[Date: Wednesday, Ramuh 4th, 1360 AI.] [It's night-time in Sanriem, and that means that the 'Firaga and Ice' tavern has all sorts of people in it. It's a smallish but cozy place, warm and well lit, with a yuke bartender, which possibly explains the name. There's a skylight which actually provides a nice window of the night sky, now.] [Why do we care? Who knows. Let's see if something interesting might happen here.] [Mini Start!] * Kupel sits at a chair, speaking enthusiastically about nothing in particular to the drunken patrons around her. She's a tall moogle with silky-white fur, a slim figure, and a shocking pink pompom on top of a ribbon-decorated stalk. * Mona walks into the tavern and looks around for an open table, and it must be her lucky day, because there is one. She's red-headed and orange-red leafed, a bit tall for a lilty, is wearing a simple robe, has a spear poking up from behind her, and wears some lovely jewelry that just takes too damn long to describe. She shifts the book she is carrying under her arm and wanders over to the table. * Mugoichi was in the process of walking the streets before the flashy sign 'Firaga and Ice' catches his attention. "A tavern? Heyyy!! A place to relax! Kupo!" after brooding all day about wether or not he will get on a caravan, unwinding at a tavern sounded pretty nice to the little moogle right about now.. * Mugoichi is careful not to get trampled by the people on the street. As soon as a drunkard swings open the tavern door and stumbles out, Mugoichi takes the oppurtunity to flitter inside effortlessly. "Got in..now what.." he muses to himself. Raising his short furry arm he places it over his eyes as if farseeing as he scans the tavern of it's various patrons. * Mona takes her seat and puts the book down in front of her, and pull the spear on her back out carefully before laying it down so it doesn't make it annoying to sit, then lays her head down atop it and closes her eyes. She looks a bit tired. So, I tell them, no, there aren't really any of that kind of bird around here... * Kupel blinks. Hey, Mona! * Kupel waves her hand. * Mugoichi still flitters in the air by the entrance. After seeing a drunkard tumble out of a barstool he zips towards the bar area and plops down on the recently vacated seat. "Seems empty to me!" he grins slyly as he tries to get the barkeeps attention. * Kupel waves a wing along with it * Mona opens her eyes and looks up slightly, to see the moogle, and says, after a second of possibly trying to remember Kupel's name, "Kupel... hi." She gives the female moogle a weak smile. * Mona waves a bit back, too. * Mugoichi 's snow colored fur looks as if it shines brightly even in the warm tavern..his emerald green eyes twinkle with mischief. "Hey barkeep! Can I get some apple cider!" Mugoichi stands at his full height, waving his short stubby arms left and right to try and get his attention. [The Yuke bartender turns her head to regard Mugoichi and says, simply, "Apple cider, no problem."] [Meanwhile, on another drink front, a guy that walks around and takes orders comes to Mona's table, and asks her if she wants anything.] Thanks! * Kupel looks over to the moogle. I don't think I've seen you around. I'm Kupel! What's your name? (STUPID KUPO!) * Mugoichi smiles and sits back down on his stool. Now that the drink was out of the way, he begins to scan the tavern again waving his head from side to side all cherry like. His red pompom waves along with his movements. Eh? * Kupel smiles at him and waves her wings and bobs pompom invitingly [The Yuke turns and pours Mugoichi a nice moogle-sized apple cider, and puts it down... well, not in front of him, because he's looking over at Kupel and others.] * Mona looks up at the guy and says, continuing on the 'weak smile' trend, "Um... a glass of wine, maybe. Nothing fancy." * Mugoichi spins around on his stool to see the owner of the voice. "Oh!" Grooving back his 'hair' he returns the wave with 2 of his little fingers "Hi! I'm Mugoichi!" [The guy nods and wanders off, hopefully to get Mona her drink.] Are you new here? Ahh..Hehe. I usually don't come here..but yeah! Yes I am! Do you come here often? Huh? * Mona looks over at Kupel for a second, and smiles slightly in spite of herself, before mumbling something to herself in moogle and pulling a small case out of one of her robe's pockets. * Mugoichi replies quickly Yeah, I do! * Kupel laughs jovially * Mugoichi like most moogles doesn't wear anything clothing. The only visible equipment on him is a full small quiver behind his left shoulder and a smaller longbow wrapped around his small furry right arm. So, what can you tell me about yourself? * Mona opens her case, and inside is an inkpen and a small bottle of ink. She then opens up her book. Thunk it goes as she opens it. * Mugoichi grins reaching behind him to grab his moogle-sized cup. "Me?? There is alot to say! But I came here for the same reason many of the adventurers in this town are here for.." The beautiful women? * Mugoichi takes a sip of his apple cider before setting it down on the counter once more, using his right arm to wipe at his mouth. (... subtle, Kupel. ^_~) Wow! KUPO! * Mugoichi sputters and almost chokes on his cider after hearing that one! Hey, you okay? Sorry, didn't mean to make you laugh while dirnking. * Mugoichi blinks his green eyes a few times before replying cautiously "Ah..erm..Actually I was interested in..em.." scratching is furry head with a paw. [Mona's guy comes back and puts her glass of wine on the table.] * Mugoichi overhears a patron say the word 'Caravan' and his memory lapse ends. "The caravan! KUPO!" phew.. * Mona pulls some small coin out and gives it to the guy, before nodding and saying, "Thanks." Mona, I haven't seen you around here in a while. What brings you back here? [The guy wanders away from Mona! Never to return. Maybe.] * Mona looks up at Kupel from her table which is no doubt near the bar, at this point. "Mmm? Oh... my interview's done. All the work and all the pain is over. For a few days, maybe." She laughs slightly at that. Ah. How do you think you did? * Mugoichi regains his composure. After doing so he unwraps the bow string from his shoulder and places the tiny bow on the empty stool beside him. Stretching out his stubby arm from it's stiffness. * Mona picks up her glass and says, with a faint chuckle, "Coulda done better, but I think I handled it..." she seems to be searching for a word, then says, "Well enough. Fate's in the hands of the council, you know?"" * Mugoichi 's little ears twitch reflexively after hearing the word 'interview' "Say!" he pipes in on Kupel and Mona's conversation abruptly. "Did you say interview? As in with the council??" * Mugoichi blinks his eyes curiously. (So far everyone's kept a *very* tight lid with what the interview concerns, FYI) * Mona looks over at the new moogle, and she nods slightly. "Yeah, that's them." * Kupel raises an eyebrow. Hm. We'll let's all hope we get in, shall we? Well, us two, anyway. You're probably in for sure, Mona! * Kupel smiles * Mugoichi looks around the bar area to see if he attracted any attention, then flits closer to Kupel and Mona. "Was it scary?" his emerald eyes sparkle with more curiosity. * Mona chuckles slightly. "You know better than that, Kupel." She takes a sip of the wine, then turns to the new moogle. "And you should know I can't answer that... whoever you are?" * Kupel smils. "I know you're mom's an honest woman. She won't let nepotism get in the way of a job well done." * Mugoichi blinks again. "Oh.." He forgot to introduce himself! "Hi! I am Mugoichi! Nice to meet ya miss.." extends a furry paw in greetings to Mona. Or flattery. * Mona nods slightly, puts down her wine, and takes Mugoichi's hand lightly before saying in the broken moogle that happens when someone's not wearing a pom-pom, Say, how is she now, anyway? * Mona turns back at Kupel and says a little flatly, "Fine, like normal. Doesn't seem too fazed by all the councilwork." * Mugoichi understands and smiles inwardly, feeling comfterable that he met somehow who can partially speak his language and not be a moogle! Feeling as though he has piped up enough, Mugoichi nurses his drink awhile listening to Kupel and Mona's conversation. His small wings flap every once in awhile. ( How'm I doing? ) (Oh, um, Mugoichi? There are lots of people who know moogle. ^^;) (It's good for the mail.) * Mugoichi learns that Mona's mother is in the council but seeing how she seems tired he doesn't press her with questions. Besides, he doesn't like interrupting conversations..regardless of his upbeat nature. "Hmm.." raises his moogle cup to drink up the remains of his cider. * Mona picks up her pen and dips it in ink. "I mean, she mentions a few things... but, well, that'd be almost like telling you about the interview, and that wouldn't be fair." She marks something down on the page. "You're going for the caravan, huh?" (Oh! Darn.. :P) (Guys, how late is this? Really late?) (I mean, in-game.) (Er? It's the 4th day. Dark enough to see the stars... I don't know how late. I didn't feel like setting it. ^^) * Mona looks over at her. "Did you tell me that you were applying? If so, sorry I forgot. I've been distracted." (Okay, it's really damn late. Like late enough for Xani's audition to be done so he can show up. :P) (Ah! Sure.) * Xanithern moves into the tavern, rather slowly. He's clutching his satchel tightly as he moves in. He looks around and enters slowly into Firaga and Ice, looking about oddly. ( What is he? ) * Mugoichi 's eyes quickly turn to the entrance, tilting his head to the side his pompom leans with his head as he eyes Xanithern walking in. * Mona glances over at the door and blinks. "Xanithern? Is he a regular here, Kupel?" (Yuke. Very Yuke) (And certainly not a regular) * Kupel blinks. Hey! Welcome. * Xanithern turns his helmet slowly to the people who are talking to him and gives pretty much a "Who in the world are you?" look before he notices Mona. He regards her for a long time. I'm Kupel. Haven't seen you around here in a while! * Mona looks back at Xanithern and looks into his helmeted eyes with her blues ones, before saying in Yuke, * Xanithern gives Kupel a REAL odd look now. As only Yukes can do. His eyes can be seen through the helmet and they're not any better. * Mugoichi doesn't say a word but notices he is staring so he politely averts his gaze. "Hmm.." looking over his tiny hunched shoulders he tries to wave the barkeep down for a second time! [The barkeep is attentive, and regards Mugoichi like a slightly less crazy Yuke. "Another cider?"] Yes please! * Mugoichi smiles as he pays for the drink and his last drink. [The barkeep seems pleased to be paid, and in no time at all Mugoichi has another cider! Hooray for him.] * Xanithern walks slowly over to the table regardless, turning his look away from Kupel. * Mona says towards Kupel, "Kupel, Xanithern. Xanithern, Kupel." She looks at Kupel and says, "He's... not a talkative sort." Ah. So what can you tell me about yourself? * Xanithern just watches Kupel. Silently. * Mugoichi flitters back to where he was last sitting and scoops up his precious bow. After mumbling to himself how he almost forgot his family weapon, he glides back to Mona's table. Feeling confident that she wouldn't mind his prescence. After plopping down he takes the time to look at Xanithern for a second time. * Mona leans a bit towards Kupel and says a little quietly, "Kupel? When I say 'not talkative', I mean not talkative. Like calling mom 'mean' or Squenix 'crazy'." She then grabs her wine again and takes another sip. * Kupel blinks. ... aah. * Mugoichi looks from Kupel, to Mona, and finally back to Xanithern. As if trying to catch in on the discussion. * Xanithern keeps looking at Kupel, then looks back at Mona trying to inspect her book. * Mona puts the wine down and says at Xanithern, Yuking it up again, [Mona's book looks to be a hand-written sorta jobbie. Which makes no real sense unless you can read Lilty, among many others.] * Xanithern looks up at Mona and then flicks his hands in a few gestures of Yuke Sign. ~I forgot, did you understand sign?~ * Mugoichi understanding the Yuke language, he just watches Mona ask the deathly quiet Xanithern out the corner of his little eye while raising his refilled cup for a drink. * Mona shakes her head, She makes a ~Hello,~ gesture. * Xanithern sighs and slowly sets his satchel on the table, opening it up. He takes out a double-sided chalkboard and a piece of chalk. * Mona glances over at Kupel and says with a very small smile, while Xani sets up, "So, about that applying that you're doing, do you think you're ready?" * Mugoichi catches on why Xanithern is so quiet and why he used those hand gestures earlier. Nodding his head, his eyes look over at Xanithern's chalkboard, waving his little hand at him in greetings. * Xanithern writes, in Lamian, ~Who are these people?~ * Mona glances at Xani and holds up her finger for a second, as Kupel has a question before her! So, what can you tell me about yourself? (Er. Kupel. Mona asked you something. ^^;) ( ... oh. Whoops. Sorry. ) Yeah, I think I'm ready. * Mugoichi looks at the writing and doesn't understand it one bit. Scratching the back of his furry head "Hi?" he speaks in common. Trying to see if Xanithern catches his second attempt to greet him. * Mona nods, and says, "Good. Just be that confident when your turn comes up." She smiles faintly, then turns back to Xanithern and says in a tongue that... basically sounds like a snake, Alright * Kupel smiles * Xanithern nods and writes. ~Interesting.~ He erases it and looks over at the two moogles. * Xanithern eyes Mugoichi most of all. And bows his head a bit. At least he's polite * Mugoichi ponders if it's a Yuke way of greeting or just a simple bow. Either way he mimics and bows his head to Xanithern too with a cheerful smile! "Kupo!" * Kupel bows her head a bit and dips her pompom. "Kupo!" * Xanithern just eyes Mugoichi oddly. [The guy who was once Mona's now comes by and looks at Xanithern. He's obviously the guy who can get you drinks at your table.] * Xanithern isn't looking at drink guy. Stare at Mugoichi. * Mugoichi scratches the back of his furry head once more as the taller Yuke eyes him. Squirming a little in his seat. "Uhh.." lowers his eyes and brings his cup up for a fake long sip..hoping Xanithern's eyes turn away from him during the process. * Xanithern keeps watching Mugoichi as he drinks. * Kupel waves. "Yo!" * Xanithern turns towards Kupel and blinks. Then waves. Staring at him. * Mona lets Xani interact with the moogles, and examines him carefully. * Mugoichi ponders 'Maybe he doesn't like moogles!' in his head. "Lalala.." coughs into his furry palm as he is still being stared at. Looking towards Mona he slowly dips his pompom in Xanithern's direction as if saying 'What gives?' * Mugoichi scratches his furry chin, not knowing what the silent giant is thinking. Well at least to Mugoichi he IS a giant. * Mona is looking at Xani carefully, then says, in Yuke, * Xanithern turns towards Mona, then towards the server, then points to what Mona's having. [The man can put two and two together, friends! He nods and walks off.] * Mona frowns slightly, and says, in Lamia, quietly, * Xanithern nods. Slowly. Very slowly. * Mugoichi listens to the strange language once more, finally recalling what it is! Too bad he can't speak it..either way..he shifts uncomfterably in his seat due to the fact he can't understand what they are saying. "Nice weather eh?" * Mona winces slightly, then nods. * Mona says, "Well, at least the rain stopped." Yeah, though the miasma's getting a bit thick out there. * Mugoichi forgot it was raining earlier! At least he knows they weren't talking about him in the strange language. Or at least that is what he thinks! "So uhh..why doesn't he talk?" gestures to Xanithern as politely as possible. * Mona shrugs slightly. "He just doesn't. I only know him a bit better than I know you." She smiles chidingly. "Which isn't much." * Mugoichi grins "Well! If that's the case! Then why don't we get to know each other a little better?" does his now infamous 'hair' groove-back maneuver! But assumes Xanithern is back staring at him oddly so he pipes back down into his seat and minds his drink. :) * Mona says in a slightly sarcastic tone, "I'm Mona Masahcarey. Gwesus is my mother. I'm a lilty. I like books and long walks in the forest, and petting puppies." * Xanithern isn't staring at Mugoichi any longer. He's looking down at the table. And that's only because he doesn't have a mug to stare at. I'm Kupel. I like to have fun. Studying alchemy a little. I enjoy partying and hanging out [The guy comes back with a glass of wine for Xanithern! It's probably even in a mug because glasses break too easily.] * Mugoichi laughs at the sarcastic tone. "Ah!" his ears perk up at the mention of alchemy. He opens his little ears to all ends of conversation circling the table. * Xanithern looks down at the wine. Now he has something to stare at! You study alchemy too? * Xanithern looks up at the two moogles now, staring. * Mugoichi scratches his head turning to Kupel. "Eh? Well..you can say it's more than a hobby..I learned it from Kutan.." his voice trails as he mentions his father's name. His cute little face hardens a little as he remembers what he came here for. * Mona hears Kupel and Mugo starting in on their conversation, and takes the opportunity to begin penning her book again. * Kupel speaks amiably with Mugoichi * Mugoichi loosens up a little noting that he shouldn't worry so much about his audition just yet. He nods to Kupel and listens to what she is saying while taking a sip from his cider. * Xanithern looks over at Mona's writing, peering over to it. Let moogles be moogles * Xanithern looks at Mona oddly, then makes the universal gesture of a finger across the throat before giving her a questioning look. * Mugoichi scratches his neck. The more he tries not to think about it, the more the thought of meeting the council fills into his little head. "What you writing?" asks all of a sudden, looking towards Mona's book. "If it's not that personal!" adds in more politely. * Mona scritch-scritch-scritches, then looks up at Xani and says, in Lamia, She glances towards Mugoichi and says, "It's a research journal." * Xanithern just shakes his head and goes back to his wine. Watcha researchin? * Mugoichi asks more openly seeing how it didn't offend her the first time he asked. Magic and monsters, mainly. Really!?? That sounds interesting. You have to show me it sometime! * Xanithern writes and shows a side-note to Mona, still in Lamian. ~Moogles are always too curious.~ * Mugoichi heard many tales from his father and even got to read some pages of his journal but any literature to increase his knowledge in magic and monsters would be fun to read! At least for him.. * Mona glances at Xani and nods, then says back, * Mona then says, "Maybe. it's a bit arcane, and not really any use if you're not.... well, me." ~We must have different ideas of fun then.~ * Mugoichi tilts his head from side to side again all cheery-like "Arcane? Ah! Do you follow the way of magic closely?" Sure it was an odd question. "Judging from your spear I thought you were the frontline type! Kupo!" * Mona says then replies to Mugo with, "Bit of the first, bit of the second. Could say it's nature and nurture." Huh * Mugoichi nods * Mona sighs and picks up the wine. "It's mainly a journal of failures anyway. Failures and some other things, but mainly the failures." She then takes a drink. "But it's not time to worry about that." * Xanithern shakes his head at Mona's statement. (The failures one) Let's hope we all get into the caravan, shall we? I certainly enjoy knowing you people. * Mona nods. "Best of luck for everyone, certainly." * Mugoichi raises his now almost empty cup "I like that!" * Xanithern eyes Kupel as if he's grown a third head. The bauble may count as a second. * Kupel raises her cup and drinks * Xanithern keeps watching, shrugs his shoulders slightly and lifts his glass. * Mugoichi eyes Xanithern's almost full wine glass. * Mona gestures with her cup, but doesn't sip again. * Xanithern sips from it, looking at his own chalkboard. He doesn't seem to be staring at Mugoichi at the moment * Mugoichi drums his tiny fingers on the table while moving his head. * Mona mms and rubs her neck. "Ugh." She scribbles down a few more things, and then says, giving Kupel a slight chiding smile, "I knew I shouldn't have come here before I was completely done. You and your talking always distract me." * Mugoichi decides to give a shot at talking to Xanithern. he speaks to him in comprehensible Yuke. Regarding Xanithern staring at him earlier. * Xanithern looks at Mugoichi and writes, in Yuke. ~Why would you think that?~ He shows the chalkboard clearly. * Mugoichi squints at the chalkboard and thinks before answering he sticks his tongue out at Xanithern. (*notes that Mugoichi is talking to a person with nothing but a *helmet* for a head about looking strange ^_~) * Xanithern just stares at Mugoichi as a response, not speaking one bit. * Mugoichi scratches his head. he replies with a nervous chuckle. * Xanithern writes down ~Probably~ and taps the side of his drink before sipping, then coughs. He didn't realize it was alcohol until he tasted it. * Mugoichi yawns, covering his mouth with a paw. "Kinda late huh.." * Mona snickers at Xanithern. * Xanithern just keeps letting out a hoarse cough, hand on his chest. * Mugoichi blinks at Xanithern, looking from him to Mona. "Is he ok??" some concern in his tired little face. * Ardle is now known as Ardweden I certainly hope so * Mona shrugs and says with a small smile. "Probably just not much of a drinker." * Mugoichi smiles "I'm a BIG drinker.." nods in a serious manner "Oh yeah! I am a big drinker..." before anyone can say anything about it.. "..of apple cider! Hah!" :P * Kupel shakes her head. * Xanithern clears his throat finally of the alcohol, then takes another sip. An easier sip. * Mona nods slightly, then closes her eyes, before she puts away her pen and closes her book. Finally. By Ramuh's Beard, I thought I'd never manage to get that written down. * Mugoichi rubs his slanted little eyes. * Kupel does similarly I'ts kinda late.. How long have you kept that journal? * Mugoichi 's curiosity takes over his sleepiness. * Mona shakes her head. "It is, but I'm not really that tired. And this copy? Oh... a yaer or two." * Mona chuckles. "I've got years worth of journals, really. What else am I supposed to do with my time? And it's not like you can take things out of the library." * Mona looks at Xani and says, in Parseltongue--er, Lamia, * Xanithern looks at Mona and shakes his head slowly. * Mugoichi stands up on his chair and stretches himself out "Ah! I think I am going to go count chocobos!" waving to everyone "Have a good night!" he takes off into the air zipping through the closing tavern door. * Xanithern watches Mugoichi as he goes. * Nikki knocks open the door just as it's closing, making things easier for the leaving moogle. She watches him go for a sec, then shoves her hands in her pockets and walks in. She's wearing her standard outfit of duster, boots, and cloth clothing. * Mona waves at Mugoichi, then says, to Kupel, a little conspiritorially, "You don't mind if Xanithern and I talk for a second, do you?" * Nikki looks around a little. She's an extremely pretty, young Clavat girl with curly golden hair, fair skin, blue eyes, and a slightly upturned nose. She spots the lot of you and heads over. ( Nikki is Vera @_@ ) ( Sans hat ) (Her hair's short.) (I didn't mention that, but it's cut short, like a boy's. ;P) * Mona watches Kupel fly off, and is thankful, because it means he can talk to Xanithern, saying, in Lamia, (We're at a table near the bar.) * Xanithern writes off-hand and holds it over to Mona without looking at her reaction. ~So should you.~ * Nikki walks over and says, cheerfully, "Hi! Is this a private hissing contest, or am I allowed?" (Oh, to Mona.) * Mona glances at Nikki, then says, * Xanithern looks up and eyes Nikki. This is just what he needed. * Nikki blinks. O-kay, guess that means private then. Nice seeing you, Mona, Xanithern. * Nikki waves and wanders over to the bar itself. Probably to get something to drink! * Mona then turns to Nikki. "No, go ahead, have a seat, introduce yourself to Xanithern without... well." * Nikki blinks and turns. Her duster? Recently patched back. She tilts her head. "Yeah?" * Xanithern looks at Mona, then at Nikki, then at Mona, then starts to stand up. Yeah. Xanithern here just got done with his interview, and we're sharing a drink. Oh? Oh! Oh, that's cool. I didn't mean to interrupt or anything- you don't have to go, really. * Mona then smiles slightly at Xanithern. * Xanithern gives Mona the evil eye. * Xanithern lets out a faint sound that's almost a sign and sits slowly back down. * Xanithern writes, slowly on the tablet. ~I guess the rules still apply even to ones who've already been through the process.~ * Nikki rubs at the back of her head. "... Yeah. You guys decide if it's okay or not." She turns right back around and heads to the bar again. Oh, by Palidor, just sit the Ifrit down! What is with you people? Worse than rabites, I swear. * Nikki grins at Mona. "I'm not allowed to get a drink?" * Xanithern shakes his head. ~There's no need to curse.~ He looks over at Nikki and, reluctantly, nods to her. You don't see me hopping around. I just didn't want- oh, really? Okay. One sec... uh... [The bartender is there, and there's a guy wandering around too who probably does drinks to table service.] * Nikki looks around again, then she blinks. "Is it okay if I maybe bring someone else over, too? A whole getting to know your potential future caravanners thing." * Xanithern writes quickly and holds it up so Nikki can see. ~Depends. Is she as annoying as your other friend?~ * Harmony arrives! She's possibly known to people, possibly not. She's a gorgeous Selkie with neck-length, straight blue hair parted down the middle. Her eyes are pale, like her skin, and silver (not like her skin). She's wearing a sleeveless shirt that extends to her midriff and knee-length brown shorts. She looks around at all the people timidly and makes her way to the bar. Who? Oh, Ezen Dar? No. * Nikki looks around, then her eyes light up. "Actually, I've never really talked to her before. She's kinda shy. Lemme see if I can't get her to come over and talk. Uh, without the whole stealing money thing. That's a dumb idea." * Xanithern eyes Nikki, then writes, eying her the whole time. ~Good. That just leaves most of the general population.~ Ezen Dar isn't *that* bad. She means well. Anyway, be right back. * Nikki heads over to Harmony and waves with an ever-so-cheerful smile. Never let it be said this girl's afraid of people. "Hi!" * Xanithern eyes Nikki, then writes before holding it over his shoulder for Mona. ~What is WITH that girl anyways?~ [With is underlined three times.] * Mona rubs her temples, and looks at Xanithern. Then she laughs at the writing. * Harmony gives Nikki a terrified look. Ok, maybe that's overexaggerating a bit. More like a surprised look. "Um... Hi?" * Nikki smiles. "I don't think we've ever talked, but I've seen you around. You're trying for the caravan, right?" She holds out her hand. "I'm Nikki. You are...?" Um... Harmony. * Xanithern then raises an eyebrow over at Mona, but not quite all the way as he still shows the chalkboard over his shoulder. ~Summoner? Her?~ * Nikki keeps her hand out. "Really? That's a nice name." She doesn't comment on how unusual that name is for selkie. ( I should be a summoner. ) ( "Ramuh! Come for... wait... what if he stares at me? I better not..." ) * Mona shrugs. Thanks. * Nikki retracts her hand, because Harmony doesn't seem interested in shaking. "So... you are trying out for the caravan, right?" * Harmony nods slowly. * Nikki smiles. "Me too. Had my audition a couple days ago, actually. Um... do you want to meet some other people who did, also? If we're all together, we should probably get to know each other ahead of time." ( Actually, Harmony's probably known by more people than she isn't. FYI :P ) (Nikki's playing relatively dumb.) * Xanithern nods, then erase erase erase, write write write. ~You don't think talking about how we think we did is forbidden as well, do you?~ * Harmony pokes her fingers together, "Um... I'm not sure if I can..." * Nikki blinks, then looks concerned. "Why not?" Ummm... * Mona shrugs. She smiles darkly at that. I don't have a lot of time, and it looks like they've got lots to talk about already, and I don't want to intrude... * Xanithern shrugs and sets down the tablet, eying Nikki and her "friend" * Mona then sighs, and takes a sip. * Xanithern stares through Mona, then writes, holding it up. ~Sound like you are disappointed with your performance.~ * Nikki shakes her head. "You wouldn't really be intruding. I already asked if it's okay." She puts a hand on Harmony's shoulder and smiles reassuringly. "It'll be all right. They seem like good people, and besides, they're kinda shy, too." ( This game needs an autotranslate device. ;_; ) (Fish stuck in ear!) * Mona shakes her head and leans on her book, on the table. Oh. Well... I guess...? I'll buy you something. ~Sister?~ You don't have to. * Mona takes another drink. Well, I will if you want. You don't have to do something you don't want, y'know. ( Okbye! *Zoom!* ) (*waves* Bye!) (Ha.) * Xanithern regards Mona for a while. ~So you are half clavat.~ * Harmony rubs her hands together. "If... If you want to, okay. * Mona nods. * Nikki grins and pats Harmony on the shoulder. "There you go. Come on." She leads her over to the table. * Harmony is led! * Xanithern stares at Mona's hair. (It's a very dark red. Like the tip of her leaves. It's to her mid-back.) * Nikki waves as she heads to the table. "Hey, guys. This is Harmony. Harmony, this is Mona and Xanithern." She indicates each. "Harmony's trying out for the caravan, too." * Harmony waves with a small smile. "Hi." She sorta kinda hides behind Nikki. * Xanithern looks up at Nikki and writes on the tablet, holding it towards the two of them. ~Pre or post council meeting?~ I'm post. Definitely. * Nikki looks back at Harmony. * Mona rubs the lapis and gold brooch on the front of her robe, then looks up. "M'Mona Masahcarey. Post." Um... Post. * Xanithern looks between the two of them, then writes on the other side. ~Do you two even know each other?~ Hey, great. That means we all went through torture- huh? No, we just met. * Xanithern just stares at Nikki. If there's a sweatdrop it's underneath his helmet. * Nikki grabs a chair and has a seat anyway! She pulls one over for Harmony. * Nikki eyes Xanithern right back. "What?" * Harmony sits down. * Mona says, with a frown, gesturing around, "Giant room of people, Nikki. Very big room." * Xanithern keeps staring. He's a Yuke. He's good at staring. * Harmony glances around at that. Yes, there are a lot of people ;_; So? You think *they* can't figure out that anything that has anything to do with gathering the very thing that keeps the village alive would be anything less than a horror story? * Nikki puts her elbows on the table and cups her chin with her hand. "'course, I could be lying. Maybe they just took us in and gave us cake." Er.... What? Cake. It tastes good. * Xanithern looks at Nikki and scratches out. ~I got the world.~ * Nikki grins at that. "You did? Awesome." * Mona shrugs. "All I got is a cashew which I ate while I was in bed yesterday." She downs the last of her wine, and gives a look to the bartener. I got my house. * Nikki stretches a little from her position. Yeah, she doesn't look tough. At all. * Harmony doesn't look tough either! * Mona looks very tough! And she looks pleased when the guy who brings drinks brings her another mug of wine. She continues leaning on her book. * Xanithern turns towards Harmony finally and eyes her. Silently. * Harmony notices. She turns her gaze to the side, uncomfortably. * Nikki taps her finger on the table. "Hey, Xanithern. Do you talk at all?" * Xanithern eyes Nikki. This takes serious eying. * Nikki shrugs. She doesn't seem too offput. "Okay, I guess that's a no. How about sign? I know Selkic sign." * Mona says, with a faint smile, "It's funny. None of us know the same languages." * Nikki looks over at Mona and grins. "Naaah, we all know Common." * Xanithern shakes his head and does some signing, first in Yuke, then in Pug. It's doubtful either of them notice the difference. * Nikki looks back at Xanithern, then shakes her head. "No, sorry." Pause, frown. "That's no good. I'll have to learn Yuke Sign, I guess." I, um... Don't know many. * Nikki leans over to Harmony. "It's okay. Neither do I." * Mona nods. "I'm getting there, on the Yuke sign front. But hey, who knows. Maybe we won't need it." She glances over at Harmony. "So, Harmony. What do you do for fun?" * Harmony blinks. "Fun?" ( What's that? >.> ) * Xanithern eyes Nikki, then writes out. ~Why?~ Um... Sometimes I play hide and seek... * Nikki opens her mouth to say something about the Yuke Sign thing, then she snaps it shut when Mona keeps going. She blinks at Xanithern. * Nikki holds her hand out to Xani. Probably for the chalk and board. Or I make clothes. * Xanithern looks at Nikki as if she's crazy, staring. * Nikki smiles a little. She points at the chalk and the board. * Xanithern holds it out, never leaving her eyes. ( A Yuke staring at someone as if they're crazy. That's funny :P ) * Mona smiles slightly. "A tailor. Hey, good for you." * Nikki takes it and writes, careful so Xanithern can see that she's not going to break anything. She slides it back. ~Because if we're going to go on a caravan together, it'd be nice to talk without props. Besides, I bet it's easier for you.~ * Harmony nods. * Mona flicks her earrings. "I'm mainly a jewelry maker, myself. When I'm not reading books." Oh. I read sometimes... * Xanithern watches the chalk then writes on the other side. ~Is it really necessary to communicate that much?~ * Nikki giggles a little. She grabs the chalk and quickly writes: ~Yes. Communication is essential.~ * Xanithern takes the chalk back and writes underneath it. ~No it's not.~ * Nikki snatches the chalk and writes: ~Then why do you carry a board and chalk?~ * Mona nods a little, then looks between Nikki and Xani. "They certainly seem engaged." * Harmony nods slowly. Huh? Oh. I actually don't read that much. * Nikki watches Xani for his answer. * Xanithern eyes Nikki. She's a bully. She keeps stealing his chalk. He swipes it back: ~Because sometimes it is necessary. But there are other ways to communicate. Besides, I see no need to communicate with you.~ * Nikki eyes that last line. "Yeah, there's a snub if I ever saw one. I think I might be done here." * Harmony looks up at Nikki. "Y-You're leaving?" * Xanithern shakes his head and writes. ~You keep stealing my board.~ * Nikki shakes her head. "Nah. Just that Xanithern doesn't like me, I don't think." She smiles at Harmony. "But it wouldn't be nice of me to drag you over just to leave." * Nikki doesn't read that. She's looking elsewhere, mister no communication. * Mona looks between the two and just rolls her eyes. * Harmony smiles. She looks relieved. "Oh." * Xanithern shrugs and lets the chalkboard hang off his neck, letting off a faint sigh and looking elsewhere. * Nikki waves a waiter over. "So what do you do, Harmony? I mean, for the caravan." Umm... I can fight a bit. And sew. [A waiter comes over! It's the same waiter that's been around all night.] Oh, cool. That means you can fix my jacket if it gets all torn? I mean, if I ask nicely. * Nikki smiles at the waiter. "Hi! I'd like some hot chocolate. You want anything, Harmony?" * Harmony smiles. "Sure!" Umm... I guess water. * Xanithern lets people talk around him. He takes another sip, very carefully, of the wine. It disappears into the helmet * Nikki sighs. "Great. I don't know anything about sewing, really. Too busy taking care of animals." * Mona chuckles to herself, and takes another drink of wine, then turns to Xani and says, wryly, (This is just straight Yuke.) Oh. That's... that's interesting. * Nikki nods. "Yeah. We breed chocobos. Mom's no good with them, so she ends up doing stuff like sewing... You probably don't want to hear about it, do you?" I don't mind. * Nikki smiles. "Okay. Anyway, yeah, chocobos. They're great. I have one named Ioanna; if I get on the caravan, I'm gonna take her with. So I hope you're not allergic to them." * Harmony shakes her head. Good! I'd hate to think sneezing and hives are my fault. * Xanithern sips his wine and looks at Mona, writing something in a manner that only Mona can see. ~She hit a sore spot...~ * Mona raises an eyebrow, and then nods. "Ioanna doing well? Any more strange tricks you and Leran are teaching her?" Huh? No, Leran doesn't teach her, and she won't learn her next one for another month or two. But yeah, she's doing well. No strange illnesses or anything. * Xanithern blinks, then looks back and forth before writing. ~Who's Leran?~ That's good. * Mona nods slightly. "Good to hear." She laughs faintly. "I always have to release the animals I catch." She looks down, then takes a sip. * Nikki nods. "It is. It's hard pulling chocobos out of sickness." She catches a glance at Xanithern's writing and hesitates a moment. * Xanithern sighs and holds out the chalkboard and chalk for Nikki. * Nikki shakes her head and waves for Xanithern to keep it. "Nah, it's fine." Leran's my friend. We sorta grew up together. He's trying out for the caravan, too. * Xanithern stares at her, then keeps it, watching her face as she talks. * Harmony glances around the room. * Nikki grins. "And his grandpa's nuts. Seriously." * Harmony solves world hunger. Ok, maybe not. * Xanithern blinks at Nikki, then writes. ~His grandpa's a cashew?~ (Bread.) * Nikki reads that, then laughs. Yeah, kinda! * Mona mms, and says, "His grandpa's... council, right? I didn't mix up the names?" Yup. Yeah. I could see it, like he said. * Nikki accepts her hot cocoa when the waiter comes by. Harmony gets water! * Harmony gets water. She sips it, holding the cup with both hands. * Nikki stirs her pot a little. "Yeah. I'm telling you, he's obsessed. If Leran doesn't get on the caravan, he'll probably run just to get away from him." ~Is it...fair to have family on council?~ * Nikki looks up, then shrugs. Fair or not, there's nothing stopping it. * Harmony looks down. "He'll probably get on." Yeah, probably. * Mona chuckles and swishes the cup around. "It only hurts me anyway, so don't feel too bad about it, Xanithern." * Nikki looks back to Harmony, tilting her head. "Is something wrong?" * Harmony shakes her head. "Not... not really." * Harmony stands up. "I... should go... I need to get back home." * Nikki blinks. It was nice to meet you. Th-thanks for the water. Um... all right. Sure. * Harmony drinks the rest of it in a gulp. * Harmony waves goodbye with a small smile, and hurries off! Do you want- okay. I guess I'll see you around, then. * Nikki waves as she leaves, then sighs and goes back to her cocoa. * Xanithern watches her go, eying her suspiciously. * Nikki has a sip of her drink. She sets it down and comments, "Oh, stop it with the evil eye. She didn't do anything." Yeah, but she's skittish. I wonder if she'd even bother someone if a cuar were gnawing off her leg. * Nikki nods. "Yeah." * Xanithern writes down. ~That's precisely the point. She's applying for the caravan? How will she handle the responsibility if she wants to run away from us?~ She won't have anywhere to run. So I thought it might be a good idea to get her used to it. * Xanithern looks oddly at Nikki. ~So you knew she was skittish?~ * Nikki waves her spoon at Xanithern. "Like you and talking." Another gulp of cocoa. "Anyway, I'll talk to her later and see if I can't get her to warm up a little." Oh, yeah. * Xanithern eyes her. ~What's wrong with me and talking. I have my whistle.~ * Nikki shrugs. "I dunno, but it's not like you can yell anything that's going on if we can't read your chalkboard." * Mona sninckers. "We'll just have to use bird calls." Anyway, I think she's kinda lonely. So... * Nikki breaks off when Mona says that and giggles. ~It is an issue I've dealt with all my life. I will figure a way...~ He looks off to the side and sighs disappointedly, hands off hanging to his side. * Nikki abruptly stops giggling. "Hey, it's all right. We all have problems." But I just wanted to see if I can't work a way around it. Like learn a sign language you know, or something. * Xanithern looks at Nikki. ~I hope, for your sake, that you mean that.~ * Nikki eyes Xani right back. "Why wouldn't I?" * Xanithern lets out a sound that kind of sounds like a faint whispered "Ah" then keeps his eyes focused on Nikki. ~Even if you did, you would have to translate to the rest of the group and..~ He sighs and then continues writing. ~It will probably take just as long...~ Hey, I'm a fast talker. You have no idea just yet. * Xanithern doesn't seem like he knows what to think about that. Besides, as far as two-way communication goes, signing is much faster than writing. * Xanithern lets out a horse cough. It almost sounds like a stifled chuckle. He then turns to Nikki and writes, his hand a blur. ~I'm a fast writer.~ * Mona nods slightly. "Yeah. I'm definitely on the way to Yuke Sign anyway. It's not like I don't spend a good chunk of my time..." she arches an eyebrow at the writing, then finishes, "... with 'em." * Nikki nods at Mona, then looks back at Xanithern. "Sure, but you still need the board and chalk." * Xanithern looks down. I mean, it works. But sign could be better. So, I can work on that. * Mona mms and says, in Lamia, * Nikki eyes Mona's hissing, then goes back to drinking. She's not even going to try to understand it. * Xanithern shrugs at Mona and then looks at Nikki, watching her drink. Seems to be trying to observe her. * Nikki is drinking cocoa! She's holding up well under the scrutiny and the hissing. Doesn't seem bothered in the least. * Mona looks down at her book. "Mom's a terrifying woman, isn't she?" * Nikki swallows. "No offense, Mona, but yeah. She is." * Xanithern shrugs again. He doesn't seem to have a problem. Or doesn't show it at least. I think I'm gonna avoid her from now on. * Mona smiles teasingly. "If I had a gil for every time I thought that..." * Nikki snickers and finishes. "You'd buy your own crystal caravan." Maybe two. Oh, really? Can I have the extra? * Mona shrugs slightly. "If I get it, sure." * Nikki grins. "Great." She stirs her cocoa pot a little more. * Mona glances at Xanithern. "Still holding up okay? That... ah, headache worn off?" * Nikki has a few more gulps, then looks up from her cocoa at Xani. * Xanithern nods slowly, pushing his glass aside. * Nikki looks back down at her cocoa and goes back to drinking. For once, she doesn't have anything to say to that. * Xanithern stands slowly and bows a little, making a little gesture. You think it looks vaguely like a home. * Nikki looks back up. "You're leaving?" * Mona looks up at Xani, and nods. "Alright... you really should've been resting anyway." Drink plenty of water. I think that's supposed to help. Maybe. * Xanithern nods and points to Mona for Nikki's benefit. Her explanation fit it...he blinks at Nikki, then shakes his head slowly, turning to go out. * Nikki blinks, then shrugs to herself. "Yeah, okay. See you around, Xanithern." * Mona nods slightly at Xani, and then looks over at Nikki. * Nikki looks back at Mona, shrugs again, and works on finishing her cocoa. * Mona shakes her head and closes her eyes, before putting her head on her book. "Still want to go?" I guess so. Hang on. * Nikki finishes off the rest of her cocoa and plunks it down. "There! Not gonna pay for this without finishing it." She fishes out the necessary gil and places that on the table, too. * Mona blinks at Nikki, then chuckles. "I was asking about the caravan, not the leaving." Huh? * Nikki blinks. "Oh." She actually looks a little embarrassed. "Well..." I've been thinking about that. But, yeah, I still want to go. * Nikki shifts. "It's not like there's a whole lot of summoners out there. I'd be a good help, if they want me. Besides..." She hesitates a moment, then continues. As bad as that was, I think staying here my entire life without trying to see the rest of the world is worse. * Mona smiles slightly. "Sounds about right." Beat. "Mom says it gets better over time, if that helps." * Nikki shakes her head. "Maybe for her." I don't think it will for me. I have this thing against pain. Who doesn't? * Nikki laughs. "You?" And she falls into the grin. "Yeah, okay. But I'm a wuss. Ask anyone." * Mona chuckles. "If you need to do it, it doesn't matter if you like it or not. Besides. Isn't the whole point of being a spellcaster hiding behind heavy armored people and trying not to get hit too badly?" She takes a sip, then says, "I did try to warn you about pain, though." Yeah, yeah, but I don't see how setting myself on fire would make me burn less. Anyway, I guess so, and I'll be able to summon adorable fuzzy animals to help keep the monsters from hitting me, too. * Mona laughs faintly. "Yeah. Like Carbunkle." She laughs a little to herself. "Xanithern was surprised, dare I say, shocked, that you were a summoner!" * Nikki laughs. "What, no. Really?" Really. I guess I can't blame him. I guess it's because I don't read books a whole lot. Maybe. * Nikki puts an elbow on the table and cups her chin with her hand. "Not all knowledge is gotten out of tomes and junk. And not all magic has to be done the Yukeish way." Pause. "I'd probably be pretty bad at the Yukeish way, so lucky me." * Mona leans forward on her book. "Yeah, no Yuke thought up getting smacked around quite like this. Although I'm curious. Does that mean you're really into the mythology of the summons?" Still, I'm almost sorry you spoiled it for him. Imagine the look on- oh, yes! * Nikki nods at Mona. "I try to learn as much about them as I can. Grandpa taught me some basic stuff, but... Oh, and their languages. I've been so busy learning how to summon them, I don't know Sylvan or anything yet." Oh? Shame. Sylvan's a wonderful language. Yeah. I think it's the first thing I'll learn. After Yuke Sign, anyway. * Nikki grins. "Gotta talk to Carbuncle and all." * Mona chuckles and makes a gesture. "Well, at least you'll have a bon-a-fide Sylvan speaker around. If we get on the caravan." * Nikki laughs. "Cool. And I bet you'll get on." * Mona rolls her eyes. "Ugh. If I had a gil for every time I heard that, I could OUTFIT my two crystal caravans." Great! Now they're really rolling. * Mona shakes her head. "But no. I'm not nearly as likely to get on as you think. Who knows. Maybe it'll happen. If not, it doesn't and... well, I'll do something else." Sneak onto another caravan. The Tipa one, maybe. They're in town. * Mona chuckles and swishes her mug around. "Wouldn't have to sneak." Even easier, then! I'd probably have to sneak. * Mona smiles slightly. "Enzo'd let me on." * Nikki blinks. "You already know people there? That would make things easier." * Mona nods. "S'where Dad's from." * Nikki ahs, then nods. Both of my parents are from town. But grandma's from Leuda. I don't think my distant family'd recognize me, though. I wouldn't recognize them. * Mona nods slightly. * Nikki shrugs. "That's the way things go. Not that huge of a loss." She taps her mug, then looks around. Okay, it's getting late. I've got to go home. * Mona nods slightly. "And I've got to avoid going home myself. Think I'm gonna have a chat with the Journal guard again. They get so bored at night." * Nikki laughs a little. "Sure." * Nikki gets to her feet and grins down at the lilty. "Good luck not going home, Mona. Nice talking to you." * Mona looks up at her. "Don't want to tag along? It might be Mark. He's not a bad looking Clavat." * Nikki hmmms. Well... oh, he's cute? All right. But just a little bit. * Mona smiles faintly, and stands herself, picking up the spear she put on the ground and sliding it back onto her back. She drops the coin for the second drink, then picks up her book and rubs her neck slightly before looking up at Nikki. "Okay, all ready. To the library. For real this time." * Nikki laughs. "Yeah. No Leran to distract us with his stomach." She heads off! * Mona heads off too! [And so they wandered off to look at semi-muscular guards, who are, hopefully, cute and Clavat. And now that none of the PCs are left, this mini is over!]