Adventure Took Place on February 28, 2000 – Rewrote to blend into the old story (March, April (then November) 2023)

ORIGINALLY NAMED: What She Really Wanted.

Vulcuran just finished explaining how he was healed, and the Council meeting is just starting to get ramped up.

DMaster: Damon starts to sift through scrolls and papers, then a scribe comes over. It is fairly silent, people talking quietly amongst themselves
DAM: Sorry for the delay, I had the meeting set up without Vulcuran.
Glances to you with a smirk.
DAM: Not that I don’t want you here of course!
Everyone chuckles.

Vulcuran: VUL: Afraid I might take your job too?
Give him a sly playful look.

DMaster: He stops, has a blank stare and everyone is now chuckling.
DAM: Well, we are going to proceed with what I have in front of me… if that is alright M’Lord?

Vulcuran: Smile and nod to him with respect.

DMaster: DAM: First order of business.
Looks at the scroll. Smiles.
DAM: Well since you are here, the floor is yours.

Vulcuran: Eyes bulge, look at him
VUL: It is?

DMaster: He nods.
DAM: Increased security for the Castle. What you presented last week.

Vulcuran: Stand up, frown, look around.
VUL: Well, if it is alright with the council, a week delay might be in order. I was writing up what to talk about, points and ideas… but I got interrupted by ass-hats squatting in our city and my shoulder wanting to be a dagger sheath apparently.
Flash big eyes, look down and chuckle.
VUL: Damon, is that ok?

DMaster: He smiles and nods.
DAM: As far as excuses go Vulc, that is one no one here is going to argue with. Next week then.

Vulcuran: Sit down.

DMaster: He hands the scroll back to the scribe, who in turn hands him another one. He looks at it and scoffs.
DAM: My King, do you want to talk about the Warlord then?
He glances over his shoulder to you, knowing you were the one who brought in the information. Jeramiah gets up and walks to the center.
JER: By now I am sure you know the supposed Orc Warlord in the plains was over thrown.
Paces a bit, hands behind his back in thought.
JER: Not by another Orc, or Gnoll, or… whatever else is hiding up in there, but of a human.
He glances to you, nods.

Vulcuran: Stand up.
VUL: Intel came in that about 4 weeks ago that the Orc Warlord was taken over by a man, rumored to be of noble lineage.

DMaster: Everyone leans back a bit on that comment, a few “whats?” emanate from the people here.
JER: We are in the process now of finding out who. But we have rumors that I am waiting on to be confirmed. So take this information with a grain of salt.
Stops turns and looks at everyone. Thames perks up.
THA: Uh, where did this intel come from, if I may ask?
Looks over to Carol who shrugs her shoulders. The King glances over to you, frown and quite a look.

Vulcuran: Really. We are doing this? Fine. Stand back up.
VUL: Cassandra. It was Cassandra. On her way out of the City she stopped by to tell me that the Warlord was overthrown.
Shake head, face getting flushed.
VUL: Our operatives, our information daisy chain did not tell us this. A criminal assassin stopped by and leisurely told me of this news. Real nice huh?
Making things more towards our issues than it being Cassie.
VUL: That led us to McDermotts and…

DMaster: Jeramiah nods and waves his hands.
JER: We will get into that further, but for now all we need to focus on is the intel was solid.
Gets himself back in order, rubs his beard.
JER: It is rumored that Prince Devin from the lands of Vermeer took it over.
Everyone looks at each other confused and a bit shocked.

Vulcuran: VUL: Excuse me M’Lord, is that DeConto, Roche or Matheo family? I always get them confused… Do we know?
Giving him a look, wide eyes.

DMaster: He sighs, looks to you.
JER: Matheo.
Pauses looks at everyone.
JER: Every meeting I have to remind everyone that you do not discuss the information inside these walls with anyone but the people here, understand?
Everyone nods their head.

Vulcuran: Nod head.

DMaster: JER: So, yes Vulc, Matheo. The same family that is rumored to be ruling their part of the lands by the estranged daughter of the King.
THA: Why is that a thing? She is a Princess right?
Everyone seems to have the same thought, nodding their head. Jeramiah shakes his head in return.
JER: I guess she is? I imagine she has to. It’s a long story but the short of it all; she fell out of graces with her father. Whether her Princess title was revoked or not, we are not sure. (scoffs) It was the first thing I checked when we heard the rumor of Devin.
He paces a bit again, head down thinking.
JER: It should of been Devin who took over, but it is Princess Kathleen who is running the land, or apparently is… Anyways, it has been status quo for the Northern Vermeer Realm until the last few years, no one has really seen the King, and it is Kathleen who has been much more vocal and prominent with the everyday of the Kingdom and politics. It seems to be working I guess. But, we are assuming at this point, King Krassis is either very ill or dead.
DM: Vulc rolls 21 for history.

Vulcuran: VUL: Remember that really bad winter a few years back. Vermeer was buried for months. I know quite a few people died up there because of that, I wonder…

DMaster: JER: If he fell ill or died? Could be, but that doesn’t explain about his son not elevating to King and it… well.
Waves his hand around a bit, shaking his head.
JER: Not sure, but everything is just speculation at this point. Lets just wait until we get some more solid information in.

Vulcuran: Nod head looking on, sit back down.

DMaster: JER: Obviously this is something we have a strong eye on.
He nods his head to a scribe and they open the door. In walks Thorin, dopey look on his face, smiling.
JER: Thorin here is going to run down the events of last week with the sect in the city.
Walks to his chair, then the King points to the center of the room.
JER: Floor is yours.

Vulcuran: Shake head hoping he keeps his bad jokes to a minimum.

DMaster: You are looking at the few papers in front of you, and it is quiet, with a giggle or two.

Vulcuran: Look up.

DMaster: Thorin is standing in front of you, wide eyes, jaw open.

Vulcuran: VUL:I could use that look in the summer my friend with all the flies that like to buzz about the Castle.
Smirking looking at him.

DMaster: The room erupts with chuckles.
THOR: How are you here, what? What happened?

Vulcuran: VUL: After the meeting Captain, after the meeting.

DMaster: He smiles pretty wide,
THOR: OK, just thrilled to see you sitting there looking as constipated as ever.
Walking over to the center of the room, everyone laughs knowing you two are good friends and bust balls.

Vulcuran: Chuckle a little, then touch my face as to say “I look constipated?”

DMaster: THOR: As most of you know we raided a place called McDermotts and…
DM: Condensing. Thorin tells of the raid and what went down, albeit a bit long winded. It seems that everyone was caught, with further investigation it confirms it.

Vulcuran: VUL: Do we know what happened to the McDermotts?

DMaster: Thorin frowns, shakes his head.
THOR: We asked around and they said a woman was around the building about a month ago looking upset and she told them they died. She was trying to get their affairs in order.

Vulcuran: VUL: This, Warlord, sure has his cards in order.
Shake my head.

DMaster: Thorin gives you a look as to say “what?”

Vulcuran: VUL: I mean, finding the place that has easy access to multiple tunnels. Keeping it on the down low for a month or more. Keeping the Kingdom out with just enough paper work, planting people there to solidify any alibi… I mean, this is not the “amass an army and pillage,” army. This is something much deeper in my opinion.

DMaster: Thorin nods his head as does most of the group.
THOR: That’s all I got for now.
Damon stands up shakes his hand, says a few things quietly and the Captain leaves. Not without pointing at you, raised eyebrows.

Vulcuran: Smirk and nod my head.

DMaster: DAM: Well, that part of the Warlord issue has been put to bed,
He signs off on a few things, hands it back to the scribe.
DAM: Attacks outside the City.
Rubs his chin looking at the parchment.
DAM: None that were close but a Hamlet not 3 minute horse ride from here reported an attack.
THA: Remind us again where that is?
DAM: A 3 minute horse ride from Camerondale…
Giving him a look. Thames returns with a resting bitch face. A few chuckles.

Vulcuran: Shake head and sigh.

DMaster: DAM: It is about a minute horse ride south of Greyshale, if that helps. But, it seems pretty similar to the previous attacks and we have dispatched guards to go look at it. Apart from that, I am not sure if we have any further information to give.
Looks around, nods and hands the parchment to the Scribe.
DAM: Carol you had something?
Glances to her and she nods.
CAR: The rain storm we had a few weeks back weakened the southern gate area. We need to secure it better, right now it is make shift and could prove dangerous if it collapses.
Everyone nods.

Vulcuran: Look around, shrug shoulders.

DMaster: CAR: My idea was to get some of these new recruits working. Many of them are piled into a guard house and do next to nothing all day. So, lets get them out and working, building up a supportive wall for the gate to the road leading up.
DM: Camerondale is built on a slight gradient leading down into the Othellian sea. This way, it can never truly flood with the drainage and the idea water goes downhill. The problem is that the inner gates are at the Western most part of the City and the gradient, as slight as it is still puts that area a good 20-25 feet in the air. Under it is well supported and reinforced to the extreme, but some of the other area about it have not been so supported.
JER: That is a good idea.
For the first time Cadence speaks up.
CAD: Plus, it will save on our coffers as well. We already pay the guards, so besides a foreman or two, some equipment and supplies, it should cut the price in half at least.
Everyone nods.
CAR: I’ll put it into action, get with Thorin and find out when we can start.

Vulcuran: Nod head.

DMaster: DAM: Lastly, the fire in the merchants district last weekend. I have here that it was careless squatters but did anyone follow up?
Looks around, and the King sighs a bit giving you a smirk and look. Damon notices and looks your way.
DAM: Vulc?

Vulcuran: Stand up.
VUL: As advertised. The birth of the fire came from ground level and back of the building and seemed to burn outwards. Typical fire pattern for lanterns, fireplaces and the like.
Sit back down.

DMaster: Damon, impressed nods his head. The King gives you a half “really” look and playful look.

Vulcuran: Shrug my shoulders, smile.

DMaster: DAM: That about covers it! Vulc next week, the castle security if you will?
Looking to you with a smile.

Vulcuran: Nod head.

DMaster: DAM: Meeting adjourned, now get to work will you!
Saying in jest as he hits the table with the rock. The room starts to empty out. As you leave, there stands Thorin with a very inquisitive look on his face.
THOR: Vulc, what the hell man!

Vulcuran: Chuckle and smile, walk to him.

DMaster: THOR: You looked like you were going to croak yesterday and here you are, bright eyed and bushy tailed!
He leans in and gives you a hug.

Vulcuran: Hug him back and chuckle again.

DMaster: THOR: Care to share?
Giving you an eyebrow raised look.

Vulcuran: Sigh a little and figure everyone is going to know eventually anyways. Wait a bit for everyone to pass.
VUL: As I was hallucinating about a purple sky, green beer and the captain of the guards with no mouth, I got a visitor.

DMaster: He nods his head listening, then as he realizes what you just said, he snaps his head to you, playful scowl.

Vulcuran: Chuckle again.
VUL: It was Cassie.

DMaster: His brow furries and he slowly shakes his head.
THOR: Wait, wat? Cassie, dynamic duo Cassie. How did she do it? A Potion, a salve… maybe rubbed her titties on you?
He backs up, rubbing his chin still slowly shaking his head. By now everyone has left and you two are in the entryway to the large meeting room alone.

Vulcuran: Stop and ponder.
VUL: Uh, no. But, that would of been interesting.
Chuckle.
VUL: Anyways. She found her way into the temple, extracted this poison and healed me. I really have no other info, I was so out of it man, I think this might still be a dream.

DMaster: You two have a few more barbs back and forth, then head your separate ways. As you turn Vatikus is walking towards you.

Vulcuran: VUL: Yes Vatikus, I am getting there…
Nodding my head.

DMaster: He smiles and shakes his head.
VAT: No M’Lord, I asked for court to be postponed for a few days.

Vulcuran: Give him a happy but surprised look.
VUL: Really?

DMaster: He nods his head.
VAT: You have been through enough. I don’t want you to go back into some sort of coma dealing with the court.
Saying that with a bit of jest.

Vulcuran: A surprised laugh. Pat him on the shoulders.
VUL: I agree. Why don’t you take the afternoon off too, since you have to deal with me all the time.

DMaster: He smiles, went to protest but decided against it. The lead scribe bows a bit, and walks off.

Vulcuran: Well now, I guess it is time I paid a visit to the Priestess and explain myself.

DMaster: “M’Lord?” is heard behind you.

Vulcuran: Glance back.

DMaster: Jovie is standing there befuddled and confused. Hands clasped in front of her and a tilt of her head.
JOV: I just went to check on you at the temple and they said you recovered and left already… how?

Vulcuran: Sink shoulders and shake my head.

DMaster: She backs up and looks down.
JOV: Sorry M’Lord, I did not mean to pry.

Vulcuran: Walk to her, take her by the shoulders look into her eyes.
VUL: No, Jovie, it is fine. I just wish there was a way to record my voice and just present them with that instead of me having to tell everyone over and over again. My little bit of frustration has little to do with you.

DMaster: She smiles and nods, even blushes. Then you notice an extra star on her uniform and it seems this outfit is upgraded a bit.

Vulcuran: Smile wide and give her a playful shove.

DMaster: Jovie looks up a bit shocked but seeing your face she herself is now confused.

Vulcuran: VUL: Promoted? Really? That is awesome!
Give her a warriors handshake.

DMaster: She giggles a little, blushing and a huge smile on her face. She returns the warriors handshake.
JOV: Yeah, Thorin wasn’t too thrilled about it, but the King demanded it. I am no longer stuck in a guard house and I will be out and about doing, well, not sure yet.

Vulcuran: Give her a big smile.
VUL: Walking with me right now FOUR star! That is what you are doing…
Say that forcefully and playfully at the same time.

DMaster: She nods her head, straightens up.
JOV: Yes, M’Lord!

Vulcuran: Head out to the Temple. Walk closer to her figuring she knows a lot about many things, maybe she will know about this person or thing that cursed me.
VUL: So, Jovie. Have you ever heard of anyone named Finster?

DMaster: She is keeping pace with you, and she glances up, shakes her head.
JOV: No, doesn’t sound familiar.
You two pass the inner gates, the lead guard looking on to Jovie with pride. She waves a little as she passes.
JOV: Who is this Finster, one of the spies or…

Vulcuran: Stop and look at her. I have to make a decision, and I guess I need to know more, so I’ll let her in.
VUL: This just stays between you and me. Let Thorin know you will be in research mode for a while.
Glance around make sure I am clear to talk a bit, even if it is quietly.
VUL: The name is Finster. I have heard of him a long time past, and never gave him a fleeting thought. But since he cursed me, indirectly, I want to know more about him.

DMaster: She has an odd look to her.
JOV: He must be something if he can perform curses and the like?

Vulcuran: Sigh and look her directly in her eyes.
VUL: He is a Demi-God and if memory serves me he is looking to ascend in to the god-plane.

DMaster: Her eyes bulge and she backs up a bit.
JOV: Wait, really? Why would he curse you?

Vulcuran: Get her to start walking again.
VUL: Indirectly Jovie, the spies have some sort of connection to him and that connects to the Warlord. So… yeah. It’s getting complicated.

DMaster: She is keeping up with you and shakes her head.
JOV: You can say that again.

Vulcuran: Smirk and keep walking.
VUL: Indirectly Jovie, the spies have some sort of connection to him and that connects to the Warlord. So… yeah. It’s getting complicated.

DMaster: She is giving you a side wards glance almost tripping over herself.

Vulcuran: Chuckle.
VUL: Well, I did say that again…

DMaster: She slows down, shoulders slump with a goofy smile on her face. She then catches up with you. Both of you hit the Temple and enter and a cleric spots you. They beckon you on.
CLERIC: Alyndri was expecting you.

Vulcuran: Chuckle and shake my head.

DMaster: Jovie glances over to you with a curious look.

Vulcuran: Stop her.
VUL: I shouldn’t be too long, if you want to wait here for a moment.

DMaster: She nods and heads for a bench in the inner atrium of the temple.

Vulcuran: Walk into the room, close the door.

DMaster: It is surprising simple and kind of messy. A table in the middle with a large candelabra in the middle, seems to have supplies of all sorts, a few lanterns on the wall and a few chairs. Alyndri was looking over something on the shelf, puts it back and walks to the table.
ALY: Sit. Please.
Pointing at the chair across from the one she is sitting at. She grabs a pitcher of what looks like juice, pours it for both of you.

Vulcuran: Sit and grab the mug. Give her an innocent look.

DMaster: The Priestess looks and chuckles seeing your attempt at being, well, innocent.
ALY: So, let’s begin. Last I remember you not doing well was around high sun on Starlay. I was speaking with the and walking him out.

Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: A monk came over to me and started to redress my wound.

DMaster: Her eyes turn to slits.
ALY: I only had high level clerics and Priests attending to you at that point… there were no monks, or there shouldn’t of been.

Vulcuran: Look down, suppress a smirk.
VUL: Well, it wasn’t a monk, just looked like one. It was someone I know, that has unearthly powers.

DMaster: Leaning back a bit, very curious look on her face.
ALY: …and?

Vulcuran: VUL: They extracted the poison and healed me.
Take a sip, glance up to her.

DMaster: She is thinking for a bit.
ALY: Extracted the poison?
Shaking her head.
ALY: How could he do something like that?

Vulcuran: Smirk and chuckle.
VUL: Not a he, a she. And, I have no idea how she does, well, anything really.

DMaster: ALY: This woman, is she like this Victoria I have heard so much about?

Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: Definitely not. But I guess in the healing aspect, maybe. I know confusing. In all honesty I was really out of it at the…

DMaster: She slaps the table top, giving you wide eyes and a scolding look.
ALY: Oh, no. I am going to get a full explanation, not some weak responses with the idea that you were “out of it.”

Vulcuran: Sigh, and nod my head.
VUL: Her name is Cassie, or Cassandra. She was one part of that duo that terrorized the city a week back.
Chuckle a little, continue without looking at her.
VUL: Many of their escapes and precision relies on her powers. I don’t know the full extent of them.
Pause and give her a scolding look back.
VUL: I honestly don’t. But she can move things, make me get a headache and evidently extract poison and heal people. It wasn’t the first time she healed me either.

DMaster: Alyndri is staring at you, a bit of wide eyes.
ALY: Healed you before?

Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: When they last kidnapped me, her brother Xavier made my leg a sheath for a dagger. He wasn’t too happy with me I guess.
Chuckle again.

DMaster: ALY: That is funny?

Vulcuran: Look up to her, and smile.
VUL: That my dear Priestess is a long story. But yes. That is the long and short of it. Cassie snuck in, healed me and snuck back off. When I woke up I felt better than ever.

DMaster: The Priestess takes a long gulp of her drink, puts the mug down looking a bit defeated.
ALY: Well, I don’t know what to say to all this. It was not what I was expecting, but it does make a lot of sense in regards to your miraculous recovery. Just makes me think maybe I should tighten up security in the temple.

Vulcuran: Give her a slowly growing smile.
VUL: You and me both, I have a proposal to the council to increase Castle security. Great minds think alike, eh?

DMaster: After a long awkward moment.
ALY: Well, lets not talk crazy.
She says with a bit of whip and a chuckle.

Vulcuran: Give her a playful hurtful look.

DMaster: ALY: Well, I thank Animax that she was here to do what she did, I was very worried about you…
She reaches over and grabs your hand.

Vulcuran: Put my other hand on top of hers and smile.
VUL: My Priestess. I am not very easy to kill. As always thank you for taking good care of me.

DMaster: She nods with a smile.
ALY: Now begone! I have work to do.
Saying this with a bit of playfulness, waving you off.

Vulcuran: Bow to her a bit and leave the room. Get Jovie and leave the temple.
VUL: Well that’s over, thank Animax.

DMaster: Jovie is walking next to you, glances over.
JOV: What was that about?

Vulcuran: Smile and keep walking.
VUL: My mysterious recovery. I will tell you about it one day, but repeating it for the 10th time is just something I don’t want to do right now.

DMaster: She nods her head, stays quiet and walks with you to the inner gates.

Vulcuran: VUL: Any questions about the research, let me know.
Give her a look and a smile.

DMaster: She smiles and respectfully bows.
JOV: I will, M’Lord.

Vulcuran: VUL: Oh, and Jovie?

DMaster: She looks up, eyebrow raised.

Vulcuran: VUL: Thank you. For everything.
Give her a smile and a nod.

DMaster: A huge smile washes over her face, she even blushes a bit and she nods back. It is getting close to high sun and you run into Damon and Thames standing in the entryway.
THA: Hey Vulc, bet you are hungry being a vegetable for what, 3-4 days?
Damon nudges him.
DAM: Thames…
Damon looks to you, smiles.
DAM: I think he was more a potato? Maybe?
They start to laugh.

Vulcuran: Give them a down the nose look.
VUL: Glad my near death experience keeping the city safe is so amusing to you.
Smile at them and give Thames a playful push.
VUL: Yeah, I could eat.

DMaster: They are looking around,
THA: Where is Marcus. I swear he likes to fiddle with his wanker too much and that is why he is always late.
Damon chuckles. But you can see Cadence walking up with wide eyes in the entryway, having overheard the comment.

Vulcuran: Start to laugh, stop and straighten up.

DMaster: THA: I just hope he washes his hands
Goes to laugh and see’s Cadence standing, hands behind her back big smirk. Nods to him.
CAD: Oh, no. Please continue.
A smile growing on her face as Thames face gets beat red. She walks up and stands practically touching you, shoulder to well, almost shoulder.

Vulcuran: VUL: Yes, Thames my boy, continue.
Laugh and nod. Then give her a quick glance – Give him a playful look afterwards.

DMaster: Damon shakes his head.
DAM: Care to join us for some lunch Cadence?
She smiles and nods.
CAD: Oh? Yes, I am a bit hungry, thank you.
He smiles at her, and then walking around the corner is Marcus.
MAR: Ahhh, good, I am famished, lets go!
The group starts to walk out, to the path to the inner gates.
CAD: Did you wash your hands Marcus?

Vulcuran: Burst out laughing.

DMaster: The group just loses it, they have to stop and wipe away tears. Marcus completely confused.
MAR: Ok, what did I miss?
Hands on his hips, giving everyone a scowl.

Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: Nothing. Thames being Thames is all.

DMaster: The group heads and a one minute walk to Fycon Brothers. It is a pleasant day, temperatures a bit mild around 60-65 degrees, hardly any wind and mostly cloudy with just a few peaks of blue sky. Upon entering you are quickly ushered back to your spot and sat.

Vulcuran: Look around for Meadow.

DMaster: You did not see her. Cadence made it a point to be sat next to you. You are handed a menu, some guy you recognize as someone who has served you before is the waiter. Everyone is looking around and then back to you with puppy dog eyes.

Vulcuran: Shrug shoulders.
VUL: Let’s just eat, shall we?
Give them all a stern eye.

DMaster: Cadence gives everyone an odd look and then she is back to the menu.

Vulcuran: Look over the menu, decide on what I want. I usually just order the special…

DMaster: It grows pretty quiet in the room.

Vulcuran: Look up.

DMaster: Meadow is standing at the entrance of the room, looking sheepish, hands clasped in front.
MEA: Good day to everyone, M’Lords and M’Ladies.
She nods her head. Everyone waves back and have a curious look about them. Meadow looks very tired, a bit disheveled and like she wants to puke.

Vulcuran: Sigh, give her a smile. Stand up and walk over to her. Lean in for a kiss.

DMaster: She skillfully avoids it, grabs your hand and walks out the door, and about 10 feet from it for more privacy.

Vulcuran: VUL: Uh oh.
Give her a frown, blush a little looking at her.

DMaster: She looks up to you.
MEA: What the hell is going on? How are you even standing let alone walking around like nothing happened?

Vulcuran: Smile and nod.
VUL: Someone came in and healed me, was able to perform a few other things to help me along. That cleared everything up.
Check her mannerisms, wondering if a cheek rub would be ok.

DMaster: DM: I rolled a 19+ for Vulc. No. Not a good idea, she seems pretty stand off-ish for the moment.

Vulcuran: Tilt head and listen to whatever she has to say.

DMaster: MEA: Well, I have more questions. Hell it would take all day I think but for now I am glad you are doing… so well.
Giving you another look over. She gulps, takes a deep breath and it is almost like she is going to be sick.
MEA: We need to talk.
Glancing back up to you, another set of puppy dog eyes.

Vulcuran: Give her a soft smile, nod my head.
VUL: I am off today, for obvious reasons. When do you get off work?

DMaster: She nods and glances back to a chef looking for her.
MEA: That friggen guy, I am going to strangle him…
She says in a very unlike Meadow voice, lower tones. The Cook is heading over. A medium sized build of a man, roughly 5″11, pretty stocky with some cap on his head and a clean shaven face.

Vulcuran: Glance up and go by her, towards him.

DMaster: She noticed to late and went to grab your arm but you are deceptively fast.

Vulcuran: VUL: Is there a problem?
Stand in front of him.

DMaster: The Chef eyeing Meadow up, looks a bit grumpy. It is pretty dim in this area, no need for light during lunch. So he does not know who you are yet.
CHEF: Out of my way sir, I need to have a word…

Vulcuran: Step more in front and growl, tilt head and be like 2 inches from his face.

DMaster: He stops and jumps back, completely surprised.

Vulcuran: VUL: You will address me as M’Lord or the Duke, sir. I would mind your manners as well considering I am a guest of this fine establishment.
Stand up straight, hands behind my back looking down to him.

DMaster: He finally realized who you were and stumbles back, tries to bow almost falls over.
CHEF: Oh, Ma, ma, M’Lord, I apologize, I did not know it was you.

Vulcuran: Get back in his face.
VUL: No matter my status, your tone to any customer of yours is unacceptable. What is it that you need Meadow for?

DMaster: He is shaking his head, looking around. Just about ready to shit his pants.
CHEF: Oh, nothing. It can wait.

Vulcuran: VUL: And wait it will be. Now leave me before I find my way to the manager.
Point the opposite direction, scowl on my face.

DMaster: By now Thames has stuck his head out, smirking.
THA: Everything, um, ok out here?

Vulcuran: Give him a flash of anger.
VUL: Yes.
Bob my head as to say get back in there.

DMaster: He cringes and shrinks back in, closing the door to help with the privacy.

Vulcuran: Walk back to Meadow.
VUL: Sorry about that.
Giving her a look.

DMaster: Among her disheveled look, she also looks very defeated.
MEA: I am going to pay for that later…
Giving you a quick glance up.
MEA: I’m off at 3. If you can be at my house at 4 maybe?

Vulcuran: Take a moment and nod to her.
VUL: 4 it is then.

DMaster: She skirts by you and heads back.

Vulcuran: Open doors, walk in, face flushed and not in the mood. Sit back down.

DMaster: Everyone looking at you, sees your demeanor and knows enough not to ask. The waiter comes in and takes orders, and there is some light conversation. The manager makes his way into the room.
MANAGER: I am sorry to interrupt but if I could have a word with you M’Lord?
He says to you, nodding.

Vulcuran: Give him a fierce look.

DMaster: Everyone cringes seeing that, and they all mock like they are doing something else. The Manager shrinks a bit and steps back, waving his arm to leave the room.

Vulcuran: Walk out, and turn to him. Staring at him, let some of my hair fall in front. A good glare.

DMaster: MANAGER: Havcon would like to Apologize, and I would as well.
The Chef is walking up from behind, sheepishly.

Vulcuran: Look past the manager at this other man, then back to the manager.
VUL: To say I have not been having a good week would be quite the understatement. I just wanted to have a nice lunch and get back to it. I know Meadow pretty well, and to be approached by, what was your name Horcut or whatever, like that is a bit unsettling. Not to mention the dread he seems to bring her. What kind of working environment does this place have?
Looking past the two men raising an eyebrow.

DMaster: The managers eyes bulge and he is getting fidgety.
MANAGER: M’Lord, it is a very good one, the best even.

Vulcuran: Lean down and look at him, close in on his face.
VUL: I am not that ignorant, working in a restaurant is stressful and you get very busy. So for that, I will just forget this even happened and just call it… a typical Mondalay.
Give him a quick smirk, lean back up.

DMaster: CHEF: I apologize M’Lord, I…

Vulcuran: VUL: Save it. Just know your place. Without customers, you have no job. Whether I am John Doe from the Pit, or King Jeramiah himself, I should be treated with respect. That goes for your co-workers too.
Take a deep sigh like I am getting annoyed.

DMaster: MANAGER: Yes, yes. Again, apologies. Lunch is on the house!
Giving you a wide eyed worried look.

Vulcuran: Soft smile and a nod.
VUL: Thank you. Now if I may?
Point back to the room.

DMaster: He nods his head,
MANAGER: yes yes!
Motions for the doors to be opened again.

Vulcuran: Nod head again and walk in.

DMaster: As the door opens, everyone glances over to you.

Vulcuran: Try not to have too much of a glare on my face, smile awkwardly to everyone. That was a huge waste of time and an unpleasant interruption. Sit down.
VUL: So, what about that Southern Gate huh?

DMaster: A few chuckles and head nods. Cadence leans over.
CAD: Everything alright?
Giving you a side-wards glance.

Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Yeah, just peachy.
Smile at her.

DMaster: The lunch is served and it is amazing as usual. You ordered the special. The waiter informs everyone that the meal was on the house due to the issues. They all shrugged their shoulders knowing it was free to them anyways.

Vulcuran: Leave and head back to the castle.

DMaster: Everyone is walking with you, some eyeballs on you.

Vulcuran: Shake head, keep walking.
VUL: Wat? Wat is it?

DMaster: Thames grabs your arm, Cadence and Marcus keep walking. They glance back, shrug their shoulders and keep moving.

Vulcuran: Give them the look.

DMaster: THA: So you and Meadow are done?
Giving you a somewhat thoughtful look, glancing over to Damon who is also giving you the same look.

Vulcuran: Sigh loudly.
VUL: Can you blame her? I stood her up how many times? I all but hit on another woman at the party, and I am sure her mother is none to happy with me, or flat out scared of me.

DMaster: They glance at each other, back to you.
DAM: Uh, wat now?

Vulcuran: Shake head start to walk again.
VUL: Her mother was out and about when the siege happened last week. I landed practically in front of her.
Chuckle and shake head again.
VUL: I don’t think I could of planned it any better if I tried. She looked a little, well, uh, scared? So I am sure that worries her about Meadow hanging out with me.

DMaster: They are starting to walk with you nodding their head.
THA: Makes sense. That her daughter might get caught in the cross fire or something.
Both of them nod their head as do you and make your way into the castle.

Vulcuran: Go to the office, work on some cases to get ready for court, then on my security. Keep an eye on the time.

DMaster: Oddly enough Vatikus is not there.

Vulcuran: Smile and chuckle. I really do hope he took the day off. Not feeling like dealing with anyone right now.

DMaster: You finish what you could and it is around 3:30-3:45-ish from what you can tell.

Vulcuran: Get ready quick, and head out. Go to the inner gates, grab a guard to follow.

DMaster: You make it to Meadows with little trouble. Weather is still pretty nice.

Vulcuran: Look at the guard.
VUL: Stay here, find a place to chill-out. I don’t think I will be too long alright?

DMaster: He nods his head, walks to a wall and leans against it.

Vulcuran: Knock on the door.

DMaster: After a minute, Magnolia opens it. Her eyes bulge a little and she backs up.
MEA: Uh, M’lord? I uh, didn’t expect you.
She is looking past you, then back up to you.

Vulcuran: Glance behind me then back to her.

DMaster: There was no one there.

Vulcuran: She must be worried bad guys will storm the place I guess. Sigh and nod my head,
VUL: Yes, I am here at Meadows request.

DMaster: Magnolia lets you in and the living room area is empty.

Vulcuran: VUL: Oh, how is Ender?
Giving her a look.

DMaster: She sheepishly looks up to you, shrugs her shoulders a little and darts to the staircase.
MAG: Meadow honey, the Duke is here to see you.
You can hear rummaging around and such, then the quick decent down the stairs.
MEA: Come on, we can talk in my bedroom.

Vulcuran: Eyes bulge a little, smirk and head for the stairs.

DMaster: Magnolia is trying to not look at you like you were a 7 tentacle ball of goo, but you can sense she is really scared of you.

Vulcuran: Walk to her room.

DMaster: The house is uncharacteristically messy, and dark. Only a candle or two lit, and it seems a bit odd. Meadow lets you in, closes the door. Points to a chair that is against the wall. The room is a mess, clothes all about, a few mugs and a dirty dish.
MEA: Sorry I haven’t had time to clean lately.

Vulcuran: Nod head, sit down. Give her a look.

DMaster: She is really fidgety and nervous.

Vulcuran: VUL: Meadow.
Give her a stern look.

DMaster: That made her jump and her head snaps to you.

Vulcuran: VUL: I get it, I know what’s coming. So there is no reason to be worried or stressed. Just talk to me.
Give her a sincere and warm look.

DMaster: Her shoulders sag and she even starts to well up.
MEA: I knew this was never going to be a long term thing, but I wanted to see where it went anyways…
She starts in, starting to pace a little.
MEA: But after the little meet and greet on the street. Hearing you almost died, my mother has been freaking out. Afraid that someone is going to kidnap me, or I’ll get decapitated if someone attacks…

Vulcuran: Snort and nod head.
VUL: Fair concerns.

DMaster: It is quiet.

Vulcuran: Glance up.

DMaster: She is wide eyed looking at you.
MEA: I would be in danger if we hung out?

Vulcuran: Shake head, and smile softly to her.
VUL: Hardly. The security we have, the detail that tags along with me and the fact our citizens are a very loyal bunch… there was no real danger.
Lean forward with arms on knees.
VUL: but I can understand how it must of looked and how it can be misunderstood. We went looking for that conflict for good reasons and on the other side of it; no one comes looking for me, at least not in MY city.

DMaster: Meadow is looking on and nodding her head.
MEA: Oh, ok. That makes sense.
An awkward silence falls into the room.

Vulcuran: Stand up.
VUL: Listen.
Walk over to her, grab her hands and hold them.

DMaster: She is startled at first but then practically melts, looking up.

Vulcuran: VUL: You have a lot going on. You have a mother and father who love you and want you to be safe. I have a lot going on and it demands almost all my time… I get it. We can still be friends, right?
Give her a look.

DMaster: She is tearing up a bit, slowly nodding her head. You went to continue and she grabs your face, and gives you a nice kiss.

Vulcuran: Lift her up off the ground, give her a kiss back.

DMaster: Meadow is giggling at the end being lifted up. Glancing to the corner you see something covered on the one table in her room, and you can spot what looks to be some potion bottles underneath.

Vulcuran: Hmm. Wonder if her Dad is doing ok, maybe that is why she is so stressed.
VUL: Meadow? How is your father?

DMaster: She is backing up a bit, then stops and her head spins to you.
MEA: Uh, why? I mean, ok I guess?
She is a terrible liar.

Vulcuran: Give her a look back like “bullshit.”
VUL: Meadow.

DMaster: Her shoulders sink and she again starts to tear up.
MEA: He is getting worse, the usual things are not working as well so I have been increasing the dose, but…
She shakes her head, and stands a bit taller.
MEA: It’s fine. I will figure something out.

Vulcuran: Shake head and put both hands on her shoulders.
VUL: This is your father. Do whatever it takes to help him. If I can facilitate something for you, to help out, let me know. It will get done.

DMaster: Glancing up to you with a smile.
MEA: That, well, ingredient we spoke of before, I need…

Vulcuran: Give her a kiss on the forehead.
VUL: Done. Give me a bit of time and I will get some for you ok?

DMaster: Her eyes bulge and she chuckles a little. A tear starts to fall. She turns to you as you walk off.

Vulcuran: Stop and give her a look.
VUL: Now, go relax for a bit, you are wound up tighter than a virgin in a dick warehouse.
Wipe the tear away. Walk out the door.

DMaster: She tilts her head back, a small giggle and a raised eyebrow.
MEA: A virgin where?