"What did you do on your birthday?" "Got older."

[hermia-sophia.livejournal.com]

Evening of Thursday, September 10, Day 102
Garden behind the Whitechapel Inn

My twenty-third birthday.

Dear Valmont, he is trying so very hard to make this a happy day for me! Waking with a kiss (even though I could hardly sleep last night), flowers on the breakfast table. And telling me that I should take the day off to luxuriate, which was wonderfully tempting, but I had to go back to the library. I did not want to feel that I was being kept away, for if I were, then Lysander would be winning. And I had to make sure that the library would still feel tranquil to me after yesterday - I don't want to lose that peaceful place I have found there.

When I walked in and saw the chaos that Lydia had made, I laughed until I cried. Or possibly the reverse - it was rather hard to tell at the time. And then we straightened the books up, and when I was done, I turned around to find a little book of poetry that had not been there before on the front desk, tied with a bow, and my smile came back.

And then Valmont came to walk me home, and we have kept happily busy and distracted with setting up the party. Through some unspoken pact, we have not mentioned Lysander all day. The thought of what happened yesterday still makes me feel as if I am falling...but I will not fall,and I will not let it ruin today, for today is about my new life and all of the people who belong to it. Valmont. My new friends. And...well, some of those coming are 'people' only in a rather loose sense of the term. But I would not want to risk bringing ill fortune down on myself by not inviting my people's gods! And there's Chester as well, who I suppose doesn't exactly count as a person either. Ah, Excolo guest lists. There's something comforting in that very oddness, though. People, creatures, gods - they are all part of Excolo and my new life. My new year.

The lanterns dance in the trees; the light of the setting sun glints off of the wine bottles and glasses, and I wait in the garden, feeling a little bit of peace. Let today be free of unhappiness, please! Let me be safe in the garden on my own day...

[Open to party guests]

Comments

[bakeneko-excolo.livejournal.com]

It was early morning when the rising sun woke us on the threshold of the porch. After I gave the jar to Luke with as thorough an explanation as I had and a few pertinent books, he invited me to attend Hermia's birthday with him. Even though she knows me as the cat, I have grown quite fond of her and accepted right away. I suppose going with a friend may be easier than a lover with an uncertain temper. Since that day I have been quite content, all of us working on our project. Ojiisan has been wanting to see that Boden boy, but that will have to wait until after the party. Koneko thought he was rather impudent the way he winked at her anyway.

As we enter the garden together, I smile to see the lovely setting. Lanterns soft glow frame the birthday girl quite nicely. Tugging at my vest, I was glad I did not dress as formally as to Miao's event. I shift the wrapped present, a side by side english translation of old japanese poetry, and wait for Luke's direction on where to go.

[a-cheval.livejournal.com]

Did go to the ranch. Did go out there, only he weren't there, he never answered, and then I had work and he never answered again after it and bloody hell, how'm I s'posed to do anything about it if he ain't there? Never really reckoned to invite him here anyway. He don't even like half the folks that's going, and he ain't in no mood to be around folks anyway, grumpy bastard. Well I ain't turning up with him when he's like that, and I don't want to make him do nothing he don't want to, or make him feel obliged to - really don't. Really don't want that, and besides... 'sides, I like Boku. He's- he's my best mate. So there we are. Bloody hell, parties make me nervous.

Still fussing at my hair when we get there, even though I got it sorta neat and borrowed Samuel's good suit that don't fit him no more. Feel sorta smart in it but then, bloody hell, hate being the first there. Always feel like I'm imposing. Stick pretty close to Boku and try not to wrinkle my nose, cause the place looks real nice, truly. Ain't got too much money for presents, but Miss Hermia's always been real nice to me, so I brung down a bottle of wine from New Canaan, cause they're good at it there. "Let's get a drink and go find Miss Hermia?" I mumble. Good job Luke, blushing already, folk'd think they never let you out the bloody house.

[bakeneko-excolo.livejournal.com]

"Let's get a drink and go find Miss Hermia?"

Nodding, I follow him over to a table set with drinks. Contemplating the whiskey, I opt to pore myself a glass of wine instead. Looking around I see the courtesan and nod to her with a smile. It seems we were not too early.

[chester-excolo.livejournal.com]

I'm honoured that Hermia personally gave me an invite to her party this evenin'. It's kinda like a public acknowledgment. I feel a slight twinge of guilt that I haven't told her bout signin' on with Mab yet. But it's not like either Hermia or Mab has a pact with me; an thus neither of 'em got exclusive rights to me. And I'd never tell Mab anything that Hermia specifically asks me ta keep secret...Not that she's ever asked me to keep nothing secret. 'Cept for maybe me teachin' her magic. An even then she never asked me directly, I just got the feelin' that she wanted to be the one as decided who got to know about it.

All this is sittin' in the back of my mind as I fade gently into Valmont's garden under one of the newer flowering bushes in a shady corner juts outside the lantern light. I peek out from under it, hoping to spot either Hermia, Valmont or someone I know.

[kateohara.livejournal.com]

I arrive at the party with Laurence. I am not sure we are quite back to being comfortable together. He came into the store and apologised for his behaviour - in front of Amanda, which of course meant later on she asked me about it - and I said it was fine. But we haven't really spoken about it, and I'm not sure if it is fine. Thinking about it makes me tired right now, however.

We walk in through the back gate. A few people have arrived already. I would never have thought a few months ago I'd willingly come to the Whitechapel. But Hermia is lovely, even if her boyfriend is a little dubious - though I will admit Valmont has been much better behaved lately.

I wasn't really sure what to wear. I have some nice day dresses, but Valmont is always so dressy, I was certain any party he threw would be fancy. But the white dress - my best dress - seemed a little too dressy. Eventually I gave up and went to the Sacred Whore - I miss Annegwish, but did she have to give it such a horrible name? - and bought an outfit. The girl who served me seemed nervous, but I prefer not to have someone hovering around me anyway, so I didn't mind her shyness. I picked out a black taffeta (http://www.vintageous.com/v3744.htm) dress - there's a slight shimmer to the skirt, making it more like an evening dress, but it's not too dressy. And it came with a jacket, which is good - I think soon it will feel like fall.

The top half of the garden is busy with people greeting Hermia. I have made her some lemon cookies and put them in a ceramic jar from the store. I hope she likes them. I spot a very pretty white cat underneath a bush.

"Hey, kitty," I say softly.

[chester-excolo.livejournal.com]

I can see Hermia an Valmont but they're at th center of a swarm of folks. I don't know most of 'em so's I don't quite feel comfortable just walkin' up an greetin' her. I poke my nose out a little farther only to get spotted by a pretty blonde dame in sparkly black. She bends down a bit and speaks softly to me.

Hey, kitty.

Ah well, it's a party an I'm a guest. if I don't wanna spend my evening pretending to be a dumb animal I might as well start talkin' to folks. I come all the way out from the bush an go up to have a sniff at her. That'll tell me if she's human or other. Gimme an idea how to handle this.

[lei-miao-shan.livejournal.com]

I am honored to receive an invitation to Hermia's birthday, and even though it conflicts with opening hours I am determined to attend. Mrs. Danvers tells me that she will be happy to watch the brothel for an evening, and so I thank her deeply, take the gift I purchased for Hermia, dress in slacks and a silk blouse (http://www.ancientmoods.com/products/Mandarin_Short_Sleeves_Blouse-1128-350-.html) and walk down the street to the Whitechapel.

Hermia is there, and there are lanterns in the trees and wine laid out on tables. And look, there are Boku and Luke, and they look....as though they are there together. Has Luke broken off his relationship with Ares, then? Or are they here as friends?

Whatever the case is, I smile and wave to both of them, and move to approach Hermia. I am looking forward to speaking with both of the young men, but it is only good manners to greet the hostess first and to give her the gift.

[hermia-sophia.livejournal.com]

I think Miao has seen Luke and his new young man as well (at least, I hope that he is his new young man!) for I see her glancing that way and waving. I catch her eye as she looks back, giving her a warm smile.

"Good evening, Miao - thank you so much for coming. You look lovely!" I unwind my hand reluctantly from Valmont's to reach out and give Miao a light touch on the arm.

[docconstantine.livejournal.com]

Wunderbar.
Another Excolo party.
Wanda seemed to think it was going to be on the smaller side, and that we need a night off, so of course she sweet talked me into going. After all, she is good friends with Valmont, and we like Hermia more than well enough.
Besides, this is the first real time we are spending together in days.

After tying my hair back and finding a clean, un-ruined shirt, Wanda and I make our way out to the Whitechapel.

Entering the garden, we see that it is beautifully decorated and we are amongst the first to arrive. And thank you, Miao is already here as well.
Wink to her and hang back a bit so she can finish her well wishes to Hermia.

[mistresswanda.livejournal.com]

"Oh, Valmont's garden is so pretty!" I breathe, switching the gift basket for Hermia to my other hand. A tea pot with roses, two tea cups and assorted teas. My standard gift, true, but most seem to like it.

I've opted tonight for a lightweight black sweater dress with three quarter sleeves and a V neck. Making sure I loom presentable, I smile at Hermia and Miao, then to Luke as we wait or turn.

[valmont-vicomte.livejournal.com]

Mab and Liam and I did not have any luck locating Lysander. Never mind; the town is small, and we'll find him eventually. I have determined to put that idiot to the back of my mind for this evening. Hermia will have a lovely party. I will make sure of it.

We spent the afternoon setting up. I have made a great deal of hor d'oeuvres, some cold, some hot. There are vol-au-vents filled with mushrooms, smoked fish and cream cheese blinis, bruschetta... And I have filled two crystal bowls with punch, one alcoholic and one not, but both made with the freshest fruit available. And there is wine, of course. I survey the tables, ensuring that there are enough plates and glasses, and then guests begin arriving, very much on time. And I have still not given Hermia her birthday present yet! I must draw her aside at some point...

I walk over to where she is greeting her guests, and I link my arm in hers and smile. She looks very lovely. I am wearing a dove grey suit with a silk cravat, and I think we make quite the handsome couple.

[hermia-sophia.livejournal.com]

My heart skips a little when I see Valmont coming towards me, and I cannot help but smile - he looks wonderful. I give my dress (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v148/missmaggiethecat/website%208/103_3613_00-1.jpg) one last little pat to straighten it as he comes towards me. I feel my hand clutching at his arm, trying to keep him close - but no, I make myself unwind it, and just let him loop his arm gently through mine. "Thank you for everything, dearest," I murmur. "It's beautiful."

And now the guests have started to arrive. Lucien and Wanda together, Miao on her own, that little tingle that tells me that Chester is somewhere nearby, Kate and Laurence just coming through the gate, Luke and...that nice young Japanese man I've seen in the library? The young man who is always quiet and courteous and kind. Both looking adorably awkward and scrubbed clean. Oh, if Luke has come here really with him and not Ares, how wonderful that would be! I give them both a quick, bright smile as I start to move towards the gate to greet my guests, for Miao is already coming towards us.

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

The sun's slipping down and turning the clouds to crimson, warm golden light and cool air running down Silk Road. Stopping back by the Tavern, as I didn't think to bring the brown dress when we settled down in the apartment--but then we're neither of us sure exact what's going on with Verdi, and haven't been able to lay hands on her to ask. Don't mind being there, but until things are a little clearer the thought of sleeping there...

No.

Need to find her, but it's Thomas behind the bar tonight, and he only saw her for a moment, going into the basement. And we've neither of us had any luck finding her when she's down there.

Set it aside, I care to see Hermia and not to trouble her. Somehow wishing I could've brought her something more and other than sage, but it's a handy plant to have around and the meaning suits her. Was thinking iris, as well, but they're hardly in bloom now and in any case they're much less use.

Take Iago's hand and squeeze it, quick and light, as we enter the garden. Folk're already there--know everyone on sight, though it takes a moment to place Luke and the young man standing with him. Never caught his name, but he was at Miao's party, I recall that.

[iago-excolo.livejournal.com]

Closing the gate behind me, I keep ahold of Glass' hand as we enter the Inn's garden. I'm determined to have a good time tonight and give my girl one as well. My confusion and distress as of late have been pushed aside as I refuse to give in to a tide of despair. Living in Excolo is a trial some days but I've found that if you look hard enough, there are many a pleasure to be found as well. My wife, for example, and the new friends I've made.

Keeping those thoughts in the forefront of my mind, I give Glass a wink as I grin at her. "You look lovely, my sweet wife and I believe I'm becoming accustomed to this dress of yours." I'm teasing but truly, she'd look ravishing in a burlap sack, even one with sleeves and a proper hem.

Taking stock of the guests, I see there's quite a few people here already. Excellent. I hate being early. It's a long-standing preference and I see no reason to change at this late date. Offering Glass a wrapped bottle, I plainly state, "I didn't know what to get Hermia for her birthday so I nicked a bottle of wine while you were retrieving your dress. It's the white, Tintagel. Do you think she'll like it?"

[erisdiscordious.livejournal.com]

The boys are off on their own tonight, Ares angry at the world and Lúgh enjoying it. I smile as I enter the garden and stand off to the side, wondering what the reaction will be to my presence. Mortals do hate it when things don't go exactly their way.

Of course, it's not as if I weren't invited.

[valmont-vicomte.livejournal.com]

I come back into the garden after depositing the gifts. Hermia's present looks quite safe, and that is good.

I see a familiar figure by the gate. Eris. Well. Nothing like a goddess gracing a party for fortune - though whether the good or bad kind I am not sure. I hope at least Hermia will think it's a blessing to have one of her own gods here.

"Eris," I say, approaching her. I lift her hand and kiss it. "Are you well?"

[regal-vigilante.livejournal.com]

We didn't get much more done before I announced that I had to go get dressed for the party. Though the double blink from Liam would have been worth getting changed for. Does the kid good to get shaken up.
So off I went, popping into the back to check on the pumpkin once more before I left. Didn't seem like there was any change, so I just patted it and whispered my mantra once more, *Soon my friend. Don't worry. We'll figure it out*

I don't think that I get to the party too late, but there's a bunch of people gathered in the garden when I arrive, my gift (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pea_Whistle.jpg) and a spray of flowers I picked up earlier in hand. Take a quick look around as I slip in. Decent-and varied- turn out. And hopefully Hermia actually invited them all. And hopefully this'll be one of those nice boring Excolo parties where I don't have to break up a fist fight.

[bakeneko-excolo.livejournal.com]

I nod a farewell at the others, and follow Luke to the table with the wine and punch. Catch his look, "Chester is a different sort." Looking around I see Hermia with Eris, perhaps I will just fill up my wine. I smile at Luke, "Parties are very different in Excolo, I think."

I start laughing a little at that, I suppose it is an understatement. Particularly coming from a monster. Still chuckling, I take a seat nearby and set my present on the table. I turn to Luke and ask in a low voice, "How has work been? With Samuel?"

[a-cheval.livejournal.com]

Just as we're walking away, the cat bloody pipes up, "Nice ta meet ya both. Have fun!" Oh my giddy aunt. Grip Boku's arm sorta hard and speed up till we're outta earshot, trying not to make any noise. "Chester is a different sort."

Different sort?! "I- He- Didn't you hear him?! He said- the- the cat said- " The cat was fucking talking. That is the main point of bloody interest. I mean, I know, technically, that ain't exactly news to Boku, what with him being a cat and all, and I spose that sorta means it shouldn't be news to me neither. Only when he's a cat he never waved or spoke or nothing. He never done nothing like that! That's bloody it. Parties are different indeed. Parties're bloody mad in Excolo, is what they are. All very well him saying that! "Is it like you? No. I mean, it ain't. Right? I can tell." Suddenly feel sorta certain 'bout that.

"How has work been? With Samuel?" What? Oh. Right. Flush a bit and smile when I sit down next to him. "Sorta..." Look down and rub my hand through my hair, getting a hold on myself. "Um. Sorta... Quiet. He ain't said much to me since. Or anything, really. Guess I'm sorta scared to say much to him neither."

[kateohara.livejournal.com]

I am not sure I understand what just happened. Is this stranger a former beau of Hermia's? He seemed very angry, and then Mr Laclos was so cold, and now they are fighting a duel, which seems like something out of the pastel-covered romance novels in the rack next to the Westerns I like to get from the library.

I am not sure what best to do. Glass brings Hermia a glass of punch, which I think is a good idea, and I give her a little smile.

"Maybe you should sit down, Hermia," I say, pulling out a chair from the table. I take the kitten over to the bench and sit down with it so that I am not in the way, and so that the poor thing doesn't get overwhelmed by all the people.

[valmont-vicomte.livejournal.com]

I watch Lysander stalk out of the garden. I watch him go, and I turn back to hear Lucien offering his doctorly services, and then Mab says:

"Its also good to have a second who knows what they're doing."

She takes off her badge, and there is something quite moving in that gesture, somehow.

"Thank you," I say. "Both of you." I turn to Hermia and say in a low voice:

"I'm sorry, darling. But I'm not sure we can get rid of him unless I fight him. His pride has been hurt, and that sort of man is dangerous when that happens."

[chester-excolo.livejournal.com]

Hermia n' Valmont go cut the cake. Hermia also exchanges words with Boku an Luke. I stay on the bench looking around at the party. Everybody seems subdued by the force of the event just passed. Glass an Wanda are having a quiet chat by the drinks, Lucien is talking to an elegant Chinese lady with very small feet. Mab is standing alone so I go over to rub against her ankles.

[regal-vigilante.livejournal.com]

When its all done, I'm glad that I stepped back and let my friends handle themselves. I stick my hand in my pocket and feel the weight of my badge, strangely heavy. No regrets about offering myself as Valmont's second either. I'm not sure who else is qualified to do it, and we all know that I'll make sure it happens right.

I glance over to when Lucien is standing. If something does go wrong and Valmont needs him, I'm sure the doctor will be up to the task. My mind flickers back to what Jack told me about him healing Maryk, but I dismiss it. We all still have our secrets, and when the times comes I'll find out. No reason to press him for it and make problems.

Something rubbing against my ankles breaks em out of my reverie, and without a word I scoop Chester up and set him so that his front paws are on my shoulder and his belly is safely tucked up against me. I scritch his ears as I speak, "I assume that if something does go wrong, we're in agreement that Vassos won't get too far?"

[mistresswanda.livejournal.com]

"I left off playing shop clerk for Bluebeard, did I tell you?"
Arch an eyebrow and smile a bit as Glass takes her drink from me. "Ah, Iago keeping you so busy that you need to rest your afternoons away?" I tease lightly, smiling. "Looking for a change from that taskmaster or planning on being happily unemployed for a while?"

"And yourself? How've you been? Besides engaged." She's looking at me like she's looking for something, it seems everyone looks at me that way anymore. "Tired." I admit with a shrug. "Life's been... odd. Cutting my client list down to a bare few, taking weaponry lessons from Ares, trying to get the energy to plan a wedding...." Sigh heavily and take a deep drink. "And before you hear it from anyone else... at the town picnic for the schoolchildren on Tuesday? Half the townsfolk saw a large, black stray dog adopt me as owner. Apparently playing faithful companion was preferable to getting caught by Mr. Klavec after he filtched a pork chop." Lips quirk a little. Okay, it was a little funny....

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

"Ah, Iago keeping you so busy that you need to rest your afternoons away?" and I'm glad I only sipped at the whiskey, or I'd be choking right now; can't help smiling, but I can feel the blood rising in my face. "Looking for a change from that taskmaster or planning on being happily unemployed for a while?"

"The shop was wearing on me a touch," I admit. "Figured to keep with gathering and preparing, mostly; less work in the winter, but it'll suit me better. And by luck Alessandra was there when I went by to speak with him. Were it anyone else, I'd've called him smitten." Smile a little at that, trying to push aside the notions of rent and winter accounting.

"Tired." Well enough, I had the sense of that... remember the half-name Lucien swallowed back when he was laying out his sleeping draught for Dorian. "Life's been... odd. Cutting my client list down to a bare few, taking weaponry lessons from Ares, trying to get the energy to plan a wedding...."

I shrug. "The Cockaigne for a cake, Dorian for a dress, and what isn't from the Miskatonic or made yourself you could maybe trouble Miao's cook for a hand with. Leaves you with deciding where it'll be, and setting out flowers or music if you're so minded."

"And before you hear it from anyone else... at the town picnic for the schoolchildren on Tuesday?" Nod absently; I'd vaguely thought on wandering out to that to watch folk, but after the cracked skull and the visit with Lucien I'd never made it out. "Half the townsfolk saw a large, black stray dog adopt me as owner. Apparently playing faithful companion was preferable to getting caught by Mr. Klavec after he filtched a pork chop."

Takes me a moment to place what the weight of what she's saying. So a stray came by over lunch--

Ah.

"Well. Doubtless kind of you," I say as level as I can. Try to think on what else to say, and can't; take another sip of whiskey, instead.