purred towards him, making sure to push their beautiful breast up higher in their tight corset's. Stimulating. He was a man of flesh and eyes did linger here and there. Not yet, never rush to the first one that comes to you. Moving towards the front bar, he was greeted by one of the Madams who inquired what it was he was looking for tonight. That was a good question. ``I may need time to think on that. A drink, and I shall get back to you.`` A blond? A brunette? Large? Small? Thin? Thicker? So many choices, but one thing was sure, he wanted something different.

Moira: Moira certainly took her sweet time getting ready to leave her room, by the time she left it would likely be time to go back up and back to sleep. But she did finally have herself dressed and a big part of what took so darned long was getting any of the loaned gowns from the girls on without any assistance from a maid. These articles of clothing were not made to be put on by just one person but more an army was necessary just to get all the buttons, hooks, and ties done and that was on the gown alone, it didn't even count corsets and stockings and so forth so she had taken forever with a heck of a good reason. The gown was white, every inch of it, and this had to have been of Nairne's gowns for the neckline was near nonexistent and certainly showed off a lot of cleavage, she was grateful God blessed her with enough on top to hold the thing in place. Her hair was done nicely today, putting those skills taugh to her, also thanks to Nairne, and she had it half pulled back with white ribbons intertwined and tied among the curls that were present today. One last check to make sure she was presentable and then she made way down the back stairway, passing the library and halted in her tracked by some a bit of racket from behind the closed doors, a woman screaming out in what was unmistably passions. Moira arched a brow but she didn't disturb, she didn't hear a thing in her mind and kept on her way to the main room of the Lily, finally reaching the doorway and lingering a bit to glance within.::

Nairne: Court? Court? Oh hell! Nairne felt like she was going into shock. Her indigo eyes widened, lips parted slightly, and for a minute she just stared like a dummy. She didn't know how to answer that question. Nairne knew that Shaden had men seeking her out, but...that in itself was tricky. Each of the Lily's had seen the pains of their Mistress whom they loved dearly. Could she even handle that? Then again, could he? She'd still be working. "Tibby...I...I..." Her stuttering came to a halt at the sound of a familiar voice out in the hall, knowing someone would lead the visitor to the main room where they were, and felt her chest tighten with panic. Oh God! As if that wasn't enough to cause a stir the sound of a passioned scream, clearly Ursula by those vocals, had Nairne rolling her eyes. She needed a saving grace...and then she saw her..."Moira! There you are. Where have you been? Have you met Tibby?"

Tiberius: *he was at a loss for her stuttering. Obviously, he'd misstepped and gone into a dangerous arena with his question of courting. He was diligently trying to ignore the .... activity in the Library, but the fact she was scrambling for words when the new entity approached, he knew he'd taken her to a place she was certainly not comfortable. He simply wanted to know.. with... good reason and all.. At least his curiousity was not merely intellectual. Was it possible for women of their station? Was it done? Ah... well.. Later. He let deep blues flicker up to the woman, Nairne all curled against him, his arms wrapped around her, and he offered a smile as if not a darn thing was wrong.* Hello, there miss. Tiberius Grey.

Bolverk: When the Madam gave a nod and moved along, he placed the hat along the top of the bar counter, requesting a drink of whiskey as he slowly removed his cloak from his tall body. The clean tunic held a bit of a ruffle at the cuff area but nothing overly fancy, as he was only a mere blacksmith, not a nobleman. Black leather vest laced up the front while the holsters for his knives blended into the fabric as the straps held tightly along his shoulders so muscles tensed at the movements. Black breeches tucked into black boots, keeping his attire simple and nothing to stand out too much. He was not looking for the attention of all the women, only one or two he wished to choose for the night. The smith was a monthly customer, someone who only came when the needs were too great and he did not feel like pleasuring himself. Fingers grasped the mug that was handed to him while the other hand placed the coins into the tender's hand. Turning around slightly on his seat, his eyes roamed over the many women that were walking about. Some times mystery was better to inspire, but then again it was nice to see what you would be paying for. A coy blond with a fan that she kept flapping back and forth, giving a glimpse of her beautifully decorated face now and then, a women with hair as dark as night pressed her breast out as she delicately pushed back her long hair to expose herself more. All this going on across the room.

Moira: She heard Nairne speak the word 'court' and Moira had had every intention of staying well away from and out of that situation but Nairne seemed to need a life preserver anyway, calling her name and the inquiry of where she had been took her attention to Naire and the one who had his arms around her. She stepped in their direction only because her name had been called out otherwise she would have left them to themselves but it seemed now her attention was in dire need. A smile and nod for the man when he gave his name. "Evening. I'm Moira." No need for her last name as she saw it. Blues then drifting back onto Nairne for the moment at hand. "It takes a while for one to get dressed in these complex gowns. They ought to come with their own armies with which to dress a person. But enough of that, did you need something?" Moira was not going to work all that well as a shield if left in her hands to control.

Nairne: Oh, was he getting closer to the room? Eep! The blacksmith was common customer and a generous lover. Nairne had been bought by him just a month or so ago. She recalled that night quite clearly. It had not been awful, he'd not been rough, and he'd had some unusual...habits...but nothing more unusual than any other. Except to have him come her tonight, after the time with Tibby, was rough. Why? She knew that if he came to her, she'd have to work...and it'd like hurt the man she cuddled against. Moving away, looking to Moira, she gave an overbright smile and an overly enthusiastic laugh,"Silly Moira. Next time ask Gerda to help you. Oh, I wanted you to meet Tiberius. He is a guest here at the Lily." She practically yanked her friend over in front of him.

Tiberius: *He offered a warm smile, offering his hand to her, palm upturned, which would force her to offer hers palm down* A pleasure to meet you, Miss Moira.

Bolverk: Dark eyes did notice Nairne, as well as...Moira? The waitress at the Briar Rose who had quit after serving him. How interesting to see her here? Was this what she wanted to do more? Instead of serving men and women with drinks and food, she served them with her ass and crotch? Who was he to judge her? No one, in fact a soft smile was given towards the ladies, though they seemed occupied with a male already. Hmm, perhaps he would buy two women tonight. He had more then enough coin. Pulling the mug up to his lips, he tilted his head back to down the rest of the drink before he placed the mug down. Hes till had not made up his mind, but he was not moving too fast in his choices yet.

Moira: A nod was given to Nairne at mention of the next time she ought to have Gerda help her to dress though Nairne all but yanked her over and nearly in between herself and Tiberius. "We just met. Nairne. What is the matter with you?" Something was off and Moira adored Nairne but she was not wanting to be put in the middle of it, or to be turned into the shield to deflect men nor advances of them. Nairne dug this hole, she had to jump in.. or.. fill it back up! With a half grin to Tiberius and Nairne both she nodded and excused herself to step back where she had been, even if she wouldn't jump in bodily however, she could do a tiny bit of delaying. "Nairne, where is that housekeeper? You ought to have your guest try that apple cider she makes so well." A small distraction it was and only if it was taken but it had to be better than nothing!

Nairne: Oh, bless Moira! Nodding, Nairne gave a smile,"Why don't you keep Tiberius company while I go fetch some?" It was not a question. She hurried off, flashing a quick smile to the blacksmith, and took the stairs upto her room instead of to the kitchen. Was she fleeing? Yes. Nairne took a minute once inside to breathe deep, compose herself, adjusting hair and washing her face, then took the back stairs down to the kitchen. Luckily for her, Gerda always had Apple Cider. She wasn't gone more than a few minutes before she came back with the tray, and a playful smile, her composure gained- outwardly. She was ready to do her job...she hoped.

Tiberius: *When Moira didn't take his hand, he let it fall back, letting it come to rest at his side rather than around Nairne again. He idly trailed his remaining hand on her up and down her spine oh so slightly. Then she was off like a dart and he used that time to shift his weight, resettling into the couch once more. He smiled warmly.* You need not stay if you do not wish, Miss Moire. I completely understand there is a gentleman in the house.

Bolverk: Eyes lingered on an attractive blond as she winked at him and came trotting over towards him. Normally he went for women with darker hair, but perhaps his heart could not take it tonight. His son had dug up old memories of a wife that had betrayed him. One that was beautiful enough to seduce him with her dark eyes and dark hair. No...seperate it as much as possible. Blond it would be tonight. Eyes as green as the grass had once been before the winter had come and given snow to the lands. Perfect. Eyes glanced towards Nairne as she hurried by him with a polite smile. There was something he had tasted before, no need to chase after her again, though if she had come towards him, he would not have turned her down. Her vanshing, gave the blond the room to move over to him in the lacings of gold and white, making her look heavenly if a poet were to describe her. The smith was no poet, so he could only say she was very appealing. Relaxing his frame upon the seat at the bar, his dark eyes slid closed as she touched his chest, pressing the weight of her finger tips beyond the material of the leather vest and white linen tunic. A hand large hand gently moved to cover her own, holding it there. The woman's caress, there was nothing like it on earth. Opening his eyes, the two day growth of hair upon his face shifted as he smiled gently, not enough to show teeth but enough to form a handsome grin.

Moira: His hand had gone unseen until withdrawn and she shook her head a bit. "I'm sorry, our mongoose here has me in a daze." Yes, Nairne was now dubbed a mongoose, it seemed to fit considering her erratic behavior right now. She smiled at Tiberius, he understood at least and she did move a few steps back. "Perhaps when Nairne has her wits about her again." She turned then, moving toward the kitchen then halted by a man passing through the room with a woman hitched over his shoulder? This really was an interesting place. She hadn't been around long enough yet to learn even a quarter of it but as yet far there had yet to be a dull moment. After that parade was over she went off toward the kitchen, pausing when she saw the smith, recognizing him from the night in the Briar Rose. "Well, fancy seeing you here." He though was busy too so she kept on for the kitchen, she needed a drink and wondered if Shay would frown on employees consuming something a littler stronger than cider.

Nairne: Nairne knew that she would work tonight. She'd not missed that the blacksmith was going after the blonde and that was not going to happen. The man paid good coin and Nairne was smart enough not to let a chance like that be passed up. Placing the tray on the table in front of Tiberius, she gave an apologetic smile as her stomach knotted with guilt and for a second seemed about to say something...then turned on her heel and made for Bolverk. On the way she grabbed one thing: a glass of dark wine. And when Nairne stumbled upon the blonde, Jayne, and him it was with a..."Oh dear..." foot seeming to catch, and the wine went flying toward Jayne's pretty outfit. And Nairne went down a knee catching herself.

Tiberius: *Moira had been disapproving, which had made him examine his behavior. Nairne would be looked down upon by her peers if he continued to act like a love besotted fool. He settled into his corner of the couch, half tucking his leg beneath him. Deep blues moved slowly about, catching the engaging pair rush from one locale in the house to another. Then there was the other gent. He was a knowing sort wasn't he? So he would wait, settled in quietly for a little sit.*

Bolverk: Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw the man carryingt he woman about on his shoulder, the playful banter that some men had with the women here was nothing new, but always interesting to see. The smith always was alert, listening to the things going on around him, for no where was really fully safe was it? Dark eyes lingered on the blond, waiting for her line of the day. Sweet and sure, she purred out how handsome he was, even asking about his knives at his sides, Points to her when she actually noticed the item and not just his handsome face. Even as the woman introduced herself as Jayne, The smith only introduced himself as " Smith" and left it at that. Never did he give his real name and there were reasons for that. Eyes glanced to the left when the white caught his eyes before he saw Moira, who seemed interested at seeing him there as much as he was about her. ``And you, my lady.`` What more could he say? "Nice choice in your job change' No..that would be rude and very ungentleman like. The blond seemed to pout at the moment of attention loss, before he turned to look at her and then over her shoulder. Perhaps she was not as beautiful as he had once thought, for others were grabbing his attention. At the stumble of Nairne, the smith moved fast to pull from the blond, reaching out to catch Nairne carefully around her one arm to steady her, sadly it sent the blond closer and the bottle of wine all down her front. The smith watched as her face twisted in pure horror at the detailed outfit ruined with discoloring. This would be interesting. ''

Jayne: ``YOU CLUMBSY....`` She was completely disgusted with Nairne.

Bolverk: ``My lady, it makes your outfit quite interesting.`` He tried to help, but she only looked to him and sneered before she turned to storm off. It was for the better. A woman after the materials in life. Turn off. Releasing Nairne's arm, he left her to straighten up and shook his head. Oh he knew that was on purpose, how could one miss that? ``Quite clever my lady Nairne. Now you have my interest in which the purpose of that action was for?``

Moira: Moira nodded to the smith, what could he say? More like what could she say? She had an idea of what his thoughts were, now how she managed that trick was anyone's guess, but she said nothing on it otherwise. "Are are you--" The question cut short as Nairne had a literal run in with the blonde woman, or so she thought, keeping up with the goings on in here was at times and to say the least impossible. Always the safe, where spilt wine was concerned and she in a white dress, she backed off a good distance, just to make sure she remained stain free. Gerta and whichever girl gave the loan of this dress would likely slit her throat wide open if she got even the gown even the slightest bit dirty. Now, as Nairne was here, who was with Tiberus? She glanced over to see him alone on the couch. She knew all too well how that felt and amid the chaos involving Nairne, the smith and the blonde Moira slipped away from the trip and moved over to where he was now sitting, settling on the same couch next to the man, without invitation but if she spent her life waiting for invitation to do every little thing life would get extremely boring fast. "So, I find you alone now. How did such a thing happen?" A soft inquiry but none too prying. She was smooth.

Nairne: Allowing the blacksmith to catch her, leaning on him, Nairne looked at Jayne, clearly angry and knowing exactly what she was upto, with a look akin to shock. "Oh no, Jayne, your new gown! I...did not mean..." When the girl stormed Nairne suppressed the urge to laugh and instead gave the most innocent, wide-eyed look with her indigo gaze at Smith's question. Still leaning on him, just a little, she murmured,"Do you think I would do something like that on purpose? Sweet, little old me?" Out of the corner of her eye she caught the sight of Moira going into where Tibby sat alone and swallowed, forcing herself to not think if the girl was...playing the part.

Tiberius: *He had reached for the hot apple cider Nairne had brought him, a gentle smile to her as she hustled about. He sat alone, though he wasn't sulking in his isolation. He was simply enjoying the quiet. Cerulean hues flickered to Moira as she invited herself to settle on the opposing end of the couch. He offered a smile warm enough.* I imagine it will happen often enough while I am here. I think, perhaps, you mistake me for a patron when I am merely.. a new resident of sorts. I realize that Nairne has to attend to the patrons. I have patience enough.. Besides, I am waiting for Mistress Aramoire. I was going to see if she had any positions open here. *He canted his head. And what of you Miss Moira? I am not detaining you from your duties am i?

Bolverk: It was like musical men, instead of chairs in here. Each woman switching, perhaps trying to find the better match to which ever male came in. Moira had once been over with the male, then she had come to the kitchen, while Nairne had gone off to the other gentleman. Now Moira had asked him something, or started to but then went off towards the other male, while Nairne had come over to Bolverk. Eyes narrowed on Nairne as she spoke in an innocent voice. Women played too many f**king games. It was why he came here though instead of courting like other men did. Here, the games were paid for and he could make up the rules with the coin he gave. A arm wrapped about her slender waist, tucking her against his side so she could fit perfectly there when he adjusted the knife to not press into her delicate body. That closeness allowed Bolverk to feel the tension her body gave. What was it that made her tense? Like any well trained male, he looked around to see were her eye shifted ever so slightly - only someone who paid close attention could see it- towards the male sitting there with Moira speaking to him. The smith smiled wide and slid his hand down her side to her thigh so she could feel the weight and heat from his hand even through the fabric. Grabbing the thick of the meat there gently he leaned closer to her, brushing his lips against the shell of her delicate ear. She smelled devine. That rough, husky baritone moved out, softly with the closeness. ``Lady Nairne, your smile says hello, your body says something else and it is not the hello I am looking for. Why have you come over to me tonight when a male already held your attention before hand?``

Moira: Shaking her head, slowly, she didn't work on doing it all that time earlier to ruin it with head shaking. I do not take you for a patron if you say you're not one, but you were all alone and I wanted to avoid any possible altercation between some of the women over there." She kept flicking her gaze to Nairne and the smith, once it was safe she would wander again since Tiberius seemed to want either Shay or Nairne's attention only. It didn't matter to her, she just wished people would find somewhere to go and stay there, or at least so going about with glasses of stuff that could spill and stain, that was Moira's only concern really.

Malice: It wasn't often that a single woman, graced the Lily unescorted.. and not being a Lily herself.. but this was the case.. of some urgency it would seem to bring about the appearnce of One Lady Mary Alice Campbell.. it was Gerda who showed her in, pointing across the room in the direction of the person she was looking for.. ahhh there he was.. the dark cloak pushed back from her head.. of inky black silken locks, turbulent indigo hues almost violet in nature gazed across the spance of the room locking on her prey.. Bolverek.. she would not move toward him.. only the arch of her brow that said.. I need you now , the others basically discounted as she had no intrest or need of them.. Framed in the archway that led to the foyer she waited.. something that was not her forte` waiting

Nairne: The actions of Smith, his hand felt through her gone, his breath on her ear, did make her heart pound. Why? Nairne knew that he was indeed a lover found pleasing in bed. She should have known he'd note the tension, but instead locked indigo eyes on his own gaze, clearly. Her tone was no-nonsense,"Did you come here for idle chit-chat? Or something more? We both know Jayne is too...delicate...for your tastes. She would not have pleased you the way I can...and have." Did she notice the arrival of another? Nope. Instead she stayed leaning against him, her body relaxing now.

Tiberius: *Moira picked up and slipped away. He did not call after, just allowed her to take her calloused being else were. He would continue to nurse his cider, smiling inwardly. Though that amile would slip away as he noted Nairne's fold in to the man. He gave a small shift, turning more to the side on the couch, so he could look elsewhere, nursing his cider.*

Bolverk: Why would a woman come to cause such a dramatic scene and then tense as she looked elsewhere? Because she as doing something she felt she had to, or wanted to, but then wanted something else? Bolverk was a older male, in his late forties, he was a man with skills that did not die just because he was in the mood to be touched the right way. Perhaps that was why he noticed another coming in, though not completely into the room. Eyes shifted as his lips pressed against the shell of Nairne's ear while she spoke. Looking beyond her lovely smelling hair, he saw Malice and noted the look on her face. ``You are far too right Lady Nairne. Then if you can tear yourself from the distraction that made your body tense, perhaps you will be so willing as to please me again? Pick another girl to occupany you as well. Someone you desire above all others. Choose wisely.`` He was looking to Malice the whole time he spoke, just beyond the hair of Nairne. Moving his hand to slide back up Nairne's thigh and hip, he removed it slowly, letting her move as he pulled up. Bolverk had one thing on his mind and Malice's needs were not something he cared for. Instead of ignoring her, he rose his right hand and hooked his pointer finger in a ' come then' motion. If she thought he was going to her, she had another thing coming.

Malice: It was as if she could read his mind... his words, disgust roiled in the pit of her stomach as she watched him fawn over the girl at his side.. yes the very same one that shared features with herself, eyes that could not be denied.. there was kin there she felt it the same way a dog feels fleas.. her eyes narrowed viperishly as he waggled his finger at her.. it was a dam courtesan house.. she did not belong her.. it was only desperation that made her seek him out , not the fithly things he had in his mind.. the though banged about in her head of murdering him.. a little poision in a glass of ale.. and dead.. no longer living.. a smile lifted her lips soflty to him it probably looked like she was pleased with his f**king finger wiggeling.. as she stepped into the room toward him.. a dark glance given the girl he was pawing.. she had the urge to lean over to her and simple say BOO!

Nairne: "It is only you I think about. How could I think of another?" She put Tibby out of her mind, as much as possible, wiggled her body a little against Smith's and grinned at him. At the words of choosing another Nairne worried her lip a moment. The only one she could choose, who she trusted explicitly, was Moira. Yet, could she knowing what she did? Then she considered it. Smith was a generous lover. He would teach her well and would not be rough. "I know who..." Indigo eyes searched out Moira until they found her, a hand reaching out to beckon her near. When Nairne was about to move some it was to turn and see someone approaching them. Who was this? She offered a smile,"Greetings, miss."

Tiberius: *He rose to his feet, moving through the house to head towards the door, cup still in hand though. He perched in the door way, looking out into the night.*

Bolverk: Once a mug was sat down and out of eye sight, he never picked it up again. Tools of the trade as they said. The smith barely came to the brothel, in fact it was only once every month that he came here to get what men desired. Other times he was much too busy. Becausde Mary had not said anything yet, his eyes were picking up everything that Nairne said before his eyes shifted to her as she said she knew who. Good, time would not be wasted. Of course, she greeted Mary as the woman approached. Eyes glanced Mary up and down, trying to spot any bumps under her clothing where weapons could be hidden. All his muscles tensed, for only a fool would be completey relaxed. His face turned stoic and calm for there was no reason to get up in arms about her appearance. ``How displeased God would be to find you about such a place. Have you come to give the word of God to the whores and courtisans within the brothel? You would be pleased to find many of them are God fearing women already.`` His voice was calm and steady, no tone of teasing though the words said other wise. He made sure not to say her name in case she wanted no one to know it. Moving his rear to the edge of the seat slowly, he pressed his booted foot firmly to the floor. You never knew when someone would attack, best to not have the seat handicap you.

Moira: Moving carefully, interweaving through a few people without smacking into anyone, Moira approached Nairne and the smith again as her friend was near plastered up against him at the time. If she was needed to play the shield again this time she may very well do it just to prevent the impending boredom that she could feel was approaching. Her gaze trained on Narnie, paying little notice to others about, she did not know there and therefore would not bother them just now. "You needed something, darlin'?" The question for Nirne since she had all but called Moira over.

Malice: "Good Evening Miss... MasterBolverek.. " she dipped a low curtsey the silky fall of ebon hair veiling her face from sight as he asked his inane questions of God and displeasure.. what and ass.. as he was indeed the hand of Gods Vengence in Rome.. scalding sinners into confession... and death.. slavation in torture.. and he spoke to her as if she gave a dam about God.. or these whores.. " Actually I was seeking you out.. I have need of you... your skills as a blacksmith.. " she lifted then painting on a cold mask of indiffece to his lewd groping of the girl beside him.. was it only obviuse to her how much she and the girl resemebled.. damm Angus Campbell and his wandering prick.. she thought she had ridded the world of her siblings long ago.. and yet.. here was evidence once more of seed spilled.. and considering the girl had turned out to be a whore... it was seed spilled in waste.. " Unless you are intent on spending coin this night instead of making it " her eyes roamed over the girl with barely hidden disgust, the mirror image of Nairne's nose wrinkiling as if she smelled dogchyt.. fresh from the dog

Nairne: Nairne was normally one to observe, to pay attention to people, yet her mind had been fogged. When the woman had first approached, she'd smile naturally...but slowly it became forced. Something about the woman made her uneasy and a shiver chased through her body. Moira's approach was a relief, and she slipped from Smith's embrace to pull Moira off to the side. Leaning close, whispering,"Smith has asked me to choose a girl to...join us...this evening. I know what you told me, but...I think he would be a good choice to handle it. If you wish to come that is." Nairne made it clear that the decision was Moira's, not hers or Smith's. While she waited for the girl to answer her indigo eyes sought a brief glimpse of Tibby. She needed to at least speak to him before

Tiberius: *He nursed the last of his Apple cider. The concoction rested in the pit of him, comforting and settled his nerves. He opted to move back to the couch, at least to set his cup back on the tray. Curiosity, that killer draw, he could not withstand the temptation to look in their direction, wondering what they were doing. Deep blues watched her for but a minute, a small smile touching his lips noting her brief glimpse his way. He'd give her a tip of his head, opting to move back to the doorway and look out into the night.*

Bolverk: His arm released Nairne as Moira came close and she went to speak to the girl, yet not so far away that he could not hear them. Why was it so important to listen to the two women speak? Because something in the way Nairne spoke to the girl said something to Bolverk. Had Moira not been in service of any one yet since being here? chyt. Eyes were on Mary still as she asked for his expertise in the blacksmith field. He highly doubted that, but he was not going to turn her away. Oh the disgust on her face sent wonderful tingles along his body. He wanted to smile, but held back knowing his next words would piss her off even though he was not trying to. ``Then leave a parchment with your request with me or come to my shop during the hours it is open, Mary. I will be spending my coin tonight though I would do such a task for you after I am finished. Unless you wish to join myself and the women I intend to bed tonight, I am sure you will not linger long enough to wait until I am finished spending my coin as I see fit.`` Difficult..indeed. He answered to no one, even those who asked for his business.

Moira: Nairne's question had her lifting her shoulders in a very slight shrug. Certainly she would.. could.. do this request. She wasn't here to be a decoration for the house, she was here to work and that was what she'd do.She didn't think on what she was asked, she would just do it, keeping her mind seperated from such things is what was required of her, or so she had been told by a few people. All she had to do now was follow the advise then everything would or should flow rather simply from there. "Of course, if you're sure you want to ask me over another." She said no more after that, leaving Nairne to make her own choice as was done for her but a moment ago.

Malice: His whole Attitude needed an adjustment that a dagger to his artful tougne could supply.. bastard.. he had made a simple mistake.. indeed.. he denied her.. thus placing him in the precarious position of being of no need any Longer.. to her.. and things that were not needed were.. discarded... a smile graced her face.. such beauty behind that flawless countence.. espcially when she smiled.. " I have misjudged you Smith.. it seems that I will find someone else.. to fill my request.. tonight.. as it is urgent and cannot wait until business hours.. of that you could have surmised had not the blood flow to your brain been diverted elsewhere... by the simple fact of my being here in this place " she turned then without word.. heading toward the door... simple there was no rage or anger.. it was as it was... there were others who would take her coin for the repair she needed.. but now.. he had bearded the lion so to speak.. and she knew his secrets

Nairne: "If I had wished to choose another I would have asked them." Smiling gently at the girl, catching Tibby's look, she cut her eyes toward the kitchen and hoped he'd get the message. "I will just go let Gerda know. He usually prefers a more private place of his choosing. Why don't you speak with him? Get to know him a bit better." Nairne turned, watching the creepy woman leave, wondering who she was, and looked at Smith. "Moira will be coming with us. I must go speak to Gerda a moment, but I will be back out soon," Giving him a warm smile, she turned to make for the kitchen-- hopefully, he'd not notice. Then again the man seemed to bloody notice everything!

Tiberius: *He tried not to hear the man's words. His body tensed, but only momentarily. Some men were pigs. Deep blues flickered toward the kitchen. He moved towards the couch, fetching the tray with his cup and bus it back to the kitchen himself. It would be the courteous thing to do. So there, disappeared into the kitchen, those deep blues sought her. His voice soft.* What is it? *The tray set aside and forgotten, he wondered what in the world she was doing.*

Bolverk: Moira had accepted and Mary was displeased. Ah, the wonders of women. Had Bolverk not been busy, he would have found another excuse to not help Mary....perhaps. He wanted nothing to do with her games in this town, nor did he want to help her in the least. He watched as she moved from him, neither storming out nor giving him a disgusted look. She was up to no good, he could smell it. They made their agreement and it had nothing to do with him helping her. He had agreed to not tell her secret and she agreed to not tell his. Why did he feel like she would bend the rules now? Grunting softly, he looked back to Nairne as she said Moira would be joining them and gave a nod of his chin. He was pleased with the choice as he looked to those beautiful eyes. ``Thank you for coming along. While she handles the things she finds she needs to, would you like to ask me any questions? Perhaps there are things you would like to ask that I not do.`` Bolverk was not a rude man, or a pig. He would treat both ladies with respect even if the acts they were going to be doing were not overly dignified or proper. He already knew Nairne's rules and if she forgot his, he would remind her.

Moira: She didn't expect that, for him to ask her, most men she took note of in her short existence so far, didn't give a damn what women wanted or didn't want. Now he was going to force her to think and the hope at an attempt of keeping her mind for the most part seperated from the rest of her wasn't all that possible, not if she had to think of questions, set rules, and so forth. But, in his favor, the question was so spur of the moment she drew a complete blank. She could think of nothing. It may come to her later but that was like to be too late. "At the time, I have nothing. Which is highly unusual for me." She never had her mind go blank on her like this, it was as if someone just switched off the light bulb and she was left in absolute darkness.

Nairne: What was she doing? Well, Nairne had intended to apologize right off to Tiberius. Though now she was at a loss. He knew what she was...so did she need to explain.? Sighing softly, feeling guilty and confused, Nairne started,"I..." then stopped and groaned. Rubbing her forehead with the palm of one hand, she finally settled on,"Look...I know...I avoided an answer. I just wasn't sure how to answer. Do you think you could handle that? I go to share his bed tonight. And there will be others. I...don't want to hurt you."

Tiberius: Then don't hurt me. *he moved to her, but stopped. A man would not wish her to smell of another man. No. He just rocked on his heels a moment. Heel to ball of his feet, then back.* As for.. being capable of handling this.. I would have to be honest and say that I do not know? I understand up here.. *raising his hand to his temple and tapping it lightly* But it is here *His hand moving to cover his heart, patting his chest* That I do not know. *He licked his lips.* Uhm. Come talk to me after he is... gone?

Bolverk: Bolverk's mind was now in two different places. Too much of an active mind at that. Mary could be a problem, or she could write him off completely. It was really up in the air at this point, but he would not be so blind sighted. A soft smile moved on his lips at Moira and her comment. ``As I tell most women, if there is anything that bothers you during, let me know and I will stop. All I ask is that you both bath before hand. `` Anything else he will tell her when he gets to the room. He was a patient man, not seeing any need to rush things along. He had all night. His son was gone doing his own thing and he was not going to worry about him now. He was a man.. Bolverk had to trust his choices.

Moira: Moira nodded. That was a simple request really and so long as he had no intention of tying someone up and hacking parts of them off, she was very open to things. Moira was what some may call a freak but in her mind she was just more accepting of people and their ideas. "Bathing hm? And I spent three hours on my hair too." Words spoken in jest and she smiled, she could use a good soak in a tub right now anyway to be honest. Nothing better than lounging in a tub filled with hot steaming water.

Nairne: Don't hurt him. How simple that sounded. He would end up hurt though. His words about not understanding it in his heart proved that. Nairne felt frustrated and confused, but instead acquiesced. "On the morrow, meet me at Fieldren Fields in the morning. We will ride and talk..." It sound plausible enough. Nairne wanted to kiss him again, but fought that off. She was about to go share Smith's bed. "He will be waiting...." She whispered the words, gave a gentle smile, and went around him to head into the main hall where Moira and Smith were. "Are we ready?"

Tiberius: Just go, I will be fine.. *He urged her softly, then waited until she slipped out of the kitchen. He would wait until she was gone a few minutes, walking about the kitchen to kill time. Checking to see if there was a backway out... wouldn't that just be cowardly? No, he would wait until they'd gone upstairs back out to the front.*

Bolverk: Bolverk laughed at her wonderful jest about her hair. Lovely hair at that. ``You will not need to wet it. Could pull it up in the mean time.`` Eyes drifted towards the door when Nairne moved out and asked if they were ready. Bolverk grabbed his things and waved his hand for the girls to lead while he followed. Two hours later, he returned down stairs, fully dressed and cleaned from a bath himself without the ladies following him. Most of that time was do to bathng of course. Without a word, his hat was placed on his head and cloak was pulled tighlty around him, before he moved out to head for his shop, hoping no surprises waited for him.

[nairneadair]

``of a cracked shell

Nairne: Morning came to the Lily, sunshine seeping in windows, deceptively beautiful in tempting to lure those within out of doors. Yet, the cold of winter, it's lovely snow glittering on the ground, kept most indoors. Though never Nairne. She'd headed outside shortly after waking, at the crack of dawn, to ride in Fieldren Fields. Cherub had raced over the snow laden fields with wild abandon, allowing Nairne to be free, and when she returned to the Lily it was with a pink tinge to her fair skinned face. Laughter lurked in the depth of indigo eyes, lighting up her smile, and she ran a gloved hand through wind-blown sable hair. Gerda took her cloak, and gloves as they were removed, shaking her head,"You will catch your death out there, Sweet One." Giving a sweet smile to Gerda, the Mother she'd never had, Nairne grinned,"Not me. Neither God nor the devil wish me to trouble their realms. Tea, please, and some warm biscuits?" A brief glimpse of puppy dog eyes and Gerda went off laughing as Nairne gracefully made her way in to warm by the fire, humming softly.

Tiberius]: The man had stayed the night, a hand running back through his hair. He had used the basin to wash up. Once hew as all cleaned up and ready, a deep brown tunic donned, he moved from his room and down into the main parlor of the establishment. Those midnight pools moving about, taking in his surroundings. He eased down the steps as he watched quietly. He recognized faces and a small smile touched his lips. His gaze flickered to Gerda. "My horse is well and taken care of yes?" A smile offered to the other woman, a bow of his upper torso. "Morning to you, Miss."

Nairne: Nairne was in a better mood than she had been last evening. Yesterday had been her birthday, and she couldn't even tempt a client on that night!, so it'd miffed her a bit. Now though, after a bit of sleep and a morning ride, she was perky again. She was the type to rarely let life get her down and tried to enjoy each minute. The sound of a male voice was noted, but the closeness was not realized and being quite silly Nairne did a small twirl to her humming. It made the skirts of her Italian crimson silk gown billow out a bit, giving a brief peek of white stockings and matching red slippers, before she became still again. Upon seeing him her blue eyes widened in shock before she burst into laughter,"Oh dear, I did not see you..." That, for once, was not a part being played. Gerda had returned to answer his question, with the tea and biscuits, to find the amusing scene,"Indeed sir, he is well. Miss Nairne will tell you. She just came from the stables."

Tiberius: He smile grew wider, brighter. He tipped his head, rising once more to his full height of 6'2". "My thanks, Gerda. I appreciate your assistance. Thank you so very much." He looked to the woman, midnight blues taking her in over all not raking down her form like some crude neanderthal. His eyes were actually on her face.. "Miss Nairne? Tiberius Grey, ma'am. A pleasure to meet you." He would move with slow sure steps toward her, his hand offered palm upturned, that would make her offer hers palm down. If she would, the courtly gesture would be offered, bowing from his waist to bestow an small affection to the back of her hand. Though deep blues never left her face, and twin tiers never dared brush delicate skin. He would rise to his full height once more. "A pleasure to make your acquaintence. Mistress Aramoire has offered lodging here even though, it is... My understanding it is not a conventional... 'Inn'..."

Nairne: Gerda gave a nod,"Something to drink? Or will you take tea with Nairne? I can bring food as well if you wish it." She would wait for a response then bustle off to fetch what was wished. The old housekeeper rarely kept still. Nairne appraised the male from the cover of slightly lowered, thick eyelashes the same shade as her hair, indigo eyes taking note of each feature and movement. It was not disconcerting nor crude, just observant, as was Nairne's nature. Curtsying deep, enough to offer the briefest glimpse of flesh viewed by her square neckline, Nairne rose gracefully,"A pleasure to meet you, Sir Grey. Welcome to the Lily." A slim hand would be offered, oddly pleased by his gentlemanly act, and she'd have to laugh at his words,"Oh, no, definitely not conventional. Come join me on the couch? The fire is warm and the weather chill."

Tiberius: "Tea would be lovely, Gerda. Again, my gratitude." He watched Nairne curtsy and licked his lips, though it was easily seen as a nervous tick, nothing lascivious, though, he did note the flesh. That could be seen in the faint flush rising to pigment handsome features. His voice was soft, hesitant. "I would be most obliged to join you, Miss Nairne. But please, I am no knight of any order. Sir is not necessary." He would offer his arm to escort her. Courtly, his gestures were that of pure gentleman. He watched her quietly.

Nairne: Motioning for him to take a seat, she took one next to him, with only a hands space between their legs. Her skirts rubbed against his own clothing easily. Grinning softly, she raised a brow,"Lord then? Lord Grey does sound quite dashing compared to Sir Grey. Though the latter is noble." Nairne's voice had a teasing quality to it. She knew the man was likely neither, but would still address him either way. Unless he gave leave for use of his first name. With poise, Nairne poured tea into two cups, her indigo gaze barely cutting to watch her actions. Yet she never spilled a drop. Lowering the pot, she offered him his cup first,"Cream? Sugar?" Motioning to the containers on the tray.

Tiberius: A smile more tender blossomed on handsome features and he offered a gaelic roll of his shoulders, meaning nothing and everything. "Who am I to argue with a lady such as yourself? The choice is yours and I will abide by your decision here. But I would rather you simply address me as Tiberius, or Tibby." He watched her as she served them, the first inkling of just what she might be in the household took hold. An audible swallow was easily heard from him. Nerves. A pass of muscled pink washed over his lips once more. Cerulean hues kept focused on her indigo pools. "Sugar only, please."

Nairne: "I think Tiberius will do then. Until we become better acquainted, of course." A hint of suggestion, perhaps, showing as a slight gleam in the depth of her eyes locked on his. Nodding slightly, she spooned a lump of sugar into his tea and then offered the spoon for him to stir. Nairne tended to her own tea, adding a dab of cream and two lumps of sugar, stirring languidly. Steam rose, comforting after the cold, and she repositioned to settle more comfortably. In truth, Nairne was being more herself than acting the part. It was too early yet. Ears picked up on the swallow, eyes noting the nervousness, but she spoke not a word,"What brings you to Turas Lan, Tiberius?" She took a sip of her tea.

Tiberius: "Traveling and being a man of the world, seeing what all is there to it.." He offered a sheepish grin, taking the cup and spoon, stirring slowly, trying not to clink the spool on the cup. He watched her, that smile, her way, something so natural to her that drew his own warmth and open good nature. "I do not have a wife or family to speak of.. So I decided to wander the land, see what could be seen." He turned ever so minutely to face her more after letting the spoon drip over his cup. He would set it over on the tray with a slight lean, of course, bringing him closer to her. Then he settled into the plush couch once more, inhaling the steam rising off the tea.

Nairne: Unintentional. That was the first word that came to mind when Tiberius leaned closer. It did not seemed contrived, as with most visitors, and the corners of her mouth tilted up a little more. "Then you chose a good place. Turas Lan,
and Skye, has many interesting sights to be seen. It is part of the Gaelic Renaissance." Nairne wondered if he knew what it was. If not, he'd ask and she'd explain. For now though she took in details- no wife, no children, and a wanderer. Interesting indeed. "Though, traveling outside the capital is not advised at present. Skye, though lovely, has its troubles as any other and there is also the snow. Winter is quite vicious this year." Nairne drank her tea slowly, lifting the cup and lowering it in a way that seemed unhurried and graceful.

Tiberius: He chuckled quietly. "Winter is not a concern. I know how to deal with the cold. I was born in a small Russian province high in the mountains. I lived there until two years ago when my mother passed. It was then I left.." He looked no older than his mid twenties. "My mother had been sick these last nine or ten years.. My father passed when I was but a boy..." He flushed, looking up to her. "Forgive me.. I ramble.. Forgive me.. I um.. I am not famliar with this place.. Which is why I came. Others have told me of this place in my travels.. So .. I wandered this way." He offered a warm and innocent smile.

Nairne: That he was rambling was somewhat endearing. Nairne listened though, showing not a single sign of boredom, with clear interest on her face. When he apologized, she laughed softly,"There is no need to be sorry. Did I look bothered by it or dulled to tears?" Sipping her tea, Nairne nodded,"Well, we are part of the Gaelic Renaissance, as I said previously. We promote freedom, justice, and equality without borders between. We are a diverse culture, our Weaponsmaster, Sir Zurban, is Russian I believe. I am Scottish. Yet, we also have an Arab man who is a merchant. We have a healer, Aislin, who is more knowledgeable than any I have known in medicine and keeps on striving to better it." Nairne loved Skye, to be honest, which was why she called it home. It'd be easy to note by her brief mention of herself though that she did not talk of herself on a personal level.

Tiberius: He grinned sheepishly. "It is not that I think you were bored or dull.. it is merely that I have.. not really had many people to talk to over this few months. I suffer a touch from loneliness." His tongue played over his lips once more. "So you are... Scottish? From here? You been anywhere else.." He nursed a small sip from the cup, watching her so intently.

Nairne: "Then it seems that you came to the perfect place after being alone for so long. Most compare a Courtesan to a whore, but in truth, we are not. We provide companionship, not just the kind found in bed either, to those who need it." Nairne smiled softly, indigo eyes moving from him a moment to pick up a biscuit and delicately cover it with honey. Looking back to him, she'd clarify,"Not that this is me doing a duty or work, of course!" She did not want to offend him. A small bite was taken from the biscuit, a dribble of honey removed by the flick of her tongue over lips, and she remembered his questions. Her voice was still friendly, but she was cautious,"Aye, I am Scottish born and raised. Though I was not born here in Skye. Circumstances brought me here in my teens and I have stayed since." That was a...mysterious answer.

Tiberius: He was quick to pick up that 'circumstances' brought her here, but because he poured his past out to complete strangers, did not mean that everyone did. He would respect her privacy. Another sip of his tea, he studied her again. "I was not aware precisely what a courtesan was other than... Well.. I know of companionship from Mistress Aramoire, but I did not assume... Um.." Again, there was that blush, though deeper. Obviously the talk of a woman in any sort of sexual manner made his cheeks flush instantly.

Nairne: That he did not ask more was a point in his favor. Nairne liked that. Most tried to pry which then ticked her off and Nairne in that mood was not...pleasant. It was his stammer, his blush, that made her indigo eyes softened a bit. Now that was sweet. Why? She did not know. Usually she'd take the time to torment the innocent, to make them blush more, but she wasn't in that mood today. Plus, he seemed too nice. Nairne placed a comforting hand on one of his own,"I did not mean to apply that you assumed, Tiberius. Just that most do in general." The hand did not move, and Nairne's own thigh pressed against his own unintentionally. "Tell me more of your plans to travel?"

Tiberius: Though his hand did jump a bit at her touch, he eased back into a more relaxed nervous tension. Ha. He didn't know women. He'd lived with his mother without advantage of his father to .... educate him properly. He knew enough to get him in trouble. At least he realize that with women, especially on a one on one basis, he was out of his element. In a seductive situation? His nerves would shake him apart at the seams. "Nothing really... planned. Just...wandering, seeing the world and learning more how to be a man of it. To live and work withit. I am well versed at living emersed in the woods and forests of my homeland, but city life.. Not having to do things myself and really having nothing to barter with.. well.. It is a learning experience."

Nairne: That jump had not went unnoticed by Nairne. She let him adjust though and did not move. Letting him talk, nodding, Nairne's other hand lifted to brush a stray sable lock off her cheek and tuck it behind an ear. Of course, with her luck the curl just fell right back in her face again as soon as her hand lowered. Giving a sigh of exasperation, Nairne laughed,"Unruly mass." Well, he seemed intent upon learning and growing. That was wonderful in Nairne's mind. "Well, if you wish, Turas Lan is a city and you are not a stranger in it anymore. To me, anyways. You could stay, a bit, if you wished, and I could show you around." An offer, of company, outside the Lily. As a friend, or as a companion, her indigo gaze hinted at, yet his choice.

Tiberius: That blush renewed once more at her offer, his eyes cast down. That made his own unruly waves fall before his eyes. They veiled deep blues as he raised his eyes to look up at her once more. "I think I would like that very much, Miss Nairne. You are too kind." His hand shifted a touch under hers, splaying then settling still again. He watched her, quietly. "I would appreciate if you could, perhaps, point me in the direction of some work. I would be.. much obliged." Again, that audible swallow. His breath was slow, measured, almost too carefully done. He was trying to still the frantic beat of his heart. The quiver of his hand as it raised his teacup, nursing it quietly.

Nairne: "Please, call me Nairne." That smile warmed a bit more. "Well, you could always talk to Shaden. There is work here at the Lily besides that of Courtesan. I can make other suggestions if you tell me what kind of work you are looking for?" Nairne noticed the way he was breathing, noted her own pulse was racing a bit, and her indigo gaze focused a little more intently on his own blue ones. "Why do you breathe so?" Oh, Nairne knew. She was not an innocent. Yet, it seemed appropriate. She purposefully leaned a bit closer, other hand reaching to brush strands away from his face, fingertips caressing the skin of a cheek briefly. "There. Better."

Tiberius: "Nairne.. As you wish.." Then she inquired of his breathing. Oh god! She noticed. That captive pulse skipped then fluttered all the faster. He spoke ever so softly, "I.. am not accustomed to being in such close proximity of.. A beautiful and intelligent woman.. My apologies.. I am.. just.. Nervous." He swallowed audibly once more as her hand approached. Deep blues slipped closed as she brushed at his hair. A rough exhale slipped from him. God, her skin was soft. His eyes squeezed tight as he tried to bring his frantic pulse, breath, nerves under control once more, deep blues opening once more. His words were barely audible. "Thank you.."

Nairne: Now, for once, Nairne actually blushed. The fair color of her skin darkened noticeably. It was clear that his compliment was not practiced and that he gave it so easily, without purpose, caught her offguard. Lashes lowered to shadow her eyes a little, noting the way he closed his own at her brief touch, and she smiled softly,"You're welcome. Though, I apologize, for not asking first." Taking a soft breath, she continued,"What kind of work? You haven't said..." She stayed in the same spot, not moving, and curious to see what would come of matters. Curiousity killed the cat, as the saying went, and Nairne...well...she could be a pesky kitty at times.

Tiberius: But satisfaction brought the critter back. Deep blues threatened to flutter close at that small breath of hers. Oi. This was not something he was accustomed to. Though his body gave a small shift, he dared not move away. No he feared breaking that connection between them, taking only small sips of air. "Well.. I am handy.. Good with tools.. I uhm.. I do not have any sort of reservations against what some would consider.. menial labor.. I have no shame in uh.. that regard." He offered a sheepish grin for her.

Nairne: "Oh, then it should not be hard to find work. I assume you are skilled with your hands, as well?" A simple question, no hidden meaning, yet Nairne's voice made it seem that way. It was softer than before, huskier, though not intentionally. Shifting, only a little, not to break contact but instead to just resettle, Nairne smiled at him quietly.

Tiberius: He gave an all-too-quick nod. This woman was intoxicating, had him utterly inebriated as he drank her in. He spoke ever so soft, a hint of the slavic accent peeking out of what had been carefully learned english. "I am skilled, Nairne..," again, that small uncomfortable shift, he leaned to place his tea on the tray, freeing his other hand. It came to lay with the first. And as he settled back, she might take note that he was just a breath closer than when he had leaned forward to set the tea up. "I apologize for.. a lack of .. uhm.. decorum on my part. I am just.. I feel like a cub in close quarters with the lioness."

Nairne: Nairne did notice that he was actually closer. It set her pulse to skittering faster. His words had one brow arching, head canting to the side briefly, her smile slightly less as worry lit her gaze,"Am I making you uncomfortable? It was not...my intention." Nairne was not an innocent, but well it didn't mean that at times she looked it. She adjusted, as if set to move back a space. She did not want to frighten him off. Men that were less experienced were not something she usually...seduced.

Tiberius: He cupped her hands and and offered a pleading gaze. Addicted so quickly to the attention of a woman. He could be crippled by her affection from his reaction. He looked down to her hands, choking down the panic of her slight withdrawal. "No, please. I am fine.. Just.. give me a moment to adjust.." He slowed his breath, and tried to choke back his pulse. "What.. Sort of work would the Lily require?"

Nairne: Settling, not moving, she nodded slowly. The action of his hands cupping hers had a breath drawn, deep, and she let it out slowly. His question gave her something to hold onto,"Well, I do not know. We have a Guard though I imagine Shaden could use someone around to help with any repairs that may need done. I will ask her, if I see her first, if you'd like." Nairne's mind was a little off at the moment. A Courtesan was taught never to make any moves. They were to tempt and lure in their...prey...so to speak. Yet, she could have. Only common whores did that though. Tsk tsk! "I imagine any job would also include food and board, as well."

Tiberius: "I need only time enough to amass materials to build someplace not far off. I would not.. dream that I could be boarded here.. That would take up a place for her customers. No, when I cannot pay my way, I will go on my way." He licked his lips, watching her with those deep blues. "I will have to inquire of Mistress Aramoire."

Moira: Moira slept in today, so by the time she woke it was allready late afternoon. Ugh, she needed to not remain awake until the wee hours of the morning. And now she had to go through the whole ritual of getting dressed and done up and on the list went. She got to work on that as soon as she had doused her face with cold water, that should help some, the water and coldness of it together was better than any wake up call from the housekeeper.

Nairne: "Accept it, at least, until you get on your feet. It is not viewed as taking a room from a customer. Everyone employed here has one..." Nairne hoped he'd stay, at least for now. Her indigo eyes dropped briefly to the action of his lips and then quickly raised, blushing. "Plus, this way, you will have the company of others to keep the loneliness at bay."

Tiberius: The smile was instant from her words. Company of others. No loneliness? That was a picture perfect reality. He simply wouldn't be doing the same nature of work as everyone else... He gave a small nod. "I suppose you're right. I simply am not accustomed to getting a fair shake, I suppose." He stroked her hand, idly, deep blues watching her. "So.. When do you want to start our tour of this lovely new place?"

Nairne: "Perhaps, if you wish, this evening? Turas Lan is beautiful at night and I can show you the artist's district. They have Gypsy performers at times and they dance, and sing, and entertain...wonderfully." Nairne felt a slight squeeze in her belly at the stroke of her hand, but kept smiling. "If you wish too, we could ride in Fieldren Fields. Your horse may need to stretch his legs if he's been cooped up all day."

Tiberius: He perked a touch at the mention of Gypsy performers. "I would like the ride...and honestly.. Your plan for the day seems quite perfect." He offered a sage nod, watching her more closely as he stroked her hand again lightly. It was a mere dance of fingertips across the back of her hand covering his, tracing the lines of her tendons beneath the surface of satin flesh.

Nairne: "Truly? I am glad that you like it. I do love riding Cherub and I generally only get the chance to during the mornings." Nairne was pleased! Looking down at their joined hands, she smiled softer, and decided to do something. Technically it broke no mode of decorum for a Courtesan. Leaning forward, what space had been vanishing, she lightly kissed his cheek. "You are a kind man, Tiberius." Too kind, perhaps? Nairne did not say that or think on it long.

Tiberius: He smiled broadly. "I love riding Apollo. He has always been a good mount. I plain old love to ride.. Anytime you want to ride, feel free to use me as an excuse." Then she loomed closer, spiraling towards that fateful brush of lips to his cheek. His eyes had slipped closed about halfway through her lean was utterly trusting, bit it was the ever so slight cant of his head to almost nuzzle her affection that was completely sweet and spontaneous. He took a moment to remember how to breathe. "I am no such thing, Nairne. I am a man. We are flawed by nature compared to the fairer of the species."

Nairne: "I will keep that in mind. Though you may regret making the offer after I pester you to ride all the time." A teasing smile and she noted each little action as she kissed his cheeks. His words, though endearing, were disagreed with. "I think, in truth, we of the fairer sex are more flawed." Nairne's lips had moved from his cheek though only an inch. Enough to allow her indigo gaze to lock on his own when he opened his eyes again. "And I think you are more than just a man." A soft smile and nod of her head.

Tiberius: He chuckled quietly. His eyes opening to drink her in once more. "I challenge you to try to bring me to regret. I believe you will be pleasantly surprised when my enthusiasm for riding rivals your own.." The humored expression boiled down to a mere content expression. "Thank you for your confidence in me, Nairne at such a short glimpse of my life." He licked his lips, watching her from such a short distance away. "I think women are far more honest with themselves, where as we flawed males try to deceive ourselves of what we truly are and are capable of."

Lord Marke: The dinner the night before had been.. pleasant, instresting and intrigueing.. even if he had found her dress somewhat amusing.. almost.. desperate.. it did show a certain amount of boldness in which he found well.... not boring..which to say the least was a pleasing thing.. boredom filled much of his days and it was.. refreshing to find somthing.. ahemm someone who did not plauge him with the need to count fly specks on the wall paper.. indeed.. she was a common actress.. courtesan person.. but.. there was something about her that had kept him thinking of her until he slept the night before.. so.. it was with this though that he arrived at the Lily, there would be no flowers of cadies.. he was no some sotting boy with a crush..or man hopeing to please her with nonsensical gifts.. indeed he would pay her well for her time.. after all sint' that what she wanted.. she was a business woman.. after all..

Ursula: Perhaps she had been trying to hard to impress him with the near nonexistant dress but dinner had proved that she could hold her own no? She had fairly ignored Jonathan all night long, he was flirting with the sisters anyways. Something he enjoyed all most as much as acting itself. Proof that she stood on her own toe feet, except for the Lily, she was..a woman who could survive by any means. Only time would tell if her ways had any effect. She had briefly seen Nairne with company in the sitting room and with no want of stealing a potential client from the girl, she retreated to the Library, there was a lovely play she had seen tucked on the shelf. Something about murder and mehem. Not the norm but she liked a challange. Gerda was quick to answer the door and allow the gentleman entry. After finding out just who the gentleman wanted to see, she pointed the way to the Library while leading herself and knocked upon the door before poking her head in. "Lord. eh..Marke to see you Lady Darling." A smile was offered to Gerda as she rose from her seat, her finger jammed into a page of the book...well play as she nodded. "Thank you Gerda..show him in.."

Nairne: "That is not the case with all women though." Nairne had not even noticed Ursula pass in the hallway and barely took note of the new arrival. She saw Gerda lead the man down the hall from the corner of her eye and was grateful not to have this little meeting interrupted by another. Not to mention there was the fact that she'd feel awful having to flirt with someone else in front of the poor guy! "Sometimes though we deceive ourselves for...protection."

Tiberius: He'd noted the passersby.. Perhaps this was just a housing unit as any other. People coming and going... Now her words brought a curious knit of his brow. He licked his lips, speaking soft. "Why would you have to deceive yourself? You are a woman of your own means, a place to live, and ...." He didn't understand, though, her occupation was new to him as well.

Lord Marke: Shown to the Library he did not the opulent surroundings, ok so she was an upper class courtesan with connection.. better.. at least she wasn't some tavern wench who laid down with every Tom and Harry richard.. pausing at the door he waited for the housekeeper to remove herself, a stiff formal bow to the elderly lady, as he moved in.. closing the door firmly behind him... " I see you have leisure time on your hands Lady Darling.. reading.. a very rare woman it is these days that can read " a brow perked as he moved toward her picking up the play,, perusing it.. looming over her.. then handing it back.. to her with a smug grin " The heroine dies at the end, all in all amusing but not particurly well thought out.. you should perhaps skip it.. and find something better to do with your time " haugty green eyes roamed her figure.. now better suited to his taste.. he liked some things left to the imgination.. and last night was a sad work out for his imgination.. as her dress had left nothing to ponder upon, other than if.. she were shorne or not. And that he intended not to leave to his imagniation much longer.

Ursula: "I agree whole heartly my lord..it is a rare woman that CAN read but even more rare to find one that enjoys it."A singsong voice replied as she dipped a short and curt curtesy of hello. The book was handed over without much of a fight but a delicate brow inched upward as he gave away the ending. "Perhaps my Lord you can suggest one that is better, However, given just your pert tolerance for the play in town the other day and not your enjoyment of it, I do not think you a man of the theater. So perhaps not just a suggestion for a better play but of something to do."A challenge? But of course. The book was taken back and she turned to place it against the table by the chair. "I like such endings, a reminder that the damsels in distress...should know how to protect themselves for there will not always be a, lets say a knight in shining armor, to protect her." Chocolate eyes rose to meet his as a hand waved to a chair near her own. "Will you sit down?" Her eyes left his to gesture to the chair before turning to his. "I could have Gerda bring tea...or something else if you prefer and something to eat."


Nairne: His question made Nairne frown a little,"Sometimes there are things we hide. Like things that we do we are not proud of." Shaking her head, she'd smile again,"Though I don't suppose you know what I mean. Being the kind man you are." Nairne turned her head off to the side, glancing out a window, looking thoughtful a moment and quiet.)

Tiberius: His head canted a bit. "Being the kind of man I am? I have done things that I am not proud of. How much is second guessing myself, what if's and shoulda woulda coulda's.. I.." He sighed. "I would like to understand why you would feel the need to hide.. Perhaps I am just young and lacking experienced.." He raised his hand cupping her chin to turn her eyes to his.

Lord Marke: "I have no taste for tea and Lunch has past..." a pocket watch was pulled from his jacket flipped open and looked upon then closed with a metallic click " I did not come here for conventional conversation.. tell me your price.. for the evening.. and I will pay it " his words were not that of a hurried enamored lover, but more that of someone purchasing a cow or horse.. how many women had he bought in his life.. countless.. honestly.. one forgets these things..but she had done him a disservice, keeping him up late the night before invading his dreams, and he would do as he had always done, he would purchase the girl-thingy.. sastify himself and in the interim. discover she was no differnt from anyother woman who had crossed his path.. a night and surely his mind would see there was no mystery in truth to Lady Darling.. not that his coke could not discover and thrust away any illusion therof..

Ursula: Her head dipped with her chin low as if she were succumbing to him, in truth she was hiding the annoyance that he was looking at his watch. As if she were just some spare time in his day to be filled with. A wham bam, thank you ma'am kind of woman she was not...well not in her eyes. Jonathan always said a man touched her and she was wet but the Lord Marke had never touched her..at least not yet anyways and so there was no reason for her to be aroused. Her head lifted as the pocket watch clicked and he sounded as if someone purchasing a sow. Amusement flashed in chocolate eyes but her lips twitched into a tease of a grin as a hand pressed back her skirts and she moved around him only to turn towards the door, no she did not open it but turned to face his backside. "If your verse is as limp as your pirck my lord, no price could possibly purchase." Yes she was a courtesan and that was part of the deal, if a deal was struck but she was not to be treated like some common whore. Oh she had seen the look in his eyes before, a man that would not be denied but here she was, denying him.

Nairne: Oh, that was a question with too many answers. Nairne had only told Shaden her secrets, never anyone else, and she couldn't bring herself to speak on those even now. Nairne couldn't figure out a way to change the subject without possibly offending him. She did not want to do that. So, when he turned her chin to face him? Nairne did the best next thing to distract! And broke a rule, but oh well! She kissed him, quite simply. That would put the questions out of mind!

Tiberius: The blush spurned from a simple kiss on the cheek was -nothing- compared to the fire that burned handsome features. He inhaled shakily, then breathed soft life into the kiss. Distracted? Oh yes. He melted like putty, finger stroking at the delicate line of her jaw as lips parted and renewed that kiss. She was so soft. So tender. He broke the kiss, drawing back quietly. "Forgive me.. I did not mean to press... I mean.." He offered a boyish smile.

Lord Marke: "oh good God woman do you really insiste upon playing these missish games that are beneath you.." he drawled as he turned not even rising to her bait.. " and here I though you more.. than an average female who need be baited to open her legs with prose and posies?" he stalked toward her now.. broad of build and at six foot 3 no small man.. a hand placed on either side of her head.. his face dropping down to stare in those chocolate puddles of beauty she called eyes.. " It is with the utmost flattery to you I find myself.. wanting you... that is no small thing.. when I can have almost any woman I wish... yet I am here.. offering for you " still no prose as she had wished for.. but as he leaned toward her.. she would find there was no lack of stiffness in his prick.. that pressed intimiatly against her hip.. " Now do you play games.. still.. or do you accept my offer for you time ?" he face was close to hers now.. breath fresh with mint and a hint of whiskey.. the last words were whispered against her ear in a soft almost lover like manner.. one wonders if Jonathans predictions were right.. did the lovely Lady Darling hide a wild wet cat beneath her skirts?

Ursula: "There are no games in my manners My Lord..I simply wish not to be treated like some common prostitue." Her chin lifted as he stalked towards her, she was not a short thing but he at six foot 3, her head had to tilt considerably back to look up at him even as he cupped her face between his hands. "I am deeply flattered my lord that you admit to wanting me, as you say though, you can have any woman you wish.."Inwardly she groaned as he pressed himself intimately against her, ohhhh fuddggeeee. "but you can not expect me to be impressed with admitting that you could have any woman but want me..."She moved back, though her face was trapped between his fingers, she pressed back against the door, watching him still. "I play no games my lord, but since you are so forthcoming, I will accept your offer of my time, if you so wish it."

Nairne: The kiss was meant to distract him, not her. Instead it left her feeling confused. Her heart was pounding and her breathing all funny, and Nairne didn't know what to read of it. She'd never actually been touched by a man. Emotionally that is. When the kiss broke and he apologized, she blushed, lowering her indigo gaze a moment,"I did not mind..."

Tiberius: He smiled, all warm and brilliant. "Yeah... Well... I do not wish to... Uhm.. Press you when you are uncomfortable.. Simply because my life is an open book, that does not necessarily mean that you live in such a fashion." His finger continued to brush the delicate curve of her jaw. His heart was in his throat, thundering. He could definitely do -that- again.. "When you wish a living hideaway for your life's truths.. I'm here."

Lord Marke: "And I want you tonight... deny me and you shall be good and rid of me.. if that is your wish.. I do not treat you as I would a common whore... I offer you the respect of meeting you on equal terms to discuss a business transaction.. I do no muddle your brain with flattery and nonsense.. and offer to pay you best price.. no qualms.. how on earth is that disrespecting you..?" no he didn't understand he treated her as business like as any other person he traded with.. until now.. his body blocking hers from moving, lips dropping to tease along the long sweet flesh of her neck, on hand dropping from the door behind her to cup the back of her head masterfully.. " Deny me.. Ursula.. and I will trouble you no more " he whispered agaisnt her flesh, watching her groan, he had a feeling of winning course thru him.. yes the Lady ran hot.. another intrigueing point in her favor... " your time will not be wasted Lady Darling " he chuckled against her throat hands falling to her waist lifting her up slightly still pinned against the door.. it seemed as though he was anxious to be started with the evening... now.

Ursula: "I am not a business transaction my lord but a woman..I do not require flattery and nonsense, that may be a way with some women, but not I...but your honesty, I admire. I am merely offering you my honesty in return. You are not disrespecting me my lord. It was merely an observation." Lids fluttered, as if battling from being closed or open as she groaned again to the teasing lips against her neck. She wasn't going to struggle against him, not even as he lifted her by the waist, still pinned against the door, her legs moved to capture his waist, if only to take some of the pressure off of holding her up, not that she was really heavy. She let out a heavy sigh but it was not of annoyance but more a slight defeat, inhaling a sharp breath, her head turned as she captured his lips with her own in heated passion.

Nairne: "Oh, I am not uncomfortable..." Nairne wasn't, truthfully. She glanced away a moment and back, smiling softly at his offer. Why must he be so nice? What had happened? Something about this left her feeling unsettled. She didn't like the idea of hurting him, but she was what she was. Hopefully, that wouldn't cause issues? Nairne suppressed a mental groan and the urge to slap her forehead.

Tiberius: "Oh.. then.. good..." He smiled warmly. "Thought I had broken your good spirits for a moment.." That delicate caress of her jawline, trickled further down, along the gentle curve of her neck, fingertips trailing feather light. "What is it like? Is everyone nice or... Do you get some knuckle dragging barbarians who thrust themselves upon you with little regard for you, the person they should revere?"

Lord Marke: Her skirts were shifted back over her thighs so her legs could wind about his waist.. turning then two steps to the reading table that held the play and she was released upon it's surface.. All the while he had delighted in her capitualion, the kiss was symphonic.. like instruments perfectly tuned.. how had he known she would taste like this.. honey and spice..? Thick fingers slid up stockinged calves, over the flesh of thighs util knickers were untied and pushed apart.. a smile then as his lips returned to claim hers a whisper brushed against them " It is going to be a long evening.. Ursula.. my pet."

Ursula: The house was humming with the girls. Somwhere Jane was playing, she could hear the sounds muffed by the closed door and where-ever the girl was made it more muffled, but she heard it. Acute hearing. Murmurered voices followed, no doubt Nairne and her guest...or perhaps it was some of the other girls talking together. She heard it, but it didn't register. Fingers laced around the back of his neck, she was only midly aware that they were moving and she was set down. It wasn't until her fingers left his neck to push against the table top and found the book did she completely realize they had moved away from the door and she was not sitting on the table. Chin tilted upward, lips opening to the caress of his lips against her own. Her lips curled even as her mouth opened in response to his brushing lips, a smile pulled at her lips as she tugged his jacket from his shoulders. "but not wasted..my lord.."

Nairne: "My spirits are not easily broken." A statement of truth. Her lids lowered, lashes dark against her fair skin, at the caress. Fingertips trailing from jaw to neck had her pulse increasing and a soft sigh passing her lips. This was indeed different. Opening her eyes, looking into his own blue ones with hers, Nairne did not know how to answer that. Taking a deep breath, she murmured,"At times...though harm is not allowed to be brought to us...not here..." The stressed words spoke volumes, and she wondered..."You think I am to be revered?" A soft question, curiousity on her face.

Tiberius: "By what little time I have spent here and what you have told me this morning.. A courtesan is a woman of knowledge and etiquette, refined yet... firm at the same time.You are bold yet demure.This delicate balance that you must portray and own to the very core of you. Yet.. Well.. it's a dichotomy of being that is... to be respected.." He noted her reaction to his touch and it was tempting fate, but he toyed fingertips down to the place where neck blended into shoulder until his palm came flat to press against captured pulse. "As for harm.. there is more than physical abuse.. Psychological and emotional abuse can be just as devastating.."

Nairne: Swallowing, Nairne nodded slowly, taking in each word. Hadn't she tried to explain that to Moira? Yet she hadn't truly realized it herself. Not until now. She shivered as his hand paused, knowing that he could feel the thud of her pulse beneath her skin, and it left her feeling vulnerable. When was the last time she'd felt that way? Nairne couldn't recall. "I...haven't faced either yet while here. Once before..." Nairne paused, biting her lip. She didn't speak of herself. So why did she want to?

Tiberius: His other hand, left and forgotten beneath hers, their first true point of lingering contact, rose swiftly to touch index finger to her lips, stopping her words. "Are you sure?" He'd caught her reservation to speak of such things, well, most everything regarding her in a personal light. He let that hand slip to mirror the other against her neck. Then both drew back and down, to smoothe over her shoulders in a gentle pressure, digits working muscle and sinew beneath silken flesh. "Men should not touch women in a violent fashion.. Tame as I am, I fear I would lose all rationale if I witnessed such an act.."

Nairne: Did he just give her the option not to speak of it? That made Nairne blink. Her mind worked his question over and over. Was she sure? Something made her want to tell him. It sort of frightened her, deep down, but she gave a slow nod. Taking comfort in the actions of his hands, Nairne whispered,"I came to Turas Lan to be a man's mistress. I was sixteen when my...mother," There was heavy disgust in that word,"told me that she sold me to him. He was a violent man..." Nairne trailed off, the pain clear in her eyes and in the tightness of her lips.

Tiberius: For the first time, she would see, feel the rigid tension of anger, hostility. The storm passed quickly, quietly, but his breath was a touch faster than it had been. "I do not suppose he is still in the area?" Hands worked diligently at her shoulders, then down further to her arms. The pressure of digits was lighter, more caressing, soothing, than massaging. "I am... profoundly stunned that your mother would do such things.."

Nairne: Nairne shook her head, blinking away tears at the soothing caress he offered,"I poisoned him." A simple statement, no more than a whisper, that she hadn't even confessed to Shaden. That was a deal in itself. "He hit me...for the last time..." In truth, he'd tried to kill her. Even now she could remember the feel of the knife pressed to her throat. Shuddering, squeezing her eyes shut, Nairne sighed,"I was an orphan. She was not my Mother."

Tiberius: He was speechless, he had nothing to even.. try.. But those hands, they slipped around her shoulders, drawing her that last minute sliver of space left between them and into his chest. He would would craddle her gently against him, his arms easily coming to wrap around her like a living blanket. He would cant his head to nuzzle his cheek against the top of her head. "You did what you had to do. There is no apology to be made for the loss of a man like that. As for the woman... She is a fool." Idle hands stroked down her back lightly in slow waves, one then the other, cascading to the small of her back, then starting at the back of her head and down once more.

Nairne: It was with ease that he'd be able to pull her close. Nairne's shivering body did not resist one bit. Instead she pressed close, using his warmth and presence, and comfort, to push back the horrible memories. The wetness upon her cheeks as salty, hot tears began to fall was the first sign and then...she outright cried. Nairne had not cried in all her years. Not even after the man's violent beatings. She'd bottled it all up, keeping it down deep, until now. Pressing her face against his chest, she let it come out while he held her.

Tiberius: The dampness of ehr cheeks against his chest was enough to close his eyes, but the outright sob that seemed to release the flood gate to her emotions made his eyes close tighter in effort not to join her. He would not stop his comfort of her, petting her hair and stroking her back, simply trying to coax her release, to ease her into some better, more peaceful place. His hold of her tight, secure. No harm would come to her in his arms. "Shh.. It is but a memory.. These people cannot hurt you any longer.. I will not let them.. I promise.. Tibby's here, Nairne.."

Nairne: Eventually, through the gentle sound of his voice and the strength of his arms around her, Nairne's sobs began to decrease. They became tiny hiccups until finally they faded completely away. When she lifted her head it was to reveal red-rimmed indigo eyes and fair skins made a bit pink from crying. A shaky smile curved her lips, a bit of embarassment appearing, as she whispered,"I-I did not mean...I just haven't ever..." She stopped trying to explain and prayed
he would understand.

Tiberius: "Shhh, no. You owe no apology to me. I am happy to have been a shoulder to lean against.. Honest and truly. It is acceptable to need a moment for yourself. I had offered before, no?" He smiled warmly as hands drew up, cupping her delicate features in two large hands. Thumbs delicately brushed at her cheeks in attempt to dry her cheeks. "It's okay.. Now hush your apologies.." A warm smile over took his features. Then he leaned to her, brushing a tender kiss to her forehead.

Nairne: Nodding, not attempting to apologize anymore, Nairne smiled softly. She did actually feel better. That cry had been held inside for...seven years. She had noted that the sounds around them of the other Courtesan's inhabiting other rooms or upstairs was heard clearly. Yet, she'd heard none of it. Why? He'd completely made her forget everything else. Adjusting on the couch, for comfort, she cuddled close to him. She wasn't moving away yet. "Thank you, Tibby..."

Tiberius: He smiled warm, though a new tenderness had crept into his smile. He wrapped his arms lightly around his new..... friend. Friend? Yes... Friend..friend friend.. But the thought of this exotic creature in his arms being more made his heart flutter and race. How do you... date a courtesan? Was it possible? He licked his lips. "You are most welcome, Nairne, but I need not thanks." An idle hand reached up, stroking her hair lightly. God in heaven, the feeling was so delightful. Her drawn into his chest, his hand stroking her lightly. "Do.. uhm.. any of the women have affections outside of.. the route of the household? What I mean to say is... Do... uhm.. Does anyone court?"

Takes Place Before The Above Play