The guardswoman smiles as you confirm you are who she thought.
I knew it! Your group did good work in the alley.
She becomes far less stiff as she quietly continues I heard you all found vampires there. If those had spread in the city, or if one of the patrols had stumbled on them.... Well we could have lost some good guardsmen because of that. We have guards posted there now, so that won't happen again.
She glaces back at the hospice and gets even quieter Just between us. Yes, this is where they have been taking the sick. But I don't think they have been too successful. Most of those that go in there never go back home.
The city needs a breakthrough, I just came back from Old Korvasa and it's getting bad over there. If someone doesn't find a cure soon, we may not be able to stop this. I thought the priests at the bank could stomp this out but it seems to have overwhelmed them as well. So as strange as those physicians are, we have to hope they find something soon with all the sick they are gathering.
She gives you a worried look as she finishes.
The group enters the tavern and a one eyed dwarf looks them up and down from beside the door.
The tavern before you is dark with most of the light coming in from yellowed windows. There are torch holders on the wall but none of them are lit. The building is as run down on the outside would suggest, the floor is covered in sawdust, some of which is stained where something dark was spilled.
The bar is quite distressed, with gouges and scratches apparent even from here but strangely the tables and chairs are in very good repair.
Most of the clientele is of a rough sort, mostly male laborers with some sailors sprinkled around. Most are drinking and talking but a few games of dice can be seen on the tables.
The servers are all women in low cut dresses who weave their way through the crowd carrying mugs. Behind the bar an older woman is pouring drinks from a few large casks.
Nargun spots one of the few open tables and as the group starts to move in that direction the dwarf next to the door barks out
We don't be allowing pets in here. He stares at Whisper.
Mirela looks around and says.
Umm, maybe I should take Whisper back outside to wait for Devan.
Devan listened worriedly as the guardwoman lowered her voice and spoke of the current state of events in Korvosa. From the sound of things, it was even worse than the group had thought. The musician wanted to give the woman hope, but even implying the party's plan might cause complications later if somehow the guard spilled the beans. So he just smiled sadly and said, "Hopefully, guardswoman. All we can do is be vigilant and try to help those in need until this is over."
The young man gave a wave and turned back towards the alley with the seedy tavern Nargun had directed the group to, wanting to report back and see if the others had surveiled the Hospice.
Twilight idly watched the patrons as they tried to to drink away the horrors the plague had brought. She ordered an ale, but eyed it dubiously when it arrived.
When he asked Mirella to leave, Twilight couldn't really fault the barkeep for objecting to dogs, let along wolves, running around in his establishment.
When Devan appeared at the doorway she waved him over to the table. As he sat she slid the untouched mug of ale over to him. "We were just discussing what to do next. There are the loading docks on one side of the building, and that one small door on the other. Unless there is something on the roof or under the building itself, that's what we have to work with so far."[b]
Twilight briefly considered ordering some wine, but thought better of it after glancing once again at the overall condition of the tavern.
[b]"I was suggesting the possibility of seeing whether Yelloweyes and her kin might know more about the area. Other than that, the people I've talked to have indicated that by and large anyone that goes into the building for treatment don't come out."
Twilight pondered for a moment "Maybe someone at the Grey District might know who comes to collect the corpses from the warehouse? An examination of the dead might help figure out what kind of treatments the doctors are attempting, if not magical in nature then perhaps alchemical?" she said, gesturing to Atticus.
As Devan nears the tavern he sees Mirela playing fetch with Whisper in the street in front of the tavern.
They didn't be wanting Whisper to come in... She says with a shrug.
Inside the tavern the ale is strong, and far more bitter then you are used to.
The group's discussion is interrupted periodically by the shouting of a group at the back of the bar. They seem to be loudly celebrating a young man. At least that's the impression you get as they continue to yell for more Mead, and push the wooden cups over to him.
As Twilight is thinking quietly, you hear snips of the conversation from the table next to you. In it one of the dockworkers is trying to convince the other that The plague was caused by the magic released when the Priests tried to Resurrect the king and failed. He explains that is why the Priests at the Bank of Abadar are getting so sick.
Devan walked back with purpose, his strides long and quick. Seeing Mirela outside the tavern with the young wolf, he slowed, watching her supple movements as she threw a stick for Whisper to go fetch, waiting until he caught her eye and then offering a wide smile as he approached. "Sounds about right...Whisper's too good for most of that lot in there."
The young man gave the redhead a brief kiss before he gave a brief rundown of his talk with the guardswoman. "From what she said, conditions are even worse in Old Korvosa...I hope Vencarlo is doing ok." The musician was pretty sure the older man was likely managing, but spared him a little thought before continuing, "She said they've been bringing in lots of sick people, but most of them don't come back out."
Giving her a worried look, he grasped her hand in his, "I'll need to let the others know what's going on and see what they've found out. I'll try not to be jealous of your company out here while I drift in that mess." Devan grinned, giving her hand a squeeze before going inside the tavern.
Weaving his way through the crowd, Devan spied the other trio and walked over to them, taking a seat. Eyeing the mug of ale Twilight in front of him with suspicion amid the general environs, he left it untouched as he started discussing their findings.
"I like the idea of talking to Yelloweyes and seeing if there's a different way inside. If anyone knows, it's the rrr...right folk." Talking more quietly, he continued, [smaller]"I'm not sure there are bodies leaving, honestly. The way that guardwoman sounded was that the people don't come back out at all, dead or alive. There's something going on in there..."
Twilight nodded [b]"Someone should keep an eye on the warehouse just in case something notable happens. The rest of us can go look for our contact."[b]
Twilight got up and left some coins for the ale before heading outside.
Once free of the din and clamour of the bar, Twilight took a moment to see if who else might be coming.
As she waited, she told Mirella the plan. "Some of us were going to go ask Yelloweyes and her kin if they know of another way into the warhouse, or maybe even if they might have any clues about what is going on inside. Would you like to come with us or keep an eye on the warehouse until we return?"
Devan left the tavern and followed Twilight outside, glad to be free of the confines of the rowdy place. The young man wasn't opposed to such establishments at all, it just seemed almost unnatural in this time of death, disease, and despair.
The musician listened to the half-elf break down to Mirela what they were hoping to accomplish by going to Yellow-Eyes, saying, "I'll hold things down here with Nargun and the Professor, if you'd like to join Twilight." The young man glanced meaningfully at the wolf pup, then smiled at the redhead.
I think you should stay here with the professor, Devan, and watch discreetly, something I'm not really known for. I will go along the ladies, for their protection if things go rough, if they don't mind. That's what I''m useful to.
Devan clapped Nargun on the shoulder, thankful that he would accompany the ladies on their journey to speak to the ratfolk. Things were supposed to be good between them, but these were troubled times and the young man felt better knowing that the sturdy dwarf would be along, also.
I don't really be wanting to be leaving Whisper out 'ere by 'erself. So let's be going to see Yelloweyes. Plus after the mess that was that party, I could really be using a bath.
She gives Devan a peck and the cheek and says softly. Don't be staying too long. with a slight pout.
Then she heads off with Twilight and Nargun.
The group splits and heads in opposite directions.
Twilight, Nargun and Mirela head in the direction of the Crowing Rooster.
They arrive to find the inn open but almost empty. Only a couple townsfolk sit quietly eating at separate tables. The inn is quiet, with almost no conversation.
While the inn still has the strong smell of tabacco smoke, no servers walk between tables, and only a Teanage girl stands behind the bar.
She looks you over as you come in and seeing that none of you bear any obvious rashes you tells you to find a seat away from the others. As you settle into a corner booth, the girl approaches you and quietly says.
What can I get for you? We only have a limited menu right now. Fish Stew and Bread, but I can draw up just about any drink.
Devan and Atticus settle in to watch what is going on. After a bit of time, the have established a few things.
1) The group in the back is determined to celebrate the recent release of the young man from Citadel volshyenek's prison
2) The people at the card game table seem more concerned about the possible Otyugh attacks, then the Blood Veil.
3) That they will learn nothing constructive about the Hospice unless they move near the window.
Luckily a high top table near one of the dirty windows clears up and the two men have the option to move over. After cleaning a small part of the window get a reasonably clear view of the street outside. As they settle in the new table, a serving woman comes over and flashing a big smile approaches the pair.
Welcome to the Bailor's Retreat! I'm Crissy, now what can I be doing for two fine gentlemen such as yourselves! She says brightly clearly not realizing that you two have already been in the bar.
Devan sat at the table with Atticus impatiently, making attempts at small talk as he watched for a table near a window to clear. The young man motioned for the Professor to follow as he got up and walked over to the newly abandoned table, frowning at the grime on the pane of glass. Sighing, the musician used a shirt sleeve and wiped away at the glass until a small portion was relatively clear and transparent, trying to catch a glimpse of the street outside and the Hospice.
As the serving girl came up, Devan returned her smile, putting an arm around Atticus's shoulders. "Get us both an ale, if you will. Celebrating my friend here finally popping the question to his missus!" Of course, it probably didn't matter to the woman, it was just more fun to come up with something outrageous to make the Professor uncomfortable.
Hearing Devan´s words Atticus blushes and puts his head in his hands.
Could the young man not keep a mediocrum of decency.
In any case, it was time to order something.
"And please also something to snack. Or even to eat. I am suddenly famished."
Twilight smiled at the girl as she took a seat at the offered table. "Just a mead please, if you have it".
As she waited for her drink to arrive, Twilight casual glanced about the tavern.
If anything Chrissy smiles even wider.
Well that is something to celebrate! I bet you made her so happy. Let me get you both an Ale and you can tell me all about her.
While I'm gone, take a look at the board there to see what you might want to eat. If you want a snack, I suggest the Toasted Cheese bread, but for a full meal you may want to look at one of the pocket pies.
She points at the slate board above the bar where the food options are listed before twirling away into the crowd.
She returns a few minutes later with two ales and puts one down in front of each of you.
Now what can I get for the newly betrothed? So tell me how did you ask her? I do so enjoy hearing happy news in this crazy month.
She leans over and rests her chin on her arm looking at the professor and incidental giving Devan a very clear view down her bodice.
The girl replies softly.
Of course Mistress, would you like the sweet or dry mead?
And for the rest of you? She looks over the dwarf, redhead and wolf.
Perhaps a bowl of water and some scraps for your dog?
Oh that would be wonderful wouldn't it be girl? Mirela reaches down and pets Whisper as she continues. I'll just be 'aving some 'ot tea if you 'ave any.
You realize that Whisper seems to be fixed on the kitchen door as she is lying on the floor.
Devan dutifully looked at the board, deciding to eat light in case they needed to move out fairly soon once the ladies and Nargun had finished their intel-gathering. He grinned widely at Atticus as the serving girl walked off with a flourish, scooting a few feet away. "Best start conjuring something up, my friend." The young man chuckled at the older man's discomfort.
When Chrissy returned, Devan picked up the mug of ale and took a swallow, the bitter taste both welcome and causing a rush of anxiety. Calming, he reminded himself that he was in a better place and resolved to take his time with the drink. Setting it back on the table, he was treated to a tantalizing view of the barmaid's bosom as she peppered the Professor with questions. Smirking at the thought of Mirela's reaction to such an obvious display, he turned and looked at the Professor. "I'll just take the toasted cheese bread. I'm not sure about my friend here...he is getting a bit nervous about everything. Then again, he might need a good, strong meal for later, you know."
He turned and shared a knowing, sly smile with Chrissy before looking back at Atticus for his reply.
"Dry please" Twilight replied with a smile. As she turned back to Mirela she noticed something had caught Whisper's attention. Perhaps Ben? Or maybe just another of Areis' kin.
She took a sip or two of the mead when it was served.
"So, as I was saying, I had some questions that I needed to ask her, but when I saw her in that dress I just had to tell her that yellow didn't go well with her eyes. As you can imagine, she wasn't happy with that little piece of advice, so here I am, hoping that she might have a change of heart and reach out."
She didn't raise her voice, but made sure her words were clear such that they could be made out if anyone cared to listen, especially if they might be behind a kitchen door.
Though the tone was conversation, an astute listener would be able to pick up the subtle inflections she used on some words and perhaps even discern the meaning.
With mock seriousness Crissy looks at Atticus:
Oh, I'm sure that there is nothing to be nervous about. If she is worth to ask to marry you, and she says yes, then what do you have to worry about? Just think of all the reasons you like her enough to ask the question in the first place.
Plus you clearly have a good friend who I'm sure will be there for you. She smiles as Devean as she finishes.
I'll leave him to you. You boys just call me if you need anything.
She moves away to take care of other patrons.
In the time after the server leaves you are able to watch what happens on the street for a bit. As you watch you see another plague doctor bring a single man up the street. They go past the doors across the street from the tavern and head up the street.
Some time after Twilight's announcement the girl comes over and delivers her Mead and a bowl of water. But of far more interest is the stooped man who comes out of the kitchen carrying a plate of scraps and a tea pot. He puts the plate down before Whisper, and puts the tea on the table.
Yours tea mistress A gravely voice says. He glances up only long enough for you to get a brief glance of Ben's face before he turns and shuffles back into the Kitchen without giving you a chance to respond.
Glancing around you notice a note on the table.
Written in a sloppy script is a brief message.
CAN NOT TALK HERE. MEET ME BEHIND THE INN
Atticus smiles into his mug and then procures a pocket game. Laying out the cloth with the lines and taking out 8 glaspearls of blue and 8 of red. Passing the red to Devan he gives his opponent the chance to do the first move.
Using the game as excuse to stay longer and observe the surroundings.
Devan returned the smile of the barmaid and offered a quick wave before moving to the opposite side of the table from Atticus as the Professor retrieved a game to pass the time with and keep up their facade. The young man frowned as he noticed the plague doctor marching the lone man down the street, pushing down the manic urge to go after them and plead with the man to not go into the building the physician was leading him to.
Instead, Devan idly moved one of the red pieces on the game board, putting little thought into it as his mind drifted, lifting his eyes repeatedly to the window and the foreboding structure beyond.
Between the game and the conversation you manage to extend the time at the bar quite a bit. Chrissy comes over to check on you and refill the drinks as well as bring you food periodically. But generally lets you two sit there undisturbed.
Over the next hour or two you see just one more doctor coming back leading a small family of four past the tavern and in the direction of the front of the Hospice. Other then that the street is generally empty as the sky begins to darken.
Its about this time that shouting starts at the table where the card players were sitting. As you look over you see a chair clatter over and one of the sailors stands up shouting about Cheating.
After receiving the note, Twilight casually drank her mead while engaging in a little small talk with Mirela. As she neared the end of the cup, she fell silent for a moment, weighing her next words.
"I have a rather involved ritual that I have been preparing for a while now. It will be the penultimate step in an endeavor that I have been working on for some time, a blending of my arcane and divine pursuits."
"When everything has been finalized I will be sending out a formal invitation to everyone. It will of course be dedicated to Callistria. Since we all felt her touch to one extent or another with the business down at the docks, I thought it would be particularly significant if you were all present."
She took the last sip from the cup of mead.
"For the most part, you would just be witnesses to the ceremony. I have prepared refreshments and entertainment at the conclusion, but there is one small part where I would ask for participation."
Twilight gave a sly smile "I promise this isn't a hedonistic orgy like the common folk would like to believe. The reason I'm bringing this up to you now is because I didn't want any misunderstandings or ill will between us so I am asking for your permission to allow me to ask Devan for a single kiss during the proceedings."
Twilight watched Mirella closely, gauging her reaction to the unusual request.
Nargun was just listening the two girls talking, sipping a strong beer, keeping an eye for troubles.
He seems relieved when no orgy was planned by the Calistrian
Never could understand magic, but I won't deny its usefullness.
Twilight laughed "Don't worry about the magical stuff. I will be taking care of all that business. But since we are on the topic, is there a particular drink that you like? Something special or rare? Under the current circumstance finding anything has become a challenge but I will do what I can"
Twilight stood up "You don't have to answer right away Mirela, you can think about it if you need. We should be going though or we are going to be late for our meeting."
Twilight made her way out of the inn and around to the back to meet with Ben.
Devan flashed a quick smile to the buxom barmaid every time she came to check on the duo, but swiftly averted eye contact to make it clear he was being civil and kind so as not to invite attention. The young man's face darkened at the sight of the family being marched down the street towards the former warehouse, his jaw clenching as he again fought down the urge to rush the group and advise them against the 'care' of the Queen's Physicians.
When the fight broke out (almost inevitable, in a place like this), Devan rolled his eyes and looked over at the Professor. "What do you think, Atticus? Did he cheat?" Shaking his head, the musician pulled out his lute and strummed a few simple notes, wincing at the sound. To a layperson it probably sounded ok, but the young man could tell how out of practice he was. Still, he started a bawdy tavern song about a ship's mate who was always on the wrong side of luck, adding his voice after he played the first chorus instrumental.
Nargun ponders the question, and gives an astounding answer.
There is something I haven't taste in a while, something that should qualify as rare or special to my eyes. A good glass of pure, fresh water. I'll be honored to do that little sacrifice for you, Princess.
Mirela considers this for a while and as they get up to leave the inn she says seriously.
Devan 'e do be 'is own person. If 'e is comfortable with your request I won't be 'olding this against you.
It's don't be like Devan and I 'aven't both kissed other people before.
She stops for a moment when she realizes that Whisper is still eating her scraps. With a grin she goes back and pulls the wolf to heel before heading out of the inn.
She looks a bit more worried as she rounds the corner around the inn.
But I do be worried about what you will be asking me to do...
As you head into the darkened alley behind the inn, Ben seems to step out of a shadow. He looks around and softly says:
Less ears back here. Whatts are you needing? Do you haves a message for my kin?
He stands looking curiously at the four of you.
The music seems to slow the argument over at the down, and before you know it most of the eyes in the tavern are on the pair of you.
By the third verse, a couple of the people are clapping along to the song. Looking back at the rest of the tavern both of you can see that the gruff dwarf by the door has the one of the sailors by out of his seat and pinned up against the wall. The dwarf seems to be searching the man's sleeves.
"There is a warehouse that we are investigating, the one where the Queen's physicians are taking the sick for treatment. We would like to keep our activities discreet, so we were hoping that you might have some information on what is going on at the infirmary, and possibly know of a secret way inside?"
Give uss a night. We will look and leave you a message at your home in the morning. I've heardss of this place. We do pick up bodies from there sometimes to bring to the Pharasmians.
Ummm.. Oh and I should tell you, My kin seem to have settled down quite a bit. It seems like whatever you dids helped keep the peace.
Devan continued to play along, smiling as he sang out the verses and stomped his foot to the rhythm. His dark eyes drifted over occasionally to the dwarf searching the sailor, just keeping his gaze on them to ensure nothing strange might happen, but in general just kept up the entertainment for a bit, hoping to get the tavern back into a lively, yet pleasant atmosphere.
Twilight nodded "I"m glad we were able to bring some degree of peace to your people. Thank you for helping us in this matter. Unless anyone has anything else?"
She waited a moment to see if Nargun or Mirella had anything more to add before heading back to the Bailor's Retreat to let Devan and Atticus know of the development.
Nargin had no beef with the wererats, and he shurgs the idea of making a speech
I'm better with my axe than with words, you know that, Princess. I'm just here for your protection, in case of troubles. Sometimes words aren't enough, and you can't always use magic.
Devan plays along and keeps most of the peoples eyes on him. In the background he sees the dwarf pull something away from the sailor and start to drag him away. You hear a little jeering and see some of the people glance over, but most of the attention returns to you quickly.
The dwarf drags the sailor over and tosses him out the door slamming the door behind him. As he finishes he stomps over and glares at the table, cutting off what seems like a little bit of an argument.
After a time the dwarf returns to near the door and the card game quiets down again.
It's a bit later that the Older woman comes over from behind the bar and looks at Devan.
That was a mighty fine performance considering you did that with no warmup. I'm Karanmai, and I own this bar. I could use a voice like yours to keep the boys in line if you are looking for work. At least if you know more songs like that one.
As they walk through the twilight back to the Bailor's Retreat, Mirela looks at Nargun.
There do be too many times when we 'aving to use your Axe lately Dwarf. It do be like nobody is looking out for the good of the city since this whole plague got started...
She shakes her head and says.
I just wish we could be smacking the veil with your axe or my bow to fix it. Maybe if it was gone, the city would start looking after itself again.
Devan relaxed a bit as he saw the dwarf diffuse the situation behind the scenes while he played in front of the crowd. As he finished with a flourish, he grinned over at Atticus before bowing and then taking a seat beside the Professor. "Any requests, Professor?"
Later, when the woman approached, he smiled at her from his seat, mulling over the offer. In truth, it had been quite some time since he had played in front of others. Or really even alone, with how busy the group had been. Still, he had thrown in with these people for the good of the city, and it was best to not get too entangled in anything until all this played out for good or ill.
"Perhaps on occasion, for now. I have other commitments that would keep me from coming to a steady job. But perhaps when those are finished I would be interested, ma'am."
Neither my axe or you bow, despite our skills wielding them, can do a thing against the plague, this major evil ripping the city apart. But that doesn't mean they can't do smaller good things for whatever is left of its people.
"Oh, I wouldn't say there is nobody looking out for the good of the citizens. Despite her flaws, Kroft and her guard are keeping the order as best they can, Blackjack is back to keep an eye on things and lets not forget that we are also here, doing what we can to keep the forces that would take advantage of these troubles at bay."
Twilight hesitated for a moment at the door to the rowdy inn before going in and taking a place at the table.
"We met with Ben and he agreed to help us. He is going to have some of his people poke around the place a bit to see if there is another way in and keep an eye out for anything extra unusual. He did mention that his kin had occasionally taken corpses from the warehouse and delivered them to the Pharasmans.
Anyway, he said he would get in contact with us tomorrow."
With the mansion, and the alley, and the plague... I don't know... it feels like we do be spitting into the wind.
No matter what we do, if someone don't address the plague soon, it's all for naught.
She's kind of in a glum mood and stays outside the tavern playing with Whisper as Twilight goes in.
Kiranmai nods.
Well keep what I said in mind. Your signing could earn some good tips around here. And I don't know too many other inns that are hiring right now.
She finishes up the conversation and heads back to the bar.
Not long after she leaves, Twilight arrives.
After some time Crissy comes over.
Oh this must be the lucky girl! Welcome, can I get you something to celebrate?
She grins brightly at all three of you.
Devan nodded respectfully to Kiranmai, saying, "I understand, ma'am. Hopefully circumstance will work out in both our favors." He raised his glass to her before turning back to Atticus.
As Twilight came strolling into the bar, the musician looked somewhat relieved. The ratfolk were a secretive folk, but that hadn't stopped him from getting somewhat worried.
When the barmaid came over and spoke, it was all Devan could do to not bust out laughing. Instead, he grinned and said nothing, deferring to the Professor.
After the scene played out, he glanced out the door and saw the priestess outside playing with Whisper, his eyes lingering for a moment before turning back to regard Atticus and Twilight. "So we possibly might have some more information in the morning from our allies. You think it's worth the wait?"
Twilight didn't know what the serving girl meant, but it seemed Atticus and Devan were up to something...
...perhaps more Devan than Atticus.
She smiled brightly "Why thank you. My fiance and I will have mead please." she said as she took Atticus' hand and gave him an adoring look.
....
Later, Twilight nodded as she took a sip from her cup. "I think we have done all we can at the moment. We will be better prepared tomorrow with whatever information we will get. Unless you think a extra set of eyes might help this evening I would suggest heading back to the Juggler."
Crissy smiles broadly and hurries off.
When she returns she's grinning ear to ear with a set of drinks for all of you.
On the house. She looks directly at Atticus and Twilight You two have have the enough to deal with now. The fact that the two of you love each other enough to do this even now... Well it's inspiring.
Then she looks at Devan. And thank you for your help.
Devan chuckled and raised his drink. "To the lovebirds!" When the barmaid offered thanks for his help with the rowdy crowd earlier, he again raised his glass in her direction, taking another long sip before setting it on the table.
"The Juggler sounds good right about now..." The musician eyed Mirela through the door before getting up and walking out of the tavern, giving a cheery wave to the proprietor before exiting.
Outside, he walked up to the redheaded priestess and embraced her. "I missed you. Oh, it was horrible, Atticus had me playing logic games and everything." He grinned at the woman, admiring her features in the waning sunlight.
Logic Games? Oh you poor man. She stands on her tiptoes and kisses him. So, just 'ow bad did 'e beat you? She says with a slight smile.
Perhaps we should take Whisper back to the Juggler for the night? I bet a nice 'ot bath would be taking both our minds off the nasty things we did be 'aving to see today.
Her tone turns slightly more serious as she continues.
And I wouldn't be minding to be away from that place for a bit. She says casting a side eye glance at the Hospise across the way.
Twilight laughed and joined in the toast. She spent a few more minutes after Devan had left to finish her drink and chat with Nargun and flirt playfully with Atticus.
When her drink was done she stifled a yawn "Let's head back to the Juggler as well. I don't think there is much more that we can do here." She took Atticus' arm and waved cheerfully to Crissy as they left.