View source for 999999/Let's Have a Ceilidh!

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2014/07/12
|Location=Summer
|Synopsis=To welcome back her lieutenant, the Servant Saber decides to throw a céilidh, a Celtic-style gathering with food, drink, music, dancing, and other entertainment; a familiar setting which Sir Bedivere can meet some of his new Union allies and get to know them better.
|Thanks=
|Cast of Characters=85, 92, 152, 181, 236, 266, 306, 307, 346, 451, 481, 482
|Tinyplot=
|pretty=yes
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{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Welcome to Summer.<br /><br />  This corner of the Multiverse is perpetually in the height of midsummer, with hot days, warm nights, and an easygoing atmosphere to the villages that have been founded here. The countryside of this particular region is not unlike that of what had once been Camelot, with rolling green countryside, rocky outcroppings, and the odd tumbledown castle ruin. Much of the countryside is farmland and pasture, and the people here are a peaceable folk, given to their simple peasant lives.<br /><br />  There are knights here, too, and lords; even kings, and though they might squabble over territory from time to time, altogether things are like a much more peaceful reflection of what was once the Kingdom of Camelot.<br /><br />  It's here that King Arturia Pendragon has chosen to hold a festival for the return of her onetime Marshal of Camelot, Sir Bedviere of the Round Table. Aside from a happy occasion, it's an excellent means by which to introduce him to her friends and his new allies in a setting he would find familiar.<br /><br />  The occasion is a céilidh -- a Celtic-style gathering, featuring food, ale, dancing, music, conversation, and did we mention ale? Because there is totally ale.<br /><br />  There's a large square of bare earth set up in the midst of a very large field, with tall posts raised along its perimeters. Ropes are strung along the post; torches and lanterns are hung to cast light over the fast-darkening skies. If one squints hard, they might even see fireflies in the distant fields -- tall summer wheat surrounds the square, and a full summer moon is already visible in the sky, making it quite the picturesque setting.<br /><br />  There is a band. They're set up on a wooden stage on the north end of the square, and there's pretty much everything traditionally Celtic -- fiddles, keyless Irish-style flutes, tin whistles, the odd bouzouki-style guitar, bodhráns and bones, Celtic-style wire-strung harps, and a dulcimer-like timpan. Someone's even brought along a set of Uileann pipes, and they can be heard skirling over the din.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  They're playing a lively tune. It sounds like this.<br />  http://youtu.be/q5_qFUMpjy8<br /><br />  Here today is the "guest of honour" himself, but perhaps not in the sense that anyone else has seen him; not even Arturia herself.<br /><br />  Sir Bedivere is, for once, not wearing his heavy plate mail or knightly raiment. The knight is instead wearing garb more suitable to a commoner -- a faded brown tunic with a bit of lace to tie the collar shut, a plain belt buckled around plain grey leggings, and scuffed, timeworn, and absolutely unornamented boots. Honestly, with the way he's dressed, he looks like somebody grabbed him out of the farming fields and chucked him at the gathering. There is a restraint and dignity to his bearing, but otherwise, he sure doesn't look much like a knight.<br /><br />  His hair is a blonde so pale it almost looks silvery in the light; long enough to read the middle of his back and quite fine; drawn back into a braid that runs behind each ear, and then back into a queue about halfway down his back.<br /><br />  He also looks /completely lost/ in this kind of setting, violet eyes constantly darting to and fro, as though looking for an escape. If he's at this sort of thing, by gum, he's supposed to be a /guard/, not a /participant/...<br /><br />  Bedivere is, for the moment, lingering near one of the tables laden with food and trying not to look too hopelessly out of place.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:451|Karian (451)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Joining in the celebration, and bringing in his own ale for the party, the giant man known as Wolf Lord Karian made his way in. He would likely get a few stares as well, not just because his armor made him look like a golem or something. Rather, he would get stares because he was mounted on a wolf that was the size of a tank.<br />    He heads over to where the ale and food was set up, and places down the keg. Then, he looks over everyone. "Greetings from Fenris. I hope that I am not too out of place."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    For a very fancy party, you need a VERY FANCY BARD. <br /><br />    And that's who's showing up today. Uninvited of course. The only good party is one you crash yourself. And thus Miss Magatha Songsteel is swanning around the grounds a bit, wearing her very finest dress, and a bit of color to her cheeks already, as she mingles over towards the food tables herself, a little happy step to the music involved. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn and Arokh have been off to explore the areas of this massive world that their once world of Drakan has now become part of. This traveling around has brought them to a celebration it seems in a land not-- to unlike their own really. A celebration that they view from high above.<br /><br />Soon the red dragon swoops down not far from this celebration, with Rynn easily hanging on to his backside. He keeps slightly clear though, as Arokh has learned from listening in and what Rynn has told him, not all worlds that have come here have friendly dragons. He could be seen as a threat.<br /><br />Something neither really desire to see happen.<br /><br />Once Arokh lands though, Rynn hops off and pats the side of his neck. "You going to be alright out here Arokh?"<br /><br />The dragon shrugs his mighty shoulders before stretching out his wings for a moment, then tucking them back in. "I'll be alright, Rynn. I might take back into the skies at worse, if not find a place to lay down under some shade. If something comes up though..."<br /><br />"Don't worry. I'll call." Rynn says with a smile before she starts to make her way toward the celebration in her more normal attire of her leather armor, with her sword at her hip.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Being reunited with a dear friend and compatriot one never thought they would see again was certainly more than enough cause for celebration. Even someone as typically stoic as the Servant Saber agreed, more than willing to put some rather rusty skills to good use for that reason alone. But more importantly, the said compatriot was, in fact, not a Servant like herself and lacked the benefit of modern knowledge imparted upon a summoned Servant. Poor Sir Bedivere was like a proverbial fish out of water when he had first arrived. <br /><br />     It had already taken some persuasion and even a lecture to remind him to put on his radio -- distrustful of modern devices and likening them to witchcraft, which was slightly amusing but something she had lectured him on regardless -- but he /was/ trying. Of course, he always did. And adjusting was anything but a simple, easy affair, even for a mind as keen and quick as his; even now, Saber herself earned odd looks for her archaic, formal manner of speech. It made the petite knight feel more than just a little guilty, even if there was not terribly much she could realistically do about it. <br /><br />     Fortunately, she had thought of something which might just help after all. There was a type of social gathering which had become rather popular over the years, which their neighbours, the Gaels, eventually began calling a "ceilidh". Her own court had hosted similar functions, though she had always delegated such responsibilities and they had always been somewhat formal affairs. But something like an informal gathering with music, dancing, and food might just be the thing Bedivere needed to feel more at ease in an alien multiverse filled with strange cultures and 'witchcraft'. <br /><br />     It had been a little fun, actually, organising the event. She'd taken pains to find just the right music and food, even some simple decorations. Now, she appreciated the effort of those who had planned her events even more; so much to plan for! <br /><br />     And today, Arturia was the one who busied herself with all the preparations, no longer needing to maintain her royal demeanour and coolly observing from the seat of the king. Perhaps she would not necessarily be able to participate, but she would make sure it ran smoothly, so help her God.<br /><br />     Initially, she had intended to merely wear the blue dress of her own time, but Certain Someones would have none of it. Instead, she was dressed in a knee-length empire-cut dress of layered lace over an off-white peasant top with full bell sleeves and opaque leggings, the bodice of which was delicately trimmed at the bottom with ribbon. In spite of being a rather masculine colour -- light shades of pink -- it was a reasonably feminine outfit, at once somewhat old-fashioned yet modern. Even if Saber was still struggling with the notion that she didn't look ridiculous in women's clothing. <br /><br />     She was especially satisfied with the matching boots -- Victorian-styled with leather panels overlaid with off-white lace -- which had a bit of heel to them, lending a full inch to her height. Being so short had not necessarily troubled her at times, but there were occasions when it became a nuisance or a sore point. but today, she was taller! <br /><br />     She would have likewise left her hair alone, either keeping it in the braid-encircled bun or else braided it a little at most. Again, she was overruled; the light, flaxen hair was loosely parted into two low, loose braids on either side of her head, a simple matching pink ribbon threaded through and binding them into small bows. Locks of hair too short to be bound escaped to frame her face...and that damnable lick of hair at the top of her head still stubbornly refused to lie down. <br /><br />     The King of Knights could help but feel just a little self-conscious, and she hardly looked the part of the Once and Future King of Britain...not that she wanted to, today. No, on this occasion, she wanted to look as normal as she could...not that she was necessarily succeeding. The idea was to be able to move throughthe whole thing and watch<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     The King of Knights could help but feel just a little self-conscious, and she hardly looked the part of the Once and Future King of Britain...not that she wanted to, today. No, on this occasion, she wanted to look as normal as she could...not that she was necessarily succeeding. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span> Faruja Senra, as seems to be the pattern as of late, has had a Bad Week. From sleepless and nightmare plagued, to sleepless, nightmare plagued, injured, and utterly exhausted. Being an Inquisitor is a rough gig, and it's been wearing on the rat. Rather than walking in, the rat rides on in. On a red feathered chocobo at that. Rather than for any reason of making an impression, his reasons seem to be practical. His good leg is set with a thick cast, and his other leg is as bad as ever. The red robed rat has foregone his armor. <br /><br /> Entering the circle of earth, he closes his eye, pulling his chocobo to a stop as he just listens to the band for a few moments. Beautiful. Then, he's off towards a certain knight. It takes a second for him to not mistake him for his liege! <br /><br /> "The man of this most joyful hour himself! Hail Ser Bedivere!" Calls out the rat good naturedly, though it may sound a touch forced. He might be tired, angry, afraid, and injured, but he's here to have a good time with (mostly) good people. <br /><br /> "I hardly recognized ye!" Ribs the rat lightly, grinning. The man just seems so /normal/ with those clothes. <br /><br /> A glance around, with only a slight squint. "Curious festival. Very...earthy." Surely nothing Heretical if Bedivere's here. A glance to a FANCY BARD! <br /><br /> "Lord's blessings to thee mine fine minstrel!" <br /><br /> Suddenly Karian. <br /><br /> "My, my, my, Brother Karian! 'Tis been far too long!" Is that Fenris ale? FAruja tries to not drool. He could use a drink. And a hand down, really. <br /><br /> Then, the King of Knights enters, and much like her Marshal, he very nearly doesn't recognize her. She looks /cute/! <br /><br /> "Lady Sab...AHEM! Your Highness, hail to thee! Faram's blessings be with ye this day! Ye look wonderful." Compliments the rat.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Saber had certainly gained Kirika's attention back during that fight at the festival earlier in the week, and her respect afterwards for good measure. The half-kitsune also had heard of a party being held, a Ceilidh as it was. While she was unused to Celtic tradition, she was definitely one to learn fast.<br /><br />    Carried in her arm is a massive jug of sake, with many dishes to go with it. Despite her yukata seemingly restraining her walking, she seems completely inconvenienced as she arrives to the gathering. Her sword Kinugiri is tucked in her garment's obi, and she notes the King of Knights with a crimson-eyed glance towards Arthuria, and also the guest of honor. Looking at Bedivere, she allows a smile of amusement at the Knight's discomfort as she sets the jug down on a set of space on the table along with dishes to pick from.<br /><br />    Then she makes her way towards Arthuria herself, bowing to the Saber-class Servant. "Well met, King of Knights. It is good to meet you under more peaceful circumstances, let us hope the night remains that way." She says, smiling and tail swishing as she rises once more.<br /><br />    Many of the assorted guests tonight draw a curious look from the half-kitsune; the armored giant, the shiny bard, the dragon and its rider...<br /><br />    "So many new faces, I feel I'll never be able to find something considered 'normal' around here." She muses lightly, ears flickering as she detects a familiar voice.<br /><br />    "...Inquisitor Faruja?" Kirika clears her throat, bowing her head towards the burmecian as he arrives astride a giant...bird thing. For a rat-man, he certainly carries himself as a holy man should, that's for sure.<br /><br />    "Aah, so this is what you look like. Well met, Faruja. This is not quite the place I recall you had intended for us to meet, but it will do for now." She smiles, remaining bowed before rising up with a little twitch of her ears.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Using the term "friend" very, very loosely might explain why a certain black fox begins slipping through the crowd, weaving between legs and tables without a sound. Her path slips and wavers back and forth, but it seems to be steadily approaching Bedivere himself. Finally, the fox actually does make a beeline for him, slipping out to stop right in front of him, where she takes a seat and stares up at the knight in ominous silence.<br /><br />    "Ah, there you are," a regretfully familiar voice says from off to the side. "What a coincidence, reuniting so soon already."<br /><br />    Kagenashi arrives only a few moments after Munashi, striding up toward Bedivere with a remarkably friendly smile. Of course she looks completely different from the day before, but a few things are unmistakable: the way her hair is done up, her posture, and of course that ever-present serenity that suggests incredible confidence and patience. She stops just in front of the knight, looking him over for a moment before staring up at his face. "Have I overdressed for the occasion? I thought such a celebration would require the utmost respect and composure, but I seem to have misjudged."<br /><br />    Silver eyes slip to the side, gleaming with curiosity as Kagenashi scans the partygoers. "Where is your king? I am afraid I have not seen her before; picking her out of a crowd would be rather difficult."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>A large sabertooth cat stalks towards the celebration from somewhere, he's limping slightly and his fur is singed in some places and a few signs of other wounds, but the point is he came to see the party. He blinks as he notices movement in the sky and he watches as the dragon lands and he tilts his head curiously.<br /><br />Once the dragon has landed and the rider dismounted and wandered off, he sits on his haunches and looks up at the dragon, studying it for a few long moments quietly. He's seen a draognoid woman before, but not a real, live dragon though he's heard of them. "Good day. You are a dragon, if I am not mistaken?" He tilts his head at the dragon curiously again. Well, he'll go and greet the host of the party and the person it's in honor of it soon, but for now something just as interesting, or perhaps more has caught the large cat's attention.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>As soon as she heard about the celebration, Fate jumped at the chance to attend! Unfortunately, and completely unrelated, other things have been jumping as well. Just this morning, she received word that she was needed on a mission to track down a dimensional criminal... so with a heavy sigh, she went off. Either through good fortune or just sheer determination to see the matter over quickly, the man was subdued in record time, and Fate wasted no time in rushing toward the location of the ceilidh.<br /><br />Sadly, there was no time to change into something suitable, not with all her nice clothes at home.<br /><br />That is why the blonde stands out so, walking along the grass in her Enforcers uniform and looking somewhat tired. Hopefully Bedivere won't be scandalized by the length of her skirt.<br /><br />"Sir Bedivere," says Fate in a soft voice, a slightly ragged but genuine smile on her lips. "I'm sorry I'm not better dressed for the event, but my duties called me away until just now. But it does seem lovely so far! Is this your usual style of dress when not in the armor?" The look she gives is somewhat measuring, but she does finally give a mother's nod of approval. <br /><br />"And Saber! You look very lovely like that." Fate takes a moment to tuck a stray lock of hair behind her ear, though some of it completely refuses to behave. "Has Sir Bedivere seen you yet?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Faruja lays eyes on a yukata-wearing fox. Two of them in fact, but it's Kirika that first draws the rodent's attention. His brain plays catchup for a moment, before it all clicks. <br /><br /> "Dame Kirika, hail! I find the surroundings far more enjoyable. Well met my dear, my apologies for the lack of proper protocol." He gestures vaguely to the leg. Hard to bow like that!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn was taking notice as other people were starting to show up, including what they may be wearing as well. The young woman rubbed the back of her neck realizing that in some ways she may be out of her league, yet in other ways-- maybe she was fine.<br /><br />Though she was no 'Knight'.. not really.. and she was no 'lady', far from it actually. So she just moved around the people trying to get an idea for just what they have actually stumbled on...<br /><br />Meanwhile.....<br /><br />Arokh looks over at the feline as the creature moves over him. Arokh had yet to really settle himself down and those gold draconic eyes look at the much smaller creature. He doesn't speak right away, but he does give a soft chuckle to the question.<br /><br />He shifts himself ever so slightly and then gives a soft smile over his muzzle, "I do hope I am a dragon, or I'd be worried I would be having an Identity crisis in my young life." He was amused by the question really. Not insulted at all. He tilts his head over ever so slightly, "And you-- are a type of big cat.. though a speaking one. Not to strange I suppose. The name is Arokh."<br /><br />His gaze then moves away from the Sabertooth, looking to where Rynn had gone off too. "..and the woman who was with me, was Rynn. Though I do think myself the better of us two."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:451|Karian (451)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    KArian smiles down to Faruja, handing him a cold mug of ale. "Aye, it has. You look like hell." He says, smiling. He then looks over to Kirika. "Hello."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    INDEED! A FANCY BARD. <br />    Magatha snatches up a glass of something frothy and boozy, and hops up on a table. "ATTENTION! ALL THE FINE FOLKS HERE TODAY!" Ting ting ting goes a hairpin agianst the side. "Dear friends, it seems we have a party... But NO ONE IS DANCING. Why aren't you dancing?" She smiles brilliantly, and sweeps down off the table, over towards Sir Bedivere, who appears to be the Most Awkward Person here. "Come, Ser Knight, we shall DANCE!" And she tugs him out into the middle of the green, dress swaying as she tries to tug him into something lively.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Ironically, the knight had not seen too much of the outfit his liege had had chosen for her by the hand of Certain People. One can be certain he had stared when he did, bewildered by the notion of seeing her in such different attire -- never in Camelot had he seen her in anything but her royal regalia, and even here in the Multiverse, he has always seen her wearing something suitably dignified and austere, like the suit she favouors.<br /><br />  Needless to say, once he has a clear look at her, Sir Bedivere of the Round Table can't really do anything but stare at his liege for a few moments. Because let's face it, no matter how foreign it may seem on her, King Arturia Pendragon, better known as the Servant Saber to some, makes that look /good/.<br /><br />  He's on the other side of the square from Saber, but he can still pick her out from this distance, and he's probably been staring at her in bewilderment for a while now.<br /><br />  Fortunately he's startled out of his staring a brief instant later by the arrival of friends. And other people who definitely do not fall under that label.<br /><br />  Like a priest! Who happens to be a rat. Riding a giant bird. Bedivere spins on his heel, back stiffening as though he were guilty at being caught at something, jumping slightly. "Sir Senra!" His response is a little too quick, and a little too obviously startled; inwardly, he curses himself for his lack of poise. "Ah, a pleasure to see you here, but please, I am not the, ah, man of the hour..." Actually, he looks rather flustered and embarrassed to be here at all. When he's not staring at Arturia, it looks like those violet eyes are still flicking here and there, looking for an exit with muted desperation.<br /><br />  While he appreciates the effort, he has to question what was running through Arturia's mind when she had all of this organised...<br /><br />  "Ah." He looks a little self-conscious when Faruja claims he didn't recognise him, shifting his weight somewhat awkwardly. He has no sword with him, and nothing to distract him from being here and being awkward. "Ordinarily I prefer my knightly regalia, as I am almost always in pursuit of my duties..." Bedivere reaches up to rub at the back of his neck, and the gesture is extremely self-conscious; his hand absently fiddles with the brass clasp that holds his hair in its half-braided horsetail for a moment before dropping. "Truth be told, if I am at such gatherings, it is usually as a guard. I do not... attend. While thi is not exactly what would have been held in Camelot, it is similar."<br /><br />  His head whips around again, but that's only Kirika, setting down a truly large jug of sake on the table. Is that ale? Still, if he were stabbed he'd probably bleed politeness instead of blood, and so he nods to her, arms dropping to fold over his chest. The gesture is almost a defensive one, but he rubs the elbow of his sword-arm as though it pained him.<br /><br />  Once more Bedivere's attention is grabbed by a familiar voice from somewhere just behind and to his side.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  The reaction is pretty immediate. All the colour drains from his face; violet eyes widen in dread as he slowly, slowly spins on his heel to regard Kagenashi. He tries to say something, but all he can manage is a croak. When he tries again, his voice is hoarse, and there's a note of something in it that sounds suspiciously like fear.<br /><br />  "/What are you doing here/."<br /><br />  He doesn't even bother to answer her question of where to find Arturia. Nope. Not gonna tell.<br /><br />  And then he's rescued by hte arrival of Fate T. Harlaown.<br /><br />  "Milady Harlaown." He bows, though it's somewhat stiff; he still looks pretty spooked. "Worry not. I... ah... that is to say, I am almost always wearing armour, so..." He flushes a little, red touching high cheekbones as Fate draws attention to Saber once again. He abruptly turns on his heel, stiff-backed, and looks away. Nope, not gonna give Kagenashi the satisfaction.<br /><br />  For a brief instant, he reaches up to rub at his face, sighing quietly in what sounds very suspiciously like despair.<br /><br />  And then there is suddenly a bard talking to him.<br /><br />  And then she is dragging him into the middle of the commons, and the look he turns back to Fate, Saber, and even Kagenashi is one of utter helplessness.<br /><br />  Oh, and maybe panic. There's definitely panic.<br /><br />  H-HAAALP.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Aroke's answer gets the big cat to chuckle and he shakes his head a little, "Yes, I am a feline at the moment, but I am a shapeshifter. I am Allyn, a pleasuure to meet you Arokh. It took a while to learn to speak as people do, but I didn't give up on that." he swishes his tail, that thought kind of amuses him and then he looks over towards the woman that the dragon indicated and then back to the dragon. "A friend I take it? Though yes, I would have to agree that you are the better of you both. I do not put much faith in humanoids."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kirika suddenly notes Faruja's injured leg. "A reminder of the previous night?" She frowns lightly, feeling a pang of guilt for not having been there in the first place. "I wish I could've known sooner, I could've done...something, maybe." She murmurs, shaking her head before she glances to Kagenashi with some suspicion. But that can wait for the time being.<br /><br />    She also recognizes Allyn after a moment, remembering the beast-former from the festival attack as well, and how ferociously he fought to help defend the city streets.<br /><br />    Karian's greeting drives Kirika out of her thoughts, and she looks up at the Space mArine with a perked eyebrow before she bows her head. "Well met. You are a friend of Faruja's then-"<br /><br />    And then a grown-up, and very businesslike version of that girl with the talking staff shows up. Kirika's jaw drops for a moment as the kitsune notes those red eyes and that blonde mane of hair. ".../huh./" She raises a finger towards Captain Harlaown, but nothing comes from her lips as far as words go, just a confused mumble.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Miss Magatha Songsteel wasn't really crashing; the invitation had been open, and anyone was welcome so long as said person behaved themselves. Besides, you could never have enough bards at a party like this. "Welcome," Saber greeted with at least a little less of her usual painful formality. Some things about her were just never going to go away. "I thank you for coming." <br /><br />     Arturia looked up just in time to see the dragon. Oh. Good. that was a welcome sign...her county's patron and not to mention her family's personal guardian had been a giant red one. The modern flag apparently even bore his representation, though the last time she had heard he was still sleeping beneath a mountain. "Welcome," she greeted Rynn upon her arrival with a faint smile. "I thank you for coming." <br /><br />     She smiled faintly yet warmly at the rat at his greeting. His speech was perhaps formal for some, but to her, it had always been familiar and even comforting, reminding her of home. "Please, Sir Faruja... I am merely Saber now...or Dame Saber. I am a knight, first and foremost." <br /><br />     She was mildly surprised but hardly unpleasantly so to find Kirika entering. The kitsune was a skilled, capable fighter and dedicated to protecting innocents; the sort of person to be an instant hit with the chivalrous knight. "Welcome, Lady Kirika," she greeted with the same faint yet warm smile. "It is indeed a pleasure to see you again..." <br />     And then she saw Kagenashi. And the fact that the expression Bedivere seemed to be wearing at the time was one of horror. Time to go rescue him, then. <br /><br />     She hadn't gotten very far before Fate had arrived and greeted him. Saber let out a sigh ofrelief. By the time Fate got to her, Saber's smile became a few degrees warmer...though she couldn't quite fight oof a tiny bit of blushing. The Enforcer always seemed to dote on her and insist she was cuter than the Servant particularly felt. "Hello, Fate," she replied, then blinked and blushed a little more. "I-I do not believe so, I have been so busy with the preparations..." Not to mention she couldn't /quite/ look him in the ye just yet. For, reasons. "I had been meaning to check on..." <br /><br />     And then, her poor marshal is dragged off but the bard. "...Ah." On theone hand, she wanted to help him, on the other, her face had heated up a few degrees again for some reason and she couldn't move. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And Psalm smiles, plants one of Bedivere's hands at the small of her back, takes the other one, plants hers on his shoulder, and smiles brightly. "Hi, I'm Maggie~ It's very nice to meet you." A little stick of her tongue, and she's sweeping the knight around with the commoners. It's not at all a Proper Courtly Dance, but rather a joyous and rowdy one, with movement and swaying and swishing of dresses and outfits, and she'll freaking drag Bedivere if she has to.<br /><br />    It's always best to soften up your target before interrogation.<br />    Wait, that other thing, small talk, yeah.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Arokh mms softly as he sits down on his hunches with ease and his tail almost comes to curl slightly around his legs. "Rynn is a very good friend. She and I have been through a great deal together.. though we at first didn't not really get along." He shakes his head softly. "Stubborn woman equal to my own pride."<br /><br />Arokh then looks to Allyn once more. "She is one you can trust however. I trust her with my life," He then barks a bit of a laugh, "Not that I have much of a choice in the matter! Cause she as equally has to trust me the same way." His voice takes a much more gentle tone. "Just a shame for what she first awoken me for.. we actually failed to do.. saving the world.. and losing a life. It is never easy to handle."<br /><br />The red dragon shakes his head, "No matter. You said you are a shapechanger yes? Such a thing is not a common thing to see from our world. This be your primary form or do you hold another to that standard?"<br /><br />Rynn however was at last greeted by someone here, this being Saber and she gives the young lady a warm smile, "Thank you." She then shifts her weight as her green eyes gaze around, before looking back to Saber, "My friend and I were traveling around when we saw the celebration. If you don't mind me being a bit curious, what is this all about?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kagenashi blinks at that reaction, head tilting slightly to one side in bewilderment; whether it's honest or not is certainly not clear. "What, have you already forgotten about your debt? I /did/ tell you I would be figuring out a way for you to repay that soon-"<br /><br />    And then he's turning away from her to talk to someone else entirely! How utterly rude. Silver eyes narrow as she crosses her arms, but she patiently waits for him to finish and turn his attention back. He will eventually, right?<br /><br />    Nope, now he's turning around completely. Kagenashi gives a brief huff. "I am not going anywhere, you no, so no matter how much you try to act like I am not even here-"<br /><br />    Then Psalm is sweeping him up and carting him off. Kagenashi blinks in surprise, but when Bedivere looks back to her as if in silent pleading, she simply smiles and lifts her fingers in a brief wave. "Do bring him back in one piece, Psalm," the nogitsune calls before turning to regard whoever else may be here. Kirika gets a look of curiosity; another fox woman wasn't something she was expecting to see here. Hopefully that won't ruin her fun at all.<br /><br />    She turns next to Saber, looking at the King of Knights with an expression of pleasant surprise. "Ah, you must be the king Sir Bedivere had told me about. He spoke quite highly of you. Quite highly indeed, and at great length, too." Her smile grows slightly before she offers a low, respectful bow at the waist. "A pleasure to meet you in person, at last. I am Kagenashi."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "Did I not tell you I owe you no debt?" Bedivere snaps his response to Kagenashi with a note of desperation, and maybe a little anger. "I--" Oh crap. Before he has the opportunity to do much of anything else, the bard has him by the wrists, dragging him off to the central square. As she places one of his hands at the small of her back, she smiles brightly at him, but his expression remains one of stricken horror. He still looks paler than he probably should be, too.<br /><br />  Yeah, she pretty much has to freaking drag Bedivere along. It's like trying to dance with a wooden mannequin, because he looks horrified and embarrassed and oh God, his sudden desperate glance to Fate seems to say, /help me/.<br /><br />  She's probably enjoying this because she's kind of a terrible person, too, in her own way...<br /><br />  He manages a quick glance to note that Kagenashi is over there talking to Saber. Psalm may hear him make a strangled sound. It sounds like despair. And maybe horror.<br /><br />  Ohhh, none of this is going right at /all/. This is why he's a knight; he /guards/ these kinds of occasions, he doesn't /participate/ in them!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>My, that is a lot of colored cheeks going on in the immediate vicinity. Fate just... smiles, but says nothing to address that fact. "Ah--" Well, she was going to ask Bedivere something, but it appears he's been absconded with. "Do take care not to step on her feet, Sir Bedivere!" Because it doesn't look like the poor knight has much dancing experience. It's too late to rescue him from Psalm's grip, though. All she can do is try to make sure the pain is lessened a bit.<br /><br />"Saber..." The blonde leans over slightly, still a bit taller than the Servant despite those heeled boots. Her voice low, Fate whispers into Saber's ear, "The instant this song ends, be ready to cut in, to rescue Sir Bedivere from his unfortunate fate." No, she's not doing this just to get those two to dance together. Would she plot like that?<br /><br />"Mmm?" Crimson eyes shift toward Kirika, and Fate smiles in amusement at her expression. "You've met one of the younger versions of myself, I see." It really isn't hard to guess, given that sort of reaction. "There are three of them, so I can't be certain which. My name is Fate." The Enforcer extends her hand toward Kirika. "Fate Testarossa Harlaown."<br /><br />The -other- fox nearby is given a warm smile as well. "You know Saber?" Fate inclines her head toward Kagenashi in greeting, resting a hand gently on Saber's shoulder. She's ready, if necessary, to help Saber escape to rescue the damse--knight in distress at the proper time.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Meanwhile, the band is launching into a nice lively reel, all the better for Psalm to humiliate Bedivere to.<br />  It sounds like this: http://youtu.be/i1s6H_TqWZ4<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn perks his ears as he listens to the dragon and his ears perk up n top of his head some, "Well, as long as you both respect each other, then I suppose there is no harm in it." he nods some, "I am sorry to hear you were not successful in saving the world." He nods again to the dragon, "I have a true form, but I am not seen in it very often." his ears lay back against his head, "I am no longer worthy of taking on that form any long, or rather I despise it so much that I refuse to. So, I suppose the answer to that would be, I have no true form any longer."<br /><br />The big cat seems to shrug some, "Besides, I can do more good in an animal form than I could as that one anyway." yeah, he's a bit bitter when it comes to that. "In my home there were only two of us that I knew of, the one who trained me and myself, anyone considered to have or know 'magic' were hunted down and slain. It was important to remain hidden and I have stayed in animal shapes for so long, it's become second nature, I suppose."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     "I see," she replied to the dragonrider. "It is called a ceilidh, a simple social gathering, and any are welcome so long as there is no predilection towards violence."So formal, even when she's not. "The intention is to meet others in a pleasant setting." When karian arrived Saber greeted him in turn, with another faint yet warm smile. "Welcome, Sir Karian," she greeted the Space Marine. "It has been quite some time since I have seen you last. You fare well, I hope?" <br /><br />     She frowned a little at the bard from across the way. For some mysterious reason, it was really bothering her, dragging her knight around like that. it must be because he looks clearly uncomfortable. Yes, that must be it. <br /><br />     She didn't have the necessary opening to ride to his rescue just yet, however. She blinked in surprise when Kagenashi addressed her. "Ah. I see..." But she does regain little bit of composure, bowing slightly herself, albeit a more European-style one. She can at least respect proper manners. "Well-met, Lady Kagenashi. I am called Saber." <br /><br />     She was almost startled when fate revealed her plotting...er, cunning plan."B-but...is that truly...is that a truly proper action to take..?" <br /><br />     Then again, he does look pretty distressed. And she is not enjoying the uncomfortable feeling she is having at the moment. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Oh goodness, a proper reel. Psalm takes no chances at this and sweeps Bedivere out, leading from the ladie's side of things as she lively sways and spins the pair around, putting on a show as bes t she can, all the while grinning and smiling and making it flashy.<br /><br />    Frills and red hair and blond hair and armor and tattoos and all of it spinning and whirling. <br /><br />    Lesser performers, eat your heart out<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:451|Karian (451)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Karian looks to saber, showing his scarred and covered eye. "I've been better." He says. He immidately goes and fills up another mug, before handing in to Saber. "To you, and to your health."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  As he's swung about the dance floor, the Knight of the Round makes a horrified sound that can only be described as a squawk. "Augh--!"<br /><br />  Slowly, he starts to fall into the steps of the dance, but that's just so that Psalm doesn't break anything important while she's swinging him around like a sack of potatoes. He obviously isn't really enjoying it, and he still looks kind of horrified. Okay, a lot horrified -- silvery hair and brown tunic and embarrassed flush and all.<br /><br />  Help.<br /><br />  HELP.<br /><br />  Oh, the Good Lord in Heaven preseve him, what did he ever do to earn this--?!<br /><br />  He does catch a quick and slightly vertigo-tinged glance toward Saber and the gathering she's nearest, just in time to see Karian handing her a mug of what looks suspiciously like it might be ale (but he can't be sure, because Psalm is literally making him dizzy with her energetic dancing; the girl DOES know how to reel).<br /><br />  Either the band picks up on the energy of the occasion, or they're picking up on the misery of the violet-eyed knight being caromed around the dance floor. They accordingly hop into an equally lively, upbeat reel.<br /><br />  It sounds like this.<br />  http://youtu.be/DAzIhSU2tYE<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kagenashi lifts her silver eyes to Fate when she finds herself addressed. The nod of greeting is returned, and her hands fold primly in front of herself where she stands, looking for all the world like an almost normal, perfectly innocent woman. "Oh, no, I have not been fortunate enough to meet her before. I simply know /of/ her from Sir Bedivere, that is all. I am pleased to find that I was correct in assuming I could meet her in person today."<br /><br />    She smiles toward Saber, then. "Saber, you are called? Not the name he used for you, but I suppose I must not be the only one to have a variety of names. A pleasure, certainly."<br /><br />    Her smile shrinks slightly as she follows Saber's gaze, looking out toward poor Bedivere being tossed around in a flourish of fabric by Psalm. "He does look rather uncomfortable. I think he might appreciate a rescue from his king, Lady Saber. Otherwise, I fear that bard may cast him into a state of exhastion, and he may not be able to properly enjoy the celebration."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kirika tilts her head at Fate more. Somehow it makes sense, yet it doesn't, there being multiple iterations of one world similar yet different to one another. She shudders imagining another Nuran like her own, for one thing.<br /><br />    The gesture as it were is accepted, with some confusion as Kirika takes the hand awkwardly and squeezes it, shaking up and down slowly as she looks Fate over. "So it would seem. I am Kirika Half-Blood. Well met, Captain Harlaown."<br /><br />    Kagenashi is given another wary glance, before she focuses back on the spectacle of Psalm and Bedivere together. Kirika would laugh, were she not so confused right now.<br /><br />    Perhaps it'll make more sense whith a strong drink, Kirika decides, before she goes over to grab a mug and ale from the food offered. Sniffing the liquid tensely, she then shrugs a shoulder taking a gulp. Pause. Blink blink. Gulp again. This stuff isn't so bad, evidently, and she bobs her head a bit as the music picks up and she observes the dancing a bit longer.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Faruja takes the mug, and raises it towards the large Space Marine. "To friends and reunions!" Then, the rat begins the process of downing the entire thing like a college frat boy. <br /><br /> "Far too apt, Ser. Far too apt." The rat responds cryptically. His tail steals another drink and is similarly downed like so much water. Faruja clearly has no intention of leaving here sober. <br /><br /> Squint. Squint! Not the man of the hour? Bedivere gets a Priest Look! <br /><br /> "Humility is well and good, my dear Ser, however ye play the fool most poorly! This is a celebration of friends, new and old." Then, his gaze softens. <br /><br /> "Awkward, hmm? I felt much the same when I first began attending diplomatic functions. Ye get used to it. Think of it as a learning experience. If ye know how to move amongst a celebration, then ye know better how to spot those infiltrating one." <br /><br /> It's a Fate! Faruja's heard something of the lady. "Hail M'Lady!" He offers politely to Fate before Kirika steals him. <br /><br /> A hand reaches over, and Faruja grabs his cane. It's given a light wiggle. "Now, now! Enough of such, lest I mimic mine old Abbot! Ye wouldst hath had to board a ferry to reach Mullonde. There shall be time enough to find the culprit. For now, relax, hmm?" <br /><br /> Saber's response sends the rat to smiling, the Burmecian visibly suppressing a grin. Someone's earned herself some brownie points. <br /><br /> "I could not hath said such better mineself. Dame Saber 'tis! Thank ye for the invitation! Ensure that thine dear Marshal is..." <br /><br /> A bard steals a knight. Faruja laughs. <br /><br /> "...Nevermind. I wouldst offer ye a dance, however..." Shrug. "A 'rain check' as they say."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn follows the gaze of the two about the poor knight being danced around, she then looks back over to Saber, "Ah, I see. Well nice to know there is such events of peaceful gatherings in this world." Rynn smiles softly at that. She then gazes back to where they had been looking, "... also is-- he alright?" Maybe talking about the guy being dragged around the dance floor.<br /><br />Arokh listens to Allyn's story and frowns a bit at that. His eye ridges furrow in thought. He could correct about the 'loss' of the world, but given the current state of things... "Well, on the bright side. Drakan has just been scattered across this one.. and the main city that still remembers the order-- is still standing proudly." Arokh gives a firm nod of his head. "So, in that, we still won.. take the small victories when they come."<br /><br />The Dragon then peers at the sabertooth, "..I am also sorry about your people. Shame that they hunted down such. I don't think would stood such a chance in our world. Many magical creatures exists from where we come from.. including many of us Elder Dragons-- though.. I think they still remain all asleep after the great war.. only those damn Blackwings now fly the skies." He growls at that thought. "..Aggressive, territorial, and destructive."<br /><br />"It be nice to think when our world merged here, that the troubles from our world will not impact this one, but I fear in some ways it could. It is why Rynn and I travel so much. To make sure of it." Arokh then glances off to the side, before he looks back to Allyn, "..you.. could always join us, if you like. I doubt Rynn would mind. Could use someone who knows the lay of the land after all."<br /><br />Rynn meanwhile the n takes notice of Faruja, who she stares at and blinks her eyes. "...How curious. I think I've heard your voice over this device, right?" She taps the ear piece. "I just have never seen an individual like you before. Your at least far more charming then that of the wartocks and the like."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"Ah, just Fate will do. I may be in uniform, but that's onyl for lack of time to change today." The awkwardness of the handshake is noted, but Fate only smiles softly at Kirika. "It's a confusing thing, to be sure, but I'm the oldest of the ones I've come across, by a good margin. It will be hard to confuse me for the others." At least visually. <br /><br />"Well then, a pleasure to meet you as well. Any friend of Sir Bedivere is a friend of mine." The term 'friend' might be applied only loosely here, judging by the knight's reaction earlier, but Fate's smile to Kagenashi is as kind as ever. Besides, she has some good advice! <br /><br />"Of course it's proper, Saber. Just wait for the music to change." Cutting someone off mid-song would be rude, but it's fair game in between! "Just make certain to defend him well once you're out there. Go on." As it sounds like the song is about to end, Fate gives the Servant a polite but firm nudge.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber nodded. "Hm. It would seem you have seen a great many more battles in that time. But it is good to see that you are hale," she replied, though a little startled by the sudden tankard. <br /><br />     But enough of that. She had some rescuing to do. <br /><br />     Suddenly, her bewilderment and uncertainty seemed to evaporate into the familiar deadly serious expression she wore in battle at both Fate's and Kagenashi's prompting. "Agreed." <br /><br />     Setting the tankard down, Saber prepared herself, and when the music shifted she moved -- a little too fast for a human being, whoops -- but was suddenly at the pair's side with a bright, cheerful smile. <br /><br />     A little /too/ cheerful. And was that a killing aura rising up behind her? <br /><br />     "Do pardon me, but I shall be taking this next dance," she said, cutting in with a little bit of Servant strength and started into the next dance. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Faruja it takes a moment for Faruja to place Rynn, but an old report about dragons, and a voice over the radio comes to him as he's mid-sip of ale. <br /><br /> "Well met! Lady...Rynn was it? Quite alright, ye art hardly the first. Mine kind art known as the nezumi, a people of artists, honorable knights, and wanderers of justice!" Pause. <br /><br /> "Unless ye art an inhabitant of Cleyra, in which ye art a pacifist." The way he speaks 'pacifist' might sound suspiciously like how one pronounces 'coward'. <br /><br /> Off Saber goes to rescue her Marshal. Grin. A raised drink to the poor King of Knights.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Oh my goodness. Psalm blinks at the arrival of The King of Knights, and happily twirls poor Bedivere out of her grasp, with a chaste kiss on the chek. "He's all yours, your majesty." A stage whisper. (I softened him up for you, enjoy)<br />    She cackles happily, and fairly flies up onto the stage, clapping her hands. "I'll take all of you on, we dance for joy and for glad tidings, ad because it's a PARTY! Be happy!" And with that she DANCES. Stamping of feet and swaying and twirling, a proper lady's reel. There's a change in the air as well as she dances. Magic. She's casting a spell. The whole glade starts to brighten, the air sparkling as she goes, her joy maginifying the whole place. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn tilts his head at Arokh and blinks, "The city still stands? Ah, you did not mean that your world was destroyed then? I thought that is what you had meant." he ponders for a few moments and nods as he listens, "Well, if you and Rynn ever need help in your world, I would be glad to be of service. I have helped a few people out and I am sure some would be willing to put in a good word about me." he knows a couple of those people are here, he'd picked up their scents, but he's been busy talking with the dragon he has yet to go greet them.<br /><br />He ponders the dragon's question and then nods, "I will accept the offer as long as Rynn is agreeable to it as well, it is safer to travel in a group anyway I think." he chuckes a little, "Packs are good to have."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  The theme of the evening seems to be Terrible Things Happening To Bedivere Before He Can React. Psalm spins him around with a chaste kiss on the cheek that sets his face to the approximate colour of a fire engine, horrified, and by the time he manages to find his sense of balance he's suddenly--<br /><br />  --whirled right into Arturia, but before he has the chance to see who it even is he's been flung into, he staggers forward, clutching at the person for balance. His face flushes even more scarlet once he realises WHO he's been tangled into, straight to the tips of his ears. He opens his mouth to stammer in helpless protest, but nothing comes out; he's too breathless from being whirled about the square by the energetic Miss Psalm. And their momentum is already carrying them into the energetic reel, The Wind That Shakes the Barley.<br /><br />  It is a very energetic reel. He can't break away, because they're surrounded by other dancers, too; with a sound of hopeless, horrified resignation, Bedivere...<br /><br />  ...simply sweeps the king into the reel. Apparently he's not nearly as clumsy as Psalm had previously thought. Actually, he's surprisingly graceful -- and quick on his feet, too, mindful that neither of them go caroming into other dancers. There's no mistaking that he still looks miserably embarrassed, and his face is probably a semi-permanent shade of red by now, but at least he seems to know how to conduct himself well. And he looks like he's enjoying himself, however much he seems to be struggling not to let it show. There's a quirk to the corner of his mouth, almost shy, suggestive of the beginnings of a smile.<br /><br />  It'd be a pleasant expression if he'd quit remembering that he's doing it and stopping himself.<br /><br />  No glances to the others for help, now -- Arturia is the one he'd depended on for a rescue, and he's away from the humiliating experience of having to talk to Kagenashi, or of being swung about the dance floor by Psalm.<br /><br />  Of course, he's dancing with...<br /><br />  Bedivere startles so badly he nearly loses his balance, but gamely continues on with the reel, face flushing scarlet all over again.<br /><br />  Ohhhhhh, he wants to crawl through the floor and die right now /so badly/.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    "Have fun, noble king," Kagenashi calls after Saber, smirking faintly and offering a light wave at the passing Servant. Her fingers alight on her chin in thought as she watches the development, silver eyes gleaming mischief. Ah, but she can be patient for now. The evening is still rather young.<br /><br />    She turns back to Fate, then, taking a brief shrug before responding. "Well, to be perfectly honest, I do not know him terribly well yet. I ran into him on the road yesterday, and he seemed an interesting person. We spoke for some time and, in the end, he insisted that I must attend his celebration. It is a good opportunity to become familiar with the Multiverse, after all, is it not?"<br /><br />    Okay, maybe only part of that is slightly true, but who's telling? Definitely not Bedivere.<br /><br />    "You are familiar with them both, I assume?" A slight tilt of her head, cocked in vulpine curiosity. "Strange, the sorts of people the Multiverse brings together."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"Indeed the are." Arokh says with a mild grin on his draconic muzzle. "Though I do admit, that we elder dragons of the order of flame are just as powerful alone as we are in a group." He tilts his head at that. "There is very little that we can not handle and so, adding the strength of other races only makes us ever the stronger."<br /><br />Arokh hrms a bit. "..It is fine. I did not-- really make myself very clear. It has been a very rough several days and," He shakes his head. "Let us just say sleep sometimes has not been of the best of friends with us at times." He then shrugs gently. "But such is life. Simply to explain," He raises up his dragon claw talon on his front leg as he speaks, "Rynn found me and our souls are now bonded together. She awoken me in hopes to save her younger brother-- we sadly could not save him, for if we did, the world of Drakan would have been destroyed then." He then opens his clawed paw hand as he speaks, "We had many more battles after that-- the final though we were tricked and it lead Drakan merging with this one."<br /><br />The red dragon lowers his pawed hand once more. "I hope that clears it up a bit."<br /><br />Meanwhile Rynn smiles to Faruja and listens to what he has to say, before she just grins. "Hardly the pacifist am I. If I was, I would have defeated an evil lord Hydra, hundreds of Wortocks, and walking undead."<br /><br />Rynn then shifts her weight slightly as she studies Faruja. "You look like you probably seen a few battles yourself, unless that sword of yours is for show."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber's serious, determined look dropped and she paled at the sudden peck on his cheek and the sly whisper to her...notto mention Fate and Kagenashi's...encouragements. Was this a /conspiracy/? <br /><br />     Still somewhat in battle mode, Arturia caught her beleaguered marshal deftly; a strange sight considering she was still much shorter. the moment didn't last when she was suddenly dropped out of battle mode...and into an energetic dance with... <br /><br />     Oh. oh, dear. She really needed to control some of her tranquil fury. <br /><br />     Her face heated up into a very impressive shade of crimson, but the short knight didn't just look the part of a lithe dancer. She had studied a few of the dances -- though this was the first time she had ever been able to in lieu of watching from her place at the king's chair -- and managed to keep up. She needed /some/ kind of distraction from her embarrassment. <br /><br />     I's only when she accidentally catches sight of his flustered expression yielding just slightly into a shy smile that she couldn't help herself. As they danced and deftly managed to avoid crashing into something or someone else, the King of Knights laughed lightly, as she had only once before. It was still /terribly/ embarrassing, of course, and she was going to be tortured ceaselessly later. But for the moment, she was happy to simply enjoy herself. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Faruja smirks just a touch. "Far more than I hath the right to, and oft against opponents I wish more honorable. Evil lords, the undead? Well done. A world with less such Heresy is ever a brighter one! Send thine draconic compatriot mine regards, hmm?" She is soon given ale, before with a nod, the rat is off to watch the train wreck that shall no doubt come of a dance-off between a bard and a King. Faruja's money is on the bard, especially if she has Fly. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Not conspiracy at all. That would require planning. Fate is just going with the flow and directing things in the right direction. "Bardiche," she whispers softly, and only a soft chime answers. There may be photographical evidence of this to share with Saber and Bedivere later.<br /><br />"I've known Saber for some years, yes. Sir Bedivere I've met only recently, but he seems to be a very good man." She tilts her head back slightly to look at Kagenashi without allowing the dancing Brits to completely escape the corner of her eye. "He insisted?" <br /><br />The look Fate gives to the fox is one of her Mother looks. It says, without any words, that she has a very hard time believing this. "Mmm... well, you are right. It's a good chance to meet others you haven't met before. Do allow those two some time, though. Moments like these are rare."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn nods to Arokh as he listens to the dragon's tale and he would probably be frowning if he could in this form, "We all have had bad things happen I think, but we still get through them somehow. Well, it is good to make new friends and know that you can count on them. I have found some good friends since I made my apperance here and I do not know what I'd do without them now." he sighs a bit"<br /><br />His ears perk a bit and he looks up to the dragon, "I wish to speak with you some more sometime soon and with your Rynn, if you could speak with her about it? Though for now, I think I should go and greet the hosts of this party. I do not wish to be a rude guest." he chuckles, "It was an honor to speak with you and I'd like to do so again at length sometime soon." he bows his head respectfully to the dragon, though he does have one more comment to him, "We should go hunting sometime, I know of a place bountiful with wildlife."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Arokh raises an eye ridge to the feline and chuckles. "Very well. I look forward to a good hunt. I'll be here under the shade. If you see Rynn, feel free to speak with her. She wont be hard to miss." The red dragon then lays down. "Red hair, leather armor, probably stand out like a sore thumb."<br /><br />...Thanks Arokh...<br /><br />Rynn gives a nod to Faruja as he goes to watch the madness about to unfold and she accepts the ale, taking a swig of it as she finds a place to lean up against the wall of and just watches from the distance. Better to stay out of the way and not get dragged into any messes.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  With a surety he's sure to be mortified over later, Bedivere guides himself and his king across the cleared square. It seems that some of the other dancers have cleared them some room, and there are eyes on them now. A lot of the ladies and a few of the men are watching Bedivere; while a lot of the men and a few of the ladies are watching Arturia.<br /><br />  Hands clap and feet stomp in time to the lively reel, which the musicians seem to be improvising just to keep it going in that high-energy state. (Maybe Psalm did a little encouragement. Certainly, that touch of magic she must have loosed seems to be having its effect on the townsfolk.)<br /><br />  For a few seconds, at least, Bedivere almost looks like he's starting to relax, carried along by the infectious good cheer of the reel and the fiddles. Sometimes it's just easier to go with the flow, and when Saber laughs, he finds he can't help one of his own bubbling up -- not the faint breath he usually uses in lieu of a chuckle, but a genuine laugh; something Arturia has without doubt /never/ heard him do before. It's a good deal louder than his usually gentle voice, and it seems to speak to all the good cheer of the evening.<br /><br />  Maybe Maggie's well-intentioned magic is getting to him after all. He takes her by the hands and into the next part of the dance as the reel shifts, no less high-energy, to a different key and a slightly faster beat. For once he looks like he's actually /enjoying/ himself.<br /><br />  For the few minutes left until he remembers himself, anyway. So far he hasn't hit that point just yet...<br /><br />  Almost too soon, the reel comes to an end, and the band shifts gears. Another reel, it goes, though this one is no less lively than the last.<br /><br />  It sounds like this:<br />  http://youtu.be/eO2OfJ7qtW0<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And then Magatha Songsteel herself hops up on the railing of the badstange and cries out. "EAT DRINK AND BE MERRY AND ALL HAIL THE SERVANT AND HER SERVANT!" She stamps her feet to plant a shinging werelight on the dancers in the middle of the stage, and howls in delight. "CLEAR ROOM PEASANTS AND LET THEM DANCE!"<br />    And then she pulls a fife from /somewhere/ god knows she couldn't have fit it in that dress, and strikes up with the band.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    An almost knowing smirk is offered to Fate in response to that look. Yes, Kagenashi can probably tell that Fate doesn't quite believe her, as that smile shows; however, the nogitsune still isn't going to go back on it. "A good man indeed. He was very eager to let me know of his ideals, and how a 'good knight' should uphold himself. I have never met a person more peaceful."<br /><br />    Silver eyes shift back to the dancing pair, her smile softening slightly. "Indeed, it seems they could use some peace. Unfortunate how reluctant some people are to accept a moment like this, but at least it is settling in for now."<br /><br />    Then there's a spotlight. Kagenashi's thin brows raise slightly. "...and I believe that moment is over now."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kirika is not one to often consider the idea of relationships. Such things are a distraction to her, and as far as she is concerned, she could do without the idea of people hitting on her as she travels along her way. It's almost sad how unaware of how the art of romance works she really is in some ways.<br /><br />    Of course, even she can tell where this is going, and what the goal is. Hooooooo boy is this going to be awkward.<br /><br />    The half-kitsune just makes a way towards the food once more, burying her face in a bowl of stew practically as she tries to avert her gaze.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn chuckles to the dragon and he nods his head, "I will look for her then." the cat then gets up and pads closer to where the others are gathered. Well, at least for now he pads over towards where Faruja and Rynn are, since it seems the host and hostess are busy dancing. He rubs his large head up udner Faruja's hand and purrs quietly, "Hello my friend." he then looks upat Rynn, "And hello to you as well."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn is contently leaning against the wall, drinking the ale she was given. Watching the insanity take place that was this event of the dance, until she spots the half-Kitsune and raises a brow, but her eyes was brought to a large wild cat that was greeting her. A talking-- sabertooth tiger..<br /><br />Rynn then peers at the ale in question, before she looks back at Allyn, then back to the ale, then to the Sabertooth once more. She very calmly places down the ale on the chair near her. "Yes, Hi." She furrows her brows unsure of how to address this. "Don't mind me. Just here for a moment to see what is going on and then probably be off again. Though, um, forgive the rudeness at the same time..just.. never seen a talking animal before." Apparently Rynn doesn't classify dragons as animals if that be the case.<br /><br />"Though if you have a beautiful fur coat!" Rynn quickly decides to add in.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     As usual, Arturia remained completely oblivious to the stares in her direction, blissfully unaware. On the other hand, she was quite astute about the stares /Bedivere/ was getting. It had been something she had seen before, in Camelot, and even the aloof king understood the implications. But for some reason, they were now starting to bother her a little. Or perhaps more than a little. <br /><br />     She nearly stopped when he laughed in turn -- a genuine laugh, perhaps the first one she had ever heard -- but then couldn't seem to keep the doubtless stupid-looking grin off her face. It was so good to see him finally enjoy himself, to be freed from all the anguish and burdens of duty...all the humiliation had been worth it, in the end. At least for the moment, however brief it was to turn out. <br /><br />     And then, at the bard's pronouncement, it took much of Saber's impressive willpower not to evaporate into a wildly flailing puddle of embarrassment. That did nothing for her now-brilliant-crimson complexion, however.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Suddenly there is a light shining over them.<br /><br />  Bedivere jerks to a halt surely as if someone had put a wall in his path, stumbling against Arturia in his shock. Also it looks like almost the whole of the square has cleared to give them room. Specifically.<br /><br />  The shade of red he turns simply can't be human. There's no way.<br /><br />  With great dignity, Bedivere clears his throat in acute embarrassment, and backs away until he can make some wan effort to hide in the crowd. And then he's just /gone/, with amazing rapidity.<br /><br />  Might be nice, but he's tall enough that for the most part he can still be seen. His path takes him somewhere near Fate, though he doesn't seem aware; his sole thought had been 'find someplace to blend in and HIDE.'<br /><br />  Ah, forgive him, King Arturia, you're going to have to bury him tonight. Or at least his dignity. His dignity is busy finding a corner to go noisily die in.<br /><br />  Bedivere's head sinks a little lower in the portion of the crowd he's hiding in as he wilts a bit.<br /><br />  Ah, the Good Lord preserve him. And just... just put him out of his misery, or something.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kagenashi gives a glance over to Kirika as the half-kitsune shoves herself into a bowl. "Ah, I would suggest caution. You would not want to drown yourself in the middle of the celebration, would you?"<br /><br />    Oh, and the dance has broken up! Kagenashi smiles and claps her hands briefly before turning to Fate. "If you will excuse me, I believe it is my turn. A pleasure speaking with you." And with that, the woman...vanishes, quite literally.<br /><br />    The next instant she appears, she happens to be /right/ next to Bedivere, looping her arm around his and smiling with overwhelming satisfaction. The poor knight may react however he chooses, but the nogitsune keeps her prey in a firm grip, silver eyes peering up and filled with mischief. She doesn't even give him a moment to wallow in embarrassment. "Well, you certainly looked as if you were enjoying yourself. Did you think to finally let it slip?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And Psalm, the vicious lady she is, keeps that light on, as she peels the reel back from the band as she apparently wrests control of the music by sheer force of Charisma. <br />    Her Murderfiddle appears in her gasp, and she plucks up the flautist, shoving the band into something slower and calmer and much more proper for a socio-musical standpoint.<br />     >>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQcw5Y4zrQI<< <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn chuckles at Rynn's reaction to him, it's the same one he's gotten from a number of other people and he bows his head respectfully to her, "Ah, I didn't mean to startle you. I just saw my friend Faruja over here and I had been speaking with that wonderful dragon laying over there in the shade. So, I thought that I would come and introduce myself." If he were in his human form he might blush at the complement to his fur, "It's not in the best shape it could be, I was singed a bit recently." he sighs and sits down, since standing on his left paw is a little painful. "I'm Allyn and it is a pleasure, I am sure."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>That much is true, and Fate gives Kagenashi a nod. "He is quite a gentle and peaceful man." There's a faint smile as she acknowledges the fox's smirk. She knows that Kagenashi knows that she knows! But as long as there's an Understanding, the blonde won't push it. <br /><br />"It's nice to see the both of them so freely happy. I worry, sometimes..." But then the spotlight appears, and Fate brings a hand to cover her mouth. "Oh my. Do excuse me..." As Bedivere's dance brings himself and Saber closer, Fate makes a quiet signal to them... one of encouragement, should she catch either one's eye. Despite the obvious embarrassment, she can tell they're having a wonderful time. But then... it seems like she's lost track of the fox, and by the time she sees Kagenashi again, it's too late.<br /><br />This calls for another signal to Saber, this one beckoning.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:152|Faruja (152)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span> Scritch scritch! Allyn gets earpets. "Ser Allyn, hail! Enjoying the..." <br /><br /> Faruja turns to the sight of a fleeing pair of Marshal and King. The grin Faruja gives may as well be that of a shark. <br /><br /> "Entertainment?" Pause. He lowers his voice. <br /><br /> "Visit Mullonde some time. I hath a...proposition for ye." <br /><br /> Faruja, mercilessly claps for the pair. <br /><br /> "Bravo! Bravo! Our hosts this day art most graceful and elegant indeed!" Consider tis diplomatic training, Ser and Dame.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:451|Karian (451)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Karian had been busy enjoying the food and such to notice much of what was going on behind him. Though at the change of music, he turned around. He noticed Sir Bedivere and walked over to him. "I hear from many that you have taken on the role of the King's guard. Not any easy task, but one I give you my respect for. What is your name?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn watches the hosts run by, before her gaze moves back to Allyn. "Talking with Arokh then? I am pretty sure he is the only dragon around here-- unless there is another." She can't rule that idea out either really. She then crouches down resting her arms easily across her legs.<br /><br />Those green eyes looking directly at Allyn's own. "I'm Rynn, it is a pleasure." Her eyes go back to the party entertainment. "It seems things are really lively here. Been awhile since I have seen such a thing."<br /><br />"Though not sure how much longer my companion and I can stay here. We have a long flight to get back to our home city of Surdana." Rynn admits with a sigh. She glances over the Sabertooth. "Also your coat doesn't look /to/ bad. I mean, probably a good wash in a river with the proper herb mixture might restore some of it..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber can't even manage a single bewildered sound as Bedivere fled, raising her hand up helplessly as if to try to reassure him, even though she herself is still horribly embarrassed. Inwardly, she hoped that it wouldn't cause his mask to go back up; she had been working hard these past few days to start living for himself rather than the King. Not that he would ever stop being the Faithful Knight, but he should at least have a life of his own now that Camelot was gone. <br /><br />     Stifling a sigh, Arturia made an almost solemn bow to the applause, her impassive mask back up. Cocking her head slightly, she noted Fate's signal and returned to where the tall blonde had stationed herself. She had debated going to find the poor marshal, but she had a feeling he would run away again, too horrified to be in her presence for even a second. <br /><br />     While she didn't say anything, Saber nevertheless gave the Enforcer a slight quizzical look. What was she up to? <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn purrs quietly at the earpetting, Faruja is probably one of the few that he'd let get away with something like that, well there are one or two others, but they aren't here. He nods to his friend, "Of course, just let me know when you wish to speak to me and I will come and listen. Yes, the entertainment is interesting." he replies then looks back to Rynn.<br /><br /> "Oh that is a shame that neither one of you may be staying much longer. After speaking with Arokh, I'd like to speak with both of you sometime. I am also told him that if you both need help in your home, then to just call upon me and I will help." He would give a grin if he could, "Just ask Faruja here, I am sure he would vouche for me."<br /><br />He ponders her words about a bath in a river with herbs "Hmmm, do you know of such things? I am have no knowledge of such things, but if you had some then that might be worth a try and rather useful."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Before he has any opportunity to find someplace quiet and isolated to crawl off to, Bedivere is seized by the arm and rather neatly apprehended. He tries to pull his arm free, but she's managed to get a good grip on his arm. Though still red-faced, his expression shifts to one caught between embarrassment and irritation.<br /><br />  "N-no business of yours," he snaps, giving another ineffectual tug. While it's true that he could simply brute-force his way out of the nogitsune's grasp, this is a social gathering, and he would be loathe to conduct himself rudely. Besides, he's trying to keep as absolutely low a profile as possible after that call-out from the bard. His face flushes even more scarlet at her question.<br /><br />  Even Fate and Saber can probably see how his face twists to an expression of shock and the beginnings of frustration.<br /><br />  "Wh--" Tug, tug. Bedivere twists to glare at the nogitsune and her merry silver eyes. While in any other situation he might be handling her calmly, his composure is shattered into so many tiny pieces he's not really sure he'll ever find them all. And there may not be enough glue in the Multiverse to put them all back together again. He's exactly thinking clearly. "I--I may have. But that is no business of yours! And I would certainly--"<br /><br />  --Not dare tell anyone else. Except he just did.<br /><br />  Truly, the degree to which he can turn red is impressive. His very ears are scarlet.<br /><br />  "Ah, cleverly done," he mutters, still trying to tug away from Kagenashi, a little more insistently this time. "You are a sly one. But I wish you would find someone else to toy with. I am not your /plaything/." Tug, tug.<br /><br />  He's starting to look kind of desperate.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:266|Rynn (266)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Rynn grins at Allyn, "I know a bit yes. Enough to do some first aid and other little things given I had a troubling brother and I had to pretty much raise him alone." She then goes to stand back and stretches, before resting her hand on her hip.<br /><br />"As for the help, I would never turn it down. Our world is a mess right now with one part of it on one side of this world.. and another piece elsewhere. Everything has been scattered and I'm not sure how much longer it will be until our troubles start to test their luck into the newer realms" Rynn pinches the bridge of her nose at the thought. "So yes.. help.. help is always welcomed."<br /><br />The red-head then gives Allyn a smile. "But if you like for me to see what I can do to help with that singed fur. Let me know. If I can't come up with the right remedy, I know someone in Surdana who can."<br /><br />She then goes to step away giving a wave of her hand. "Till we meet again!" And it seems just as she came here, Rynn now leaves on the mighty wings of her dragon companion-- once she gets back to him and maybe have walked off an apple.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    One stew later, Kirika is quick to note Kagenashi and how she badgers Bedivere so. Eyebrow perked, she opts to saunter towards the nogitsune, knight, and co. "It seems everyone seems to know everyone around here, how interesting." She muses, glancing at Kagenashi in particular with a foxlike fascination, appropriately enough.<br /><br />    She's read up on reports on the nogitsune's dealings, her actions in depowering other kitsune. But this is a gathering of peaceful intentions, so for now she opts to learn what she can about the enemy, as well as unaffiliated parties besides her new allies in the Union.<br /><br />    Besides, she's another mug away from being knackered anyways. A drunk Kirika would be a sloppy Kirika.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And with a cry of glee, Psalm hands control of the band back over to the leader, hopping down and off the stage...<br /><br />    And then she seems to deflate, energy boiling off of her in a wave of exaltation. Saber may have Killing Intent, but Magatha's got Style. She slumps a bit, tugging at the front of her blouse to fan herself, as she stumbles over to the refreshments table. <br /><br />    "Goodnes.."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:306|Fate T. Harlaown (306)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>As Saber arrives, Fate slowly shakes her head. "You did nothing wrong." She pats the Servant's shoulder lightly. "Just keep an eye on him, hmm? He'll probably need rescuing again soon enough." Hopefully not -too- soon. Fate hopes that Bedivere will be able to weather such an intrusion on his own, at least for a short time.<br /><br />Fate does keep an eye on them as well, just in case Kagenashi does something she shouldn't... but she's not going to interrupt unless there's an emergency.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn nods to Rynn as she leaves, "Thank you, and yes if you could find something to at least soothe the burns that would be appreciated and I am not afraid of troubles, if and when you need help, find me and I will be there." he swwishes his tail and watches as she leaves on the dragon.<br /><br />He then glances around and seeing Saber stilll busy and Bedivere's gone off to whereever, he pads slowly voer towards Kirika and presses his nose against her hand in greeting. He likes the half fox, though he only spoke to her briefly when he went to help her. "Good to see you again." he tells her.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Even as Bedivere tugs, Kagenashi keeps her grasp firm, holding his arm to her side. Somehow, she still manages to keep a very relaxed air about her, standing as casually as if he were not struggling to free himself from her grasp. Aside from her body jerking a little now and then from a particularly insistent tug. A soft sound of amusement rises from her as his face fills with embarrassment. "Well, perhaps soon enough it will slip, and I will not need to hold anything secret after all."<br /><br />    As his tugging grows more desperate, her fingers curl, nails digging into his forearm like claws. Not nearly enough to cause any harm, but that sharp pain is clearly intended to make him settle down. "Unfortunately, I do not really have anyone else to toy with. None that are nearly as effective as you, at least. Having such sensitive information at my fingertips is not a situation I find myself in very often, so I really must enjoy it as much as I can."<br /><br />    The nogitsune gives a heavy, regretful sigh, however, and her attention turns back out to the rest of the celebration. "I had dearly hoped that you would be willing to help me enjoy your welcoming celebration to repay me for my generosity and your failure to provide entertainment, but it seems you are as stubborn as you were yesterday. No matter, I am sure there are plenty here that are quite eager to hear your thoughts. Ah, that bard is a rather loud one; perhaps I could ask her to be an announcer..."<br /><br />    Just as Kagenashi begins to slip free from her hold on Bedivere, looking for all the world like she really /is/ going to go approach Psalm at the refreshment table, she spots Kirika approaching. She pauses, then turns back to offer Bedivere the sweetest smile she can muster. "Oh, it seems someone is coming along to be a rapt audience. Perhaps I can let her know instead?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber might not have done anything wrong, necessarily, but that wasn't much of a comfort, given the poor unfortunate knight's distress. "Perhaps not..." she replied to Fate, not stifling her sigh this time. What a fantastic mess. <br /><br />     She had lost sight of Bedivere in the confusion, though luckily, she caught sight of him again...being needled. With the same distressed, pained look as before. By the nogisune again, no less. <br /><br />     The Servant's expression became the same impassive, businesslike mask once more. She had some rescuing to do. <br /><br />     Approaching the pair silently, Saber folded her arms across her chest, wearing the same smile she had when she had cut into the dance. With the same killing aura. "Please, pardon me," she said almost cheerfully, "But might I inquire what business you have with my marshal?" <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Psalm has vanished, it would appear.<br /><br />    Banished behind a giant mug of something. Mmmmbeeer.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    There's a large earthenware jug near where people were putting down their own offerings of alcohol. It has 'Bevelle's Finest' written on the side in Spiran script. Which is a pretty big indicator of who brought it. He must be doing his sneaky thing again. Damn sneaky ass old monks....<br /><br />    However, eventually he does show up proper. He hasn't bothered to dress up, from the looks of it. He's still in that long coat, though without the collar and shades. Hair pulled back in a ponytail, left arm tucked in his coat. "Still quite lively, I see." He's not speaking to anyone in particular, but his words are loud enough to hear by those near him. Fashionably late? Nah, he's just late. There's probably a reason. For the time being he just watches what's going on.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Just when it seems like he might be thinking about resorting to brute strength, claw-like nails dig into his forearm, pricking the skin enough to leave red marks, but not quite enough to actually puncture the skin. That still stings like a son of a bitch, though, and Bedivere abruptly leaves off his struggling, glaring at the nogitsune in irritable defeat.<br /><br />  "I do not exist to /entertain/ you," he snarls, though careful to keep his voice low. There is by now raw frustration as well as embarrassment on his face, and his colour looks a bit high, by normal reckoning. The nogitsune isn't even doing much of anything, and she still draws out those fight-or-flight instincts. In his case, it looks like flight is usually the winner. "Release me. I do not serve you, and I owe you no such debt, save perhaps in your own mistaken mind--"<br /><br />  He sags so abruptly when she mentions the boisterous bard that for a brief instant he looks like a string-cut puppet. And when he looks over to Kirika, it's with dawning horror as he listens to Kagenashi's off-handed remark.<br /><br />  Finally, he glances back over to Kagenashi, violet eyes dark and furious; face still flushed.<br /><br />  "What do you /want/ from me? Be out with it, one and for all--"<br /><br />  There is Saber. There is Kirika. And Kagenashi. Bedivere looks between all three, frozen in the act of trying to escape Kagenashi.<br /><br />  And the look on Saber's face stirs a curious emotion in him. It is not unlike dread.<br /><br />  "M-my king," he murmurs, inclining his head. "Lady Kagenashi was just letting me go."<br /><br />  He pauses long enough to flick a purely venomous glance back at the nogitsune. WASN'T SHE.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kirika glances between Bedivere, Saber, and KAgenashi. It's pretty evident this nogitsune isn't going to pull her claws out of her current prey without a little convincing, and hopefully Saber is enough to settle this without a fight breaking out.<br /><br />    In any case, she just stands and watches some more, her ears trained upon Kagenashi intently. "I never expected to see another of my kind outside of my world." She comments aloud, hoping the help difuse the tension as she speaks towards the notgitsune. "Or close to sit in any case."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And then Psalm's shoulders slump a bit, as she looks over at the lively interaction going on over at the dance floor, a soft smile on her lips. Oh good. She's still got it. <br />    Beer. Beer and thoughts.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Before Kagenashi can respond to Bedivere's demands, she finds herself abruptly faced with company. A difficult predicament, this; Bedivere hasn't /quite/ been swayed yet, and now there's a rather imposing Saber standing nearby and a Kirika who seems to have no idea what she's just walked into. Well, it looks like she's going to have to do some quick thinking to handle this.<br /><br />    Silver eyes flit up to meet Bedivere's venomous glare; her own gaze gleams like a knife's edge before she turns back to Saber, softening her expression for the king. Her tone remains as serene as ever, as if there were truly /nothing/ wrong with this situation at all. "Yes, Sir Bedivere was just leading me along to a dance, but it seems I was holding his arm too tightly. You must forgive me; I am not experienced with your culture's courtesies." She almost laughs, but at the same time her grip on Bedivere's arm loosens until it's more of a loose drape. It's /kind/ of the same as letting him go, right?<br /><br />    An auditory illusion suddenly rings out, but only to Bedivere's sense of hearing. Thankfully no one else would hear a thing, but who's to say the knight would have any idea of that?<br /><br />    No matter what his reaction to that brief, personal scare might be, Kagenashi continues as calmly as if nothing had happened. "I only wished to request a dance from our dear knight as a congratulation for his safe arrival. He seems to be very flustered from all the excitement earlier, after all. A calm dance with this soothing music seems to be just what might help."<br /><br />    The nogitsune's attention turns to Kirika, then, her faint smile still lingering as she regards the half-kitsune. "Ah, yes, such is the interesting fact of living in the Multiverse. I believe you may find a few of your kind in time; a kitsune, am I correct?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:307|Allyn (307)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Allyn hmms to himself and sees Kirika and the others are busy and he pads off a waya nd lays down, his head on his paws and closes his eyes, ears perked as he listens to stuff going on, so he's not alssp.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber's smile remained frozen in place, not so much as wavering. "A rather interesting way to lead, would you not agree?" A single slim finger tapped her arm lightly as her eyes made a point to drop to Kagenashi's arm around around Bedivere's. Only the slightly-twitching eyebrow gave away her tranquil fury. <br /><br />     That, and the aura still declaring "Mess with my knight and I will Excalibaaa you into Friday and it's only Saturday". <br /><br />     She didn't seem to take note of Kirika, though later she would have to repay her in some strong drink. Ale, perhaps. <br /><br />     "I think, perhaps, some rest is in order...surely he must be exhausted from our previous dance," she replied with a cheerful note, taking his opposite hand with a strange sort of gentleness that was entirely at odds with the killing aura. Only, her next smile matched it perfectly: thin, with dangerously narrowed eyes. her voice dropped a few octaves, taking on an ominous tone. <br /><br />     "I insist." <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Violet eyes dart between the two fox-creatures and the king, and for a long moment it seems like Bedivere is trying desperately to think of what to do. What can he do? As far as he can see, this situation is going to end in certain death, no matter what action he takes.<br /><br />  Dimly he's aware that Kagenashi is making excuses. Also, lying.<br /><br />  Wait, what? Sir Bedivere was leading Kagenashi to a--<br /><br />  "I was most certainly not," he responds, with a sudden serenity that he does not necessarily feel. "The Lady Kagenashi wished to speak to me, and she has spoken, and now my attention is required elsewehre. I--"<br /><br />  Violet eyes widen slowly, very slowly, in an expression that can only be described as real, serious fear. The colour absolutely /drains/ from his face. He looks at Kagenashi in what can only be described as panic, and the look he turns to Saber immediately afterward is stricken--<br /><br />  Kagenashi's still talking, and nobody seems to have noticed. Thankfully, the nogitsune turns her attention to the newcomer, and Bedivere takes the opportunity to yank his arm away from her, shaking like a leaf in high wind.<br /><br />  He tries to crab-scuttle away from the direct attention of Kagenashi, but Saber still has him by the hand. He doesn't notice this until he's gone to the edge of her reach and feels a tug.<br /><br />  Bedivere doesn't even bother to try and defend himself this time. He just looks at Saber in what looks like absolute panic. All courage and composure are fled from him; for a calm and capable marshal, he looks like he's just seen a whole battlefield full of ghosts.<br /><br />  ...What in the hell did Kagenashi /do/?<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kagenashi suddenly finds that her arm is not looped around /anything/ as Bedivere takes that momentary distraction to his advantage. At least Kagenashi is aware enough to keep from just falling over; she stumbles slightly, but quickly regains her posture and folds her hands in front of her, leering briefly at Bedivere. That's the look of someone determined to have her way, even if it gleams for only a split second.<br /><br />    Hardly a moment later, her attention turns back to Saber, her expression softened once more to a polite casualness. "I suppose you have a point. Look at him; he looks as if he has seen a ghost, or worse." Or /heard/ something worse. The nogitsune smiles, stepping aside to move near Bedivere once more and take his other hand, despite the fact that Saber's look would probably be enough to kill a horse instantly. "Very well, then, shall we? Surely you must know what would be better for him, as you have already arranged this wonderful celebration in his honor."<br /><br />    Another private illusion pings for Bedivere's ears. (Next time /everyone/ will hear. Relenting will be much less humiliating.)<br /><br />    "After you, Lady Saber," Kagenashi remarks with an ever-present smile and a respectful nod.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     "Why, thank you, my lady," Saber replies, her smile becoming a little more wan, though not losing the edge. If she suspected anything, she hid it well behind a practised mask. Which of course, she is. <br /><br />     In spite of all the outwardly threatening, Saber was more than a little worried. That the fox was up to something was more than just a little obvious, though she didn't dare peek at her mortified fellow knight. <br /><br />     She took a seat on one of the benches, tugging his hand slightly by way of suggesting he sit down next to her. being able to control her reactions at least somewhat came in handy; she suppressed a weary sigh even as she tried to think of the best way to disentangle the beleaguered marshal. <br /><br />     What to do, what to do...this was unlike any situation she had ever been in. She almost wished itwas a conventional battle...in this 'woman's battle' she was clearly out of her depth. Kagenashi no doubt knew it, too. Damn it. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Miss Magatha, asthe drama has been unfolding, has been off chatting up one of the bar-wrnches, it would seem, as she wanders back to the bench with Bedivere and Saber, looking... well, not unsteady, but with a whiskey blush on her cheeks as she carries a mighty sized whiskey and soda. <br /><br />    The Bard purses her lips, and leans up on the back of the bench, murmuring between the two of them.<br />    "Well, I dare say the party has been a success."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Auron's been doing that annoying thing where he blends into the crowd and isn't noticed this whole time. He's also been keeping away from the booze, oddly enough. This might mean he's had to bring his own non-alcoholic stuff, too. Apple juice is delicious, after all! Once the tense situation seems to be over with, he seems to just appear out of the crowd again.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  The marshal warily eyes his liege, regarding that expression with what can only be described as apprehension. At least he seems to be recovering something of his composure, now that Kagenashi isn't clutching his arm. Violet eyes flick from one woman to the other and study them closely; warily -- though he's discreet about how he studies Saber, and definitely not allowing her to note that he's doing so.<br /><br />  He's less shy about glaring at Kagenashi. He's pretty sure that his animosity towards her is clear by now.<br /><br />  That final illusion brings him to shudder, though.<br /><br />  Oh, God preserve him.<br /><br />  But he can't.<br /><br />  He allows himself to be led off by Saber, but there's an unsteadiness to the way he moves that suggests he has no strength left. He sinks onto the bench, burying his face in his hands; raking his fingers through his hair in an effort to recover his composure. He sighs a long, drawn-out sigh.<br /><br />  Half a glance is cast to Saber, and he's about to say something to her--<br /><br />  --but he startles instead, with a faint 'gah!' of surprise as Suddenly Magatha.<br /><br />  "Hello," he says politely, flushing and abruptly looking away from the king. "I don't believe we've formally introduced. Your playing was quite skilled, by the way. I am Sir Bedivere of the Round Table." He glances back and up to Magatha, raising a pale brow. "And you are?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Of course Kagenashi can tell; her own perceptiveness is helpful in more than combat. Perhaps Saber would be better guaranteed a victory if this were a physical match of blades, but here the fox's quick thinking is keeping her from becoming completely overcome.<br /><br />    The nogitsune sits calmly on Bedivere's other side, folding her hands in her lap (and, in the process, letting go of the knight, at least for now). She offers a light, friendly smile to Psalm as the bard comes to join them after clearly having enjoyed the festivities. "Why yes, I would say so as well. Bedivere has been properly introduced to the wonders of the Multiverse, and the day has proceeded with exhilarating energy. I doubt there will be much else left to surprise him at this rate."<br /><br />    Except for Suddenly Bards, apparently.<br /><br />    She smirks slightly, glancing over to Bedivere with clear amusement. "I suppose all the excitement wiped our dear knight's memories clean. Do you recall her introduction?"<br /><br />    A pause as Kagenashi leans over slightly to peer around at Saber. "My, Lady Saber, you look perplexed. Would you like a drink to help you relax, perhaps?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Bedivere's glances went unnoticed from how carefully he hid them, though Arturia herself was doing much the same. She couldn't let her guard down, either, not even able to so much as pat his hand consolingly. How troublesome. Magatha's appearance -- as much as Saber had been more than a little annoyed by her presence earlier, was almost welcome by comparison. <br /><br />     Almost. <br /><br />     All her kingly and knightly training seemed to be useless here. Even the intricate political battles within her court were more readily navigated. of course, much of dealing with political intrigue had involved simply not allowing anyone to get too close to her, but that was a tactic which had served her well enough, though at considerable cost. <br /><br />     Keeping her facial expression carefully in a slight smile, Saber resisted narrowing her eyes. It certainly was a very different mask this time. projecting manly stoicism was something she'd had years of practice with. The kind of mask that women wore? Not even remotely. <br /><br />     Saber doubted she would do something so blatant as try to poison her or anything, but she did wonder what game she was playing. Nevertheless, she smiled as politely as she could. "You are too kind. Please," she replied evenly, her hands folded in her lap like a proper lady or at least a decent facsimile thereof. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    The lovely woman smiles, hopping over the bench to sit on the other side of Bedivere, carrying her whiskey with her. "Magatha Songsteel, the Psalm of Deneith. And you must be Bedivere. I'd apologize for the dance but you seemed to have 'fun' by the end." She siiiiips at her drink, and smiles at the King. "I honestly hope you do not mind, milady. I mean to say I am your foe in actuality but I am not uncivil." <br />    Though, she does remember her manners, slipping around to the front of the bench to gracefully bow before the King, a flash of tattoos and ruffles and lace and everything as she straightens back up with a flourish of the hem of her dress.<br /><br />    And then she sits next to Saber, switching her spots and grinning. "And I dare say it's lovely to meet a ruler and a devoted knight."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Those violet eyes slant sidelong to Kagenashi, not quite venomous, but pretty close to it. Bedivere doesn't rise to the bait, though, and in fact doesn't deign to answer the nogitsune at all. Answering her only encourages her, and he has no intention of doing that.<br /><br />  He just closes his eyes, snorting faintly through his nose when she looks at him and verbally jabs him about missing Psalm's introduction. Truth be told, he genuinely doesn't remember.<br /><br />  This evening has been something of a desperate and frantic blur.<br /><br />  His eyes snap open when she offers Saber a drink, though, and they're like chips of ice when his gaze slants back to her. It's a clear warning. There'd better not be poison involved, or he'll have to go and break the Laws of Hospitality, and then he'd have to slink off to live out the rest of his natural days in a monastery and--<br /><br />  Ahem.<br /><br />  Despite her exuberance, the bard does seem to be an okay sort. She's a lot more welcome a sight than her nogitsune companino, anyway. Surely Saber will be safe enough in the company of Magatha Songsteel? He inclines his head politely at her introduction, violet eyes hooding and lingering on a point just below Magatha's boots. His thoughts are elsewhere, and it shows.<br /><br />  "Please pardon me." He rises abruptly, reluctantly letting go of Saber's hand with a lot more gentleness than he had shown Kagenashi. Provided neither of them tries to stop him too blatantly, he simply... melts into the crowd.<br /><br />  That's pretty good, considering he's taller than most of the townsfolk here, and with such distinct complexion...<br /><br />  Bedivere's absence goes on long enough for the women to chat amongst themselves for a few minutes. Where did he run off to? Get himself a breath of freah air, maybe? The poor dear certainly looked like he needed it...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    "Of course," Kagenashi replies to Saber, smiling politely...and not moving from her spot. What, did she just make the offer to spite Saber? Does her awfulness know no bounds-<br /><br />    Oh. Or Munashi went to get it. The shadow fox pads up to Saber with a mug of ale held carefully in her mouth, stopping beside the Servant and rising up on her hind legs to offer the drink. "I hope that is to your liking," Kagenashi adds. And it's not poisoned or drugged, either! Maybe she's not that terrible after all.<br /><br />    Ah, Psalm is taking the other side. That means Kagenashi can focus on hounding Bedivere more - unless the knight decides to get up and walk away. Oh, Kagenashi doesn't /stop/ him, but after Saber accepts the drink from Munashi, the small black fox slips into the crowd to try and follow him. He won't be getting away /that/ easily, assuming the agile little shadow can keep up with him.<br /><br />    With that done, the nogitsune's attention turns back to her current companions, Saber and Psalm. "Unfortunately it seems our idea of celebration might be somewhat too exciting for them. Of course, it is only with the best of intentions, so perhaps it cannot be that bad. Perhaps the king may require some attention of her own, however? Particularly after Sir Bedivere has been given so much of our festivity."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Initial mistrust aside, Saber bow/nodded as politely as she could to the bard. "I thank you," she replied with no hint of her earlier tranquil fury, her classical unflappable sense of formality back to normal. <br /><br />     She let Bedivere's hand go; later, she will be mortified at her boldness, but at the time it had been her only recourse for how to disentangle him. Fortunately, the danger had seemed to pass and she no longer needed the hold. <br /><br />     That didn't mean she wasn't just a little reluctant to let him go, however. <br /><br />     What a dreadful mess. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves -- which was good -- except the very person this was intended for -- which was very bad. She kicked herself mentally; she should never have forced him into this. <br /><br />     As she watched the shadow fox, it might seem as if her mask slipped a little, her expression betraying a mild, almost childlike curiosity. She does take the drink with a formality that seemed to have reasserted itself out of nowhere."I thank you," she intoned, taking a delicate sip. Even if it had been poisoned, however unlikely that would have been, it wouldn't have mattered to a body that wasn't technically mortal. besides which, Kagenashi was certainly up to something else. that something seemed to involve her unfortunate knight more than her. <br /><br />     "It is not necessary,"she waved off the suggestion, though the faint involuntary blush hinted that the refusal was out of modesty as opposed to disdain or even mistrust. Besides which, she was feeling more than a little morose at how the moment in the dance had soured so quickly. And he was finally starting to cheer up, too. part of her simply wanted to find a hole to crawl into and hide until it was all over. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    And then Psalm leans in a bit on Saber, whispering helpfully. She smells of whiskey and flowers and happiness and is very soft. A little tingle in the air even, as she pushes a small amount of Effort into her next words. Yes, Saber is magically resistant, but the effort is there.<br />    "He is a good catch, and you are a lucky lady."<br />    Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiip.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:481|Kirika (481)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kirika manages to return to the party, so to speak, just in time for her focus to hone in that one little whisper, and the smell of whatever Maggie has been drinking this whole night.<br /><br />    The half-kitsune promptly spits her drink out, and she chokes a brief moment before she stumbles over towards where the ale is served and refills, downing her drink heavily before she rubs at her face. "I am going to need so much more of this if I am to survive the night..." She grumbles, wandering about before returning to Saber with a pair of turkey legs in one hand, offering one to the King of Knights. "...want one? You looked hungry."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     And there goes her careful dignity, right out the proverbial window. Saber choked on her drink at the same moment Kirika did, coughing helplessly. That the bard was more than just a /little/ tipsy -- or more likely a full three sheets to the wind -- did nothing for her mortification. <br /><br />     Her eyes closed even as her face went beet-red all over again, turning up her face to the heavens and silently imploring the world to grant her another wish. <br /><br />     She opened her eyes again at Kirika's offer, gratefully taking one of the proffered turkey legs. "Thank you," she said with a note of weariness. At least there was the food, thank the Lord for small mercies. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Maggie's certainly not done though, as she continues leaning a bit on Saber, even as she's been given a shield of MEAT. "And honestly, I wouldn't be disinclined myself either way. You are both /very handsome/ so you've got that going for you. If only you weren't all hero-ey and stuff. ALAS~" She snickergiggles and kicks her feet a bit under the bench. "I can only assume you two are far more stoic than loose, in any case. You reeeeaaaalllly need to get you both some dancing lessons or something. Ooooo~" <br />    She turns and smiles at Saber. "Salsa! You could get salsa lessons and get all cosy~"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Funnily enough, there doesn't seem to be any sign of the pale-haired knight who had quietly taken his leave. He doesn't seem to be in any of the crowd, nor does he seem to be hanging near the fringes of the field, either. Kagenashi probably wasn't done tormenting him, so he's probably okay with being Conspicuously Absent for a little while...<br /><br />  Wait a sec. Is that him over by the stage, bent over a little and talking quietly to the musicians? It certainly looks like him; there aren't any others here who match his description. Even in this place so similar and yet different from Camelot, his appearance marks him as an outsider -- he who had come to King Arturia's court a stranger, a foreign-born commoner from the Dál Riata lands, conspicuously unique wherever he went.<br /><br />  Even the people here seem to have similar appearances, with complexions and features different from his own... so that's pretty unlikely to be a stranger up there. He doesn't seem to be doing anything to draw any attention to himself, either, so only the perceptive among them may notice that he's even come back from wherever it was he'd gone.<br /><br />  He seats himself on one of the stage's stools, and the Uileann piper disentangles himself from his instrument, passing it over to Bedivere, who takes it with a gracious nod. Straps are buckled, the bellows is settled, and the chanter is fingered experimentally before the bellows starts with a drone that casts a background note against the din of the gathering. The knight's eyes linger on the chanter in his hands, and his eyes droop until they're nearly closed. The expression seems almost sleepy-looking, but there's a kind of quiet attention in his regard; an intensity that is anything but sleepy.<br /><br />  When the pipes find their voice, they're certainly not background noise. They cut above the din, full-bodied, skirling in an almost otherworldly-sounding melody that seems both enigmatic and a little melancholy. He works the instrument with mastery, leading through a haunting, slow air that even a few townsfolk in the gathering stop to stare at.<br /><br />  But Bedivere does not see them. His eyes are closed by this point, his attention wholly on the pipes across his lap, and the chanter in his hands. He does not look out to the crowd; does not even seem to notice that they're there -- his attention is fully on the instrument and the music.<br /><br />  It sounds like this:<br />  http://youtu.be/aF3fW4Nox9U<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:181|Psalm (181)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Psalm lets out an entirely ladylike sqeal of joy. "HE EVEN PLAYS MUSIC."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    "Well this is certainly lively."<br /><br />    Yeah. Fairchild showed up. What are you gonna do about it? She's pretty laid back right now with a drink, but the scar on her face and mismatched eyes are hard to miss. The fact that she isn't dressed for battle of some sort is weird though... in fact she's wearing a very elaborate and nice dress, accentuating her looks and drawing attention away from the scar over one eye, at least she hopes.<br /><br />    She has something to say that could make things worse, but now might not be the best time.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Arturia couldn't even keep track of the other knight, embroiled in her own hopeless war to preserve the last vestiges of her dignity, meat-shield in hand. But it was a losing proposition. As Maggie merrily carried on, she started to stare at her in naked horror, her face like carved ice. Her mouth opened, then closed, then opened again with what was probably a strangled, frightened squeak before it shut again. <br /><br />     Saber didn't drop the meat-shield, but she came awfully close to it, regardless of her hatred of waste, especially regarding food. <br /><br />     But mercifully, the Lord Above had granted her some reprieve as music had started to play, a dramatic contrast to the quick, boisterous dancing music of earlier. It had an almost melancholy air, a certain bittersweet wistfulness that seemed to just sweep away all that embarrassment and anxiety. Closing her eyes, she merely listened for a moment. <br /><br />     Maggie's exuberant declaration startled her out of her reverie. "...ah?" <br /><br />     Her head snapped around to the stage, and her mouth fell slightly pen in astonishment. Bedivere could play an instrument? She'd had no idea at all. <br /><br />     In fact, she really didn't know anything of his other talents besides those pertaining to his knighthood. She had shut herself off from everyone else so completely -- even her own knights -- that she had never learned much of anything about their lives. <br /><br />     Saber felt a tightening in her chest. She knew hardly anything of his past before coming to Camelot, his likes and dislikes, his other talents such as playing music...she really didn't know anything about him at all. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  That squeal is what causes one note to foul, though it's hard to notice, so quickly does Bedivere recover; deftly smoothing over his mistake. It causes his eyes to open to half-mast, though, looking over to the source of that sound. There's a quality to his gaze that suggests he's not wholly paying attention to the crowd, though.<br /><br />  He doesn't notice whatever looks he's getting from the village ladies (for he's definitely earning them), or the rapt attention of the delighted Magatha Songsteel. Nor does he notice Elliana's arrival, just yet -- he isn't familiar with her, or her reputation, just yet.<br /><br />  What he does notice is Arturia, and the expression of astonishment. Even as he soldiers on with the slow air, something flickers across his face. It's almost a shy smile -- almost, for just a fleeting instant, and then it's gone. His eyes drop away from her, flushing slightly, and throws his attention into the pipes.<br /><br />  He certainly knows his stuff. She had suspected his foreign origins, and he had reluctantly told her of his origins as Dál Riata. More than likely, he has bard blood in his veins as well -- perhaps nothing half so as extravagant or powerful as Magatha's own talents, but musical knowledge, clearly, and a repertoire he's kept through the years. His are the people of the windswept shores and the lonely moors, the fili; the bards, more than the commoners and nobles of Camelot. He was an outsider, there, alone among his peers.<br /><br />  Here, though... for just a few moments, he seems to belong, letting the pipes take him; simply going... /elsewhere/. It's not magic, like Magatha, but maybe it's something for her to see, all the same.<br /><br />  Gradually, the air comes to an end, to the applause of the village folk. He only ducks his head modestly, flushing all the more; and fingers the chanter briefly before launching into a different sort of tune. This time, it's a stirring march, and the band joins along; providing bodhrán and bones, flutes and whistles, and fiddles to complement the skirling pipe.<br /><br />  It sounds like this:<br />  http://youtu.be/9h2Qmx2zp4E<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    For once, Kagenashi is actually silent.<br /><br />    Oh, sure, Munashi wasn't able to stalk after Bedivere effectively; indeed, the shadow fox had returned before long to hop up into the nogitsune's lap. She doesn't seem to mind that at all, though, and her attention is focused on the song being played. Not Saber, not even Bedivere, just the music swaying through the air.<br /><br />    She smiles softly, hands resting on Munashi to lightly scritch and pet the shadowy creature. But otherwise she seems very content to just sit and listen, giving the moment a respectful silence.<br /><br />    How strange.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     This time, the shy smile doesn't earn a laugh, or even a smile from Arturia. In fact, she seems to sadden for a moment before looking down at the hands in her lap, keeping her eyes focused singularly there. There hadn't been any other way for her to rule, not without the sort of favouritism which would have rendered all her reforms useless. Keeping the metaphorical gates around herself closed, she could not let anyone in, but that had prevented her from getting to know anyone else, too. It had been one more sacrifice she had made -- and she had made it willingly and unflinchingly -- but that hardly lessened the guilt. <br /><br />     All she had been able to learn were related to the defence of the kingdom; preferred weapons, methods of warfare, horses, tactics. What would have been considered trivial things had been beyond her reach. <br /><br />     Idly, Saber fiddled with a bit of lace on her skirt as the music changed again. She didn't feel like she had any right to look up...not that she could anyway with her face on fire. She wanted to ask about everything she had never been able to learn, couldn't learn, but somehow that felt horribly rude, and that was another thing she didn't feel like she had any right to. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Silver eyes shift aside to Saber as the song progresses, taking in the king's appearance. Kagenashi is, of course, perceptive; how else would she have noticed the subtle hints in Bedivere's changing demeanor yesterday and been able to see through his words with such skill? Arturia's reactions speak as loudly as if she were speaking aloud, particularly with what she knows of Bedivere's terrible secret already.<br /><br />    After a few moments, the nogitsune leans in close to Saber and lifts a hand to her mouth, hiding her lips from view and making sure her next whisper would only be heard by Saber.<br /><br />    "It is only too late when you give up. Why not try now?"<br /><br />    Then she straightens again, smiling and letting her hand fall to her lap once more.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Elliana came here to tease a bit, but it looks like she got here just in time to enjoy the show. She's just going to sit back for now, no need to make a scene yet.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  The stirring march gradually draws to an end, other instruments fading out until only the Uileann pipes are left, Bedivere skillfully coaxing out the last notes. Even that fades, and he puts aside the pipes, to the applause of the crowd; dropping his gaze and flushing under the praise. He hands off the pipes to the band member who had loaned them, and slinks off the stage.<br /><br />  The Peanut Gallery down there might lose sight of him for a few minutes once he's out of sight, but eventually he reappears, sitting down with great dignity on the end of the bench, away from all of the others, as though he'd intended to do so without attracting any notice.<br /><br />  Or maybe he just doesn't want to attract Kagenashi's attention. Or Psalm's.<br /><br />  Very carefully he doesn't look at /any of them/. Yes, he's still feeling humiliated. But at least he looks considerably more relaxed, now. Ah, music truly frees the soul~<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber hadn't expected anyone to address her, especially not so suddenly, involuntarily starting as Kagenashi leaned in and whispered to her. "A-ah..." was the first reaction, then the colour draining from her face once it had registered, undoing all the furious blushing of earlier. <br /><br />     After the fleeting moment had passed, she managed to compose herself and stopped fidgeting...hopefully. <br /><br />     "Ah...no, it is merely...I suppose one could say it is a feeling of nostalgia." It was at least half-true. <br /><br />     Out of the corner of her eye, she thought she might have seen her errant knight slip away again, risking a glance at the stage he had vacated only moments before. It had certainly been educational, but now she was back to feeling morose. <br /><br />     She thought she saw Bedivere re-take a seat on the far end of the bench, and she wondered if the nogitsune's little knife-twist there had been intended to take the fight out of her. It wouldn't have been the first time that happened. <br /><br />     So she kept her eyes on the lace, fingering the ribbon ends, her fingers feeling oddly numb. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    Kagenashi simply gives a knowing smile to Saber after that half-true remark. "That may be one way to put it, yes," she replies calmly. "Still, a thousand years provide excellent wisdom. Perhaps there may be something to consider?"<br /><br />    She glances aside, then, catching sight of Bedivere taking a seat further away. Slowly and silently, she slips along the bench, edging closer and closer and taking advantage of his inattention...so that she can settle in near him, lean in close, and give another whisper.<br /><br />    "I did some research before coming here. Interesting that your king organized an event intended to facilitate courtship and marriage prospects, is it not?"<br /><br />    And she straightens up again, smiling with great satisfaction.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Although Bedivere doesn't look directly at the king, he does cast an oblique glance her way, perhaps gauging whether she's ready to spontaneously combust from the force of her blushing. He hastily looks away--<br /><br />  --right at Kagenashi, who manages to sidle up to him and catch him by surprise. He jumps in a way that suggests he'd be reaching for a weapon if he were armed. Alas, he is not. Part of him's starting to question that oversight, and no doubt it had taken a tremendous amount of coaxing on Arturia's part to convince him not to bring some form of weaponry.<br /><br />  "Gh--!" The strangled sound is one of annoyance. Stop /doing/ that!<br /><br />  He stares her down for a sceond or two when she makes her smug statement, and even as she straightens, he's left staring at her with his jaw hanging open. A brief glance is thrown to Arturia, and then back to Kagenashi.<br /><br />  We're sorry, MARSHAL.EXE has encountered a fatal error and must restart.<br /><br />  It takes him a few seconds to gather his wits, coughing and reddening as he himself straightens; back straight as a spear as he studiously pays no attention whatsoever to Kagenashi.<br /><br />  About ten seconds of that pass...<br /><br />  ...and then Bedivere slowly sags, resting his face in his hands, elbows on his knees, in a posture of defeat.<br /><br />  Oh, the Good Lord preserve him. What did he ever do to attract Kagenashi's attention on that road? What's it going to take to be rid of her? More importantly, what could he have possibly done to build up such a negative karmic record to be the object of her boredom? /Whyyyyy/.<br /><br />  "I do not think that was what she had in mind at all," he mumbles into his hands. "A simple gathering. Why don't you leave, creature? You--you are not welcome here."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:346|Saber (346)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>     Saber was definitely not enjoying that knowing look. At all. She couldn't quite manage to reassemble her mask convincingly --- argh, it was so frustrating not being able to simply detach oneself from everything -- and the uncertainty was still there, flickering in her eyes in spite of the otherwise impassive expression. "I shall have to take your word for it, I fear," she tried to keep her voice as mild as possible. <br /><br />     Somehow, she was reminded of a certain other king. A King whom, among his many other achievements, listed being the only person Arturia could be said to genuinely and truly hate. <br /><br />     Not a very pleasant comparison, one would think. <br /><br />     Once she left, Arturia allowed herself a silent, internal sigh of relief before her melancholy started up all over again. It wasn't doing any good to try to /not/ think back to Camelot and find many more things about it to regret, but she was trapped in her own world for what seemed like an eternity in a single moment. <br /><br />     At least, until kagenashi started needling Bedivere again. <br /><br />     When it came to herself, Saber could be easily trapped with the right words when it came to her path of the king, her knighthood, or her chivalry. it had happened more than once during the Grail War and similarly afterwards. Causing her dear knight anguish, on the other hand? That will certainly snap her out of it.<br /><br />     Her anger flared up yet again as she stood up, crossing the distance and planting her hands on her hips, the thin smile back on her lips. "I recall that you had mentioned, my lady, that you were unfamiliar with our customs. I would be more than happy to familiarise you with such." <br /><br />     Saber tilted her head slightly, her voice sweet and yet strangely chillingly cold. "We adhere to a certain code, as knights. An attack or indignity visited upon one is treated as such on all. To trouble even a single one of my knights is to trouble me. in fact, it could be considered a personal insult to the king. We would not wish for that, would we? It would ruin the occasion."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:85|Kagenashi (85)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>    "Ah, careful." Kagenashi lifts a finger in caution, even as she leans in again so that her whisperings can remain private. "Have you already forgotten what happened the last time you said that? If you are not cautious, I may just gain even more troubling material to weigh against you. Of course, I may need it. The information I have already does not seem terribly effective in swaying you, does it?"<br /><br />    She sighs, crossing her arms where she sits before she continues in that personal murmur. "Both that, and I wonder if it would not /help/ you to simply relenquish that information. Perhaps she has begun to pick up on hints of the truth. Do you see the way she fumbles and ponders-"<br /><br />    Oh, well, looks like she's not doing that anymore.<br /><br />    Silver eyes lift to Saber, faintly surprised and very curious as to what she is about to say. Kagenashi listens, and when Saber finishes, she finally stands, smiles, and offers a low bow. "I thank you for informing me of this. Truly I would not wish to /insult/ you after you have gone through such efforts to prepare this celebration for a long-missed knight." She straightens up again, hands folded primly in front of her as she looks down at Saber. "I apologize if I have delivered any grave offense; on my own honor, I shall take my leave if you so wish it and ensure that my...unfamiliarity does not disturb your celebration any further. It is late, after all; such festivities cannot last forever, and it would be a shame to have your celebration wasted."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:482|Sir Bedivere (482)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Blinking somewhat owlishly, Bedivere glances up when he hears someone else approaching his end of the bench. He seems a bit surprised to see Saber standing there, looking pleasant, but radiating that terrible, chill anger. Even he feels himself shiver somewhat involuntarily. <br /><br />  One can bet that aside from his loyalty and closeness to her aside, he'd never, ever want to draw her anger. That woman is terrifying when her blood's really and truly up. Although he had never seen any serious shows of emotion in Camelot, he had always suspected what lay beneath the surface, and he had seen times where she had very nearly been wroth. Even those faint glimpses had been scathing, and to see it manifesting right in front of him...<br /><br />  Part of him might feel sorry for Kagenashi if he himself weren't so frustrated with her.<br /><br />  His lips thin faintly when she gives him that reminder, and when she implies that he might be better for having that information loosed, the blood drains from his face again; his eyes flick sidelong to regard Kagenashi with what can only be described as horrified anger.<br /><br />  She wouldn't dare--<br /><br />  And then she seems content to finally relinquish her terrible hold on the two knights, finally surrendering on pain of causing an unpleasant scene. <br /><br />  He lets out a breath of relief, abruptly standing.<br /><br />  "Yes. Well, this has been wonderful, but I believe I should be retiring for the evening." He inclines his head politely to both Kagenashi and Magatha, as well as whoever else remains in the area. "Thank you for coming. Truly, I am appreciative; your kindness is touching." A faint flicker of a smile passes over his face, but it's wan, and when it comes to Kagenashi, it's blade-thin and kind of suggestive of violence. "...But if you will pardon me, I have things I must attend to; a céilidh is no cause for me to neglect my duties."<br /><br />  He passes by the back of the bench on his way past, and a faint touch to Arturia's shoulder is (hopefully) enough to beckon her to follow.<br /><br />  Yep. He's had enough of being sociable tonight, because sociable is apparently suffering, or something.<br /><br />  Bedivere will wait long enough for Arturia to join him, but not much longer -- once he's certain that she's come along, he'll accompany her back to the nearest warpgate. Ever the loyal knight, even bereft of arms and armour. Also he's probably perceptive enough to notice that she's been just as intermittently miserable as him.<br /><br />  ...Mostly because Kagenashi is a terrible person, and she should feel terrible.<br> <br>
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