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Proffering his arm, he takes the lady's hand and leads her towards the zoo leaving behind a lecherous wink in the constable's general direction. To Aliana he remarks, "Ah, the zoo. I see you, too, were affected by that animal magnetism. So primal, no?"
While you walk on the carnival grounds you notice several glances and a trail of gossiping in your wake. Shocked looks and incredulous talk.
Orne musses with his little sister's hair. I was looking for Ika, but sure... We can go see the pretty sphinx.
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Elric meanders back through the carnival, just taking in all the sites and all the people. He mostly people-watches. At Some point in the night, Elric finds a bench and sits down, casually tossing some seeds to the birds while watching the world around him. At this point, one of the birds will land on the back of the bench and whisper to him anything they've seen or heard tonight.
The birds are different, the kind of sparrows that travel with the Varisians, and don't really let the "local" birds approach. But even they talk to Elric.
"So many food! so many treats!""A human smelled really bad!"
"This town is better than the last!"
People seems happy and entertained, as the carnival starts to wind down a little. Many of the passing locals nod at Elric when passing, almost all smiling and commenting about Fish's victory.
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Orne musses with his little sister's hair. I was looking for Ika, but sure... We can go see the pretty sphinx.
Nala giggles.
"We can't see the sphinx now, silly! We will go and see Ika!""Ika! I need to see you!"
From inside a musical voice, somewhat familiar to Orne answers.
"Nala? What are you doing here?"
Nala winks at Orne.
"I have something to show you!"
The voice answer, unsure.
"You shouldn't be here! Remember I should be hidden while visitors are around! Master Almara would be mad if I get out."
Nala signals Orne to keep quiet.
"I am alone! Let me in!"
There is a resigned sigh, and steps move towards the door.
"You are incorrigible."
The door opens, and Orne jaw slacks completely.
The most beautiful varisian woman Orne has ever seen is there, standing 2 feet in front of him. She dress with colorful loose varisian clothing, letting the alluring figure of the mysterious Madame Mask show in all of it's glory. But what really surprise Orne is her face, previously covered by a silver mask.
The face of Jherizhana the Gynosphinx, the big bright eyes of Madame Mask.
The woman let's a small scream out, her face becoming completely red, one arm covering her chest (as if remembering her previous performance - she is not naked now) and her other hand quickly slamming the door.
Nala giggles contently.
"Didn't I told you she was very pretty?"
A brief look of confusion crosses Aliana's features. "Animal magnetism? Yes, I suppose...although I admit my interest is mostly academic. The Carnival always brings such interesting creatures - it's a fantastic opportunity for study, even if they aren't exactly in their natural setting."
She pauses for a moment, and seems to be trying to collect her thoughts. "And I must admit, they're not the only ones somehow...different...in the Carnival setting...I mean, I certainly didn't take you for a wildlife enthusiast. And I DEFINITELY thought...well...that I'm, ah, not exactly your usual type for a midnight stroll through the Carnival? I mean...um...well...I know that you just wanted someone to visit the zoo with, and don't get me wrong, I'm flattered by the company...but...mmm...
"Ok, I'll just say it - aren't your parents going to LOSE IT when they find out you're making a social call with a Varisian girl, and a shopkeeper's daughter at that? I mean, not like a 'social call', we're just walking through the Carnival, I know - but I always got the impression that one of Ilsurian's blue-blooded, upper crust, frozen chosen of Old Deadeye would be more your ordinary companion...not, well, me...and after that talk earlier, I thought you, uh, shared most of the town's opinion on me and the other Varisians in town..."
Aliana trails off and blushes furiously, embarrassed and hoping she hasn't just offended Alexite further.
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The Traveling Zoo (A5)
A portable fence of wooden posts and rope cordon off this section of the circus. Several wagons constructed to serve as animal cages line the perimeter, with an occasional haystack piled between them . In the center of the area is a large tent whose wall flaps have been lifted up and tied off to allow easy viewing. The entrance to the traveling zoo is sectioned off from the rest of the carnival. Guests are free to enter but exit the same way, which permits the animal handlers a final opportunity to proposition visitors for tips.
Some creatures are never brought out of their cages, except in rare instances underneath the big top. This includes the "baby dragon" in the entrance, a very big lizard (which doesn't look very "dragonish") guarded by an actual full-blood tatooed orc with a big axe, and the manticore whose tail spikes have been surgically removed.
In there you find Sister Esrelda Woodmere, the town cleric of Erastil, talking to Berthold Flavion, the noble owner of the Travelling Circus.
They both greet Aliana and Alexite.
"Sir Ilsurian, a pleasure as always" - the noble Taldan seems to enjoy the opportunity to use his court manner with another "noble".
Esrelda seems surprised to see Aliana and Alexite holding hands, but smiles warmly.
"Miss Aliana, what a nice surprise! That scarf looks lovely on you!"
Orlin exits a wagon about half an hour/45 minutes after emptying with a smile on his face. Somehow he "accidentally" dropped more than the one silver requested. (-1 gp, 3sp) This is probably not long after the Sphinx showing ends.
The longer we're out here, the more chance we are spotted, Ika. Let us in, I just wish to talk.
We are all friends, here.
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Orlin exits a wagon about half an hour/45 minutes after emptying with a smile on his face. Somehow he "accidentally" dropped more than the one silver requested. (-1 gp, 3sp) This is probably not long after the Sphinx showing ends.
"Return anytime, handsome."
Ourside the people seems happy, celebrating Fish victory.
Quick, someone's coming...
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"You are hopeless, brother..."
She knocks again.
"Open up or I'll start screaming."
The voice from the inside comes out, scared.
"Nala! Don't joke like that! You wouldn't dare!"
She answers full with childish determination (and some orc stubbornness).
"You know I will..."
You both hear the door unlocking.
Nala smiles, and gives a quick kiss in Orne's cheek.
"Good luck!"
She starts walking away, singing...
"Ika and Orne sitting in the tree
K-i-s-s-i-n-g!
First comes love.
Then comes marriage."
"Good evening, Sister Woodmere, Mr. Flavian. I hope the night finds you well." Aliana gives a short bow. "The scarf was a gift from a friend with the Carnival; I'm glad you like it." She smiles wide in an attempt to disguise her discomfort at the company she's found herself in; while she has no issue with any of them personally, they're of a social stratum she's always been consciously excluded from being familiar with.
"We've just come from the show in the big top - I missed the chance to see the zoo earlier, and they bring such fascinating creatures. It's a wonderful opportunity for study. Mr. Ilsurian offered to accompany me; he's as excited about it as I am!" She seems to shuffle backward slightly, as if trying to make the social graces of her significantly more well-off companion her shield.
Orne does not force himself into the tent, but does enter so as not to be spied from the outside.
Greetings, Ika. I am Orne and I am sworn to protect life, defend freedom and husband beauty...
...perhaps an unfortunate choice of words. First, where can I hide if someone arrives or I embarrass myself as I am prone to doing?
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"We've just come from the show in the big top - I missed the chance to see the zoo earlier, and they bring such fascinating creatures. It's a wonderful opportunity for study. Mr. Ilsurian offered to accompany me; he's as excited about it as I am!" She seems to shuffle backward slightly, as if trying to make the social graces of her significantly more well-off companion her shield.
When you mention "he's as excited about it as I am!" both Sister Esrelda Woodmere and Berthold Flavion raise an eyebrow.
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Orne does not force himself into the tent, but does enter so as not to be spied from the outside.
Greetings, Ika. I am Orne and I am sworn to protect life, defend freedom and husband beauty...
...perhaps an unfortunate choice of words. First, where can I hide if someone arrives or I embarrass myself as I am prone to doing?
Ika has put on a robe, which she press against her body with both hands, seemingly very embarrassed.
She looks around her tidy, very nice, and very small wagon, like looking for a place to hide."The bed?"
A second after saying it, she realizes the possible double entendre of her words and blushes even more.
Alexite listens to the flustered rambling of the alchemist until she mentions her concerns about his parents and the possible ramifications of his actions. Chuckling, he answers, "Ha, my parents! They would be more concerned to hear I was calling socially upon caged animals. You really are so very endearing."
He frowns in confusion, "Why would I seek out followers of Erastil?"
Regaining his charm, he continues, "Do not fret about what the young women of breeding might think of you on my arm. Instead, let them fret as to why you are in my company and they are not."
Flashing a winning grin, he adds, "As for coming to the zoo, the hour is late and most people will be on their way home for the evening. Besides, what better place for us to play our roles than where they keep the hay?"
As they enter the zoo and encounter the priestess and nobleman, Alexite looks genuinely surprised. "Now how did you know she was going to be here...?" He murmurs before reacting to the Taldan nobleman.
"Ah, Flavian, my good man. It is a pleasure to see you. I see you have sought out rare company this evening, too."
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Berthold Flavion smiles.
"I am afraid is not a "social" call... Sister Esrelda came to make sure we take proper care of our animals, and we don't mistreat them in any way. I am sure she will find we value them, not just as "prices" or "objects", but as part of our family."
He pets the small exotic dog he normally carries everywhere, making it wag his tail.
Sister Esrelda Woodmere nods.
"He does a great work, but I wouldn't be comfortable without coming and checking by myself each year. Can we work around the exhibit with you two? I hope we wouldn't... impose."
"Oh, I see." Alexite laconically responds, seeming to have quite quickly lost all interest in the matter.
At the priestess' innuendo, Alexite arches his finely sculpted eyebrow, "Well now, sister, you are cheeky. I've always said I like that about you."
Cockblocker! =P
I appreciate you helping Nala. She can sometimes be a handful, precocious. But, please tell me why the charade. I can understand it's all a show... But, why? Something wrong?
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"Nala! I love that girl! She is really bright and funny, she has a heart of gold, but she can be a menace sometimes... My name is Ika, and I joined the carnival some months ago. I have the... abilities to conjure the image of a Gynosphinx, and also the magic to project my voice to complete the illusion. That has brought a lot of visitors to the carnival, and some prosperity for all of us. But if the word gets out that Jherizhana is nothing but a cheap illusion, then everything will fall down. So Almara Delisen and I thought better for me to remain hidden, or only get out as the silent Madame Mask, so no one realizes, she and I..."
Her voice trails off as she looks down, at her body.
"Nala loves and trusts you, and has this idea of us... well... Please! Keep this a secret! No one outside of the Carnival must know! Please!"
"Why wouldn't you seek out followers of Erastil? You and your...fellows...certainly aren't customarily seeking out Desnans...oh, you're right. It's a beautiful night, we may as well enjoy it, instead of fretting over such small matters." She smiles, clearly flattered by his comments about the ladies of breeding seeing them. She does seem slightly confused by his hay comment, but brushes it off after a moment.
Speaking with Esrelda and Bertold:
"Oh, of course, feel free to accompany us! Bertold, I'd love to hear more about the animals - how you've found them, how you care for some of the more exotic specimens..." She peers past the others into the exhibit. "How on earth you ever managed to remove a manticore's tail spikes without, ah, shall we say, complications? Tell us all about it - I'm sure Alexite would be fascinated as well." She flashes a smile up toward her companion.
"And Sister, I'm sure your knowledge of beasts is quite prodigious as well, I'd love to hear your insight. The Carnival's animal keepers have always been quite thorough; I'm sure you'll find everything quite satisfactory. Well, shall we enter?" She re-settles her hand in the crook of Alexite's elbow and motions for Bertold and Esrelda to lead the way into the zoo.
I have no issue keeping your secret as long as it doesn't hurt anyone and remains a white lie. Business is business and they paid for a show. Sophistry isn't a crime. But, Ika. If it becomes a matter of importance, I'll expect you to come forward.
Do you stay of your own will? Or are you being made to stay with the carnival? You seem like a fine young lady. Did you join with family or friends?
May I visit you again some time? Is there anything you need or enjoy, a certain food, pastry... I'm bombarding you with questions, sorry.
Orne is at ease, but remains standing.
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Both Sister Esrelda Woodmere and Berthold Flavion spend a nice time with you visiting the zoo. The passion Berthold has for his animals is only matched by the care and importance Sister Esrelda gives to them.
Aliana feels her head dizzy. Alexite is simply dazzling, and she had never been in a position like she is us, surrounded by "important people" and taking a tour by the owner of the zoo himself. But the looks of surprise, and even envy by most of the Ilsurian girls is what really makes her stomach flutter with Desna's butterflies.
Sister Esrelda uses a moment alone with Aliana to speak to her in private.
After some time you say your goodbyes, and walk back into a much less full festival.
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"I swear to you we don't hurt anyone! We only want to earn some money, to keep the Carnival going. I stay by my own will. I lost all my family with my old Caravan less than a year ago, and Master Almara Delisen was kind enough to invite me to join hers. But please, don't tell anyone. The Jherizhana act has become the cornerstone of the Umbra Carnival's survival. Please?"
About bringing her something she blushes again.
"You are as gentle as Nala told me! I have to stay hidden here, and I would thank you if you... I hope it is not to much... bring me some flowers, so I can decorate the wagon, and smell them, and remember how is outside while I am in here."
"Tell me fury dancer, what is your name, and where did you learn such...showmanship?" he says extending his hand to take ahold of hers.She lets you take her hand, and keeps still silent, looking at both your hands, like expecting Pavo to do something.
Wait...is THAT what he was trying to imply with all those comments?
As Aliana and Alexite stroll back out into the carnival grounds, she seems to be working up her nerve.
"I had an...unusual conversation with Sister Woodmere. She seemed to think - and it's probably silly - but she seemed to think that you were hoping for something else to happen tonight? I mean, I know it's absurd; after all, we hardly know each other, and then we come from such different backgrounds, and - " She stops and takes a breath. "Sorry, I'm rambling again. But I have to know - is that why you asked me out here tonight?"
Alexite's arching eyebrows find new heights at Aliana's latest outburst. His eyes still smiling, he asks, "Did the good sister really just talk to you about the birds and the bees? I mean, who better than a priestess of animal husbandry, but really that's too rich!"
He glances back to the departing couple with a wry grin on his face before turning back to the Varisian woman for her reply.
"I'm perfectly well-versed in the particulars, thank you very much," Aliana responds, a trace of coolness in her voice. "The Sister was simply concerned for my sake; she wished to ensure I would maintain her idea of virtue, even with the wine and the moonlight and the smooth words of an attractive suitor."
She looks back toward the retreating figures. "As it happens, I don't care a whit about her limited concept of virtue, but I can still appreciate her concern - it shows she cares, in her own way.
"And I notice you've avoided my question. Did you accompany me with the intention of taking me to bed?"
Allies, then? In this clandestine dance of veils... You will not be alone, Ika. Should you feel threatened or are in need of anything, have Nala fetch me. If it is urgent, my father.
He offers an upturned open hand, should she care to interlace her fingers with his. Friendship.
As Alexite tries to respond, Aliana cuts him off. "You know what? I've got a room in the upstairs of Mother's shop - I've been known to spend nights there from time to time, when my work occupies me. I'm going to go there now. If a midnight stroll through the zoo was all you were looking for, go your own way now and I'll think no differently of you. But if bedding me was your intention, meet me there and we'll have the place to ourselves until morning. Your call."
Aliana turns to walk off to her mother's shop. Gods, why can't these blue-bloods just say what they MEAN? She looks back over her shoulder at Alexite, and a faint hint of approval crosses her face. Hmm...I do hope it's what he meant.
After sitting on the bench and people watching for a while, Elric decided that it's time to head home. He throws out a few last seeds and says goodbye.
As he stood up, a small Varisian girl stood by watching him. Were you talking to the birds? She asked inquisitively.
Elric gave a small chuckle. Yes and no, he responded with a warm smile. I was talking to myself. It helps me clear my head and organize my thoughts. Most people are too selfish or uncaring to listen to an old man's woes, but the birds don't seem to mind at all.
Seeming to be satisfied with the answer, the girl turns and ran back to her mother.
Elric looked at one of the birds and summoned it closer. He handed a small strip of ribbon to the bird, and the bird flew over to the little girl to drop it in her hand. She gasped and turned to look at the strange old man she was talking to. He turned his head back at her to give a small smile and a wink, and then he walked off into the evening.
Mommy! Mommy! That man can talk to birds! Elric heard her say. Dont be silly, child, the mother chided, Of course he can't.
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She is also a woman of very few words.
"They are my clan. I want to conquer you, so you become mine."
She jumps on you, dropping you to the ground. You realize her movements, her contact, is very similar at the ones you have had in the fights in the last years, but now is different, but at the same time the same.
There are only winners this time.
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She slowly and shyly takes your hands, her fine fingers interlacing with you.
"You have a wonderful family. Your parents take good care of me, your mother fetching me wonderful food on these days and your father has... taken care... of a couple visitor that went too far with Madame Mask. And Nala! I really love her! I just wish I could be part of your family some day."
She realizes she said something that can be "misunderstood" and blushes again.
"Thank you for everything, and please, promise me you will keep our secret! Now I need to ask you to leave. I wouldn't want anyone to get the wrong idea with you here. I am supposed to be "hidden", you know?"
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As he stood up, a small Varisian girl stood by watching him. Were you talking to the birds? She asked inquisitively.
Elric gave a small chuckle. Yes and no, he responded with a warm smile. I was talking to myself. It helps me clear my head and organize my thoughts. Most people are too selfish or uncaring to listen to an old man's woes, but the birds don't seem to mind at all.
Seeming to be satisfied with the answer, the girl turns and ran away.
Elric looked at one of the birds and summoned it closer. He handed a small strip of ribbon to the bird, and the bird flew over to the little girl to drop it in her hand. She gasped and turned to look at the strange old man she was talking to. He turned his head back at her to give a small smile and a wink, and then he walked off into the evening.
"Mommy! Mommy! That man can also talk to birds!" - Elric heard the Varisian Girl say.
Almara Delisen, the owner of the Umbra Carnival, and seemingly the mother of the child, looks up at Elric, with a quizzing look, and then smiles and nods to him.
Elric looks up at the mother, and with a half smile, brings his right hand up to give a tip of his non-existent hat - a gesture of politeness and respect for someone of a similar craft.
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The Varisian Girl signals a small bird, that comes and stand in her shoulder, so she can give it something. The bird, a Varisian sparrow (not the normal Thrushes that live in Ilsurian), then flies to Elric and deposit a small glassy red bauble next to him, before flying away.
The girl looks at Elric with a big innocent smile in her big brown eyes.
I promise to do everything I can to protect the carnival, Ika. Now, listen carefully... with your mind.
Do not be startled, it's just me. Orne.
He uses his gift, granted by Desna... speaking to her, mind to mind. Some would say, heart to heart.
Ika, this is Orne. Simply think of what you wish to say and send it to me... I'll hear it. You do not need to talk out loud, no one can overhear us. Try it.
I can understand Common, Orc, Varisian, Korvosan, Shoanti, Goblinoid... Whatever you're comfortable with.
He smiles gently, waiting for her mental response.
** spoiler omitted **
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"Nala told me you could do this. It is strange to talk without words. Or are we using words?"
Orne and her spend a minute "thinking" to each other. She doesn't "volunteer" any new information she haven't tell him before.
Alexite looked surprised at Aliana's direct reply. If he was surprised by her response, her suggestion had him delighted. As she walked away, he smiled after her. Giving her a head start, he took a page from the Erastilite's holy book and began to stalk his chosen prey back to her den.
Aliana arrives at the shop, and immediately goes into her lab, grabs a glass beaker, fills it with water, and sets it over a burner. She retrieves a small ceramic mug from a shelf underneath the large table, then goes back out to one of the store's back shelves and grabs a small packet from a display labeled night tea. A small *clink* follows as she drops a silver piece into the till. (-1sp)
She pours the contents of the packet into the mug, and as soon as the water is boiling, she pours it over the fragrant, bone-white leaves. Aliana sits back and begins to sip the bitter tea, a small smile on her face as she waits to see whether Alexite will take her up on her offer. Just in case, she contemplates as she works on draining the cup.
Elric picks up the bauble and gives it a once over, inspecting it with feigned interest. Then he nods with a look of appreciation on his face and looks at the girl. "Thank you" he mouths, and tucks the bauble into his pocket.
With that, he starts headed for home.
What a wonderful ending to a wonderful day, he thinks to himself. With an opening day like that, this year's carnival is going to go smoothly. I've got a good feeling about it.