Explanation follows in the log.. enjoy! :-P

Lerwin says, "hello all of you, what brings you down to the Lake today in such a crowd?"

Lyleina sighs, turning again to look at the other people with a shrug. No, they are perfectly innocent, nothing to concern Keris. "G'day!" she calls to Lerwin.

Tiadi smiles. "Not more people." she winks

Audria smiles, waving towards Lerwin, "Hello..."

Keris grimaces something that should be a smile towards Lerwin. Help! "Lerwin! Hi," is greeted enthusiastically, the StarCrafter scurrying to half-hide behind the greeted woman. "How are you??"

Lerwin pulling away from Keris, "I am fine.. and what have /you/ been up to?

Liseria peers back at Keris for once, only the little grin on her face hinting at the sadistic pleasure of seeing him squirm. "H'lo Lerwin!" the girl calls as she spots the said woman. Jaibyrd is ignored by Lisera for the time being, since she's behaving...mostly; 'cept for the wandering tail that wiggles in front of Etoile.

Lyleina sighs, shaking her head at Keris. A slight smile creeps across her face as she leans back, getting comfortable. Poor Lerwin.

Lerwin pages, "Okay, what did you do here... Whya are all these women here with you?"

Keris jumps at that question. "What do you mean?" he snaps, then grins nervously. "I mean, err, nothing.."

Lerwin says, "Keris, you are here, with all these smirking women.. I know something has to be up. Liseria, what gives?"

Lyleina glances at the other women, eyebrows raised. Their obvious question is, 'What is /wrong/ with him??'

Liseria rolls her eyes at Keris, arms slowly folding over her chest with the slight shake of her head. Jaibyrd perks up as Saphir comes in - she's an equal-opportunity flirt! "Oh, the usual," Lis remarks dryly.

Audria looks at Keris, then around at the other women, hmm, there /does/ seem to be some sort of tension around...She just sits back, listening...

Keris makes a sound suspicously close to a whimper and sinks down onto a log. "They're not smirking," he says in a lame attempt to defend himself.

Lyleina giggles at Lis's response.

Lerwin laughs at Lis's answer. "Oh, did he bite off a bit more then he can handle?"

Keris blushes crimson. "Ler! As if," he protests.

Lyleina's quick eyes take in all the words and chuckles.

Liseria shrugs innocently at Lerwin, though her words carry a trace of an acid barb. "Well, /I/ wouldn't know..." Eyes dart lightly over towards Keris - Oooh, he's blushing! - before she fixes her eyes back on Lerwin.

Lerwin says, "So Keris.. I guess I should pull any sympathy I should have for you?"

Lyleina frowns lightly at Keris, not at all sympathetic for Keris. "No." she responds in Keris's stead, "You shouldn't, Lerwin."

Keris notices Lis' stare and tries a smile before looking up at Lerwin again. "Uhm, I don't know," he responds, obviously confused. "Aw, Lei.."

Lyleina folds her arms, pleasantly smiling but her eyes seem a bit hard. "Don't 'Aww, Lei...' me Keris!" her tone is firm, slightly acidic. Don't get her mad.

Kiorai walks in from the Hold Field.

Keris ducks his head further, biting his lip to refrain from more awws. "Uhm.. sorry." Oh yeah, that'll work, sure.

Liseria lets out a sardonic chuckle at poor Keris' expense, delightedly above the situation. She idly stands, wandering over to Jaibyrd's tree with slow, meandering steps - just to prove she's completey carefree.

Etoile chitters down to Lis. Hey, tell your lizard I'm irresistable. A sidelong glance is given in the green's direction as she keeps ignoring him.

Kiorai grins and waves at everyone she can see as she enters the area, carefree step light and eyes dancing.  She wonders what the gathering is about, but doesn't say anything until she is spoken to... she seemed to be the youngest here.

Lerwin says, "So, anyone wanna talk about Handfastings?" Grins at her clever turn of conversation, after all, it /is/ coming up.. "I mean, if you are interested...."

Audria rolls her eyes, standing up, "Well, I'm going...See you all later."  she gives them all a slight wave and wanders away.

Audria calls to Chuckles, who flies over and lands on her shoulder.

Audria walks to the Hold Field.

Lyleina chuckles and nods. "How are things coming, Lerwin?"

Keris groans and gives Lerwin a dark stare. Thank you! A wry smile is given to Kiorai. At least she won't be able to get him into trouble in the next few Turns..

Lerwin laughs, "Busy actually.. I cannot believe how close it is getting. My dress is ordered and Casch's clothes are done. Evi's are almost ready, but I need to set the menu and actual time."

Kiorai listens intently to the conversation, her wide eyes scanning the others until they come to rest upon Keris.  Why was he grinning at her like that?  Walking towards him, she returns his grin.  "What?"

Jaibyrd croons soflty as Lis comes nearer, rubbing her head against her impressor's hand. A few silent glances are shared between Lis and her 'lizard before the girl wanders off to sit on her log again with an air of total indifference about her.

Lerwin turns to Tiadi. "Have you been 'fasted? I could really use some good advice. Master Harper Jueann is performing the ceremony and I know she is the best, but still.....

Tiadi shakes her head dippointedly. "No, I really want to though."

Keris groans again, but turns to smile at Kiorai once again. "Nothing, I was just smiling at you." Geez, they're really all out to get him..

Lerwin says, "Really? I had /no/ interest in it at all til now. I never wanted to be permanently tied to one man."

Tiadi nods. "I really want to. For me and my fosterlings."

OOC: Lyleina has to go. Cya'll.

Lyleina goes home.

Lerwin says, "But still, you shouldn't just 'fast for that. It is a life bond and you should /really/ love that person. Even the excuse of littles isn't a good one, especially when they are so well cared for regardless of parents."

Tiadi nods. "I meant besides that. I really do want to love the man I hand-fast."

Kiorai beams up at him and shrugs a bit, turning her head to watch Lerwin and Tiadi, her grin still evident upon her face.  This was an interesting conversation to say the least. Rubbing her head against Night's body, she settles in to be quiet and 'eavsedrop'.

Lerwin smiles and nods. "Well, give it time and wait for it.. if it is meant to be, it will come. No amount of pushing can bring it, believe me."

Liseria blinks slowly at all this mention of mushy love stuff, lips pursing in a tight expression of...something unpleasant. The girl shifts on her log, this time looking out onto the lake.

Keris stands abruptly and walks towards the lizards' tree. How scared he might be of Lis, the others' conversation is beginning to worry him. He reaches up a hand to scritch his sad-looking blue, silently sharing the lizard's feelings. Women!

Lerwin releases Sweeting, who launches into the air.

Sweeting flies to Keris and surprisingly, 'doesn't' scream, instead, lands on his shoulder and nuzzles his neck.. trilling softly, a sweet old song Lerwin sings when she is calming Evi down.

Keris winces as the noisy green flies over, and sighs in relief when she doesn't give her usual 'greeting'. "Hmm, hi Sweeting," he mumbles, scritching the lizard with his free hand.

Jaibyrd wheels around slowly on her branch, talons delicately grasping the bark as she turns around. Etoile is given as contrite a look as the little green can muster - head down, eyes barely whirling at all. A slow chirp trills up at the end, asking for forgiveness.

Etoile chirps and is quick to abandon the scritching hand, head once again going towards the green as the blue croons softly. Friends?

From Lerwin's shoulder, Pence raises his head at all the trilling and crooning and adds his own bass line to the soft firelizard music.

Jaibyrd warbles her agreement as she reaches towards Etoile with her muzzle. Closer, closer, until... she reaches out with her little pink tounge to lick his nose.

From Kiorai's right shoulder, Night Sky tweeps softly from Kio's shoulder at the other fire-lizards, his softly glowing orbs whirling slowly. Fluttering his wings, he gazes about and just listens like his humanpet.

Etoile croons and closes his inner eyelids. This is almost as satisfying as scritching. Almost. Frail blue wings are spread out for balance as the blue leans closer to the green.

Etoile> Jaibyrd

Etoile> Striped down her entire spine with a wide ribbon of olive, this green's jade form isn't harmed by it at all. No, the brown-tinted swathe sends out fingerlets of stripes running parallel down her lithe neck, across her slim chest, and back down along her tail. The hint of brown spoils every neckridge, except for the parts rubbed off to let the jade shine through. Giant whorls of blue-tinged color are inlaid in her jadite head, hung over by 'ridges tinted olive by the beginnings of the brown-green river. Primly held above the muddied waters are brilliantly green wings, untouched by the mudslide. As if dammed at the end, the unspoiled spade of her tail glimmers brightly in mocking, daring the duller colors to conquer it.

Etoile>   A deliactely red-striped band of silver glints among the vibrant hide, carefully but lovingly engraved *Jaibyrd* to show her humanpet is a Starcrafter.

Etoile> Jaibyrd is 1 Turn, 8 months, and 11 days old.

Etoile> Jaibyrd is awake and seems alert.

Jaibyrd gives up the slurping for some nuzzling - it's easier on the tounge. Little green head rubs against little blue head. Aww...

Tiadi falls asleep.

Tiadi has disconnected.

Lattice blinks in from ::between::!

Etoile chirps in an almost sigh-like fashion. Oh yeah, he could definitely get used to this! Afterall, isn't this what the 'pets do all the time too?

Kiorai shoos Night Sky, who flits into the air.

Sweeting rubs her little head one last time into Keris' neck and then flies back to Lerwin. This pet seems better now..

Lerwin calls to Sweeting, who flies over and lands on her shoulder.

Lattice chitters wondering what's going on.

Night Sky get's shooed and chitters at his humanpet as he makes his way to the tree and settling down. Slumping his head to the level of his shoulders, he glares about. He didn't like to be shooed, nope.

Liseria glances back towards the 'lizard tree, finally drawn by the fuzzy mind-images of her green 'lizard. "Of all the rotten 'lizard lumps..." she grumbles, trying to hide the expression of adoration at the adorable firelizard behavior.

Keris smiles slightly at Lis' outburst. Ironic, isn't it? "Like pet, like lizard," he comments dryly, meaning Lis of course. Not him. No-no.

Etoile> Images from Jaibyrd suggest: << -mushy adoration- >>

Etoile> Images from Night Sky suggest: << NoUnderstand. >>

Etoile> You project: <<-bliss->>

Etoile> Images from Lattice suggest: << me confused now >>

Liseria rolls her eyes at Keris with a huff. "No - uh - well!" She's at a loss for words. "I am not!" she finally blurts out.

Keris grins unabashedly, finally regaining his wits. "Are not what?" he inquires innocently.

Lattice glides over to Keris and floats about infront of him chittering.

Liseria sighs dejectedly, face curving into a pout. She's let him get the upper hand again. "I'm nothing like my 'lizard!"

Keris looks up as another green comes over. What is it with him and green lizards?? "Oh, you aren't," he says to Lis, tone way too friendly. "And whose pretty lizard are you, then?" he wonders, turning to look at the stranger green again.

Lattice chitters at Keris as if he should know her.

Liseria narrows her eyes angrily, glaring through her bunched eyelashes at Keris before whirling around on her log again. "I don't need this!" is muttered under her breath in another loud huff.

Lattice glides over to the angry human pet and chirrups before gliding back to Keris.

Keris tilts his head at the lizard. Now what's that supposed to mean? "Are you hungry?" he inquires. Oh yeah, women and food. If you can't say anything else.. well, that or sorry usually works. A snicker is barely suppressed at Lis' words. "Oh look Lis, your green is flirting with my blue!" Go figure. Another snicker isn't even hid this time.

Night Sky keeps watch over all the other fire-lizards from his hunched over position... well, he might as well try and make some new friends. Lifting up his blue head, he sidles over the branch and closer to the others, chirruping in his sweet, high voice.

Lerwin says, "Well, lovely crowd of firelizards and folks, I had best go and finish up some more 'fasting stuff.... *sigh*.... See you all later!"

Lattice glides over to the branch where all of the other lizzen are and finds a branch.

Kiorai blinks out of her trance and waves happily at Lerwin. "Oh!  Congrats!"  she giggles and thinks what on Pern she was going to give as a gift... hrm...

Keris smiles and waves towards Lerwin. "Good luck."

"Hah!" Lis doesn't even bother to turn around. "Your blue started it!" Her head turns - just to see Lerwin off! "See ya! And congratulations!" Then she does her best to not-look at Keris.

Lattice chitters at the group of lizzen in the tree.

Keris smirks and slides onto the log to sit next to Lis. "Maybe, but your green carried on with it," he chuckles, peering up into the tree where Etoile is oblivious to anything but his flirting partner.

Lerwin waves and says one last good bye...

Lerwin walks to the Hold Field.

Liseria is about to open her mouth to quip something smart back when she realizes Keris is /next/ to her. "I guess she just likes the attention," the girl states with an indifferent shrug. A glance towards Jaibyrd reveals that the green's all curled up next to the blue, which brings a ruefull sigh to Lis' lips.

Keris snickers again. "I guess," he says, cryptic expression. "Some women just do," he sighs mockingly, sending the female StarCrafter a sidelong glance.

Night Sky notices that Jai and Etoile seem to be... um... enjoying each others company, so he eyes Lattice. Would she be his friend. Cheeping softly, he sidewalks over towards her, whirling optics studying her intently.

Lattice looks at the approaching lizzen.

"And some men just revel in it." This time Liseria fixes an accusatory gaze on Keris; just lightly before she starts peering out over the lake again.

Lattice chitters some more

Keris nods gravely. "Yes, but your green doesn't seem to mind," he says smoothly, pretending that he actually thinks she's talking about the lizards.

Etoile> Night Sky

Etoile> Vague, slowly whirling eyes gaze about themselves, observing but not seeing; they are set in a narrow, angled but somehow majestic-looking head on a long, graceful neck to an elegant body. Wingsails, when unfurled, stretch away as if to encompass the world, a deep, dark blue speckled with brighter flecks here and there like tiny points of light. The tail, slender and a lighter, royal blue color, flicks absently as though the little hatchling is somewhere else, and not really among the people and beings of this world; perhaps he is.

Etoile> Night Sky is 1 Turn, 2 months, and 19 days old.

Etoile> Night Sky is awake and seems alert.

Etoile notices Kiorai looking at him.

Lattice chitters a final chitter before going between back to her human-pet (if that makes sense to you, well i'm happy for you.)

Lattice suddenly disappears ::between::!

Liseria shrugs nonchalantly, eyes watching the sun's rays on the lake. "Only because your blue is so sweet..." A little grin appears on her face - just a hint, really.

Kiorai calls to Night Sky, who thinks for a bit then flits over and perches on her shoulder.

Keris arches an eyebrow. "Hmm, is that so?" Yup, he did say like pet like lizard earlier, didn't he?? "Well he's only sweet around greens he likes.."

Alpha blinks in from ::between:: in a small flash of green.

Liseria arches her brow right back at Keris. "Oh really?" she asks innocently. Yes, this conversation has stopped applying just to firelizards long ago.

Alpha slowly glides around the area, apparently looking for a good perch. She finally decides to land on a branch near the flirty couple. Not too close. She might have to bite them.

From Kiorai's right shoulder, Night Sky chitters at the new green curiously, watching her movements with a newly trained eye. Ruffling his wings a bit, he contemplates leaving his humanpet and joining her on her branch.

Keris nods, matching her innocence. "Uh-hu. He's pretty picky. Of course, he doesn't appear that way. A stranger might say he likes anything green that moves. Or doesn't move. But beneath the surface he finds it difficult to attach." Oh yeah, we are talking about the lizards here, aren't we?

Alpha slowly turns her whirling green eyes towards the blue on a strange 'pet's shoulder. She rustles her wings a little, making a big show out of polishing them. Advance her if you dare!

Kiorai shoos Night Sky, who flits into the air.

Night Sky decides he wants to meet this green and lets his humanpet shoo him, not minding a bit this time. Winging nearer to her perch, he cocks his head a bit and cheeps softly. Blue green eyes whirl gently within his head.

Etoile> Images from Night Sky suggest: << MeJoinYou? >>

Liseria hums thoughtfully, taking all this in with a slighty-wider smile. "Almost like her, only she tends to attatch quite easily. Sometimes she worries, -" The green 'lizard worries? "- if she's doing the right thing..."

Alpha looks up from her wings to fixate a lazy rolling green gaze at the blue. She moves a little to the right, could be making room, could just be adjusting herself.

Etoile> Images from Alpha suggest: << -indifference- >>

Keris nods slowly. "Greens tend to do that," he comments wryly, "only in my experience they usually seek other areas after being attached for a while."

Night Sky thinks on this a moment then gracefully settles down in the place the green had moved away from, his head still cocked to one side and large optics whirling about. He offers a small tweep and ruffles his wings to his back firmly, trying not to take more room than he needed.

Liseria blinks back, a smug smirk appearing on her face. "Not all of them! Sometimes they just end up returning, if their Masters - um, I mean /people/ let them." Lis blushes slightly - she meant people!

Alpha chirps back, gracefully adjusting her own wings. She keeps staring straight ahead, though her body language suggests for the blue to carry on.

Keris smirks. "Oh yes, but usually green lizards have a will of their own and do what they want, regardless of what their Masters - I mean, people," the StarCrafter grins smugly, "tells them to do."

Lattice blinks in from ::between::!

Etoile> Images from Lattice suggest: << me back >>

Alpha hisses at the other green, almost knocking herself over as she raises her wings. Her admirers!

Liseria frowns pensively before chirping back: "But I wouldn't put it past some blues!" Eyebrows raise in feinted indifference while the girl re-adjusts herself on the seat.

Lattice chitters wondering why a human-pet was chirping.

Night Sky looks up from Alpha and blinks as he spots Lattice again. Uh oh... he is almost knocked off the branch when Alpha raises her wings and hisses. Chittering loudly, the young male moves a bit away and examines his wings.

Keris grins to himself, noticing her squirming. And enjoying it. Afterall, she made him squirm earlier, did she not?? "Hmm, I guess so," he gives in.

Alpha chirps something that could be an apology, could be a scold, to the blue next to her, then returns to staring at the newly arrived green - or competitor.

Lattice chitters quietly and cocks her head at the seemingly angry lizzen.

Dusty blinks in from ::between::!

Liseria may be uncomfortable, but it's mostly physical. She has to slide off the log with the help of her arms - her legs seem to have gone somewhat numb. "Good to hear you agree," she states with only a little triumphant grin.

Kiorai falls asleep.

Kiorai has disconnected.

Keris arches an eyebrow. "Hmm," comes the answer. He does not give in. He just sees the potential of agreeing.

Alpha snorts and starts the polishing again. Now all the males left, except that one over there, but he's all curled up around some other green.

Lattice chitters and watches ummm . . . nature?

Liseria lets out a horribly long, horribly frustrated sigh. "Oh, you!" Ah, the ever-popular phrase used when dealing with Keris. Her arms fold across her chest as she leans back heavily against the log.

Keris chuckles. "Yeah, me," he smiles, winking. Oh yeah, she definitely loves him!

Alpha folds her wings on her back, regarding the other green with some interest. Ok, so she's bored..

Liseria snorts, turning her head away from Keris with a haughty tilt to her chin. She doesn't have to pay attention to him...

Keris rolls down from the log and places his arms on it, head on his arms, and stares at Lis. Oh yes, he can be annoying..

Liseria can feel the stare in the back of her head, or at least thing she does. And she's about to turn around when... "Oh, hello there!" Dryw catches her attention just soon enough to keep her from stopping to ignore Keris.

Lattice glides over to her pet as soon as she spots her and chirrups hello.

Dryw smiles and gives her little green a bit of wherry.  Then turns to the two by the log, "Hello, names Dryw."

Keris twists his head to smile at the newcomer. "Evening," he calls out, giving a slight wave of the hand as well.

You notice Dryw looking at you.

Keris decides to at least appear polite and rolls over and into a sitting position. "well met, Dryw. I'm Keris, StarCrafter."

Dryw nods, "Well met as well."

"I'm Liseria, Starcraft Apprentice," Lis chimes in to introduce herself, following Keris' example of sitting up.

Lattice launches into the air and then dives at the lake.

Dryw removes her cloak and sets it off to the side so it won't get dirty/wet, and dives into the lake.

Etoile notices Dryw looking at him.

Dryw floats on her back enjoying the quiet.

Keris sighs and looks at his blue lump, currently a blue/green lump, up in the tree. "Uhm, Lis.. what do we do about them?" A nod indicating the lizards.

Tide shuffles himself a bit to get more comfortable.

Liseria peers back over her shoulder, noticing the amalgmated lump of 'lizard-hide. "We could try prying them apart..."

Keris grimaces. "No thanks, I don't feel like geting clawed right now. By the lizards, that is," he adds with a smirk. "Feel free to try, though... but I must warn you, once Etoile has become really attached to a green, you can't just pry him away like that.."

Dryw suddenly stops floating and dives down into the water.

Liseria arches a brow at Keris curiously, sliding a glance in the direction of the lump. "Oh? Well, I think we'd better not try that, then. I'd rather not get clawed either."

Keris grins. "You get my point.. hmm, if I didn't know better I'd say they look like they've just flown.." Yeah, /that/ kind of flight, exactly.

Dryw bursts through the surface of the water and looks around while clearing the water out of her eyes.

Lattice glides over to the tree and looks quizically at the entwined lizzen pair.

Liseria wrinkles her brows in a frown - another directed in Keris' direction. "Humph. I'd hate to see what'd happen if Etoile ever /does/ catch her..." Wow, that came out bad. Really bad. "Well, I mean, with the 'lizards..."

Keris arches an eyebrow. "I took it you meant the lizards since you mentioned Etoile," he says dryly.

Dryw gets out of the lake and lays in the sun to dry off

Dryw, realizing the sun's not still out, grabs her cloak and wraps it around her.

Dryw calls to Lattice, who flies over and lands on her shoulder.

Dryw calls to Tide, who flies over and lands on her shoulder.

Liseria rolls her eyes again as she rolls back onto her back. Her decision on the 'lizards? "We should just let them be. Eventually they'll get hungry."

Keris nods thoughtfully. "Or tired of each other," he mumbles.

Dryw laughs quietly to herself hearing bits of the conversation about the two lizzen.

Liseria peers back over the log again, a mischevious grin dancing over her face. "I think they're already asleep..."

Keris sighs and stands up. "I have to go back.. I promised to do some chores for Sabrina.."

Liseria bobs her head in a nod, relaxing against the log still. "Allright. G'bye..." she murmbes around a yawn that escapes her.

Dryw looks up as Keris leaves, "Bye, nice meeting you."

Keris leaves with one last look at the lizards. "You too," he smiles at Dryw, waving to the two as he walks off.

You go to the Hold Field.

Etoile> Keris wanders casually to the Hold Field.

You click your heels three times.

*** Disconnected ***

Meep! And there's more:

Kitchen

As you push your way through the swinging doors, you find yourself in the middle of the constant preparation for the next meal.  The room is painted in a warm inviting yellow. Two of the walls are lined with cupboards and counters, providing plenty of room for preparation and storage of food materials.  To one side is a large basin used for the cleaning of materials.  The third side is lined with two large ovens, usually cooking at two different temperatures so that different things can be more easily cooked at the same time.  Next to the rightmost Oven is a large Cauldron that is always filled with a stew and kept at a simmer.  Next to the cauldron is a pot of klah, kept at the ready for the Steward.  A large island sits in the middle of the kitchen, covered with what has already been prepared for the next meal, but I would refrain from touching that as the cook knows how to use that butcher's knife of hers. ;) On the other side of the Cauldron, in the corner, is a rocking chair usually occupied by the Head Cook.

On the perch is Jarranis.

You see Gar Hold Cake and Koa here.

Lyleina and Zidon are here.

Obvious exits:

Dining Hall     Entry Hall     The Happy Harper     the Kitchen Garden and Herbal.

Keris walks into the kitchen in search of something to eat.. hmm, a few cokies perha.. "Lei!" The StarCrafter freezes on the spot as he spots said girl. Whoops! "Uh, hi..." A desperate glance is given to the person next to her. Wait a minute.. that's.. "Zi! Long time no see." The boy grins, happy for the distraction.

Lyleina's jade eyes widen to a huge size at the sight of Keris. She freezes too, blush deepening to crimson. A furtive glance is given to Zi and then back to Keris. "Oh!" is exclaimed simply before she goes back to the dishes in front of her with ridiculous concentration.

Zidon's eyes dart from Keris to Lyleina, a smirk spreading across his face. So that's the StarCrafter making the woman blush.. he should imagine. "Keris! I'd love to stay and chat, but I think I'm needed elsewhere.." A wink is given to Lyleina before the boy darts out of the door, grinning to himself.

Zidon strides quickly to the Entry Hall.

Lyleina sighs miserably, pointedly ignoring Keris as she scrubs those poor dishes with all her strength.

Keris runs a hand through his hair, staring after his supposed friend. "So, um, Lei.." He grimaces, wondering what to say that won't cause him any harm.

Lyleina can't hear Keris's words, he's forgotten that again. With her back to him, her blush is just beginning to fade away.

Keris stands for a few moments, wondering if he really blew it since she isn't answering, then sighs and moved to squeeze himself between her and the table. "Lei.. we need to talk!"

Liseria walks quietly, skirt swirling about her ankles, in from the The Happy Harper.

Alpha blinks in from ::between:: in a small flash of green.

Lyleina backs adruptly away from Keris, right into Lis as she's walking in. "Oh! Sorry!" she whips around to see who she ran into. "Hi Lis."

Keris' eyes widen as Lis walks in. "Lis! How... nice," is said in a less than enthusiastic tone of voice. "Err..."

Liseria carries a mug of klah in one hand as she busily scans the area. "Oh, that's okay," she states in Lyleina's direction. "Anyone seen the sweetneer?" Eyes wander around the room to spot Keris. "Yes, how /nice/." Only a little acid on her tounge today.

Lyleina produces the jar of sweetener quickly. Yes, she knows her way around the kitchen. A tiny grin is awarded to Lis after she glances in Keris's direction. This is interesting for him.

Keris backs up further against the table, expression of one who's being cornered by two flamethrowing dragons. Hmm, that wasn't too far from the truth really. "Well, err, maybe I should get going," he rambles on, making a leap for the doorway.

Alpha disappears ::between:: without prior warning.

Lyleina smiles sweetly, bringing up their former conversation. "But Keris, I thought you needed to talk to me about something!" She exclaims too innocently, ready to watch his discomfort.

"Thanks." Lis grabs the jar and mug in one hand, while another digs for a spoon in her pocket. Nonchalantly removing the item, she scoops a few lumps into her klah before putting it back where it came from. "Oh yes Keris," she chimes in with a maliciously sweet grin. "Don't leave just yet!"

Keris freezes in the doorway. So close and yet so far.. "But, uhm, Lei, that was private.." He trails off, staring at Lis. Uh oh, that comment could easily be mis-interpreted. "I mean.. err..."

Lyleina crosses her arms, taking a long sip from her water glass. Piercing gaze is fixed on Keris, slight smile on her lips. Lis can do the talking on this one.

Liseria arches a brow first at Lyleina, then Keris. Indifference colors her shrug as she replies. "Well, I s'pose I'll leave you two, then. I'm not really nosy, or a gossip." A fake, social-smile is tossed his way as she saunters off with her drink.

Liseria walks quietly, skirt swirling about her ankles, to the The Happy Harper.

Jaibyrd flows in a liquid motion of wings in from the The Happy Harper.

Lyleina raises her eyebrows at Keris, gaze not leaving his face. No, she's used to silence, let him endure some.

Keris groans and bangs his head - softly, mind you - on the doorframe. This is not working out in the best possible way. Ok, in a plausible way, then. It's not working out! The StarCrafter turns around to look at Lei, grimacing out a smile. "So-eh.."

(And on the Gar channel: [Gar] Natch: Why is Keris marring my kitchen?)

Lyleina taps her foot softly, almost wishing that he had banged his head harder. Maybe then he wouldn't get into so much trouble. She opens her mouth to speak and then shuts it adruptly. Nah, it's too fun to watch him squirm and hurt himself to spoil.

Keris takes on a hopeful expression. "Lei?" he inquires, trying a smile. Usually works. That, or she'll punch him.

Lyleina isn't in the mood to be appeased. "What?!" is snapped out. Oh, she's in a bad mood today. Watch out.

Keris winces and takes a step backwards, halfway towards the freedom - well, relatively - of the Harper. "Are you mad at me?" Oh yeah, good question, but the only one he can think of.

Lyleina raises her eyebrows haughtily at him. "Am I mad at you? Am /I/ mad at /you/??" Uh-oh. Better run now.

Keris looks as if he wants to run, but really, his feet are frozen to the floor. "Uhm.. yes?" si answered timidly, the StarCrafter squirming under the look of the woman close to a foot smaller than him.

Lyleina purses her lips and then finally spits out, "For the past few days you've been running about acting like an idiot! An Imbecile!!" She throws her hands up in the air after quickly setting down her glass. "If you don't think I'm mad at you..." Lei advances slowly, eyes angry.

Keris has the decency to look embarrassed. "I didn't mean to," he mumbles. Oh yeah, that never works..

Lyleina nods, smiling maliciously. "You never do mean to." But he just never learns either.

Keris shakes his head defensively. "No, never," he says quickly, glad she understands him. Or at least glad she pretends to.

Lyleina rolls her eyes, sighing in extreme frustration. "Oh, you!" With that she turns to the dishes again, her back to Keris and begins to wash them with angry intent.

From afar, Cipri pokes. What did ya do to Lis? Or is she just complaining about men in general?;)

Keris slumps his shoulders and starts a weak protest, then once again remembering it'll do no good with her turning her back on him. He slowly walks to stand next to her, respectful distance kept of course, and gives her a sidelong glance.

Lyleina just continues washing, jaw set angrily and eyes flashing. Much slamming of pots occur, but not enough to hurt them.

Etoile> Liseria frowns a little - nothing she could really call despicable in that statement. "Oh. Well, good to hear you're moving to Gar! And good luck with the new songs. Maybe try something about...men?" Lis could write a book about /that/. "Or women, in your case?"

Keris winces and decides that a retreat definitely is in it's place now. "Uhm, I'll be in the Harper if you need me." Or if you need to punch someone..

You go to the The Happy Harper.

The Happy Harper

You find yourself in the well-lit Happy Harper.  It seems to be perhaps one of the most cared for items of the hold.  The walls have deep-red wood panelling, and glow baskets placed at a very regular interval.  There are about six tables for eight and four booths in the corners.  All the tables and chairs seem to be of a very nice quality and very well taken care of.  Serving also as the center of social interaction at Gar hold, it is usually where one looks to find anyone.

OOC note:  If you wish for a list of the offered drinks here, merely type 'listdrink'  and it will show you how to find them.  :)

On the perch are Aravis, Trickster, Rya, Lacerta, Bruin, Ray, Valiant, Cute One, Chakotay, Brisbe, Hawk, and Etoile.

You see Firelizard Feeding Tray, Wine Tray, and Dartboard here.

You notice Zhylh, Kavell, Iishya, Casch, and Eltanin asleep here.

Liseria and Caelan are here.

Obvious exits:

Kitchen     Entry Hall

Caelan chuckles, "They're all just random, from me, recently..."

Keris ducks in from the kitchens, looking rather sheepishly. He walks towards a table, then turns sharply as he spots Lis. Uh oh! Sliding into an empty table, the StarCrafter tries to blend in with the wall.

Liseria shrugs again. "Oh, well, random is good." And speaking of men... Lis spots Keris running as well, but he looks so sheepish she doesn't have the heart to be mean to him - at least, not /too/ mean. "Have fun, Keris?"

Lyleina walks silently in from the Kitchen.

Keris jumps at the mention of his name - espcially coming from that person. "Hmm, yeah, tons," he mumbles, expression rather sullen. Lyleina is spotted and the StarCrafter glides back even further. Uh oh!

Lyleina slips in unobtrusively, silent and begins to rub the counters down with a wet cloth. Keris is completely ignored and the others smiled at. "Can I get you two something to drink?" is inquired of Lis and Caelan.

Caelan goes home.

Liseria quirks a delighted sort of grin on her face to see Keris squirm. "No, I'm fine," the girl replies in Lyleina's direction, holding her klah mug up aswell.

Keris throws a desperate glance after Caelan. What is it with every other man these days?? Some kind of sixth sense that he doesn't have? Or an alarm, rather, which he certainly could need.

Lyleina nods pleasantly. "Okay." She pours herself a mug of cider before taking a quick seat, totally composed. "Would you like to join us Keris, or just stay in your corner?" her tone is tinged with acid, but the smile pleasant enough.

Liseria sips quietly at her mug, not uttering a word this time. It's Lei's turn to chew the boy out.

Keris winces. Actually, he'd rather stay in the corner, but he's afraid to.. With a sigh he scrambles to his feet, advancing the women's table as if it'd wake up and eat him.

Keris should be afraid, very afraid. "How kind of you to join us." she says conversationally. Etoile is spotted and given a fond smile, one not given to his master at the moment. Keris can speak, so Lei'll let him do so.

Liseria places her mug on the table, fiddling with the handle absently as her eyes watch Keris. They appear innocent at the moment - good thing that Lis is holding her tounge, for Faranth knows what she's thinking.

Keris regards the girls with a downcast expression. "You know me, I'm always up for pleasant company," he mumbles to Lei's comment. Etoile is spotted by this person too, and given a jealous look.

Lyleina nods slightly, sipping her cider. "Of course." She thinks for a moment and then adds maliciously, "Now, wasn't there /something/ you were going to say, about the three of us." Putting him in a hard spot Lei is, one not easy to get out of.

Liseria peers up through her brows at Keris inquisitively. Though she doesn't say anything, there is a surprised, blinking looks she tosses in his direction.

Keris winces again - he seems to be doing that a lot these days. Faranth, this hurts more than when he fell down a cliff.. "No," is the snappy answer, "I was going to talk to you alone. About Li.. uh.. uhm.. life. Yeah, life in general." Nice try!

Lyleina smiles sweetly, tone emminently reasonable. "About Li-life, eh? Now what other thing in this room starts with 'Li'?" she inquires thoughtfully, eyes intent.

OOC: Liseria murfs and has to go. Darn. ;)

Liseria goes home.

Keris' eyes dart around the room, evidently trying to find something starting with 'li'. "He is!" A hand is extended, finger pointing at a brown lizard. "His name is Li.. Limbo." Oh yeah, like he was really going to talk to her about a brown lizard.

Lyleina smirks, emerald eyes extremely amused-and yet not amused-. She sighs, shaking her head and stands quickly up from the table. "You just don't understand much, do you?" is inquired before she walks back to the bar, placing her empty glass on it.

Keris jumps up as soon as she stands. "Yes, I do," comes the protest, not sounding too convincing. "I'm just a little.. confused.."

Lyleina looks Keris right in the eyes. "No, you don't. And you're always confused." Her tone is calm, lacking her usual anger. Somehow, this calm stings more than anything else.

Keris crosses his arms defensively. "That's not true," he protests again, this time sounding like he actually believes it himself. "Only in moments like these.."

Lyleina smiles softly. "Oh? Moments like what? Like when you get caught in your own game?!" Jade eyes snap, but Lei manages to mantain her serenity.

Keris blinks. "Game? What game?" he snaps back, for once feeling rightfully indignant. "I'm not playing games.."

Lyleina raises an eyebrow. "Oh, you're not. Then why are you so embarrassed every time Lis and I are together and you come in?"

Keris tries to think up a good excuse. "Because... because.. you make me feel bad!" Oh yeah, we got something there. "You look at me with that accusing expression. Like you do right now!"

Lyleina looks at him, eyes piercing. "Is there a reason for me to look at you like that?" she questions softly.

Keris arches an eyebrow. "You should know that, since you're he one doing it," he shoots back.

[StarCraft] Cipri peers at Keris. What did you do? Cheat on Lis?

Lyleina ahs softly. "I see, now it's suddenly all my fault." She isn't in the mood for fighting, just explaining.

Keris frowns. "I didn't say that.. but you're the one who keeps acting like I did something terrible." Oh yeah, and Lis, but she's not here.

Lyleina sits down again, eyes searching his face. "Why don't you just come clean with everyone?"

[StarCraft] Keris hrms. "When Lis moved to Keroon they broke up because of distance... Keris and Lei got together. Tiadi hit on him. He turned her down. Lis came back. Lei became pissed. Keris doesn't know who to choose.. heh, that enough explanation?"

Keris sighs and flops into a chair. "I don't know what to say to everyone.. I don't know who everyone is.."

[StarCraft] Cipri grins. Ahyes, now it all gets clear. Looks like yer in problems, yeah:)

Lyleina shakes her head slightly, standing once more and replying, "Think about it Keris, think about it /really/ hard." Turning to the door and walking out she adds, "I need to get out of here." before slipping out the door.

Lyleina walks silently to the Entry Hall.

Dahnas> Etoile circles a couple of times, then disappears ::between::!

Etoile> Etoile circles a couple of times, then disappears ::between::!

Etoile> :::BETWEEN!:::

Etoile> You hang, senseless, in the dark nothingness of ::between::... absolute darkness surrounds you, and the profound cold stings you... you wait, and count...

Etoile> Black...

Etoile> Blacker...

Etoile> Blackest...

Etoile> Forest Path

Etoile> You travel across a narrow gravel path that soon turns to dirt and eventually disappears into the grass as it enters the woods. Along the path is a scattering of trees, but carefully arranged along the path are a series of flowering bushes that act like toy guards. At first, the trees are scattered, but as you approach the forest that quickly changes. The trees begin to grow closer, knitting a canopy with their leaves. The path turns and disappears into the engulfing darkness of the woods. As you follow the path you find that you are suddenly in a gentle glade where a breeze rustles the emerald canopy above you. Around you, lies a serene field bathed in scattered rays. It is crafted in a spherical shape, drawing one toward the center. Through the canopy, one single beam pierces, only slightly touched by the shelter. It falls softly on the center of the glade forming a circle, with the other scattered beams seeming to dance around it.

Etoile>   It is an autumn afternoon. 

Etoile> To the east, you see one person.

Etoile> Lyleina is here.

Etoile> Obvious exits:

Etoile> Crystal Bridge

Etoile> Etoile suddenly appears from ::between:: with a chirp.

Etoile> Lyleina looks up as a flash of blue catches her eye. With a sad little smile she whistles to Etoile, offering a forearm for him to perch on.

Etoile> Etoile chirps and settles on the offered arm, stroking his small triangular head on Lei's hand. Eyes roll a slight orange as the lizard peers up, chittering questioningly.

Keris walks out.

Etoile> Lyleina scritches the 'lizard on the eyes ridges, gazing down into the water. Slow tears drop to mingle with the lazy waters of the river.

You go to the Forest Path.

Forest Path

Keris rushes in, his frown clearing up a little as he spots Lei. "Lei," he says softly, coming to a halt in front of her.

Lyleina turns away from him, dashing the tears quickly from her eyes. A little gasp escapes as 'lizard claws pierce her arm, but she basically ignores it.

Keris sighs, having seen the tears before she dashed them away. He places a hand on her shoulder, gently squeezing.

Lyleina trembles slightly at the touch, but doesn't turn back to face him. She instead strokes Etoile gently.

Etoile croons at the attention, oblivious to the tension between the pets. "Lei.." Keris moves around to face her, placing a gentle hand under her chin.

Lyleina's eyes dart up to his, wide and teary. Not from sadness, just from his gentleness.

Keris stands undecisive for a few moments. "I'm sorry I snapped at you," he says finally, expression serious.

Lyleina raises one of her hands to touch his gently. "It's okay.. " She stops her stroking of Etoile, most likely irritating him.

Etoile chitters and glides over to a branch instead. Sometimes pets can be /too/ clingy. "I just don't know what do to," his pet mumbles, sadness marring his features.

Lyleina puts her arms around him in a soft embrace, showing her support. Head leaned slightly on his shoulder, she tries to express comfort.

Keris sighs and leans his head on hers for a moment, then leans back so she's able to see what he's saying. "I really like both you and Lis, and I don't want any of you hurt.." But you can almost tell from his expression that someone is going to be hurt.

Lyleina nods, expression becoming composed. "Keris.. " she says gently, "I'm not going to stand between you two. You really belong together." Her tone is heartfelt, earnest.

Keris doesn't know how to react to that one. "Oh, I don't know," he mumbles. "I'm not sure about anything.."

Lyleina sighs softly and then looks up at him, eyes serious. "I think I'll make this easy for you." She reaches up and gives him a soft kiss on the cheek, to soften the blow to come. "Goodbye Keris. Go back to Lis." She turns and begins to walk slowly away.

Keris stands dumbstruck for a moment, then runs after her. "Lei. Lei! What do you mean?" he asks, blocking her way.

Lyleina touches his arm gently, eyes meeting his. "You and Lis belong together. I'm making this decision for you." She moves around him, not really wanting to talk of it.

Keris sighs and watches her go off..

Lyleina keeps walking, but now the sounds of soft, muted crying float back to Keris. Sounds Lei tries unsuccessfully to conceal.

Keris remains still for another moment. "Oh shells and shards... Lei!" He runs after her once agagin, grabbing her arm gently. "I don't want you to be hurt.."

Lyleina tries feebly to shake his hand off. "Keris, at least I hurt myself." Tears are streaming down her cheeks, destroying whatever was left of her dignity.

(At this point, I page Cipri and complain about Keris' situation.)

From afar, Cipri awws. Wassup? They both teamed up and decided to become lesbians?

Keris looks crushed. "It was because of me," he persists, guilt washing over him in big waves. "Lei, I'm so sorry..."

Lyleina shakes her head. "Don't do this.. " she protests, "Don't make it harder for me!"

Keris sighs and slowly lets go of her arm. "I'm sorry. I want to make you feel better.. please tell me how."

(Then I page Cipri and tell him that Lyleina is sad because of Keris.)

From afar, Cipri ahhs. "Perhaps that's her intention. so you havta `comfort` her;)

Lyleina takes a deep breath and looks him straight in the eye. "This is what had to happen eventually, right? Now you look me straight in the eye and tell me you love Lis. Then I'll know that all of this has a purpose." And that would help her feel better.

Keris bites his lip. "I don't know," he says evasively, "I mean..." He slumps his shoulder, suddenly giving up. "I love her, yes," he mumbles.

(I page Cipri and tell him that he makes everything sound like a sleazy porn movie. Heh :P)

From afar, Cipri grins, and should watch less TV then;) Besides, he's from Amsterdam, said to be the sex-capitol of the world;)

Lyleina nods slightly, fighting back new tears. "Then this is the right thing." she says simply. This didn't really make her feel better, but it did justify everything.

(And I add drug-capitol to Cipri's previous page.)

From afar, Cipri waves off the white stuff some naked girl is shoving up his nose. "Huuh, whaa?"

Keris sighs raggedly. "Maybe.. but, Lei.. I hope we can still be friends. I really hope so.."

Lyleina smiles gently, "Yes, we can. How couldn't we?" She sighs softly and then looks back up at him, conflicting emotions on her face. And one more thing.. "Keris, just to prove that this is the right thing, I want you to look me in the eye.. and say that you /don't/ love me."

Keris stares at her for a full minute, then averts his eyes. "I can't.. Lei, I really can't do that." He sighs. "If it makes you feel better I love my close friends.."

Lyleina gazes at him for a moment and then shakes her head slowly. "No.. I didn't think so." she whispers almost to herself. It wouldn't be the same, and Keris knows that too.

Keris nods slowly. Yes, he knew that. "I'm sorry," he repeats. Empty words, but they're the only ones he can think of.

Lyleina looks down at the ground, eyes focusing on nothing. "I am too, I really am."

Keris smiles, his eyes suspiciously shining. "I have to go back now," he mutters, giving her a quick hug. "Goodbye, Lei..

Keris walks out.

*** Disconnected ***

And who does he choose y'all ask? Wellll.... I recommend reading the logs with Calyde. Ahem... ;-)