Red velvet curtains hide this room a bit from the tap room. A poker table sets to one side of the entrance, An unopened pack of cards sets atop the table, wax seal still intact. Against the far wall a table obviously set up for dice or bones games sets, complete with varying sticks, bones and dice sets in a cherry wood and glass case on the wall at the side. A pool table sets in the center of the room, complete with ivory cue ball, fresh felt, and 14 sticks of varying weights.
     Along the length of the room but separated by a low wall of intersecting pine sculpted to resemble a low hedge, a tossing run setup has been partitioned. Along the wall are various throwing targets, the red, black, and yellow of the common dart boards, a knife target, an axe taget, two shields for javelin or bow. All of which with corresponding throwing implements in racks on the entry end of the run.

Boone leads Gallus and Quintus to the billiards table, explaining the basics of eight-ball to Quintus while he sets up the rack. He picks out a cue stick, rolling it on the table to check for warping, and asks Gallus Bank shot for break?

"We could always just arm wrestle for it." He had a big smile on his face.

Given that billiards is a game of skill, not power, I think the bank-shot is more appropriate, Captain Gallus. While you choose a cue stick, I'll explain some of the basics to Quintus here. Turning to Quintus, Boone shows him the pool table As you can see, the table is about 82 inches long and 43 inches wide. Although the size varies slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer, they all have the six pockets situated at the four corners, and two pockets on the sides. He invites Quintus to feel the surface of the table. The table is covered in felt to allow smoother travel for the balls. You saw me rolling my chosen cue stick along the felt - that is one way of determining whether or not either the cue or the table has any warping or defects. As you saw, it rolled smoothly along, so it looks like everything is fine. He shows the triangular rack to Quintus and demonstrates how all 15 balls are arranged for the start of the game.

Now in basic eight-ball, our opponent and you choose some method of determining who takes the first shot. This is known as "breaking". This first shot, if it succeeds in putting one of the balls into any of the pockets, other that the pure-white cue ball or the pure-black eight-ball, then the type of ball sunk determines your targets for the game. Note that the balls marked '1' through '7' are solid colors. The balls marked '9' through '15' are white with a colored stripe. These two groups are called the solids and the stripes. If you succeed in sinking a solid on the break, the object is for you to knock the rest of the solids into the pockets before going after the eight-ball. Likewise, if you sink a striped ball on the break, your goal is to sink the rest of the striped balls before proceeding to the eight-ball. The way we take shots is to use the cue stick to strike the white cue ball is such a way that the cueball knocks either the solid or the striped balls into the pockets. You can also use the rubbery sides of the table to 'bank' your shots when needed. Looked at in a certain way, billiards is just an exercise in applied geometry.

      Quintus tried to follow the descriptions of the game and the concept, he really did. In the end, Quintus stood in front of the cue rack staring at them like a monkey doing a math problem. "Why couldn't it be javelins at 10 paces, or net and trident in the pit, noooooo, there have to be all of these rules, and turns." Looking back at the table Quintus wonders about the glyphs on the balls, and the wooden shooting staffs. Small circles around the glyph means it is part of the same group, wide circle around the number is part of the same group. If it doesn't drop on the "break" stay away from the black ball. Banking was still a bit out of his understanding, and Quintus had his questions about the grey balls, but for now he was willing to watch.
     Glancing around Quintus noticed the hexagonal table with the white and red package of cards, and the rack of multicolored circular clay-tablets. To the side there was the octagonal table with all the little posts on it, it also had several balls on it, all red with one white, there were no pockets. Over in the corner, a long table with markings and glyphs sat. It had a long stick with a wedge-shaped end, and two cubes with dots on each face of the ivory pieces.
     On the far side of the table was a low wall about waist high. Beyond this, was a long clear hallway with various round, and square plaques hanging on the wall. Some of corkboard, a few shields, and several others that Quintus didn't recognize. That would be a great pasttime, it will be the game that the pair enjoy after the dramatic loss at the billiards table. "Ok, so, let's go over this one more time. Small circles are a group and the large circles are a group. The stick only touches the white ball. When packing the balls in the triangle, no balls of the same group can be together. And... you want to sink the black ball with the first break, if you miss that, you have to sink all of the balls of your group before the black. Sorry, what about the grey balls, are they significant." Quintus is pointing to the 3,6,11, and 14.

Ah. Well the grey balls are not significant in themselves. These glyphs pointing out the numbers 1 through 7  belong to one set, distinguished by the fact that the balls are completely solid in color aside from the space for the glyphs. He points out the balls numbered 9 thru 15 and these belong to the other group, distinguished by the fact that these balls are white with a colored stripe around them. He then refers to the black 8-ball I should have made this more clear. If you sink the 8-ball on any shot except to finish the game, you lose the game. Even if you sink it on the first shot, or 'break', you lose. It is only when you have cleared the table of all the balls in your 'set' that you are permitted to sink the 8-ball. Boone walks over to the cue rack and selects a cue stick for Quintus. Why don't we go through an actual game, and I'll show you the rules and conventions as we progress. He then shows Quintus how the stick is held, whether for left-handers or right-handers, how to aim, and how to smoothly draw back the stick and push it forward in a 'stroke'. He shows Quintus the pool chalk and how to apply it. He then asks Shall I set up the rack and perform the break?

     Thinking he will need more clarification on the game as they play, Quintus nods for Boone to take the "break" and set the rack. Watching carefully, Quintus notices a possibility that had not been discussed. "You have mentioned what we do if the colored balls enter the holes, but is there something that keeps the white ball from falling in?" Quintus was truly trying to understand the game.
     "When this is over, I may just have to challenge you with javelins." Quintus said with a smile.

Agreed. Javelins might be fun to try. Something I failed to mention. If you succeed in sinking a ball belonging to your set, you may continue your turn. If you fail to sink a ball from your set, it become's the other player's turn. If you sink the white 'cue ball', it is called a 'scratch shot' and you are penalized. One of the balls that you have previously sunk gets put back onto the table and your opponent gets to place the cue ball wherever he likes within a certain area. But I will show you what I mean as we progress...
Boone sets up the rack, placing the point of the rack above the positioning dot and squaring the rack, then lifts the rack and leaves a perfect triangle of balls. He moves to the other side, places the cue ball down, opting for an angled break, draws back and forth a few times while adjusting his aim, then smoothly strikes the cueball, sending it into the midst of the colored balls. The balls break apart cleanly, and after a few rebounds, the 3-ball sinks into the near-corner.  He moves around to where the cueball resides. That means my turn continues. Wherever the cueball comes to rest, you must continue play from there. Since my set is solids, I am not allowed to make contact with your 'stripes' as an initial contact, although secondary contact is allowed. Seeing that the cue ball has a shot at the 6-ball for a corner shot, but only if he can bank the cueball correctly, he quickly calculates the angle he needs, and attempts the shot. While he does strike the six-ball initially, the ball fails to drop in the corner, stopping just short. Ah, I missed - your turn.

"Hmmm mmm mm" sounded from a small box that began rocking. Following that, a loud thud of a small body hitting the wood, but it did not budge. "wrrhnmmm" the box exclaimed before what looked like a business card, followed by a small piece of gum, flew out of the box, breaking the walls as it busted through.

A small, red headed girl climbed out of the box and brushed off her black and purple clothing. "Hmmf," she exclaimed, "that is the last time I do a job for them." She looked around, "so, um..." That was about all she could come up with at the moment, her head still throbbed from that bloody dart.

Boone pulls off his hat and says , Good Afternoon , Miss. Can we help you?

"Um," Brighid said again before shaking her head. "sorry. What happened? This isn't Seattle, is it?" It certainly didn't look right, and there was no AR to be found. She checked her comm, no connection. "Regardless, some espresso could be nice."

With a glance at Quintus, Boone sets his cue stick against a wall.

No ma'am, it isn't Seattle, nor is it Texas , nor any place on Earth. Welcome to the Wolf's Head Tavern, the third interdimensional, transtemporal inn and bar I've ever encountered.
Quintus, wanna rustle up an expresso for the Lady? She might need a shot of something strong in it too? I'll pay for it.

     With a large smile at the diminutive creature, the ex-roman soldier nods, "Of course Boone, anything specific you would like added to your Spresso winged lady?" The soldier seemd just aq bit out of sorts as he talked to the little woman, and even more so as he talked to her as a waiter would instead of a soldier. The brigandine skirting and the empty sheath on his hip throwing more interest into the hidden story here. "Perhaps when I get back the little lady would sit on my shoulder and advise me of a good shot on this table game."
     Quintus backs towards the door to the room, awaiting any special requests as he does so.

"No alcohol. I think I was drugged. I must have been since I thought you said transdimensional, or something like that." Definitely the very last time. She needed a clear head, though to figure this out when she noticed the darts. That always made her focus. "Anyone care for a game of darts." She had to get her head on right. Had to.

I can't say whether you've been drugged or not, but I definitely said Transtemporal as well as interdimensional. By the way , Quintus, I believe that Expresso is some sort of coffee drink. As for me, I'll take a shot of Wild Turkey Kentucky Bourbon if you'd be so kind. He focuses on the lovely little lady. And what brings a pretty lady like yourself among us today?

Oh, and I suppose I can play a game of darts with you after I'm done teaching Quintus about billiards. I'm quite good with darts.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:22, Wed 18 Mar 2009.

 Walks towards the game room and looks for table to sit down. the guards stood behind her and was watching everyone. She takes the hood of her cloak down and looks around at the different games that were happening

Brighid unfurled her wings, she had a solid 3 foot span, her wings fluttered, appearing much like a dragonfly's in color. "Yes, coffee, very strong. And I'm sure I was drugged."  She was also sure this was some sort of joke, but didn't say that. She flew over to the dart board and grabbed a set, they filled her arms, as she flew back to notice the newest member. "Darts?" she asked. She'd play along for now, figure out what actually happened.

Oh, where are my manners. Ladies, may I present your host, Quintus over there. He seems to run this place. As for myself, my name is Abraham Boone, grandson of Daniel, the famous frontiersman.

"I read about him in history books. Not all flattering, I'm sorry to say. I'm Brighid, if I didn't already say so." A couple of darts slipped as she flew, scattering on the floor. "Slotting things, nobody every takes into acount the pixies."

Hello , Brighid. Say, do you know a street samurai named Mason, by any chance? It's a shot on the dark, but Mason did say that dragons and all manner of magical creatures were Awakened on his world, and 'slotting' sounds like one of Mason's swearwords. He then bows to the Noblewoman, and what might your name be, dear lady?

"Mason, Mason, can't say I do. Although I'd be happy to meet him. Although, I never understood the street sam thing, always seemed a bit pretentious. Why not just call yourself a merc, right?" She dumped the darts on the table and recovered the missing ones. She lifted one and held it like a Javelin from a good 15 feet.  She threw it with what appeared to be no effort and hit a bullseye. "Yeah, haven't lost everything."

Oho, you're pretty good! Can you do this? Boone reaches over, grabs a dart, does some quick spatial figures in his head, then throws the dart at the craps table. It deflects off the croupe stick, banks off the pool table's metal corner reinforcements, and lands beside Brighid's dart in the center of the board. Still haven't lost the touch, he muses.

Before entering the room, the "space elf" put on his helmet. If this mammal was indeed royalty then it would be impolite to show his disfigured face. He adjusted his color shifting chameleon cloak, and brushed off his armor composed of living micro scales. Then he slowly opened the door and walked inside.

He cleared the door and began looking to where this mammal royalty was. Before he saw he spotted the tiny winged lady. He stood aghast, having never thought such things existed. He had seen the strangest beings on countless planets, but truly such a woman could not be real. He had seen them on the banners and armor of his enemies, but thought they were just a beautiful myth.

Dumbfounded he simply walked over to a chess set and examined the pieces. Then he remembered the other reason he came here and shared in a loud voice. "The Exodite Eldar is fine now... ...he was found passed out... ...and may have been distressed. He is upstairs now if you wish to... ..speak to ...him."

 Smiles and looks at guards and they stepped back. She stands up and holds out her hand and smiles at the two young men and nods her head to the winged creature.

" Lady Alexis Con De Leon.  Pleasure in meeting your  all. I  will just watch for now"

Brighid smiled, pulling out a tiny hair clip, seemed to say a few lines of poetry in Gaelic to herself before throwing, hitting the pool table's metal corner, and knocking out his dart put not hers. "Seems so. But it's all in the magic, really. I do see a gun there, right. Perhaps some harder games may be in order later." She smiled, then realized there was another here. "Alexis, pleased to meet you."

Boone, who appears to be a rugged, muscular man in his mid-twenties [6'8" tall, over 300 lbs], looks absolutely delighted with Brighid. Lady, that's the first time in over 60 years that anyone's managed to do that to me. I'd be happy to trade demonstrations of skill with you later, but I need to inform both you ladies and the tough-looking gentlemen standing there that this Inn has some sort of enchantment on it that prevents anyone from using lethal force against another patron. This is truly neutral ground for all comers. He smiles broadly at the guards. Of course, I don't know what the rules are regarding non-lethal force, but I haven't yet been tempted to test it.
He turns back to Brighit, I don't mind that you used magic to duplicate my feat. To my mind, magic is just another skill that takes a lot of work to master. That you could duplicate my feat is merely an indication of the dedication you have applied to your craft. Could I buy you a drink, milady?
Between you and I, I'm from 20th century Earth. I was a 'mystery man' during World War II, and acted as a 'superhero' during the 90s.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Wed 18 Mar 2009.

 Smiles at the man and nods her head.  She looks at her guards and sent them  to get her things and send them to her room.

" Some wine  would be nice"

Boone pulls out another Gold Eagle, and tosses it to Quintus. Put her wine on my tab. And I'll have an Alabama Slammer please. He smiles at the Noblewoman Miss Alexis? A distinct pleasure.

Brighid got her espresso, which was in a cup big enough to be a large bowl for her. "I guess that's true. Magic is work and I've spent years practicing my throwing skills. But, I'd love to play later." <b> She went through her bag and found a small cup, filling it with the hot bitter liquid. <b>"No violence, check." It must be powerful if none are not affected.

The pixie regarded the woman again, "Alexis, what's your story." Her first cup was drained and refilled already. Her head seemed to be clearing up a little.

 Smiles and nods her head to boone.

" it is not Alexis it is Lady Alexis.  I am just traveling that is all"

"Personally I don't believe in using titles. As my friend Bad Bob, not the brightest of Trolls, used to say. We're all equal outside the law. He may have been dumb as a post, but he had a point."

' I have earned my Titled and it out of respect. If you had titled I would have used it. I do not know you that well for you to use  just my name. i do hope you understand. I am not trying to be rude. "

"But you have not earned such from me or anyone I know. Respect isn't just given, certainly not where I'm from. You earn it from working with people, maybe having some street cred, but just telling someone doesn't work for me. And, who doesn't go by their first names. This isn't the 1900s" She was still convinced this was something on her plane. It had to be.

 She looked even more frighten now and looks at the winged creature.
" Is not  1816  year of our lord"

 She looks a bit confused and bit  frighten.

"Last time I checked it was 2074, but he says this is trans something. Outside of normal space and time is what it means." Another shot of espresso, she was starting to believe this and that wasn't good.

"Hah... I knew it.  A Pixie.  Your voices are very distinctive."

In walks Parker a two foot tall Draconic creature.  He wears a rust colored robe covered in arcane symbols and mystic trinkets.

"I am Parker Kobold Master of the Far Reaches.  Inheritor of the power of Dragons and wielder of Arcane Might.  And I am happy to no longer be the shortest one here."

Even on one so small, that many teeth look like they could deliver a serious bite and he is showing them all.

     Quintus blushes a bit under the scrutiny of the faerie and others. "No, I don't run the inn here, that is Cookie and Barkeep, I just fetch drinks and wash dishes here." With that Quintus disappeared through the doorway to gather the dishes, and to bring back the drinks that were requested.


----------->
to The Wolf's Head Tavern
----------->

Brighid looked at Parker, cocking his head to the side. "What the frag are you talking about? I've met a couple of dragons, not that I look forward to repeating it, and they don't really go for other people playin with their stuff. Oh, are you one of those shamans who believe dragons give them their focus. Never met one before."

 Looks around the room and really realized that there was creature with wings and small looking reptile and this was not her time. She smiles slightly and her eyes flutters and she  falls to the ground

Parker looks at the fainting woman and almost laughs.

"First time I ever seen a woman faint at the sign of a kobold."

Boone rushed to catch Lady Alexis - he'd been expecting a reaction like this. He lowers her safely to the ground, then reaches for the med-kit on his belt and pulls out some smelling salts. He deftly waves the stimulating odors under the Lady's nose, prompting her to awaken. As he does so, he mentions to Brighid I myself am from the year 2009. Parker here isn't even from Earth, and I suspect that by our calendar, he's from around the 4th or 5th century. Quintus looks like he's from before the birth of Christ himself. As I said - interdimensional; trans-temporal; parallel worlds; etc. You can meet anybody here.

     Returning to the room Quintus leads the barmaid to one of the tables. Turning his attention to Boone and the faerie, "Boone, your something extra for the spresso is there in the little glass. Chocolate and raspberry syrup, so the barkeep says. Should help with clearing the cobwebs he said. Also Cookie says she likes a healthy appetite, there is your wild turkey, it was basted in Kentucky bourbon."
    With that Quintus returns his gaze to the downed woman. "Does anyone know her name?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:53, Wed 18 Mar 2009.

Parker looks at the woodsman and shakes his head.

"I am a lot smarter than I look and I understand magic and dimensions pretty well.  I have seen some of the tech that some of you carry.  Don't think that someone is from an early period in their world because they don't have such petty devices.  We don't need fancy little gnome gizmos because we can do things like this."

He lifts his hand up and he sprouts red leathery wings and flies up landing next to the fairy.

"Technology has limits... magic has none."

 Starts to come too smelling the salt and looks around seeing everyone around her and faints again. She will have take time getting use to this. Her eyes flutter and looks up the man  cradling her head. She  starting to come too.

"Okay maybe you're right and I'm lost here. Then what am I supposed to do. I have no work here, nothing."

Brighid again looked at the strange creature. His strangeness not due to his appearance. "Everything has limits. Magic, technology, they both have their places, strengths and weaknesses. Although, I may well change my mind if you, with you limitless magic, can send me home."

With a dramatic hand thrown to his chest,

"Alas fair pixie, my magic has limits.  Though they be far and powerful enough to level cities. It is others to which there is no limit.  I knows one wizard who can warp reality to a point that almost anything is possible.  Where is it that you come from anywhose?"

He leans towards the little creature, taking note of the odd clothes.

"No where near my world."

"It's Brighid. And I'm from Seattle, at least now. Maybe the same Earth as them. And magic in my world can destroy cities when powerful enough, warp reality with extreme effort, but there are still limits. Everything has a limit or someone would have destroyed all creation by now." She took the added liquid and drank more. Feeling even better.

"If it is home you are looking for, I think Sea at Tall is where that guy out there is from.  A little while ago, he said something about going there and coming back."

He makes a gesture with his thumb towards the main bar room.

     "Little Miss, Parker, the young lady here seems a bit fragile, know any of you what is causing her fainting spells?" Quintus gathers the moist rag and dabs across the elegant lady's brow, as she awakens a bit more he hands the rag to her and directs her to place it at the base of her neck beneath the hair. "Mistress, you have fainted, are you well? Should I get you anything?"

Parker almost bursts into laughter, he holds his composure but there is obvious mirth in his voice.

"She fainted when she saw me.  Imagine that... a full grown woman fainting at the sight of a kobold."

 She does as she was told and looks around.


" A bible would be nice. maybe something stronger then wine. i swear I see and here a lizard talking to me. and small girl with wings. Good sir where am i?"


 She blinks a few times.

" Must have hit my head and t his not real. I am sleeping in my bed and this all just very very bad dream"

"Maybe I should talk to someone who will at least be a bit familiar." She had absolutely no clue what to do about the woman, people just did not do that. And a bible, that won't help much.

She decided it may be beat to find this Mason, "If you will excuse me. I'm going to find Mason, We can talk later."

--To Wolf's Head Main room--

Thank you , Quintus. Would you please ask the barkeep if he can fix me an Alabama Slammer? It's an alchoholic drink that tastes like Orange Juice. Boone turns to Parker and with a small grin says I stand corrected, sir. As he helps the young lady to a couch, he says in a gentle voice, I know it is a bit of a shock milady, but the tavern you are in resides in a place unknown, where it is peopled with many strange and exotic beings. These beings, such as myself, Parker, Brighid, and Quintus, are all from different Lands, but we are all people nonetheless. We treat each other with respect here, as we will treat you. Please, do not take offense, but try to treat others well, even if they appear strange to you. He gestures at Parker and Brighid and yes, they are as they appear - a 2 foot tall lizard, and a small, gorgeous female.

"I am no lizard.  The space elf in the helmet is a lizard.  I am descended from DRAGONS.  Call a dragon a lizard and you are likely to be lunch.  And all of your fancy little toys will be just a bunch of crunchy seasonings."

Sitting on the table Parker looks down at the ranger and the delicate flower of a lady.  With a puff, there is a small flame and wisp of smoke as Parker emphasizes his point.

Parker, the lady is from a place and time where there is no concept of other dimensions or other times. I was trying to keep things simple. And as it happens, I have faced a dragon in combat before, and I'm still here. My toys as you call them are very versatile.

With a big grin he looks at the ranger.

"More likely you just fought a big lizard."

With that he bursts out in laughter.

" this is not real. I hit my head or something sir'

She was very very fluster and fans her self as she was sited up on the couch. She blinks  few times.

Bowing to necessity, Boone says Certainly, you must have hit your head. He motions to the bodyguards to pick up the Lady. Perhaps these gentlemen will see to you your room, where you might rest and recover. He turns to Parker sometimes we encounter realities that are so foreign to our experiences that deniability seems the best option he states as an explanation. He hopes the dragonkin understands his gentleness with the Lady.

Waves her hand and the guards stop and closed her eyes  for a moment and takes a deep breath.

"this is not dream is it. What hell  have I come to?"

 She looks at Quintus


" my name is Lady Alexis"

The armored ranger from a different time walked up to the noble mammal and twirled around in a rapid spin, stopping in a kneeling position before the woman. "Kind Gentry.... ...I am Pathfinder Deriel the Voidstar, Eyes of Alatoic.... pleased to meet you." He bows then as low as he could without touching the floor. He never gave his true title to anyone except those that lead planets or religions.

He did not take his helmet off, she didn't need to see his wounds in her state. With the introduction complete he shot straight up in a jump and turned a backflip before landing.

"If you need any further... ...assistance... Let me know. Though ask me not to bathe your feet in... ...oils. The lizard here can take care of that." He let out a laugh while looking towards the Kobold.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:51, Wed 18 Mar 2009.

The outdoorsman has had enough of this space elf's attitude. Listen, Derierre, neither Parker nor myself appreciate the condescending tone in your voice. So either be nice, or shut the hell up!

 She had serious face now and stood up and looks around the room.

" Enough. I will not have people fighting in front of me. Nor will I care to have anyone speak in such tone to anyone. This is all strange to me. please enough"

"Its was a quip... a sharp punch.. a jest. Dragons are only large reptiles after all... ...my assessment was close. Do forgive whatever wrong you see... ...But for the gentry here I used the utmost etiquette for her... ...station. Please note I have no boiled hate... for any here.. no ill will. I find the ancestor here to be a breath of fresh air, the winged mammal to be most fascinating, then gentry to be a wonderment though I have... seen many of her kind, and you... ...you are rather a blend of boorish and wise, very interesting. The marine is the only... I would wish to harm. Even then I do not." He uttered the last few words while looking to Boone.

He took off his helmet to use his own voice, showing the large scars on his cheeks to all. "I have found many of you... ...very intolerant. It amazes me." He stifled a laugh here. "I was brought here in the midst of... mortal combat... forgive if I arrive on guard. You know me Eldar... so wish to find me offensive. Rest assured if my people.... harmed yours.... ...it was only in survival."

He cupped his hands together and called loudly "Drinks on me in this... ..room!"

"Can we relax now? So much stress... for a peaceful place."

 Looks at Deriel and gasp and place her hand over her mouth.

" you are very rude young man. you apologizes  right now"

Looking at the space elf, Parker simply shakes his head.

"You know nothing of true Dragon's lizard boy.  I have my own money and have no need for you to buy my beverage."

In that case, you have my apology. And you as well, my Lady. Boone presents a bow to each in turn. Lady Alexis, as strange as it may seem to you, we are all from different worlds. Quite literally in some cases. Have you seen the night sky? The stars that twinkle there are like unto our own sun. Each star out there has the possibility of having worlds rotate around them, much as the Earth revolves around the sun. And although the percentage of worlds that can sustain life is very small, there are some others out there. I myself have been to two such worlds. I suspect Deriel has been to hundreds, if not thousands, of such worlds. And on each world, life exists, often in what you might perceive as a strange or unlikely form.

He smiled hearing Boone, and ignored the gentry's comment.

"Yes there are many strange things... ...The other Gentry I have met come from world's they conquered. I have seen "dragons" the size of moons... ...flying through the void of night. I have seen "humans" with... ...three arms and breathing poison. You are safe here good Gentry... ...but not from the realities of battles." He frowned at that last point and with a gloved hand he rubbed his left cheek, figuring that to be the thing that offended the noble.

He looked over to the kobold. "Perhaps you are right... ..and your dragons are not of... ...the material realm. The Warp perhaps? Maybe a side we... ...have never seen. Like her." He pointed to the faery, for a moment he was awe struck again. Something he had truly never seen before (everything else being explainable based on his experience.) Looking back at the Kobold. "And do not worry I take no offense... in your refusal of generosity, how could you.. ...know my customs after all?"

     With all of the hostilities in the air, Quintus had stepped back alongside the guards, but between the Lady and helmeted one. Instinctively Quintus let his hand fall and rest on his empty scabbard. Only a few days ago, there had been a sword of command in there, now he just stood there wishing it had not been his first impulse. Quintus nodded to the barmaid, when the elf called out for drinks. He just didn't want to leave the room just yet, and felt the barmaid could get this round.
     Watching as sharply as he could, Quintus tried to stay between the Lady and the elf without interrupting the guards positions. The elf's antics of acrobatics had Quintus spinning mentally, but there was never a hint or gleam of a weapon so he had stayed hos place. Not sure what the safe people were Quintus felt that any minute now he would feel the need to step in front of anyone of them. As this thought occurred to him it strengthened his heart. He was no longer thinking like a gladiator, no longer like a soldier. He no longer thought of things as them or me, now he was looking out and after others. This was sanctuary and suddenly he felt the need to defend that. Peace, at all costs is stagnant, but violence will not bring peace, just an understanding of personal sacrifice so that it can be maintained. Now he understood what this place meant to him and why he felt he was given the opportunity to be here among the mighty.
      So many of them built their strength by breaking the laws, Quintus understood that, he had survived by breaking a few himself. "My Lady Alexis, these men are fresh from the fields and rough spots of the outside, some understanding should be afforded them. Each is from a different culture, think of this as a tournament mixer hosting several countries. A truce called during the tournament, and the representatives are all soldiers from their respective battlefields. I wish I could offer the manners of my home in Spain, but we have adopted the Roman forum behaviors and I find myself appalled at times as well."
     Turning so the elf and Boone know that he is speaking to them Quintus adds, "Where I come from, you think before you speak for fear of being enslaved for your thoughts, though a horrible punishment, the idea I find, has merit. We should all spend a few more seconds considering how others will take our words, especially when we have little or no understanding of the world the other lives in, much less the history and troubles the other has dealt with. Parker, I have no idea what a dragon is, other than sharing some aspects with lizards, I notice that you share the slit eyes of felines from my home. Is this true for all dragons?"

The Eldar was confused. He came from a world where a new genocide takes place everyday in some part of the galaxy. If the great foe isn't mutating entire worlds, then the Zerg is trying to consume them or the humans eliminate billions of their own without a second thought.

He called a thinking being a lizard.

He had been on his most aristocratic behavior. The hostility he read from the others was something he didn't understand. He began wishing he had kept his helmet on, only so the confusion wouldn't show on his face.

He figured the royal mammal would understand, caste systems always follow their kind. A throw back to his own ancestors required respect, not tact. Lower species were either to be treated as servants or children, and Deriel could never bare to treat someone like a servant.

None the less, and as interesting as this place was he knew he had to get back to his men. Maybe he will tell the Alatoic Warlocks of his discovery; they would come here in droves to learn of universes beyond their own. His people were natural learners, and in their own stars they have learned all there was.

He stayed long enough to see a waitress carrying out his request and asking the other guests what they wanted to drink. He stepped aside the mammal barbarian and gave a deep bow while standing, his body unable to go much lower.

"In other words my dear Gentry, your customs and caste systems have little impact here as.... ...do my own. I can only assume you would... ...find better company in a parlor for your at the... ...end of the map and Monsters be here." He smiled, stood up and walked towards the waitress. He handed her several small metal trinkets he uses for currency and decided to make his way to the room he purchased earlier.

<<Exit to Tavern...Exit to Upstairs>>

Please pardon me, folks. It occurs to me that I need to find a room before they are all gone. I'll be back , though.


-------------------> To upstairs

 Looks at Quintus Maxximus and nods her head. She waves her guards to go up stairs and get her a room. She smiles

" Care to join me for drink Sir."

"No good Quintus.  Dragons are as diverse as humans.  They come in all different colors, shapes and sizes.  There are some that breath fire, some that breath ice, acid, lightning, shadow, even toxic gas."

Parker jumps down from the table, the wings slowing his decent.  As he lands, his right hand is raised and he brings his hand down, a staff appearing in his hand during the decent.  The staff slams into the wooden floor and Parker grows to the height of 5 foot.

"I can join you for a drink Lady Alexis."

The last is delivered with a courtly bow.

" I was actually asking This nice sir here  to join me for drink. I meen I not trying to be rude. i still trying to get use to this."


 She smiles at him

"I know what you meant fair lady...  I was offering you additional company.  If my appearance is such a barrier that you can not get past.  You have my sympathies.  I have many humans for friends and I never judge your kind solely by your fragile pink skins.  This is likely the only chance you will have to sit and talk to a Dragon Borne.  If you wish to pass it up..."

With that Parker gives another bow and moves to the main bar.

<<<to the Tavern>>>

 She sighs and looks down and yells  so he could here her.

" just give me some time.. please"

     With a gracious smile Quintus offers his arm to the lady, "To hinder your opinion of me, I must admit, that since Rome stole my lands, title, and culture, I have gone from lower nobility to slave, to gladiator, to soldier and now freeman dishboy. It has been a wild run. Do you still wish my company?" Quintus holds his breath in anticipation of the discourse. The only reason Quintus believed he had a chance was the fact that the opportune company was a dragon, a pixie, and the boorish Boone.

" You look like no slave to me. You are solider. more knight in my realm as it were."

 She smiles sweetly

" you seem to have better understanding in what is going on. And you seem more comfortable to be around. I do believe in Holy Roman church. and I am very faithful to the lord. I do not understand why he puts me in these trails. does he wish  to shaken my faith"

     Quintus feels frustrated to find that his beloved homeland may never have recovered. Now the faiths of his oppressors have stretched through the ages. A dark cloud crosses the soldier's brow. Though now that he thought about it, he had seen the Roman war machine, he had fought in the southern reaches of Angland, and they had rolled across the Germanic forests like wildfire. No, it was not surprising at all, just disappointing.
     "That which does not kill us only makes us stronger, your faith is not being shaken, it is being confirmed. You are being shown how strong a person you are, and how your faith is true and unshakable. to even think of it instead of discarding it shows the conviction you hold. You are a testament to the pious. I hate to ask about information that apparently comes from my lands future, but know you anything of Spain from your time? My family ran vinyards for Spanish wine, but any news would be greatful."

" let us talk over drinks"

she smiles at him

" I will be happy to answer anything you wish to ask of  me sir"

     Allowing for the continued suggestion of drinks, Quintus leads Alexis, to a side table. Waving the barmaid in, Quintus calls for a Fine Scarpelli wine. The barmaid is not long and Quintus lays his salt pouch on the tray as payment, this would be worth spending the last of his home wages on.
     As the wine is delivered, Quintus pours out offering the mugs to air a moment and allowing the wine to breath in the bottle for a bit longer. "While we allow the wine to air, what is the Spain of your time known for?"

 Smiles and looks at him  and looks at the wine her glass and raise to the air in same gesture. She brings it to parted lips and sips at it. She closed her eyes to enjoy the taste..


" it is over run by moors. And has good steal there and  place of education. i do not know more. "

     Quintus' brow furrows with loss, "It seems we are destined to play host to everyone before we can have our homes back. I see that England has arisen from the barbaric peoples that I fought when Caesar's legions rolled across the island. A place of refined talent and grace. Royal lines of culture seem to sound the loudest. I met Meriwether here, he is from England also. Perhaps the two of you will have much to talk about, if he is still about.<yellow>" The thought of Meriwether brought a thought, "<yellow>Are you as accustomed to tea as he was, he seemed to thrive on a dark Earl Grey I think." Raising the wineglass to his lips Quintus enjoyed the scent as he drank possibly one of the last bottles from his families vinyards.

" Wine is very good and no i not from england. France i believe. I live in Castle. One of the ladies in waiting."

She smiles and sips at the wine

///From:????

Gallus walked into the game room refreshed and relaxed. His power armor and jetpack had been deposited upstairs and was stowed. His frame was still large, but sturdy and leaner than before. His streaks of grey were less noticeable without the red armor, but not gone. His power sword and bolter still hung at his hip. He rubs his hands as he enters. "It seems that changing has cost me a game."

     Looking up at the goliath's appearance Quintus says, "Boone had to step upstairs. Captain Gallus of the Space Marines, I would like to introduce Lady Alexis Con De Leon, she is French."

 Looks at the being that walked in and  looks almost frighten and  looks away  quickly.

Gallus chuckled at the woman's reaction. "I know that my age as taken its toll, but my scars are not that disturbing I didn't think. If you think these are bad," he said as he pointed to several different scars," you should see the ones that are not obvious."

 She drinks some more. She was in medevil like dress very elegant and regal.

" I am sorry sir. i do not meen to be rude. but this all new to me. Your not from my time . i do not know how I have gotten here"

     With a smile that is comforting instead of condescending, Quintus lays his hand on Alexis' hand. "It shook the big guy here pretty hard when he first got here, he wasn't sure he would be able to get to his men. Once he left and returned he had not only made it back to his men, he had fought alongside them for a score of years and returned a Captain, having left a Sergeant. There is hope, and chances are, you will go back to your time when you choose to leave, but as for now, think of it as a pleasant jaunt away from sanity. Enjoy, talk with the lizards like you did as a child, believe in monsters and heroes, races of dark skinned men and the underworld. Or the gods on Olympos high looking down and meddling in our affairs.`
     This will help you cope to start, then after, remember that each person you spoke with was real, and take into account their life as they have shared it. This will make you royalty, courteous and just even among the horrid and gruesome, contemplative and able to see all sides of the issue. Not only willing to see things from the other point of view, but unable to consider that there is only one side to any story. That will open options for your maid. Did you say you were with your handmaidens, or that you were a handmaiden of higher ranked nobility? If you are the handmaiden, then give your experiences here as a dream of sorts with a thousand tales. It can be used to open your Lady's eyes as well. No man rules upon high alone, and  the best men, have greater women behind them. My wife was such, though they killed her as they took our lands. Remember, no land comes free, all conquest is done on the backs of the "barbarians" who have lived there previously. And the only thing that makes a man a barbarian is that he does not share the conquering people's beliefs."
     Noticing how wordy he had become talking with the lovely young woman, Quintus releases her hand, thinking how his daughter may have grown to be like her. Lifting the pitcher of wine he fills the two wine goblets and his own belt mug. Offering the mug to Gallus, Quintus redirects,"I ramble on as a whitebeard near the fire, Gallus please join us for a drink, and I will continue this conversation and work you over, there on the uh, playing field there." the boast is hollow since Quintus knows little about the game and can't even remember what the pool table is called.

 Smiles and blushes when he took her hand. She  smiles when he realses her hand.

' Sir It is all right. i do  like listing to you speak. you speak well.  I am noble but i work for one higher then I"

She smiles at him and looks  at the other man and nod sher head

     A powerful pride rises in the older nobleman, age, power, and majestic bearing returning to his war slumped shoulders. "Then may I impart a bit of vision that my father gave me, but I was unable to invest. You are in a unique position to see both sides of the coin. You have nobility, but serve those of richer blood. You are servant, and lady, each in equal measure. You must influence the few, though they stand on the shoulders of many. Take all you see under your house, it is a great responsibility, but only in this way can you move the world. With a word guide those who will not be ruled, with action show those who will not act, and with Faith, accord thyself for those you shall never meet. I understand that being a woman, you may not have the choice of who you shall be wed, but whomever it is, guide and support him, and bring others to follow him and you will do well all your days. My mother gave my sister this advice before she went to her marraige bed after her wedding. I have seen the truthe of it, for she married a man with many hidden faults. I feel I can call him friend though when it was all said and done."
     Quintus stands and claims a stick from the rack. Looking all the more rediculous for having grabbed the bridge. "Gallus, crack the balls and let us get on with this game."

"Aye, let's."

Gallus retreived his own stick from the wall and tested its length. It was of course small in his hands, but he held it with ease and grace. He looked at his arms for a minute then turned back to Quintus.

"I fear I may have the advantage in reach. That means you break."

     Approaching the table, Quintus bows low and lines up the cue stick, only then seeing the choice as the bridge. Moving back to the rack, he chooses a light stick with a green stripe just low of the middle of the stick. Bending to line up the strike, Quintus makes a few practice strokes with the cue and then slices the air with a mighty swing as he tips the cue forward, barely clipping the top of the ball. The cue rolls forward cracking the triangle of balls, but not breaking them up more than a few inches.
     "Ah, yes, I see. May take just a bit more practice. I hope you are still in good form my aquarian friend. I am correct in saying, since nothing fell into the pockets, it is your shot now, right?"

 She stands up with her glass of wine and sips at the wine and walks over to the table they were playing at and watches the game.

" what is this game called"

     "The game is called puddle, err pool, pool table that's it, yes! Oh sorry, as I was saying, the game is called pool, I was being initiated in it's workings by the rough one named Boone when you first arrived." Quintus puffs out his chest at remembering the name, completely overlooking the disastrous first shot.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:58, Sat 21 Mar 2009.

 Smiles and covers her mouth and giggles and her hand brushed his arm as she found him   cute. She looks at the other man and smiles at him

" do you  mind if I watch"

"I must say I do not my Lady. I call the game billiards but I new a cowboy who named it thus... ah yes... pool as my Roman friend stated so elegantly."

He swept off his bowler & gave the woman a courtly bow "The name is Smythe, Meriwether Lewis Smythe. I am at your service."

He then rose giving Quintus a wink "Hello my old friend. Did you mention tea?"

Gallus looked at Quintus and then shook his head. He approached the table to line up his shot. Taking his time, he aimed and hit the cue like a pro. The cue bounced off one of the solid colored balls, but did not send it in. He smiled and said a small curse. "It is your shot, Quintus."

Meriwether gave the big man a nod in greeting "My prdon sir. I do not think we have met. Meriwether Lewis Smythe. A pleasure I'm sure."

     "Meriwether, this is Captain Gallus, without his huge suit of armor. He was Sergeant the last time we talked. Thank you Gallus," Quintus lined up his next shot, this time to the striped yellow one. With a bit more control, Quintus shoots the ball. The cue strikes the nine bouncing the ball near the pocket, but bouncing off of the banks, rebounding into the center of the table. With a strong crack the 9 ball separates the pack, and with a lazy roll the three ball wobbles over to the side pocket and falls.
     "Well, what do you make of that, I was going for the striped ones, your shot big man." Returning over to the table, Quintus refills the mug and two glasses. Waving for another glass to the barmaid Quintus hands a full glass to Meriwether. "One of the last bottles made from the Scarpelli family, my own vineyard raised these grapes, my own kin pressed this wine. Here try it, there is a heart to the wine you won't find elsewhere. You can have tea later." A serious and forlorn look crosses his face.

 Curtsy to the young man and looks back at the  game

" some more wine please"

Meriwether took the glass from the Roman. Meri had not known the man for long but already counted him among his friends. He noticed the change in the man's demeanor & gave him a friendly nod of encouragement.

"If the vintage is from your family's vineyards I expect it to be most excellent indeed. Tis good to see you my friend. We all appear to be out of sorts what? Let us take heart of new friendships made."


He turned to the huge mechanical monstrosity that was Gallus "Most pleased to meet you Captain. My father, The Major, was a military man. Queen's own Guard, 32nd Regiment of Foot. Most admirable profession indeed. Do not allow me to interrupt your shot my good fellow."

The Englishman then turned to the beautiful & elegant woman beside him. He extended his arm & goblet of wine toward her "I am sure Quintus can fetch me another. A gentleman never allows a Lady to go without while he may help it. It comes by good authority that the vintage is most excellent. Yet, I must say, it can not touch the man who's family distiled it. Please enjoy it... ah... forgive me but I know not your name?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:09, Sun 22 Mar 2009.

     "My apologies to both of you, Meriwether Lewis Smythe, this is Lady Alexis Con De Leon." Quintus makes sure to stay clear of the line of sight as he introduces the two.

"You flatter me Quintus, but it will not help your game to distract me." He laughed, deep and booming."You sunk a ball, it is still your shot until you miss. I believe that is correct, is it not?"

     With a gracious bow of over exaggerated manners Quintus approaches the table again. "I bow to your experience, though technically, doesn't your first experience start a few thousand years from my last experience?" With this last little jibe, Quintus lines up on the five ball, draws back and rocks forward with the cue. Striking the cue, the pearlescent ball rolls hard to the right at a slow speed. striking the six, and the eight ball. Both balls bounce around the corners at the far end of the table. No success, nothing drops, nothing even the slightest bit close.

Gallus smiles and waves him off. "Come now, what is a few thousand years among friends, hmm? In all honesty, I would almost prefer your experiences. At least you only fight humans and your term can be at an end. I must fight until death. A Space Marine does not get to retire." He goes silent lining up a shot on the ten ball. His swift, powerful shot sends it straight into a corner pocket, followed closely by the fourteen ball. His next shot goes wide and hits nothing.  With a few curses,he reaches in the corner pocket and throws the ten back onto the table."Foul, your shot."

 Smiles  at the Englishman.
" thank you very much I apericated  the offer of drink. and yes it is very good Vintage"

     With concerns over his prior actions, Quintus questions the big blonde. "Have I missed a rule here? Why did you return the ball to the able from the pocket?" Quintus quickly moves to the side pocket, ready to retrieve the 3 ball if he needs to offer one up in fair play.

"It is customary for my brothers or myself to remove a point or reduce a score when we miss. It is to symbolize the loss that doing nothing creates. I did it only out of habit." He shrugs and waits for the Roman to make his move.

     With a quirk of his mouth Quintus thinks to work the game differently. Perhaps a lesson could be taught to the large Captain. "It must be a hard life to think that every action that does not progress your personal gain is a loss," With this, Quintus lines up on his 6 ball, he sees that if he tips off the six he can angle off the rail and bury the cue ball in the corner. From there, Gallus would have a hard time even banking a profitable shot out.
     Taking his shot, the balls click together, the cue ball angles off the six, passes the four on the rail side, bounces from the rail clear of the pocket and rests behind the four, two, one and eight. No clear shot out. the six stops rolling in front of the side pocket. "Ouch, that didn't work out too well for me, nothing dropped." Quintus quickly pulled the three from the pocket and rolled it out on the table so that it would interfere with none of the balls.

Noting the Roman mimicking his action and at the same time setting him up for a difficult shot, Gallus nodded.

"Aye, that it is a hard life, but like I said before, I will never retire from war. It is all a Space Marine can and will do. I have seen countless horrors and will doubtlessly see countless more. We are doomed to live until we die in battle. I have long thought that my place could have been elsewhere. I was born on a small tariff agriculture planet. The Skyhawks used the world as a crusade stop to pick up more neophytes. I was chosen because of my size and stamina. The test were brutal, but if I survived them I would be sent home. They kept their promise in a way. My home became the battle barge they were in and my family my battle brothers. For years I served, many died under my command as a Sergeant, and more have died under me as a Captain. I regret every death, for it was family that I sent in knowing their doom. But it is said that what good is a Space Marine if not to die for humanity? A question that I have yet to find an answer to."

He made no shot, lost in thought.

Meriwether gave the woman a half bow "My pleasure I assure you!"

He glanced at the game. Then again at the big armored man "I say ole boy? Captain I think Quint called you... when did you arrive?"

Meri's pale blue eyes suddenly glossed over & became sad "Arrived? Strange word what? I vaguely remember arriving here before... Joseph was here... Yes! A beautiful elf & another woman... yes & Joseph... & I went upon an adventure. The Sage was with us as well. Yet, I can not remember a Bloody thing!"

The Englishman's face flushed a bit "Please excuse my language My Lady. Frustration won out but it is a poor excuse for bad manners!"

 Smiles and nods her head.

" it is all right. but are you well sir?"

 She looks at him with concern in her eyes. She  takes sip for her wine and  relaxes and watches the  game

    With a grin, Quintus taps Gallus' boot with the butt of his cue stick, "Dream between shots big man, I wish to lose tonight so I may get back to my duties, haha." Quintus begins to wonder what this big man would see about his time, and if there was anything that could be done. This man decided the fate of countries, from what it sounded like, he decided much more than that with his actions. Could Quintus return and make a difference?

"Sorry, tend to do that alot now. Not in battle of course." He lined up the stick and cue once more, but instead of a straight on shot, he bounced the cue over the one, grazing it. The cue hit the twelve ball teetered on the edge of a pocket. The one rested in front of the opposite pocket.

     "Great shot!! How did you do that?" Quintus is all eyes as the ball leaped over his barricade to continue across the table. "Can you do that according to the rules of this game? Do you not have to stay on the table?" If the answers are no, then this game enters the 3 dimensional, and the sand table gains terrain instead of forces. Taking in the angle that Gallus struck the ball, Quintus mimics the strike in the air to the side of the table. The ex-soldier like a child in the throws of a new game.

 She smiles and claps her hands. She had no clue what they were playing but she was cheering them on just the same

"HAHA! I think that we are missing the rules a little too much. I suggest we play something we are both familiar with. Do you know the game Liar's Dice? I play it often with my men." He looks to Quintus and waits for an answer.

     Disappointment clearly rises on Quintus face, "Please I have no reference, this is my first attempt at this game, I know little of it, the game just has more intricacies than I fully understood, I still wish to learn it if you would continue. I mean nothing to offend please, just trying to learn the game well. I like the concept, and it is captivating this bouncing style of skill." Quintus does scan the room quickly in an attempt to find a middle ground. Perhaps, Smythe had the answer. "Meriwether, are you familiar with the dice game he has mentioned?"

Gallus quickly steps in to amend his comment. "I meant no offense. I have only seen the game in passing at some of the bars on worlds I have visited. I too know little as our battle barge has not the table to play. I do know dice and cards however and was merely suggesting that we find a common ground."

     "There are many games involving wine and knuckle bones that I am familiar with in passing. Though the object of them is to get drunk fast, so you forget that you are up to your elbows in the insides of your enemies. Or in celebration of today's victories, when the only other thought in your head is the fact that tomorrow you will die. I am looking for a more mentally challenging type of game, where getting your chest wet is a disadvantage." Quintus sees that the pool game is over and repositions the balls so that he is now the one buried in the corner. Angling the cue, Quintus takes a few practice strokes, then hammers the cue ball almost straight down. The cue ball shoots out with a loud thump, cracks against the six ball and rebounds directly back at the Spaniard. With battlefield reflexes, Quintus rolls his hand off of the cue stick and catches the ball before it could strike him.
     "Seems this game may be safer studied when noone was around." Quintus sets the cue down, he had made the ball bounce off the table before striking the six. He just needed to find the right angle and power of the stroke.

Gallus made towards the bar room. "I have a hunger that has settled on me and I must see too it. Come let me buy you a drink. I am not unprepared this time." Not waiting he stepped out into the bar room.

//To Bar

Meriwether's gaze appeared somewhat cloudy as he looked straight ahead. As if from somewhere he heard a voice speak & ask him he he was well. There was more chatter about games of chance but was not life just such a game. Quint asked him about another game but he did not even hear the name. The machine man was off without speaking. He would have called him out for his bad manners if had really cared. Something else tugged at the edge of his mind. Mirrors...

"Quite... unwell... I think My Lady. However, worry not... I shall... "

Then he shouted at Quintus "I say! Ole chap... what do you know of... what did he call it? Ah yes! The Hall... the Hall of Mirrors... "
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:04, Thu 26 Mar 2009.

 She looks at  the Englishman and nods her head

 "I am glad you are well sir then. maybe you should sit down"

Meriwether glanced back at the beautiful woman who had spoken "Yes, sit... but of course. The wine is very good is it not? Quintus' is a most gracious host. Quintus?"

He then turned to call his friend "I say Quintus! There is something I must tell you. If only I could remember... "

     Turning to Meriwether, Quintus wonders at the man's reactions. He seems to be the only one who has left and returned without the intact memories of his previous experiences. "Master Smythe, are you well, please sit, I am sure what you have to say to me will wait a few moments. I have a wonderful tea coming, it will just take a moment," Nodding at the barmaid, and shaking his head towards the kitchen, Quintus sends the message.
     That figures, the moment he gets a bit of a hunger the big man has to go and pick another fight, it just sounds like this time, someone took him up on the offer. The sound seems to be coming from outside the front doors, which would probably carry it outside the protections of the inn. "My lady De Leon, would you entertain Meriwether here? I am sure he would enjoy your most attractive company." Turning his attentions back to Meriwether, "My greatest apologies Meriwether, but I do not know of this Hall of Mirrors. If you will excuse me, I can go see if there is news of it from Cookie, or Barkeep." Quintus takes a step towards the door of the game room, then turns back to assure himself that everything would be well here.

Meriwether reached back for a chair with a shaky hand. He gave Quintus a friendly nod & a weak smile "Very well ole chap. I shall await you here. I am quite alright! Head is a little fuzzy but I shan't be going anywhere. Remember cream & sugar ole friend."

As he sat he looked up a the Lady "Please forgive me Lady Con De Leon. Yet, I shall be perfectly alright. You need not play the nurse maid if you have aught else to do. However, if you wish to converse I would indeed welcome the company."

The Englishman brought his wine up to his mouth with a more steady hand now. His pale blue eyes watched the Roman's retreating back...

 She smiles at him and nods her head to him and sits down next to him and sips at her wine.
' I do not mine keeping  you company"

Meriwether's pale blue eyes glanced over to the noble Lady beside him. There is a twinkle in them now "Very well My Lady. Con De Leon... hmmmm Spanish what?"

He then gave her a weak smile as he sipped his wine anew "I thank you My Lady Con De Leon. Tis most generous of you to keep me company. I shan't bore you... well at least not on purpose you see. I just can not remember where I left Joseph & the others."

His eyes narrowed & he continued to sip his wine absently as he strained to remember "Aalyssa... yes she tagged along you see. The Hall of Mirrors... to the Devil with it! I shan't remember it it would seem!"

     Quintus bows out with a thankful smile cast towards Lady De Leon.




----------------->
to the Wolf's Head Tavern
----------------->

 Looks  at the man for a moment and sips at her  wine.

 " are sure you are ok si. Please just call me Lady Alexis. and you do not bore me"

He held up his goblet in a silent toast to the Lady beside him "My thanks Lady... Lady Alexis. I shall do my best to keep up with the conversation, yet my mind appears somewhat foggy as the Thames in early April. I know there is something I must do... must tell everyone though something has... is keeping me from it."

He shook his head as if to clear it "Until I remember, I shall of course enjoy your company. Have you enjoyed your stay thus far?"

     Returning to the game room, Quintus takes the last drought of the Spanish wine from his vineyards. "I am sorry Meriwether, it seems that Barkeep has no knowledge of the "Hall of Mirrors" you had mentioned. The only place I have seen mirrors are the rooms upstairs. Lady De Leon, I presume that Master Meriwether has been no burden while I was away? I would truly be aghast to find he had been anything but a gentleman." Pulling a chair over to the table, Quintus waits as the bar maid sets out a tea service complete with cucumber and watercress sandwiches and tea biscuits.

She smiles at the crasy man

" yes I have enjoyed my stay so far"


 She looks at Quintus

" oh he is no burden"

Meriwether stood ramrod straight as he rose quickly from his seat "By Jove! You are spot on Quint ole chap! Well a bit off... I would say yet I think it does not matter now. No! The Hall of Mirrors is not upstairs but down you see? Well perhaps you don't... I do not either really but at least I know that!"

He sat slowly down in his seat picking up the pot "Tea My Lady?"

He arched an eyebrow & awaited her reply, then made a side long glance at the Roman "Quint, ole chap?"

     "You have accepted my chosen libation, I would be the crudest of boors if I did not share in your offered refreshment. I most graciously accept." With that Quintus accepts the proffered cup, and saucer and mimics to the best he can Meriwether enjoying his tea. Though the emotion of the new flavor is quite clear as genuine.

" i would love some tea  good sir"

 She smiles at the both of them

Meriwether sipped his tea with his pinky extended. He then sat down his cup to examine the sandwiches.

"I say! The staff has out done themselves once more Quint ole chap. Astounding attention to detail I must say. The tea is excellent by the way. Just the way I like it... strong & slightly bitter upon the tongue."

Meriwether then looked at his old friend & said "You crude? Never I say!"

Then turning to Alexis "Quintus is a gentleman of the highest caliber My Lady. Quite! You will find no better in this establishment or I dare say... well anywhere in the many worlds & times if what I surmise is true about this place."

He then picked up his tea cup & sipped once more "Please forgive me... both of you. I have a lot upon my mind & yet have no idea how to bring it forth if you will. All is based upon this Hall of Mirrors you see? Quite irritating really but can not be helped."

     With an obvious and exaggerated styling, Quintus take the handle on the teacup in the pinched styling of Meriwether. Great care is taken to include the  extended pinky finger, though is obviously counter to the strong graspings of the norm for the Spaniard's hand. A twinge along the jugular and causing his left eye to wink involuntarily, marks the first strong, hot, and bitter flavoring of the tea as it strikes his tongue. "Quite the unique flavoring my friend," Quintus listens as Meriwether continues about his need to find information about the "Hall of Mirrors."

 She nods her head and listen to the two man speak and sips at her tea and relaxes in the chair she was in

The Englishman had arrived! However, where or how, he was again unsure. Again he was shaken... his mind swam with a multitude of thoughts and memories that did a most gallant battle within his mind. He knew this place... surely he had been here before! Had it been years or perchance only a heartbeat. How could one really tell? Time here seemed to flow and ebb under rules the Shootist could not comprehend. He parted the red velvet curtains that hid this room a bit from the tap room. Meri stumbled in to the room once more. He made his way to the table where one could play poker, as he had done in Wiskey Flats... or was it Madison? Again he could no longer be entirely sure... all that was real was the here and now.

The Englishman caught sight of an empty tea cup and a nearly empty bottle of wine.

Quintus? Quint ole chap, are you still about... or were you ever here at all.

The Englishman smelled the bottle and the bouquet seemed to bring back memories of the vintage and the Roman who's family had made it. There had been so many here... so many that had come and gone.

He settled himself into a chair and cradled his head within his gloved hands.

Who am I? Was I not a man of another name once?

At last a memory surfaced... seemly it came unbidden to his swimming mind...

*****   ***   *****
The sound of singing came from somewhere in the distance. Perhaps down the hall or downstairs. A hymn, which one, he could not say for he was not a overly religious man. The cruelty of the world had taken care of that. If God existed, mayhaps He was asleep... mayhaps He had just thrown his hands up & then wandered away from his creation. The Englishman would not have blamed him in the least. The hymn... the song was sad yet with a hint of hope. Why not? This was a place of death... where one came to die.

A cough brought him back to the present & the old man whom laid in bed before him. He had watched him grow feeble & shrink in both size & stature. Yet there was mischief in those hazel eyes. Meriwether leaned forward to wipe his lips & the bloody sputum there. The old man's grin grew & he coughed. Meriwether received a face full of saliva & whatnot for his trouble...

"Dam n' tar-nation but ye mak the ugliest nursemaid I'd e'er seen Meri! Dam... cough... if'n ain't true!"

The man was interrupted by another spasm of coughs. His hazel eyes, now somewhat sunken began to water anew. Meriwether put on a brave face. The man before him, one Nevada Smith, had been more than a mentor... he had been the father Meriwether had always longed for. The Major... well that was best left unsaid... there was no love for the man whom sired him.

Meriwether smiled his bravest & then said in a low even tone "Come now ole chap! You'll pull through. I shan't place bets against you! Too many have & have paid the price."

The old man tried to laugh, sending the few wisps of hair flying. His week old growth of stubble more than apparent, the old man smiled around it. Yet, even this sent him into another spasm of coughing.

Meriwether shook his head "No, do not speak overmuch. You need rest you see. You shall be up in no time. I have yet much to learn. I wish to... "

A liver spotted hand, near skeletal in appearance, held the Englishman up as the aged gunman spoke once more "Dam if'n ye... cough... don't speak pretty but we... cough... know what's up. I ain't ahfraid mind ya... cough... but I'm ready. No need'n ta live like this. Listen... cough... ta me Meri. I want ya ta member... cough... two things. Kay?"

The Englishman gave a solemn nod but remained silent. Post another coughing spell or two & the old man continued.

"Yer ah good man... cough... man Meri. No deni'n son. Jus remember... cough... act like ye don't like kill'n but... cough... but act like ye don't mind it much either. Ye'll... cough... be awright. Now take them guns n'... cough... n' git!"

Meriwether's pale blue eyes glanced at the guns lying at arms-length away. Their pearl handles polished to a high sheen. Was he... no he could not be? Meriwether hand practiced with them but wore his own side arm. A more modern gun. These were like the man who laid dying... antiquated.

Meriwether nearly rose & shook his head "I shan't take them Nevada. No they should go... go to whomever is your next of kin. Just name them & I shall deliver the guns I swear."

The age spotted hand moved with a speed that belied the old man's condition. As he took Meriwether's hand in his own, there was still strength there as well as a burning fire. With force, the old man placed Meri's hand over the pistols.

He coughed & said "Them there pistols is yers... cough... got no... cough... no one else! Take 'em n' git!"

There was dignity as well as tears in those hazel eyes now "Git!"

Meriwether stood slowly & took the pistols. He turned & took a step, then stopped.

"I shan't forget you ole man! I... I wish you Godspeed ole chap." Meri managed.

This brought on the wheezing that had become Nevada Smith's laughter "Dam ye! I don' told ye... cough... chaps is somesuch ye wear. Now git!"

   *******             ****           *******

Out in the hall Meriwether buckled on his new pistols in the fashion the old man had taught him. For what was known as a cross draw. His face was drawn... a tear trying to escape his left eye.

From behind him the nurse called "Are you leaving Mr. St John?"

Meriwether turned to face the woman who would... well see to his friend's final needs. He reached in his pocket & handed her a pouch of coins.

"See him off well will you? Never mind his cursing. He is a good man you see." the Englishman said.

The woman nodded gravely as she wiped a speckle of blood from the Shootist's cheek & said "You won't be back then Mr. St John?"


Meriwether shook his head, an elegantly gloved hand brushed the butt of one of the pistols "No... he wishes to... well I would allow him... "

Meriwether then looked into the woman's eyes "No. And the name is Smythe you see. Mr. St John was left in yon room."

*****   ***  *****

The Englishman peered at the butts of both pistols and brought the bottle to his mouth. After a long quaff the Shootist thought that he had finally arrived at Bedlam's door.

Meri threw his head back and laughed out loud though a tear gently fell from his eye...
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:03, Tue 23 Sept 2014.

Meri allowed the tear to fall gently down one cheek. The bottle found it's way to his lips once more. The taste was sweet... mayhaps bittersweet. His other hand eased a colt from it's leather holster and brought it before his pale blue eyes. Beautiful but deadly no doubt... how many had met their end from this lovely little thing? Meri could not be certain for none of this seemed real any longer to the Englishman. Nevada had been a deadly gun before he had bequeathed the pistols to Meri and Meri in turn had put them to good use. A man's face drifted from his wine-touched memories... a face that brought back memories from another time... perchance another age altogether...

Bloody Frank Wade is it? How cocksure you were Mr. Wade...

*****   ***   *****

Meri had called Frank Wade out. The Englishman wore a town Marshall's badge and that made this not only right but legal. Frank Wade was tall and wiry. His holstered colt tied to his right leg. His fingers faintly flexed and waved above the grip. Frank was known around Whiskey Flats as a fast and deadly pistolero. Nobody but Johnny Lancer, a fast gun in his own right, had kept Wade from running roughshod over the town. Frank Wade had indeed killed as many as fifteen men. One of them had been Lucky Ned Peppers, Meri's friend and road companion some years back.

"SO!" said Frank smiling confidently. "You found out huh? 'Bout Ned I mean. Well.. can't say I regret it none. Ned was a nuisance... just like you."

Wade spat and chuckled "I heard he done gone n' got himself ah china-woman... south in El Paso. Mail order bride... "

Wade laughed "... might jus have ta look her up ma-self. After we're through of course."

Meri slid his frock coat aside revealing Nevada's pistols.

"You may lay your firearms aside Mr. Wade. My last offer to you. Most likely you may hang but Mason Gamble's money may save you yet. Will you yield sir?" Meri asked without emotion.

Frank now laughed even louder "Naw! Not ta-day English. Not ta-day. Yer move."

Meri nodded and his hands moved first, but a heartbeat before the other gunman. Both men's hands were blurs and both came up and fired mere seconds from one another. Even as the sound gunfire echoed both men were down!

Frank struggled to his feet and attempted to raise his colt in a shaky hand while his other tried to stop the flow of blood from his gut. Meri felt the burning sensation in an area mere inches from his heart, his collarbone was broken. One of Nevada's Old Navies fell from the nerveless fingers of his left hand. He was barely aware of Wade stumbling toward him. The dust on the ground blew up in a cloud near his head as Frank cocked his pistol once more even as he grimaced. Wade's next shot tore through Meri's frock coat, a mere finger width from his chest. Meri groped for his own pistol as he fought through the pain and his thumb slipped off the hammer. Wade cocked his own colt and smiled, then fell to his knees and pitched over face down. It was done...

*****   ***   *****

Meri's bleary eyes studied the pistol for a couple of more breaths before he twirled around his index finger... first forward then backwards before reversing it and replacing it in the holster once more.

"Bloody nuisance what?" said the Shootist said in a harsh whisper. "Bloody nuisance indeed sir."

The bottle of Quint's wine found it's way to his lips once more. Bittersweet... yes that was it then. Bittersweet...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mA54NBtPKdI
This message was last edited by the player at 16:13, Sun 29 July 2018.