Home Sweet Home

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Sunday, November 8th
Day 161
Evening

I'd been on the road for a month before I scented a town up ahead. When I saw the “Welcome to Excolo” sign I think I almost cried I was so tired of walking, but then I burst out laughing when I saw the population part crossed out several times and “oh fuck it”written in black paint over the numbers. Sounded like my kinda town. I've put enough distance between me and them, besides, I don't think they'll bother trying to track me. Justin might, the selfish prick, this whole thing is his fault. I mean, is a little self control and consideration too much to ask for? He better hope he doesn't find me or I'll show him the real meaning of bitch.

Its been days since I've changed, or eaten for that matter. So when I catch the scent of food being cooked, my stomach grumbles. The smell leads me to a place called “The Miskatonic” Stuffing a hand in my pocket I sigh, pulling out what I have. Almost out of funds. But lucky me, there's a “Waitress Needed” sign in the window. Now that I can do. I go inside, talk to the owner, do a little test run serving some food. (holy shit she's fast and that green wall..yeeeah.) When I leave, not only do I have myself a job, but a little more cash in my pocket too. One job isn't gonna cut it though, winter is coming, no crops, less money to spend on dining out. I head towards Silk Road to see whats there and freeze in front of the bakery, hoping what my nose tells me is wrong.God, please not another one. Opening my mouth,I inhale deeply. Its too faint to tell for sure, but I'm not gonna go in to check. Fuck That. Now I need a drink. Wonder what the legal age is around here? Oh well, never hurts to try. I nearly burst out laughing when I ask a man passing by where the nearest bar is and giving me an odd look, he points down the road and says”The Tavern of Hell is right down there, just past the Sacred Whore.” He smells like he bathed in rum, so I take his word. And “Sacred Whore?” and“Tavern of Hell”? What the hell kind of town is this?

I find the tavern right where the man said and coincidentally, also has a now hiring sign. Not many people inside as I give the barman a smile and take a seat at the bar, and order a beer. No funny looks or questions, he brings it right to me. I think I like this place already. I smile again and thank him, asking about the open job. ”My name is Thomas. You'll have to talk to Verdandi, the owner about the job. She should be around soon."”He says and I thank him again, telling him I'll be right here as I look around the room. This should be a good place to scope out the townsfolk and get a better feel for the place.Holy shit is that a jukebox over there? That and electricity. I must be in heaven.

[OPEN] [CLOSED]

Comments

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

I don't normally go to the tavern. Don't get me wrong, I've not got a problem with booze - we brew beer at the abbey, after all - but we're not usually out and about in town after dark, and I reckon that's when things mostly go on at the tavern. But we had a bit of a jam today - the brewhouse thermometer is broken, so I said I'd pop down to the tavern to see if the owner's got any spare. Hear she does a lot of brewing in the basement, so we might be in luck. I go over in my workout clothes - still a habit, but it's a bit less formal than my Sunday service stuff. I go over to the bar, and a nice bloke tells me Verdandi's out but he'll ask her when she comes back, or I can hang out a bit and wait to see if she comes back. Well, since I've come all the way out here, I might as well have a quick half, so I get a glass of mead. Take a sip, and that's bloody nice stuff. I sit down at the bar a couple of stools away from a girl who only just looks old enough to be here. I give her a nod and lift my glass in a friendly way, but I don't want the poor kid to think I'm hitting on her. That's all we need, a story of a dirty monk trying to pick up teenagers in a bar.

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Only a handful of people come and go as I sit and wait. Then I remember its Sunday. I've been through towns that won't even sell booze on a Sunday. Obviously this isn't one of them, thank God.

A man walks in,dressed oddly, smelling like sweat and incense, which isn't so bad compared to the fire and death smell that seems to be everywhere around this town, he asks for the owner and then sits a few seats down from me. I can feel my muscles tense when he looks my way, Here it comes, but he just smiles in a friendly sorta way, nods and lifts his glass.

Smiling, I nod back and raise my mug, might as well be nice, right? "I'm waiting for her too, you here for the job?" I ask, nodding toward the sign. I figure its not so polite to lead off with, "What the hell's with this town and its strange names and smells and whats with your outfit?" Its not a bad one, looks comfortable at least and he is kinda cute when he smiles.

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

"Job?" I say, feeling a bit confused, and then I notice the help wanted sign, and I laugh a bit. "Oh! Nah, I've got a job. Guess you might be new to town if you don't recognise my get up." I hold out my hand. "Brother Nanse-kam. I live at the abbey. Nice to meet you."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

He look kinda confused when I mention the job and I'm wondering if maybe I said the wrong thing."Oh! Nah, I've got a job. Guess you might be new to town if you don't recognise my get up."Brother Nanse-kam. I live at the abbey. Nice to meet you."

My eyes widen a little as he introduces himself and I set my mug on the bar so I can stretch over and take his hand," Mhm. Just got here today actually. Melania Lowell, Nice to meet you Brother Nanse-kam," I smile, stumbling over the name a bit. Lives at an abbey. That explains the incense. Never saw one drink before though. "I saw the church on my way here, is that where you hold services?" I ask, remembering my amusement at seeing a church amidst all if these oddly named buildings. "Has there been a fire in town recently? If so, maybe they can use a hand rebuilding. I don't mind hard work, long as it pays.

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

She looks a bit surprised, but I reckon it's not that common to see a monk in a pub.

"Nice to meet you Miss Lowell," I say, smiling. "I think you might be talking about St Willigis church," I say. "Not mine. We're a two church town nowadays," I grin. "Sign of a flourishing town, I reckon. I live at the abbey which is across the park. Nice place. And there've been a couple of fires outside town lately," I say, frowning a bit, "but I dunno if there's any plans to rebuild. Private property, y'see. Still, Excolo's growing and hard workers can usually find something to do. But if you're stuck, you're welcome to a bed at the abbey for a night or two. It's not fancy, and we go to bed early and rise early too, but if you're too short on cash for the inn, feel free to get somewhere to sleep. There's usually a bowl of soup in it as well," I smile. "So what brings you to Excolo?"

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"I think you might be talking about St Willigis church," Smiling, I shrug slightly, I didn't notice the name. Just caught the scent of the usual candles, tears and wine.I nod in agreement that its a sign of a growing town, haven't seen one yet with the need for two churches.My smile fades hearing about the fires, there's the scents of fear, death and charred human flesh all mixed in. Not good.

But if you're stuck, you're welcome to a bed at the abbey for a night or two. It's not fancy, and we go to bed early and rise early too, but if you're too short on cash for the inn, feel free to get somewhere to sleep. There's usually a bowl of soup in it as well," My head tilts as I smile," Thank you for the offer, Brother. I'll keep it in mind, but I tend keep late hours.So, Might not be a good fit." Gotta change an run sometime, an what if it happened there? What a clusterfuck that would be. Sweet offer though, but If need be I'm sure I can find a warm place to crash in the woods. "So what brings you to Excolo?"

"Oh,I sort of stumbled into it really," I laugh, "Left home about a month ago, you know, to see other places." I smile, taking a sip of my beer. "Good stuff here, How's the mead?" Even if I didn't hear him order it, I can smell it from here. "And whats with the names of the businesses? I laugh "Definitely an interesting town. So who do you worship?" I ask, preparing myself to hear something way fucked up.

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

She doesn't seem too keen to stay at the abbey, which is alright - it doesn't appeal to everyone.

"Feel free to stop by if you change your mind."

"Left home about a month ago, you know, to see other places."

Wonder a bit at that, cos it's not exactly a small thing to just wander off into the wild, especially if you're a teenage girl, but I don't pry. No doubt she's got her reasons to be here.

"Mead's good," I say. "Verdandi who owns this place does a good trade, and I can see why."

"Definitely an interesting town. So who do you worship?"

"Nanshe," I say with a smile. "Goddess of dreams, of the harvest and of rivers, protector of widows and orphans, champion of justice." I raise my glass in toast to my lady. "You got any religious leanings yourself?" I say. "Excolo's a pretty tolerant place."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"Feel free to stop by if you change your mind."

I nod, mumbling another thank you and that I'll keep it in mind. Which I will, if there's no safer option.

He says the mead's good, which I believe, considering the beer is the best I've ever had. Amazing what piss some places try to pass off as beer.

"Nanshe," "Goddess of dreams, of the harvest and of rivers, protector of widows and orphans, champion of justice." I raise my glass in toast to my lady. "You got any religious leanings yourself? Excolo's a pretty tolerant place." he smiles and raises his glass, and I smile back and raise my mug too. Not like it does any harm or good either way. Personally, I think the apocalypse was god's way of telling us to go fuck ourselves and the rest agreed. Like some celestial board meeting that ended with a majority vote deciding "Fuck em." Its one reason I never went home after I was bitten.My parents went to church every Sunday, I couldn't go home as this monster he turned me into. Even if I kind like it once the change is over.

I shake my head, "Nope, no leanings to speak of, but I might stop by just to check it out anyway." I say. Never heard of her, but this guy seems pretty relaxed and nice, so why not? Wonder exactly how far the tolerance in this town goes.Wloves were shot an killed in most others I've been through.

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

I get the feeling from Melania she doesn't give much of a shit either way about religion, but that's alright. As long as she doesn't start mouthing off about how church is stupid, we'll get along fine.

"Do drop in," I say. "Main services for the public are Sundays, but we've got services every day you're welcome to come to," I say, sipping my mead. Very nice stuff indeed. I glance outside, and it's pretty dark now. "Look, I'd better get going since I don't want them to lock the gates with me outside, but good luck with the job hunt, yeah?" I smile. I turn to the barman. "Will you give your boss that message about the thermometer? Cheers, mate." I turn back to my new acquaintance. "Oh, and Miss Lowell, not to be a stuffy old bloke, but be careful in town after dark. There's been a lot of crime lately, and walking around alone late at night is riskier than you'd expect in a small town."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"Main services for the public are Sundays, but we've got services every day you're welcome to come to,"

"Mhm."I nod, smiling, not even a fake one. I'm curious as to what kind of religion it is."I might just do that." Doesn't sound like one of those seriously fucked up ones at least and he doesn't seem like one of those uptight nuts that accost people in the streets. "Look, I'd better get going since I don't want them to lock the gates with me outside, but good luck with the job hunt, yeah?" locking the gates....Yeeeah, that would be a problem for me. "Thank you," I grin, "Already got one, waitress at the Miskatonic. One down and one to go," I laugh. looking around as a few more people filter in.

He turns and asks Thomas to tell his boss about the thermometer, and I make a mental note to mention it to her as well. Then he turns back to me as I order another beer.Oh, and Miss Lowell, not to be a stuffy old bloke, but be careful in town after dark. There's been a lot of crime lately, and walking around alone late at night is riskier than you'd expect in a small town."

Might be risky for humans...I smile and nod, extending my hand, "Not at all, I appreciate the heads up, thanks. It was nice meeting you, Brother Nanse-kam, take care."

[nansekam.livejournal.com]

"Miskatonic, eh? That's a good place. I'm sure you'll do well."

Melania smiles at me as if she doesn't really have anything to worry about. Oh, teenage confidence. Sometimes I miss it. Hope she doesn't get into any scrapes though. I shake her hand.

"Have a good night," I say, and head off over to the abbey.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

I'm glad there weren't many customers yesterday. I didn't really want to be friendly to people, I just wanted to be doing something so I didn't have time to fret over Johnny. I can't make him choose what I want. Besides, I have no clue if it'd work, him an' me.

Today at least the salon's closed so I don't have anyone else to worry about. I coulda gone an found Will or looked for Boden but I didn't. Didn't bother to go see Mama n' Abby either. Stead I took a long walk round the town and then came back and cleaned the Salon top to bottom. It kinda needed it. An' it kept me busy. Night started falling and I decided I couldn't stand being here with so little to do. might as well go out an get a drink at the tavern.

I feel like being a touch flashy so I pull out a pair of leather trousers, a shirt with patches of fishnet sewn in and add my broken heart choker. To finish off I Even tease my hair out a bit to get it to do the thistle style. Some makeup, and I'm 'bout ready. One last look in the mirror before I grab my leather jacket, an it's off to the tavern.

Not many people there when I enter, but there's still some. Jukebox is playing this time. Somebody musta come fixed it. Either Zann or Vic. Both of them coulda done it, an probably would too just to see it workin' again. I smile as I wonder if they've met yet. Probably get on great. I reach the bar before I realize it. Damn I don't know what I wanna drink yet. So I grab a menu an sit next to a pretty dark haired girl who looks close to my own age.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

It's a quiet night in the Tavern as most people are home with their families. Sundays have never been brisk business but it's not as if we're doing badly. We're doing really well actually. Well enough that I'm hiring more staff and planning minor renovations for the winter. I have bigger plans for the spring but in the meantime, some people will have work through the winter. I wonder if anyone would notice if I raised the roof? I smile and remind myself to talk to someone on the city council to get whatever permits I need. Maybe Edmund. I'd be happy with that.

I'm happy with a lot of things lately. The rite was a success and not just for Syl. For me too. Touching Hel reminded me, forcefully, of who I had been so long ago, and once the pain passed, I realized that my mind healed. Not all of it but more than I could've hoped for and I didn't have to spill unwilling blood to do it. It's a relief to not question the validity of my actions, trying to remember if I'm doing it all right.

I do understand now why so many gods chased after worshipers, needing them to have a purpose. My sisters and I didn't have that, not needing it because we skirted the edge, tied to Yggdrasil and the Wells more than its people. I won't turn anyone away though, not from the coming storm, and if some of Excolo's residents want to seek shelter in my temple, then I'm happy to give it.

Thomas catches me, pointing out the young woman looking for work and I notice that she's very pretty even with her worn, dusty clothes. She's smiling though and that's enough to make me like her already. The Tavern needs vibrant employees, people that will encourage you to relax and enjoy the moment even as they're bringing you a second pitcher.

Approaching the young woman, I smile brightly as I offer my hand in greeting, "Hello, I'm Verdandi. Thomas said you were looking for work. What's your name?"

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

A girl who looks about my age walks in and sits at the bar. Smiling at her, I'm about to say hi and compliment her hair color choice when I catch the scents of apples, honey, and greenery, suddenly. Following the mixture of sweet smells, I turn my head to see a Pretty blonde approach Thomas. I smile when I hear him say her name and mention me, he seems to have forgotten to mention Nanse-kam.The sound of soft footsteps as she approaches and the scent grows stronger, I look up and see a young woman with a smile like sunshine, reminding me of lazy times after s run, stretched out under the sun.She's holding out her hand,I stand up and take it, giving it a slight squeeze and shake,"Hello, I'm Verdandi Thomas said you were looking for work.  What's your name?"

“Melania Lowell, Nice to meet you, Verdandi,” I say, returning her smile-- hard to say a name like that and not smile-- I nod ,“Yes, I just got into town and am looking for a job, if you still have one open. I have experience,”I say quickly,hopefully.Just in case she's worried about my age or anything. Somehow I think I'd like working for this woman. I've worked in bars before, I know whats involved. I can handle it.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

The dark-haired girl takes my hand, standing with a smile as she says, "Melania Lowell, Nice to meet you, Verdandi. Yes, I just got into town and am looking for a job, if you still have one open. I have experience."

I squeeze her hand, dropping it as I say, "Welcome to Excolo then. I'm glad to meet you, and I'm even more glad that you have experience. It's really busy here some nights so that'll be a big help." I've only just put out the Now Hiring sign and thankfully, someone came in quickly. "Let's do your interview now. First thing is that you don't have to worry about making the drinks. The bartenders do that." I gesture to her as I continue with a smile, "You only have to make sure the drinks are getting to the customers. Let's move to that table, if you don't mind," I add as I point to a table near the window.

There's another young woman at the bar and I don't remember meeting her. Purple hair is hard to miss and I smile at her, reaching out to shake her hand as well as I introduce myself, "Hi there. We haven't met but I'm Verdandi. I own the Tavern," I say as I motion to the room. "Would you mind giving me a hand. I'm interviewing Melania today and need a customer for the practical part." I smile brighter as I offer, "There's free drinks in it for you."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"Welcome to Excolo then. I'm glad to meet you, and I'm even more glad that you have experience. It's really busy here some nights so that'll be a big help."

Still smiling, I nod, "The busier, the better." More money that way. "Let's do your interview now. First thing is that you don't have to worry about making the drinks. The bartenders do that. You only have to make sure the drinks are getting to the customers. Let's move to that table, if you don't mind,"

"Oh, I can make drinks," I laugh,"But If they wanna do it..."I grin, bringing my shoulders up to my ears in a shrug,"A table sounds great," I say as she turns to the purple haired girl and invites her along for a test run. I smile at the girl noticing her pierced ears and tattoos on her arms. "Love your tats, was thinking about getting one done myself, where'd you get em?" I ask, head cocking slightly in curiosity. Didn't seem like the type of town that would have a shop.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

I'm almost ready to order or maybe just to the girl. She gave me a friendly smile after all. But then a gorgeous blonde about our age comes over and introduces herself to both us as Verdandi. This is is the mysterious Verdandi?! I'd have thought she was older. Maybe not Mama's age but older than us. And she's offering me free drinks to help with an interview. I grin and return her handshake. "M'Verite. An' sure I'll help! Free drinks is a great compensation."

The girl, Melania if I caught her name right smiles at me.Love your tats, was thinking about getting one done myself, where'd you get em?

I laugh but it's not mean. Just, well, that I like her and her enthusiasm.We follow Verdandi to the table she shows us.

"Got the tats from my first teacher, who's many miles away from here. But if you really are serious 'bout getting one, I can do it for you. I run a salon that does tattoos an' piercings an' hair. S'called I dyed for Beauty. On Main street."

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

The purple-haired girl shakes my hand as she says, "M'Verite. An' sure I'll help! Free drinks is a great compensation." I'm pleased that she wants to help and yes, I'm sure the free drink offer didn't hurt but as I look her over with her bright eyes and big smile, I really think that she would've helped me out anyway.

Liking Verite already, I grab a menu (http://pics.livejournal.com/norn_verdandi/pic/0000ad5e) from the bar as Melania compliments her, "Love your tats, was thinking about getting one done myself, where'd you get em?" Verite laughs, big and full and my smile widens. Yes, leave something of the happiness you bring. She answers Melania, explaining about her far-away teacher and then adds, "...if you really are serious 'bout getting one, I can do it for you. I run a salon...I Dyed for Beauty. On Main street."

Melania's following me as she says, Oh, I can make drinks, but if they wanna do it..." and I smile as I reply off-handedly, "Oh, the boys take care of it," altar libations from my priests, "-but maybe later on, I'll give you a try back there. Men love to buy liquor from pretty girls," and I giggle as I continue, "It makes them feel special, just to have her attention for a little while."

Leading them both to a table, I try to sort out the barmaid-to-be's scent as I sit down with Verite and lay the menu in front of us. She's got a sharp scent that reminds me of Johnny and Gaueko, and I wonder about where she was before Excolo. Smiling at Verite, I ask, "What would you like to drink?" as I shift the menu to her. I turn to Melania and cheerfully say, "I'd like you to demonstrate your greeting as if we were new customers. We'll then give you our drink order and you'll take it to Thomas. We'll talk when you return with the orders. Does that sound fair?"

Turning to Verite, I brightly ask, "So you run the salon? That's wonderful! How long have you been there? I've never come in but I've always wanted to."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

The Purple haired girl smiles widely as she replies to Verdandi's offer "M'Verite. An' sure I'll help! Free drinks is a great compensation." Then she laughs happily at my question about her tats as we walk over to the table"...if you really are serious 'bout getting one, I can do it for you. I run a salon...I Dyed for Beauty. On Main street."

Now its my turn to laugh, "I love the names of businesses here, That's a great name for a salon, "I smile, "Once I have the funds, I'll definitely be in. Not even lying, I've been thinking of getting one.Just wondering if I'll wake up one morning and it'll be gone.How much would that suck? Having to explain its disappearance it would suck even more. Hopefully it will stick.

"-but maybe later on, I'll give you a try back there. Men love to buy liquor from pretty girls," she giggles girlishly, and Jesus, she can't be much older than me and she owns this place? And Verite owns a salon?Must be good money to be made here."It makes them feel special, just to have her attention for a little while." I laugh "Yeah,it also gives a girl time to get them nice and soused," I say with a wink and impish smile.

Reaching the table, we all sit and Verdandi lays a menu down,asking Verite what she would like. Shit, I should have looked at one while I was waiting. Then she turns to me "I'd like you to demonstrate your greeting as if we were new customers. We'll then give you our drink order and you'll take it to Thomas. We'll talk when you return with the orders. Does that sound fair?"

Smiling,I nod,"Fair enough,"I say, and then stand up and walk a few steps away before turning around and going back to the table. Putting on a bright smile, I look at each of them in turn, "Evening Ladies, My names Melania, What can I get you tonight?" I ask in a friendly, upbeat sorta tone.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi an' Melania discuss how this trial run thing is gonna work. Melania sayin' in response to my speech about the Salon,I love the names of businesses here, That's a great name for a salon, "I smile, "Once I have the funds, I'll definitely be in. I grin back at her. "I can't take credit for the name, that was already there when I took over the place. Come visit anytime during business hours, we can discuss ideas an such."

And Verdandi's saying that she might let Melania try bartending later on account of how much men like buying alcohol from women. That sounds kinda like something Mama'd say. The potential barmaid laughs and answers,Yeah,it also gives a girl time to get them nice and soused, I laugh along with her. "Assuming that's what you want from them!"

Then Melania backs off to start her show and Verdandi's asking me how long I've had my business. I have to think a bit on that. "Opened up in early August, bout the 7th I think." is my answer.

Then Melania is being all friendly an cheerful asking what she can get us. I grin back at her an say, "Hi! C'n I get a cider?"

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Verite is so pretty with her wild hair and leather clothes, and so is dark, sharp-scented Melania and I giggle as I notice the male patrons watching us closely as both of them talk about business names in town. I have to add my bit, "I sympathize. The Tavern was already named when I took over too. In fact, they said I had to keep it and made it part of my agreement. It's not a bad name but, oh! the looks I get when I tell people I'm the owner are very amusing."

I comment and giggle about men, liquor and pretty girls and Melania winks, laughing as she says, "Yeah, it also gives a girl time to get them nice and soused." Verite is laughing too, as she adds, "Assuming that's what you want from them!" Oh, these two are too funny and I laugh along with them, commenting "Oh, that's terrible," as I laugh harder.

Melania walks away and I ask Verite about her shop. She takes a moment and says, "Opened up in early August, bout the 7th I think." I lean forward, placing a hand on her arm as I say, "If no one else has said it, then I will: Welcome to Excolo, Verite. And since we're both on Silk Road, please feel free to visit anytime." I look at her intently, trying to decide what I should tell her. "Town is strange and sometimes, dangerous. I've learned a few tips and if you need anything, anything, you come and see me."

I leave it at that and recall that she's a tattooist and I wonder if she understands the sacred nature of her work. She has a few markings of her own and I touch one gently, marveling at the skilled design as I smile and ask, "Who did these? They're beautiful."

Melania returns, bright smile and a friendly voice as she asks for our order. I like her face and unless she messes up badly, I'm hiring her. Plus, I think the patrons will like her too. Verite orders first, "Hi! C'n I get a cider?" I smile, informing both girls, "We have three kinds here: Candied Apple, Mabon and Poisoned Apple."

I look at Melania, a sweet smile in place as I give my order, "I'd like three shooters: two Snake Bites and an Aces & Eights, along with a bottle of Firewhiskey and another of Violet Charm." I look at the menu again and add as an afterthought, "Oh! And cider for me, too. I'd like one of each variety please." It's a big order and if she can remember even half of it, she's doing better than most.

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"I can't take credit for the name, that was already there when I took over the place. Come visit anytime during business hours, we can discuss ideas an such."

"'K, Hopefully I'll be by this week," I nod at Verite, smiling back at her as Verdandi adds her own comment about how she had to keep the name of this place when she bought it.but, oh! the looks I get when I tell people I'm the owner are very amusing."I laugh, "I bet, you look about our age and both of you are business owners! You don't see that in many towns."I say eye widening for emphasis.

Both girls laugh at my comment about getting the men at the bar drunk,"Assuming that's what you want from them!" Verite adds, making both Verdandi and I laugh harder "Oh, that's terrible," she says. "If that's not all you want from them, then, yeah, gotta watch that. Other than that,"I shrug, still laughing. People tend to pay less mind to how much they're spending, the more they drink.They also have more fun.

"Hi! C'n I get a cider?" Verite says, playing along with the test.Verdandi explains they the three kinds of cider available, and the with another sunny smile, she launches into her order. "Which kind of cider did you want, miss?" I ask Verite, holding my smile and repeating Verdandis' order over and over in my head. Yeah, I'll be studying that menu later. I've never heard of any of those drinks.

Verite decides which of the three she wants, and I nod, repeating the whole thing back to them ending with a smile and a "Coming right up!" I say with a smile, then take off for the bar, still repeating it all in my head.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi sympathizes about the names saying she had to keep that outrageous name when she took the place. and yeah, I bet she got looks for that. She's so cheerful and sunny and this place looks way classier than its name suggests. Much nicer than L'Heure Vert. I feel a stab inside at that disloyal thought, but it's true. L'Heure is just a big tent in different stripes of green an it's starting to look old and faded in daylight.

Melania nods and says, 'K, Hopefully I'll be by this week, She laughs and adds, I bet, you look about our age and both of you are business owners! You don't see that in many towns. Her eyes are wide with wonder at at town that will let people so young own businesses.

I grin back. This is fun! I'm real glad I came out tonight, haven't had this much fun in a long time.

Verdandi giggles at both me an Melania's opinions on men an' alcohol. Melania adds,,q>If that's not all you want from them, then, yeah, gotta watch that. Other than that, she shrugs and we all dissolve into giggles again.

When I ask for Cider, Verdandi explains there's three types and damn, they all sound good. Then she gives her own order and I can feel my eyes widen at the size of it. Is she gonna drink all that by herself? I've seen some big drinkers back at L'Heure, Tez n' Lucien among them; but for someone as young as the tavern owner that's a lot of alcohol.

Then our waitress is smiling at me an asking, Which kind of cider did you want, miss?

"Candied apple, please." I say. I bet they all taste good. Maybe I'll try one of the others next. Melania nods and repeats the whole order before going off to fetch it.

Soon as she's gone, Verdandi leans over to me and places her hand on my arm. If no one else has said it, then I will: Welcome to Excolo, Verite. And since we're both on Silk Road, please feel free to visit anytime. She gives me an intent look and continues, Town is strange and sometimes, dangerous. I've learned a few tips and if you need anything, anything, you come and see me.

I nod at that. Then correct her about where my shop is. "um... yes sure. The shop is actually on Main street. It's between the butcher an the general store. only a little further away."

Then she changes the subject by tracing one of the thick black lines of my tattoo.I can feel the little hairs stand up under 'er finger and I shiver pleasantly with it. Who did these? They're beautiful.

I smile with pride. "Thanks. his name was Andre an he lives in one of the cities down south. I was his student for a few months." He was one a the good memories from that time. Maybe I shoulda shacked up with him 'steada Trevor.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Verite corrects me, almost wary as she says, "um... yes sure. The shop is actually on Main street. It's between the butcher an the general store. only a little further away." I cover my face with my hand and laugh at my mistake. "And you just told me." I shrug, still laughing, "My memory's better than it used to be but so I don't even have a good excuse. Can we blame it on my too-busy brain instead?"

Verite orders cider and I give Melania my big order, too. She's off to the bar and I watch her speak to Thomas. He's smiling and that's a good sign. I wonder briefly what Iago will think of her before turning back to Verite and asking about her tattoos.

She smiles, pleased as she says, "Thanks. his name was Andre an he lives in one of the cities down south. I was his student for a few months." I noticed her little shiver and I touch another part of the design, smiling sweetly as I comment, "I think you were both meant to find each other, you and your teacher. It's obvious that he was skilled," I look up, catching her eyes as I continue, "-and he nurtured your ability too. You looked really happy when you said his name."

Melania's returning and I sit back a bit, giving Verite space but since these tables are small, that's only so much. I can't wait to renovate and I giggle over my own impatience. Changing the subject, I ask, "Have you been to the carnival yet? I visited a while ago and I loved it. Everyone there was so vibrant and cheerful. It was like a pleasant dream for me."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

By the time I get to the bar yo order it comes out something like "two candied apple ciders, one each of the other two, two"I pause"...shit I grab a menu, If I see it I'll know it.By this time Thomas is smiling almost laughing as I Point to the snake bite saying,"two of those,"Then on to the rest saying, "one of those and a bottle of this and this."I sigh and smile at him wondering how he's keeping from laughing. Thank fuck for the menu's.

Drinks poured and bottles all set neatly on a tray, I make my way back, smiling cause I know I got it right. I almost at the table, when my toe catches on a slightly raised floorboard,"Shit,"I gasp, feeling myself stumble forward, drinks sliding across the tray. I manage to recover my balance and quickly stabilize the tray and drinks and I smile, thinking I got it when a bottle wobbles an falls off the tray. Still holding the tray and swearing sharply again, my free hand quickly comes up, catching the bottle by the neck. Looking at them both,I blow my hair from my face an laugh, "Wow that almost sucked. Don't worry ladies, the floor show is free" I wink, and then with a smile and name each drink as I set it down in front of the one who ordered it. Laughing again at the amount Verdandi has in front of her. She must have one hell of s tolerance if she's gonna drink all that.I give her a wide smile, "Everything look all right? Oh, Verdandi, some guy by the name of Nanse-Kam stopped in, needed a thermometer or some beer or something? He talked to Thomas about it," I say smiling down at her.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi laughs at her mistake and makes fun of her poor memory.

She moves her finger to another part of my tattoo, and I shiver again. My arm tingles where her finger was an I can feel the same thing happening under her finger.I think you were both meant to find each other, you and your teacher. It's obvious that he was skilled, Then she looks up meeting my eyes and I feel the intensity and something else. I push away the other feeling to concentrate on what she's saying. -and he nurtured your ability too. You looked really happy when you said his name. I look away a bit but I'm smiling when I reply, "Yeah. changed my life, it did, finding him. Sometimes I wish I coulda stayed..." An' I do. woulds liked it better if I thought he'da left his shop to come with me, but I knew better than to ask, specially after things went bad.

Melania's coming back with a big tray full of our drinks so Verdandi leans back, but I can feel her right next to me. I hope I don't end up blushing. Damn, but she's gorgeous.

Verdandi giggles and changes the subject, this asking bout the carnival this time. Have you been to the carnival yet? I visited a while ago and I loved it. Everyone there was so vibrant and cheerful. It was like a pleasant dream for me.

I smirk at her. "You could say that. I grew up there."

Melania's almost to our table when disaster strikes, she stumbles and a bottle falls off. I start to rise from my seat before I realize I'm just too far away to help but then our waitress manages to grab the falling bottle after all. It's an amazing catch an I'm sitting there openmouthed in surprise as she winks at us and brings the tray over. Wow that almost sucked. Don't worry ladies, the floor show is free. I smile back her. I bet she's got the job. Everything's here an in one piece too.Oh an she has a message for the tavern keep as well. There's no way Verdandi won't hire her now. I pick up my drink an salute her with it.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Verite smiling again as she talks about Andre, her teacher, "Yeah. changed my life, it did, finding him. Sometimes I wish I coulda stayed..." She really is a striking girl and suddenly, I'm reminded of another girl, Gunnlöð, who was my friend a long time ago. The fact that I even remember her is wonderful and I smile at Verite in happiness.

"I'm sure he misses you, too. How could he not? But if you had stayed, we'd have never met." I continue brightly, noting that Melania is almost to our table, "This might not be better but it's definitely not boring." I ask about the carnival and Verite smirks at me as she answers, "You could say that. I grew up there," and isn't she absolutely adorable? "That's exciting! You've must have seen so many different places and people." Since Verite already knows the carnival, maybe she'll go with me. "Maybe you wouldn't mind showing me around the next time I go?"

Melania arrives and Verite and I are treated to a free juggling show along with our drinks. Melania's got speed though, and agility. I'll bet her sharp scent has more than a little something to do with it as she says, "Wow that almost sucked. Don't worry ladies, the floor show is free." I clap my hands, smiling and laughing as she sets the drinks down in front of us.

"That was excellent, Melania!" and Verite salutes her with her cider and I laugh again, touching her arm and nodding happily before I beam at Melania and continue, "You're hired. Take a seat and we'll talk about what you can expect working here. Oh, and we need to celebrate so you pick any drink you want in front of me and we'll toast." Melania brings up Nanse-kam needing a thermometer, whomever he might be. "I know I have an extra one downstairs. Where did he say he was from?" I open the Firewhiskey, pouring myself a shot as I wait for her to choose. Will she choose the strong stuff or go with the weaker brews? Either way, I have a new barmaid and a great reason to celebrate.

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

For a minute, all Verite does is stare at me, mouth agape, while Verdandi claps and laughs. Keep pulling shit like that and my secret isn't gonna be a secret for long. Shouldda just let it fall, but that would have been a waste and possibly loss of a job.

"That was excellent, Melania!" Verdandi exclaims as Verite raises her glass to me. Laughing I return Verites' gesture and lift my mug, "Probably couldn't do that again if I tried," I lie, taking a long sip from my mug. Gotta watch the showing off.Normal humans can't do that stuff.Verdandi touches my arm saying I'm hired, and again I'm reminded of laying in an apple orchard under the sun as she smiles. Laughing I let out a small howl of excitement as she offers me any drink I want and asks where Nanse-kam was from.Judging by the scents of them all, The stuff called fire Whiskey seems the most pungent and is probably the strongest, and she's having one, which means I should be fine considering I generally can handle more than most humans, so I knock back one of the snake bites and set the shot glass in front of the whiskey bottle,"That, please,"I grin,"Oh and he said he was from the Abbey on the other side of town? Brother Nanse-kam was his name. Real nice guy with a real nice smile."

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi smiles happily at me an I feel a bit warm all over. I like her. A lot. I'm sure he misses you, too. How could he not? But if you had stayed, we'd have never met.This might not be better but it's definitely not boring. She says brightly. I nod.
"Fate can be kinda mysterious like that." I say mock seriously but I can't help the sly grin that tugs at my mouth.

I'm glad that Verdandi thinks it's cool that I'm a carnie as she happily goes on to say, That's exciting! You've must have seen so many different places and people.Maybe you wouldn't mind showing me around the next time I go? I have time to nod an say, "Sure!"

Then Melania is here, an Verdandi is clappimg her hands in delight at that amazing save an touching Melania on the arm and congratulating her on the new job. offers her one of the drinks in front of her too. The new barmaid has already responded to my salute by raising her glass and drinking but she takes our hostess up on her offer. She drains one of the shots an' puts the glass in front of the whisky that Verdandi just opened. That stuff is strong, I can smell that from here. She's grinning an I hope she's got a good tolerance as otherwise she's gonna end up smashed.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Verite grins at me and says, "Fate can be kinda mysterious like that." I laugh, "Oh, Verite, you took the words right out of my mouth," and I laugh again before continuing, "Sometimes, Fate's not so mysterious though. People seem to ignore the obvious a lot of times."

She agrees to show me around the carnival and I'm so pleased that I give her a little hug. Melania arrives, tripping but catching all the drinks safely. She sits down, saying "Probably couldn't do that again if I tried," and I beam at her, replying, "Oh, I don't know. I think you could, with enough incentive." And I salute her with my shot of whiskey, clinking my drink with Verite's cider and Melannia's Snake Bite.

We down the shots and Melania grins as she slides her shot-glass towards me, "That, please." I fill the glasses, one for her and one for me as I smile sweetly. "Oh and he said he was from the Abbey on the other side of town? Brother Nanse-kam was his name. Real nice guy with a real nice smile." I smile, tickled at the thought of meeting someone from the Abbey, "It sounds like he was lovely. Was he?"

Downing my shot, I refill it and reach for the second Snake Bite and drinking that one as well. "Firewhiskey is the strongest liquor we have here and it knocks men twice your size under the table pretty quickly but if you can match them, shot for shot, we tend to sell more liquor. I don't do it often but when I do, it's more fun than it should be." I can't help the knowing smile that escapes and I look at them both and chuckle.

Trying to not giggle as I explain, I take a breath and begin, "You'll get paid every week and I provide room and board along with whatever liquor you might want. The rooms above mine are being renovated but I have a place to sleep, if you need one." I down the Aces & Eights shot, counting myself as one ahead of Melania. "We have an employee meeting every two weeks and we also taste-test any new liquors that we have."

"You'll also run some errands during the day. The boys take care of the deliveries so you won't have to worry about that." I pause, thoughtful before continuing, "If you hear of any carpenters or anything like that, let me know. The one carpenter upstairs is already overwhelmed." I turn to Verite and give a sweet smile as I ask, "Do you know anyone from the carnival like that, carpenters or builders? If you do, could you send them my way?" How does she get her hair that amazing color? Maybe I should visit the salon and see what it's all about. Looking at Melania again, I ask, "Do you have any questions"?

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"Oh, I don't know. I think you could, with enough incentive." Verdandi says, and my head tilts a little to the side as I look at her. How could she know? Must be from working with people so much, makes it easier to call bullshit, I guess. Unless my nose was right, and I'm not the first of my kind she's seen. I push these thoughts aside,smiling and nodding at her question about the man from the Abbey,"Mhm. He was great. Seemed like a real good guy, even offered me a place in the Abbey to crash if I needed one. Was real nice of him." Might have taken him up on it too, but curfews and locked gates and I don't get along.

"Firewhiskey is the strongest liquor we have here and it knocks men twice your size under the table pretty quickly but if you can match them, shot for shot, we tend to sell more liquor. I don't do it often but when I do, it's more fun than it should be."She says with a smile and little laugh that makes me think matching her drink for drink may mot be a good idea. Generally I can match a man twice my size, and she's hardly that. Matching her smile I nod once and toss back the shot she poured me. Holy fuck its name is no lie, cause I can feel it sizzle and burn as it slides down my throat into my still almost empty stomach. They already gave me a funny look at the Miskatonic when I ordered the biggest meal on their menu, I wasn't about to order a few more just to fill up.

"Don't worry, I know when to say when," I smile at them both and drink another shot, nodding as she continues telling me what to expect as she knocks back more shots. Its her bar, so I guess she would have a good tolerance for what she serves. Makes sense.Though it doesn't stop me from grinning at Verite and shaking my head a little as I notice Verdandi is making damn sure my shot glass is never empty. "Everything sounds great, Verdandi," I laugh, "Better than I hoped for, actually," I say, smiling and downing another shot. Might still be one behind her or might have caught up, but fuck it, I'm already feeling the warmth of the booze creeping up my legs. "Do you have any questions"? I shake my head, "Nope." Then I think of what Nanse-kam said earlier. "Oh wait. What sort of crime has been happening around town at night? Nanse-kam warned me that it it wasn't safe to walk around at night?"Please don't say wild dogsPlease don't say wild dogs....That's why we used to kill non pack like me. They lose it and cause trouble for us all. I give them both a smile, "I kinda like going for walks at night," I shrug, hoping that will explain my concern.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi laughs an saysOh, Verite, you took the words right out of my mouth,Sometimes, Fate's not so mysterious though. People seem to ignore the obvious a lot of times. I shrug as I ain't really got anything to say to that.

Surprises me a little with a hug when I agree to show her round the carnival.'M already planning what to show her...

She compliments Melania and hires her as I expected. We clink our glasses together in a toast. Then drink. mmm...cider is good. I notice that as Verdandi punctuates her explanations to Melania with frequent drinks an not just sips either, she;s downing whole shots at a go. Her new employee almost matching her. Me, I stick to my cider, taking it nice n' easy. I got an okay tolerance but I know better than to try to keep up with Someone like Verdandi or Tez. Wonder if Melania can keep up; she's getting kinda flushed so maybe,maybe not.

Verdandi suddenly turns to me an asks, Do you know anyone from the carnival like that, carpenters or builders? If you do, could you send them my way?

I pretend to think for a second before smirking again, "Sorta. My older brother is head Roustie. They do lotsa construction type stuff an ain't that busy right now. I c'n ask him to come see you 'bout a job." I hope she means to pay decent for it. Could be real good for the Carnival if more people can bring money in from outside jobs. an I bet Will would do it. He likes keeping busy.

When Melania asks her question bout the crime in town I stiffen but try to hide it behind taking a long drink of cider. My eyes are stuck on Verdandi though. I wanta know what she'll say. Murder n' assault are nasty crimes an this town is lousy about solving them.

Melania is tense as well even though she smiles at us and says she likes walking at night.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Melania mentions about how nice Nanse-kam was and I decide that delivering a thermometer to the Abbey will be the first errand she runs for the Tavern. She drinks the Firewhiskey and I try not to chuckle as I watch her reaction. It's strong and now she knows it. She won't make the mistake of drinking it lightly again and I lay out details of the job for her.

Melania's happy as she says, "Everything sounds great, Verdandi. Better than I hoped for, actually." I smile and nod, "You can start today then. I'll show you around later and then set you up on my couch tonight. The Tavern's pretty easy to maneuver thorough and we also have a cellar I'll need to show you. Oh! and I need to get you a key. Don't let me forget," and I touch her hand briefly and smile.

I ask Verite if she knows any carpenters and she has that cute smirk again before she answers, "Sorta. My older brother is head Roustie. They do lotsa construction type stuff an ain't that busy right now. I c'n ask him to come see you 'bout a job." I beam at her and slide the Candied Apple cider to Melania as I say, "This calls for another toast. Send him over, Verite, and I'll make it worth his time. I'm so excited," and I laugh as I pull the Poisoned Apple mug my way and take a sip.

Melania says she has no questions and pauses before saying, "...What sort of crime has been happening around town at night? Nanse-kam warned me that it it wasn't safe to walk around at night? I kinda like going for walks at night." She's smiling but tense and I notice that Verite is too. I begin gently, trying to not scare her but not wanting to lie either. "Excolo's attracted a lot of unusual people lately and some of them are very dangerous. I'm not telling you that you shouldn't go walking at night but you should understand that you might attract the wrong kind of attention."

I gaze at her, hoping she'll take me seriously as I continue, "That wrong kind of attention could you get killed. Try not to go out alone at night. During the day is fine but we've had some murders that haven't been solved yet and the killer or killers are probably still around."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

"You can start today then. I'll show you around later and then set you up on my couch tonight. The Tavern's pretty easy to maneuver thorough and we also have a cellar I'll need to show you. Oh! and I need to get you a key. Don't let me forget,"

Smiling, I nod, "Perfect!,"I grin at her. Can use the cash or a run and my stomach rumbles in agreement.I can already feel the skin behind my knees tingling, but not from the liquor, I'll need to change soon. I can still control it right now but if I wait too long, I'm not gonna have a choice, tried that already, didn't work out so well.My stomach turns, just remembering that.

I smile when Verite says her brother still works for the carnival and she might be able to hook Verdandi up with him.I take a sip of the drink she slides to me and it really does taste like a candy apple and my stomach rumbles again, wishing it really was one. "This calls for another toast. Send him over, Verite, and I'll make it worth his time. I'm so excited," It is exciting. To new things," I say clinking my glass against each of theirs."Has the carnival been here long?" I ask looking at Verite, strange that her brother got a job there and then needs work in town.

The happy mood of the table darkens as Verdandi gives her warning. Verite stiffens but I don't catch the scent of fear from her. "Excolo's attracted a lot of unusual people lately and some of them are very dangerous. Unusual people? Curiosity piqued, my eyebrows raise,"What kinds of.." I trail off, wondering if maybe she wasn't specific on purpose. I shake my head, "So pretty much like most towns then," I smile. "I'll be careful," I say over my glass. No way I'm asking her to come out with me and the last thing I need is to be seen during the day by a farmer with a gun and a good shot.My brows lift again at her mention of the unsolved murders. I bet with my sense of smell, I might be able to help, but then I'd have to explain how, not gonna happen. I'll ask Verdandi for specifics later.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi smiles at me when i say I'll send Will over to talk to her about the job. This calls for another toast. Send him over, Verite, and I'll make it worth his time. I'm so excited, Then she's sliding one of the ciders to Melania for a toast while she takes another for herself.

Melania take the cider and clinks it against ours sayin' To new things, Then she goes on to ask how long the carnival's been in town and I'm reminded that she's new to town, doesn't know the story 'bout why we're stuck here.

Take another long drink of cider to get the bitterness out of my mouth, before saying, "A long time, months. Been here all summer." I take another drink, one that practically empties the mug. "An it looks like we'll be here all winter as well.

I try a smile but I ain't sure it works so well. I lift the mug again to hide my expression.

Verdandi's gone serious as well as she explains about the danger. Excolo's attracted a lot of unusual people lately and some of them are very dangerous. I'm not telling you that you shouldn't go walking at night but you should understand that you might attract the wrong kind of attention.That wrong kind of attention could you get killed. Try not to go out alone at night. During the day is fine but we've had some murders that haven't been solved yet and the killer or killers are probably still around.

I nod. "It ain't so bad early in the evening when there's lots of people round, but later on it gets nasty."

Melania, that's such a long name, wonder if she'll mind if I shorten it? She's wondering what's so bad bout Excolo, I can tell she doesn't think it's any worse than other towns by the way she raises her eyebrows and says, So pretty much like most towns then," I smile. "I'll be careful,

I smile back but The good cheer of earlier seems more distant now. I finish my cider an look thoughtfully at the whisky or maybe I should ask to try the other bottle? what did verdandi call it? Violet Charm?

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Melania and Verite toast with me to new things and I smile as Melania asks, "Has the carnival been here long?" Verite replies, "A long time, months. Been here all summer. An it looks like we'll be here all winter as well." She doesn't sound happy about it and I wonder why. I sympathize as I say, "Hopefully, it'll turn out for the better. This'll be my first winter in Excolo so I don't even know what to tell anyone to expect. Having new friends though, that makes it easier to face."

I reply to Melania's question and Verite adds, "It ain't so bad early in the evening when there's lots of people round, but later on it gets nasty." I nod, agreeing with her as I drink a whiskey shot and take another sip of cider. Melania's curious as she asks, "What kinds of.." and I smile at her, ready to answer when she shakes her head and continues, "So pretty much like most towns then. I'll be careful."

"Please do and let me know if questions come up. You'd be surprised how much you find out about a town from working in a tavern." I smile, catching Melania's sharp scent again, placing it this time, wolf, and I cheerfully continue, "For example, did you know that I've heard there are wolves in town? Some of them are said to shift from human to wolf." I look at Melania, sweet smile and another shot in hand as I add, "Have you ever heard such a thing?"

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

We all toast to new things and then Verite answers my question about the carnival "A long time, months. Been here all summer. An it looks like we'll be here all winter as well.

My eyes widen a little, "Wow, They must've been raking in the cash to have stayed so long. Never seen a Carnival running in the winter before," I smile and nod at what Verdandi said, though like her, I have no clue what winter will be like around here, "yeah, hopefully it will turn out for the better," I blink and shake my head, realizing what Verite said, "Wait, you said, 'we'. You from the carnival too? That must've been wicked cool, what did ya do?" I ask, smiling over my glass as I take a sip. Fuck,I'm feeling a little buzzed, I'm probably gonna have to fake drunk soon.

"It ain't so bad early in the evening when there's lots of people round, but later on it gets nasty." Verite adds to Verdandis' warning and in response to my own comment about it being like most towns. I nod. "Yeah, they all seem to crawl out of the woodwork at night."

"Please do and let me know if questions come up. You'd be surprised how much you find out about a town from working in a tavern." Laughing, I nod, and then give her a knowing smile, "Oh I bet I wouldn't." The shit people say when drunk.....My god.Verdandi continues"For example, did you know that I've heard there are wolves in town? Some of them are said to shift from human to wolf." she says with that smile full of sunshine again. shitshitshitshitSHIT She knows, and fuck knows how I manage to swallow my drink and hold my smile."Have you ever heard such a thing?" "Mhm." I snicker, "Usually along with tales of vampires, zombies, and fairies," I grin, "Why, people saying ya got them running round here too? And how much have they drank?" I ask in good humor. If she knows and is hiring me anyway, that's great, but don't need the whole world looking for us.But maybe she's trying to warn me there are others here. Oh yeah, we'll be talking about this later. "I'll watch my ass," I say, giving her a grateful smile. Hopefully telling her, I got it.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Hopefully, it'll turn out for the better. This'll be my first winter in Excolo so I don't even know what to tell anyone to expect. Having new friends though, that makes it easier to face. Verdandi says optimistically and I nod. Than Melania goeso n about how much the money the carnival musta made and I can feel my mood slide even farther down.Wait, you said, 'we'. You from the carnival too? That must've been wicked cool, what did ya do? She's smiling innocently an tipsily at me. I force myself to smile back. "Yup. I grew up with the carnival. My family runs the bar tent. L'Heure Vert it's called. I been helping Mama run it for years. I also did hairdressing an stuff for the performers." I find enough good memories in that for my smile to be real enough.

Melania tries to get the last word in on the night time stuff with, Yeah, they all seem to crawl out of the woodwork at night.

But Verdandi goes on to mention something real weird. For example, did you know that I've heard there are wolves in town? Some of them are said to shift from human to wolf.Have you ever heard such a thing? She says it with such a sweet smile too. going to have to watch her for that.

Melania gets real nervous at that but tries to cover it by laughing, Usually along with tales of vampires, zombies, and fairies,Why, people saying ya got them running round here too? And how much have they drank?I'll watch my ass,

huh, maybe I'm only imagined her getting so tense. Melania, I gotta finda nick for her, has gone back to being relaxed again. I lean forward pushing my mug over towards Verdandi.

"Mug's empty c'n I get another drink?" I say giving her a wide eyed cute look.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Melania ask Verite about the carnival, "Wait, you said, 'we'. You from the carnival too? That must've been wicked cool, what did ya do?" Verite is uncomfortable but hides it well as she replies, "Yup. I grew up with the carnival. My family runs the bar tent. L'Heure Vert it's called. I been helping Mama run it for years. I also did hairdressing an stuff for the performers."

"So you know about liquor then?" I smile wide, always happy to find someone who might have a palate about alcohol. "I do have random taste-test parties. If you'd like, you could join us and maybe give me some opinions about what you like." Hmm, I wonder if she likes girls? She's pretty. She might have a boyfriend too.

There's some joking about supernatural creatures living in Excolo but I'm sure Melania's caught my warning and I laugh along with the both of them as I say, "Oh, I haven't heard about any vampires but you never know." My laughter is bright and playful but I'm not lying. There really could be vampires out there and I wouldn't be surprised to find one, not in Excolo.

Verite turns to me, holding out her empty mug with an irresistible wide-eyed look, "Mug's empty c'n I get another drink?" I'm friendly, innocently brushing her arm with my fingertips as I leave my hand on her and reply, "We can't have that. Not when you're sitting with the Tavern owner." My free hand slides another mug to her as I continue, "Drinks are on me, Verite, so have whatever you want. I love happy customers. They keep me in business," and I chuckle as I refill my shot glass and drink that down.

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Verites' mood turns down at my question and she explains that she grew up in the carnival and helped her mother out at the bar and did hair for the performers."And look at you now, owning your own salon," I grin at her. It really is no small thing either.

"I do have random taste-test parties. If you'd like, you could join us and maybe give me some opinions about what you like."

"Oh," I laugh, "We seriously need to have one soon so I can get to know what all the drinks taste like." And not just judge/guess based off the smell.Verdandi laughs at my fairy tale stories comment, joking and saying she hasn't heard of a vampire in town but she drops the wolf topic. I laugh, "Nope, you never know, now days." I say, focusing on just smiling and not baring my teeth. She caught me off guard with that, but I know she didn't mean any harm, besides, I asked.I laugh even harder when Verite slides her mug over to Verdandi All doe eyes and cuteness and smiles, asking for another drink. Vderandi gives her another, and from the looks she's giving Verite and the scent I'm getting from Verite, I'm about to ask if they'd like some alone time. You know, to 'talk'. Instead, I smile and say, "Oh I don't know, Verdandi, I think she's behind a shot or two," I grin, draining my mug. Me a troublemaker? Never.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

So you know about liquor then? Verdandi asks with a wide smile. I can't help but smile back at her. Especially when she goes on to say, I do have random taste-test parties. If you'd like, you could join us and maybe give me some opinions about what you like. I nod. "I'd like that. I don't know as much as Mama or Abby, my sister. But I do know what I like."

An Melania chimes in with, And look at you now, owning your own salon, I grin back. "Yeah. here I am." Living a dream. One of 'em anyways.

Melania is also enthusiastic about the taste test parties. We seriously need to have one soon so I can get to know what all the drinks taste like. Good. Be nice to know more than one person at one of those, though I might bet that Valmont would be someone Verdandi'd invite.

I'm not sure why the conversation about wolves and vampires makes me uneasy but I resolve not to worry about it as my new friends are laughing about it and the subject is being closed now anyways. Melania laughs when I do the wide eyed cute thing with Verdandi.

I almost end up holding my breath as Verdandi's fingers brush my arm and she leaves her hand there as she slides me a new mug of cider with the other hand.We can't have that. Not when you're sitting with the Tavern owner.Drinks are on me, Verite, so have whatever you want. I love happy customers. They keep me in business, Is that look she's giving me what I think it is?

Verdandi laughs again and pours herself yet another shot of firewhisky and downs it. Lord that woman can drink! I watch in wonder, but snap my head around to mock-glower at Melania when she suggests,Oh I don't know, Verdandi, I think she's behind a shot or two,

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

I mention the taste-test party and both girls seem thrilled about it, pleasing me to no end. I smile and reply, "We'll have one soon then. There's a few in town who really enjoy them and I'll invite them too. We'll make an afternoon of it."

The conversation slides from the tension of what runs through the night in Excolo to a fit of chuckles before Verite turns her pretty doe-eyes on me. I pass her another cider while I flirt playfully with her, noticing that she hasn't moved away from me. There's definitely something here between us and I smile as Melania chimes in with, "Oh I don't know, Verdandi, I think she's behind a shot or two."

Verite glares at Melania but it's all in good fun as I laugh and ask, "Two shots? Oh, we can't have that either." I fill two empty shot glasses with Firewhiskey and slide them in Verite's direction as I say, "Your turn," and I lower my voice, laughing softly as I continue on very innocently, "--and don't worry. I have an excellent hangover remedy, upstairs. I'll send it with you later, along with with something special for being so helpful."

My voice returns to its normal volume and I point to her shots, mischievous as I continue, "If you can drink these two shots plus a third, without coughing, then the next time you come in, I'll pay for your drinks, and a friend's. If you can't, then you'll owe me something, a small favor." I glance at the ends of my hair, wondering if I need a trim before smiling again and asking, "Is that fair?"

Turning to Melania, my smile widens as I say, "Oh, and don't think I've forgotten you. If you drink two more shots, and don't cough, I'll make one of the boys clean the restroom for the next week instead of you. And believe me, you want to win this one because I'm convinced that some of the men that use our restroom, can't aim for anything." I laugh again, "I'll just enjoy my cider while you two decide."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Verite gives me a fake glare, making me laugh and stick my tongue out at her as I give her arm a playful shove. What? I'm helping her get what she wants! Though neither of them strike me as the type that has a hard time getting laid when they want to. Both girls continue flirting and though I'm not really into girls, its cute to see and god knows I flirt with everyone usually. Especially after that mention of werewolves in town. Good to know but still, So not cool. I was hoping to find a town without them.

I smile at Verdandis' challenge for Verite and then Verdandi turns her attention to me. Dammit."Oh, and don't think I've forgotten you. If you drink two more shots, and don't cough, I'll make one of the boys clean the restroom for the next week instead of you. And believe me, you want to win this one because I'm convinced that some of the men that use our restroom, can't aim for anything." I laugh again, "I'll just enjoy my cider while you two decide."

Can't even stop my lips from pulling back as I smile and nod at her this time, accepting the challenge. Might not have to play drunk after all. Grabbing both glasses, I draw in a deep breath an hold it, knocking each one back quickly. Oh god it buuurrrrrns Then with a grin,still holding my breath, I nick Verites' mug of cider and use it as a chaser. Setting it down I flash Verdandi a wide grin with a wink. Never said we couldn't chase em.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Verdandi smiles at our answers, We'll have one soon then. There's a few in town who really enjoy them and I'll invite them too. We'll make an afternoon of it. I bet an afternoon of drinking Verdandi's liquor easily turns into spending the evening doing more of the same.

Melania sticks out her tongue at my mock-glare and gives my arm a playful shove. I grin. And Verdandi laughs. Then fills two of the shot glasses with firewhiskey and puts them in front of me. Oh dear I think I'm about to be in trouble.

Two shots? Oh, we can't have that either.Your turn,

Then she leans in and says in a low sweet voice practically in my ear,--and don't worry. I have an excellent hangover remedy, upstairs. I'll send it with you later, along with with something special for being so helpful.

Her voice raises up again as she issues a challenge, If you can drink these two shots plus a third, without coughing, then the next time you come in, I'll pay for your drinks, and a friend's. If you can't, then you'll owe me something, a small favor.Is that fair? Her smile is mischievous as is the small glance at her ends of her hair.

Oh, I'm definitely in trouble. I can feel the warmth generated by thoughts of 'upstairs' and 'something special'. Even if I win this challenge I'm gonna be tipsy if not outright drunk.

Then before I can get an answer together, verdandi's grinning wickedly at Melania and challenging her as well. Two shots n' a chance to not clean the restroom. And Melania takes it.

With a grin that's almost feral, she snags the shots,takes a deep breath an pours both down her throat. Then, still grinning she snags my drink an pours some of that down as well. Her grin widens and she winks at Verdandi as she sets the mug down.

No coughing this time. Holy shit! I think I'm way out classed at this table. I blink and smile at them both. "Yeah. That's plenty fair. guess it's my turn for real." I line up all three shotglasses in front of me and reach for the bottle of whiskey. "There better be some of that cider left..." I say to Melania as I pour my shots."Or I'll have to send you to the bar to get me another."

I take two deep breaths in quick succession to prepare for this; an then before I can lose my nerve, I grab the first shot. Down it goes.

Bloody hell that burns! I c'n feel the tears streaming down from my eyes but no coughing. Crap.I hope my makeup isn't ruined. The stuffs waterproof but only up to a point.

Time for the second one. I manage to get that one down as well, but have no idea if I can manage the third. I try but the need for air gets me. At least I manage to keep the drink down. When I can breathe properly I reach for the cider.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Melania takes up my challenge first and her face screws up after downing each shot. She's not a quitter though as she smiles prettily at me and reaches across the table. Stealing Verite's cider, she chases the shots with it and gives me a sassy wink. Oh! Now she's flirting with me and I laugh brightly as she's drank more alcohol than I originally dared her to without coughing. "Nicely done. You've just dodged restroom clean-ups for the next week."

Verite's turn and she downs the shots, one after the other, holding her breath the whole time through the first two. She's turned a bright shade of red that sets off her hair and her eyes are wet as she reaches for the third. If she makes this one, I'll be very surprised and sure enough, she's coughing and choking as I hand her a bar towel to cough into. She gave it a great try and I slide the glass of cider her way as I smile and say, "That's was better than I expected. You do have some tolerance to you."

Setting the bottle of Violet Charm wine in front of her, I continue, "This wine matches your hair and it would make me happy if you took it as a consolation prize, for being a great sport. And this too," as I lean forward and kiss her cheek. Chuckling, I add, "And now you owe me a favor. Would you mind if I waited on it? I'd like to think about it first," I say as I flash her a sweet smile.

Recalling that last week was a holiday, I turn to both girls, saying, "Did either of you attend the masquerade last week? The Tavern was a-twitter with news of how much fun it was and I'm sorry I missed it but a friend needed me. I did provide the liquor though so I was in there in spirit," and I chuckle again. Dorian said the punch was a rousing success and I'm interested to hear what they thought. "How was the punch?"

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Verdandi laughs after I finish the shots "Nicely done. You've just dodged restroom clean-ups for the next week."

"Oh thank God,"I sigh.Cleaning those bathrooms would be an experience in hell with my sense of smel.leaning back in my chair, I wait to see if Verite follows my lead. "There better be some of that cider left...Or I'll have to send you to the bar to get me another."

Oh good, she is gonna chase them. That's some strong shit, hopefully she'll be okay. Hell, my throat's still burning. Shrugging, I give her a big smile, "I live to fetch," I laugh. There should be enough left in that mug anyway.My eyes widen as Verite finishes two of the shots, eyes watering as she holds her breath, then she loses it on the third. Yeah, she's gonna be hammered, and from what I can tell they're gonna need some time alone.

"That's was better than I expected. You do have some tolerance to you." Verdandi says and I nod in agreement. Downing them quick is the key. Verdandi is giving her the purple bottle for her good try, the asks "Did either of you attend the masquerade last week?The Tavern was a-twitter with news of how much fun it was and I'm sorry I missed it but a friend needed me. I did provide the liquor though so I was in there in spirit,How was the punch?

I shake my head, "I didn't, Just made it to town today,"I say, looking at Verite to see what she has to say.

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Melania's eyes are wide as I down my shots. Good. I think I impressed her. She laughs and says, I live to fetch,

Verdandi hands me a bar towel and the mug which still has some cider in it. I dab carefully at my eyes but the makeup still smudges a bit despite my best efforts. I manage something like a smirk as I down the cider. oh God my throat feels raw.

Verdandi's sunny smile and her praise, That's was better than I expected. You do have some tolerance to you. make me feel like it was worth it.

She also gives me the bottle of violet stuff.This wine matches your hair and it would make me happy if you took it as a consolation prize, for being a great sport. And this too, An she kisses my cheek. I know which one I value more.And now you owe me a favor. Would you mind if I waited on it? I'd like to think about it first, Damn that smile. I'd give her just about anything she asks for when she flashes that smile around. I nod. She can take all the time she needs. I can feel the whiskey burning inside me.

Verdandi changes the topic, Did either of you attend the masquerade last week?The Tavern was a-twitter with news of how much fun it was and I'm sorry I missed it but a friend needed me. I did provide the liquor though so I was in there in spirit,How was the punch?

Melania says she didn't go, wasn't here in town yet. Then she looks at me. I giggle. "Yeah. I went. Punch was great." That wasn't all that was great at that party but I ain't talkin' bout THAT. Not right now. Be kinda rude of me or somethin'.

"Missed one heck've a party, Lannie," I smirk; "You too Ver-verdandi." Damn that stuff hits hard.

[norn-verdandi.livejournal.com]

Melania and Verite joke back and forth and I'm happy to see them getting along so well. Melania's new to town and it's always hard for some people to make new friends. Today, I've made two and I'm tickled as I kiss Verite's cheek. Her smile's drunk for sure and I smile and giggle with Melania before Verite agrees about letting me wait to choose my favor.

Favors are vows, especially to a goddess and I smile again, remembering how well the last one served me. I ask about the party and Melania says she didn't go and I squeeze her hand in sympathy before turning back to Verite.

She did go and answers, "Yeah. I went. Punch was great." From the smile on her face, I'd say more than the punch was great and she continues, giving a tipsy smirk to us as she continues, "Missed one heck've a party, Lannie. You too Ver-verdandi." Oh, she's drunker than I thought and I lean forward to check her glazed eyes. She's not going to fall down yet and since we're still sitting, I'm won't worry.

Smiling brightly, I look at Verite and say, "Sounds like fun." I squeeze her arm, encouraging her as I continue, "Tell us all about it. What costumes did people wear and who was there? Could you tell who was who? And what did you wear?" In my excitement, I start throwing questions at her and I slow down and take a breath, laughing as I add, "Stop me if I'm asking too much, or too quickly. I get excited and it just seemed like people had a lot of fun. Did you meet anyone interesting?"

Looking to Melania, I ask, "Lannie? Lana? Hmm, I think Verite is on to something here and speaking of possible nicknames," I turn to Verite again, "Is there anything shorter than Verite I could call you. My friends mostly call me Verdi and you should too." I include Melania as I continue with a smile, "Both of you. 'Verdandi' is too long to yell across a bar quickly."

[melania-lowell.livejournal.com]

Verite says the Party was fun but there's more to it than that and I give her a double take and smile at "Missed one heck've a party, Lannie Lannie?
Its a nickname I've had, just haven't heard it in awhile. Verdandi leans forward, looking deep into Verites' eyes and for a second I wonder if she's gonna full on kiss her right here. If they want alone time, I can always bug Thomas to show me around, feeling the drinks some now, maybe find an empty room upstairs to pass out in. But she doesn't kiss her, she just leans back, smiling big and bright, squeezing Verites' arm,asking her to tell us more and launching into a bunch of questions.

"Yeah, "I nod,"Details!"I laugh, "We want details." I say smiling at her. details might tell me more about the people in town. Never hurts.

"Lannie? Lana? Hmm, I think Verite is on to something here and speaking of possible nicknames.Is there anything shorter than Verite I could call you. My friends mostly call me Verdi and you should too." I include Melania as I continue with a smile, "Both of you. 'Verdandi' is too long to yell across a bar quickly."

"Verdi it is then," I smile,"For me, either or is fine, I've been called both and worse," I laugh, looking at Verite to see if she's got a nickname she likes.

Continuedhere. (http://community.livejournal.com/estdeus_innobis/290050.html)