Lost in the Woods

[Fouredged Sword]

Play thread. I will post the opening later.

[Fouredged Sword]

It is the dawn of spring in the year of the East. The spring queen is to be recrowned tonight. This calls for a gathering of all changelings loyal to the court for the renewal of oaths of fealty. This happens under the cover of the Victorian Renactment Society. You are part of the society.

Having a cover makes it much easier to explain the finances and resorces that go into such an event, and help to explain what is happeing when a mortal walks in to see the activites of the court. The court procedings are much like that era's court. Dressing the part is optional, but a sense of docorum is required.

The event takes place in a large ampetheater in the local library. How do you show up?

[WelcomingGrave]

A soft 'click-clack' bounces off the walls as Jack enters the scene, his shoes being the most likely culprit. Taking in the scene he removes his white knock off fedora as a sign of respect. It's too early in his 'career' to be big headed, and rightfully so. There are new rules in his new life. Ones that if broken come with serious consequences. Best to play by them, until we has the chance to rewrite the rules in his favor that is.

Jack hasn't come dressed in period wear for the event. Instead he sports his likely attire; an old grimy business suit, with a knock off fedora. It's what he always wears, and a Jack without his trademark suit might as well be a totally different card.

He wasn't the happiest fae to be there, after all it is the dawn of a new season, spring of them all, but the hint of the Eastern power in the air helped fill him with some amount of ease, if only a bit.

Despite his affiliations though he makes his appearance one of 'lackluster'. Best not to stick one's neck out too far too soon. He doesn't make it a point to hide his entrance into the amphitheater, but he doesn't enter with the grandeur of some of the other, shall we say, guest?

Instead he absorbs his surroundings and has a good once over those who have gathered here, trying to spot familiar faces, preferably friendly familiar faces.

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor comes to the building inobtrusively, parks his van, and takes a few seconds to warily eye his surroundings. He certainly feels like a celebration would be a good idea, but hopes (probably in futility) that the "reenactment" gimmick won't be carried too far. He himself comes in a very non-Victorian outfit - in fact, it's what he was working with, a set of comfortable clothes and a vest as useful for jogging as they are for driving. Spring was meant to be about enjoyment of life, not decorum, right? That was probably more important about one of the other seasons... or so he hopes.

He enters carefully, almost apologetically, looking briefly around as if he was checking the faces he knows for some threat that only he is aware of. His features seem to relax slightly, and he nods - to no one or everyone. Afterwards, he moves to the side, intending to see who else is here before approaching anyone. It was supposed to be his favourite season that's getting celebrated here, so he should be feeling safe and confident, he tells himself. His instinct, however, has a hard time believing his brain about it. Maybe it was not such a good idea to come here without some more official clothes, he wonders, but feels it would be somewhat futile. Wizard hat, bonnet or bandana wouldn't make his ears any shorter,

At least as it is, he could well look like a member of the team that did the backstage support for the grand gala, so to speak. Every glamorous event has people like that before or after... ah, but not "during", a treasonous voice tells him.

It's no use, he says to himself, quietly. Might as well not bother. With that, he continues looking at the people around to check if he recognizes someone.

[Fouredged Sword]

The two of you see one another quickly, and your fears about costumes are unfounded. There are a wide variety of outfits rangeing from full victorian dress to a centaur who is wearing a leather jacket and a saddlecloth. (You both know him as Rick, he complains that when he forgets to whear the cloth normals see him as not wearing pants)

There is food and drink being passes around, but no wine or beer just yet. The court all agree that forming a pact drunk is a very bad idea. You know it will come sonner or later though, once the season officaly turns from winter to spring and the spring queen really starts the party going.

[Princess]

Mary enters with all the pomp and circumstance her lazy self refuses to muster. She is wearing a ragged Victorian dress that fits her poorly, loose in the chest and tight at the waist. She is slouched as she strolls into the room flipping through messages on her phone. As she sees her friends, a slight smile stretches across her thin lips and she lazily waves, redirecting her slow saunter towards them.

[Gaius]

At news of the coronation's theme, Nick's thoughts turned at once to a jester, and so he sought out an expert on the period to help him consider the role. The conversation proved a short one, however, as the actor was told quickly that royal fools had not appeared in English courts since their Civil War. Still, deciding to make the most of it, Nick picked up a few 'fun' facts about the period and about jesters in general. Of the latter, most memorable to him was that the jester hat's distinctive three floppy points represented the donkey ears and tail, worn by earlier fools. He gave the tidbit a vague, "Heh," in response.

And so, courtesy of some friends at a local theater, Nick arrives in more traditional dress. The ensemble was more comfortable than expected, and he was told he looked fairly dapper in it. Had it not been the night before, he might have seen what he could do about offering appropriate clothes to the rest of the motley. 'Ah well,' he thought with a shrug, 'Next time.'

In spite of that, and how silly as he often feels in costume, Nick is in good spirits as he strides past the entrance, removing his top hat by the door. He gives a subtle sigh of relief as his ears twitch in freedom from their confinement. Said ears then perk at familiar voices, and his eyes soon catch familiar faces. Giving the group a smile, he returns to his forehead the brim of his hat. He tips it to Mary, as a proper Victorian gentleman should, gives the thing a rest on a convenient, popular hat rack, and makes his way over.

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor quickly recognizes Jack, and walks to him. Good evening, Jack! he says heartily, his mood quickly improving. Good to see you here. How are things with you?

He notices Mary and then Nick shortly after they come, and waves to them almost happily. Well, now we're all here we don't need to skulk in the corner, he comments almost as much to himself as to Jack, and walks briskly towards his two other comrades-in-oath. It's been too long, Mary, you look lovely. he says with a welcoming smile, and a heartfelt compliment as he extends his hand. Afterwards, he turns to the remaining member of his group, "And how are you, Nick?

[WelcomingGrave]

Jack, sulking about in a corner, turns his head towards the footsteps that quickly approached him.

Jack smiled as he looked to Kirkor. "Evenin' Kirkor. Good to finally notice a familiar face 'round here, even if it's your ugly mug", Jack said jokingly.

Quickly though, Jack found himself surrounded by many familiar faces. Giving a nod to Nick as he joins the group, and points his finger at Mary as she waves to the forming group with a smile.

Like moths to a flame, Jack thought.

"Anyone seen Jill 'round here?"

[Gaius]

Nick returns the smiles, wave and nod as he approaches. "Agreed on both points, he says of Kirkor's comments, giving Mary a smile. "I'm really glad to see you all again," he tells them all warmly. Given the company, he'd likely be saying pleasantries like that all night, so he's glad he can mean it at least once.

"And I'm quite well," Nick answers the jackalope, giving a nod. Still chipper, he idly scratches an ear, continuing, "The worst I can think of is that reminder just now of why I'm not a hat person." He asks playfully, "Commiserations?"

To everyone, "I hope you're all doing at least as well. Anything new?" On the topic of Jill, Nick shakes his head. "Can't say I have. Perhaps she hasn't arrived yet?"

[Fouredged Sword]

A pretty girl with petals for hair walks up and holds out a tray of cheeze and crackers on toothpicks. She smiles quietly offering the food.

[Princess]

Mary smiles wider and moves towards Kirkor as if to hug him, but stops short upon seeing the offered tray. Oooh! Cheese! she says before seizing handfuls from the plate.

[The_Shaman]

Dumped for the cheeze, eh? Kirkor says, with a big smile. Might as well see what it's worth. Thank you, umm... he says, smiling at the girl with the tray as he tries to remember her name.

[WelcomingGrave]

Jack puts a hand in one of his jacket pockets and pulls out a pocket watch. That is, a digital watch without a wrist strap he keeps in his pocket. He quickly checks the time and slides it back in it's rightful place just in time to make eye contact with the pretty girl with petals for hair.

Jack smiles as he looks at the offering of tooth picks with cheese, and the smile turns into a grin as he witnesses Mary pouncing on the dish.

He politely shakes his head at the pretty girl, "No thanks miss."

Instead, Jack focuses on the rest of the guest. Casually observing anyone that looks interesting until the main part of the event gets underway. He also makes note of any humans that happen upon the event, but mostly for entertainment at the expression on their faces.

[Fouredged Sword]

The event is well guarded from outsiders, and it is hidden by the fact that everyone already knows it is just a group of strange people in costumes.

The girl smiles a little brighter and says "Fara, my name is Fara. Pleasure to meet you. Have some cheeze."

[Princess]

Thif if tho guh! Mary says, stuffing cheese into her mouth. Thang yu she adds before swallowing. So how has everyone been?

[Gaius]

Nick gives the girl a nod and a smile, segueing quickly into a friendly chuckle as Mary goes bananas on the appetizers. "Very thoughtful of you, Fara, thank you, but I have to pass." He pats his stomach and gives an apologetic smile as he explains, "Late lunch. Otherwise, I'd be following the good lady's example. Perhaps later?"

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor nods with a smile. Nice to meet you, Fara - I am Kirkor, and the pleasure is mine. I will indulge, thank you. he says with a wink, and takes a piece.

He takes one and eats it with unhidden enjoyment. Oh, these are good. Your loss, guys, he says, turning to to Jack and Nick.

[Fouredged Sword]

Ok, everyone, lets test the rolling system. Everyone make a Presence + Socialize roll to see how well you interact with the crowd.

[WelcomingGrave]

Jack stands among his friends, much like he was standing among the elusive parts of the 'grapevine'. After all, he is a part of the Six Whispering Motley.

[roll0] ?

[Gaius]

"Eh, if there are any left when I'm not full," Nick answers Kirkor with a smile, "here's hoping I find out how right you are."

Nick exudes an aura of warmth to Fara and to passing guests, and turns every now and then, extending a sincere compliment here, an inside joke there, or a brief but lively bit of conversation where appropriate. He wants everyone to have a fantastic time, and he wants them to know he and the motley are a part of why they do.

[roll0]

[Princess]

Mary looks out over the crowd before going about her business of dancing on the air like the social butterfly she is.

4 dice +5 [roll0]

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor starts chatting more freely with the locals, now that everyone is here and things have started on a good leg.

presence+socialize roll, +1 from oath, +1 from mantle: 5 dice total
[roll0]
In case of 10s:[roll1]

[Fouredged Sword]

The party continues for a while, with drinking and talking. Then the formal crowning of the Spring queen begins. There is a short speach by the Winter lord (the man's name is Smith, no first name, just Smith) and the then fills a goblet with pure water and hands it to the new queen. The spiping of the goblet is what passes the rulership and marks the turning of the season for the court.

That is when it happens. She sips of the goblet and stands up straight. She begins to talk, and then stops as her voice dosen't come out. A look of panic crosses her face and she looks pleadingly to the crowd.

And then she freezes solid, from the inside out. There is a brief pause as the whole room is absolutly quiet, what do you do?

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor looks at the nearest member of his group, as if dumbstruck. His near-panicked stare states clearly that he's thinking what can have gone wrong, and drawing a complete blank - for now. He then looks at the stage again, and bites his lower lip.

[Gaius]

Nick isn't doing much better. His smile has been snatched away, a shocked expression taking its place. His ears stand perked at attention. When his eyes aren't fixed to the stage, they cast sidelong glances, wondering if any of his companions have any more idea than he does about what's just happened.

Though he does have a question: Who? Power player in the Spring Court? One of the Others? Something from the Hedge? Even something not of Faerie at all? It could be anything. But he knows he can't be alone in focusing his thoughts on one of the Winter Court, if not the Court itself. The timing and nature of the assault just make one big arrow.

In fact, it strikes Nick's showman's sensibilities as too big an arrow. 'This is a stunt,' he thinks, though doesn't commit himself, and doesn't believe it's the whole story. He remains completely out to sea on the 'who' and the 'why,' regardless. He watches and listens attentively, still shaken by what he's just seen.

[Princess]

Mary drops the impressive collection of appetizer toothpicks she has acquired this evening and stands with a terrible slouch and her mouth agape, looking at the ongoing events at the stage in shock.

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor tries to come through the other changelings, and help the Spring Queen to her feet. He checks her temperature, shaking his head as he does so. "What was that, anyway?" he asks no one in particular.

[WelcomingGrave]

Jack stands among his kinship at ease, enjoying the general vibe that the party is given off. It's not what he's use to, but a party is a party, and they added their own little zing to the whole event. He'll give them that.

...

On second thought, maybe a little too much. Jack thought, as the would be Spring Queen is frozen solid.

Jack is as dumbstruck as the rest of his companions. Such a sudden change of mood. Bewilderment, soon to be followed by panic Jack would assume.

Looks like Winter is lasting a little bit longer this year...cold front, stopped 'Spring' right in its tracks. Jack mused. Someone is getting a little too greedy, that much is for sure.

Jack 'wipes' the stupid look off his face as Kirkor makes the second move. Jack looks to his motley companions for a brief moment. "Looks like 'business' will be in full force now a days mates. Why don't we make a good impression this year?" With that he follows behind the trail Kirkor makes as he advances to the stage.

[Gaius]

Nick is at first content to stick to his thoughts and let the Bystander Effect take its course. After all, the Queen must surely have a qualified retinue close at hand, moving forward to see to this situation better than he could. However, should several seconds tick by without such movement, he begins to doubt this. Kirkor's and Jack's advance to the stage settles it, and he moves to join them. "Can't imagine what you mean, Jack. First impression has nothing to do with our civic duty." His tone leaves some doubt he's being sarcastic. Except for those who know him. For them it leaves no doubt at all.

Not that sense of civic duty and other such things don't play into it, of course. Much as it looks good for all or much of the motley to be the first to rush to the fallen Queen's aid, he sincerely hopes there's something they can actually do to help. He continues through the crowd and onto the stage with his fellows.

[Fouredged Sword]

The Crowd panics and the Guards of the Revels step in and make everyone disperse while they sort this out. The sixteen gather on stage as everyone is hurried out. Everyone is told to dispurse and to go home, so with nothing bette to do everyone does.

Two days pass as everyone in town waits for news about what is to be done about the queen. Three of the summer lords and the lady of Western Spring, leaving the Lady of East Summer to guard the freehold, are prepareing to leave into the hedge to seek a cure among the thorns.

As for the rest of the changeling population, well everyone is worried. Nobody knows who did this foul treason on the freehold, if it was from within or from an outside force. The Lord of East Winter sits tenderly on the throne, knowing full well that he is the first suspect anyone would look to. A chill runs through the air as if winter still holds the heart of the city.

The heart of the freehold lies frozen in ice, spring held back by the winter wind.
Fear grips the minds of all, and in fear do cling to winter's darkness
Who shal cast out the dark, who shal lengthen the days
Who brings spring to warm the soul after winter's chill
Your quest is clear, your way is set. With song in heart and hand and soul.
Bring Spring to the cold shadows of Las Sombra, Bring day where there is night
But beware, oh revelers, for winter's hold is tight
And Jack Frost's hands shal seek out the throat of those who would stop his winter night.

[Fouredged Sword]

Two days have passed from the corrination of the queen. People are scared and worried, and you are sick of it. It's time for the six string motley to do what it does best. People need a party.

Now, you need a space, entertainment, and food. Also you need something special to make this party stand out. What do you do to make this happen?

[Princess]

Mary floats into the library with gentle steps, with her steps nearly inaudible due to the soft slips on her feet. She is wearing a long, flowing, chocolate brown skirt adorned with vines around the hem, and stretched over most of her torso is a tight white tank top, which rides up her stomach as she walks. In her hands is a bag of Oreo’s she is munching on with a slow and steady delicacy.

Seeing none of the friends she expected to meet present, she strolls over to a table and plumps down into a chair lazily. Remembering the time on her clock in her apartment, she says “How am I the first one here? I’m half an hour late.”

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor comes in hastily, visibly in a hurry. He looks as he usually does, except for sporting what a five o'clock shadow is like if it's five o'clock the day after. He looks around quickly, and not noticing anyone who might have an issue with his backpack, comes in quickly.

He halts for a moment as he notices Mary, and then comes by her. "Mary! Oh, hi, glad to hear you. Sorry I'm late - so sorry - something came up, business-wise. I really hope you're not mad or anything, I really... oh, where are the others?"

[Gaius]

Nick misses his cue, emerging from a row of bookshelves a minute or so after Kirkor's question has hung in the air. As he has been for the past several minutes, he thumbs through an award-winning novel, and visibly wonders what award it could have possibly won.

He looks up for a moment and pauses when he spots the duo. He gives them a smile, abandons his find to a nearby book cart, and then makes his way over. "Hey, Mary, Kirk.* Guess I let myself get distracted, sorry. Have you two been waiting long?" Nick looks around a moment. "Any sign of Jack or Jill?" While it still faintly amuses him to say, it is to the relief of everyone that he has made precisely one 'Jack & Jill' "joke" since joining the motley.

* - Or whatever shortened version of his name is established. Or simply 'Kirkor,' if it's established he's not fond of a shortened version.

[WelcomingGrave]

Almost on que with Nick's Jack and Jill 'joke', Jack enters the library. He speaks no words as he enters, simply giving a friendly nod to the librarian at the front. Taking off his cheap fedora he takes out his 'pocket watch' to check the time.

"Just on time" Jack whispers to himself, giving the watch a few shakes to make sure it's still working. Jack wasn't on time, but in his mind he made it exactly when he was suppose to.

He runs a hand through his hair as he walks down a few isles looking for his companions, enjoying the almost 'rotting' smell of the old, dusty books. He always had a fondness for that smell. Old knowledge, rotting away until someone breaths new life into it.

Jack eventually finds his companions, he would make a joke to himself about them 'sticking out like a sore thumb', but he was one to talk.

Quietly, though not so quiet they don't see him approach he gives a slight wave to his friends with a simple "Hello."

He gives his full attention to the rest of the motley, one missing. Jill.

[Fouredged Sword]

Jill has been missing since before the crowning. Not the most unusual for a changeling to go off the grid, but, with the current events, you all are starting to get very worried. this is looking more and more like she has been drug back by ther gentry. There is nothing you can do as is though and there is a party to plan. Ether she will turn up, or she would have wanted you to carry on in her sted.

[Princess]

Mary pops the last of the oreos into her mouth and begins rifling through her purse. I actually came up with an idea but I can't find it! she says, her words muffled by cookie. Giving up her search, she sets her purse aside and looks around at the group. Anyone else have an idea of where to start? I can't do all the work myself! she adds, smirking at the irony of the words coming out of her own mouth as she resumes her more usual limp posture and melts down into the chair lazily. What now?

[Fouredged Sword]

Now you plan a party. You need a place, an activity, and people. Other stuff can spice things up, but that is the basics.

So, what is a bitchen party in your book? A rave with thumpig music? A frat bash with beer and chicks? A mixer with wineing and dineing?

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor taps his chin repeatedly before answering, his reply coming in a series of quick phrases, linked together by cautious pauses. "Well, I'd go for something less formal, you know, more of a get-together-drink-and-watch-TV. People are still too careful, especially after that,to really get in the mood of a grand soiree or something like that... and I kinda think that's more of a spring-to-summer thing. There's still a fair bit of winter in the air, you know, soI say we do something quieter to break the ice and build up from there. How does that look?"

[Princess]

Sounds like a good idea. So we'd go with something casual, some fatty comfort foods, and a simple theme. Anyone have specific ideas?

[Gaius]

Nick gives a nod of approval to the basic game plan. His eyes roll upward as he collects his thoughts, and then his smile broadens. "I think I know just the place. It's a homestyle restaurant with some big private rooms in the back. Good food and a really nice atmosphere. And if you guys aren't so keen on holding it there, I know they cater. Might even be able to finagle a discount, but I make no promises."

He looks thoughtful for a moment. "This... might be a little too soon for something like it, but..." He appears less certain about this next suggestion. Nick knows well the importance of timing. Like Kirkor said, still some winter in the air, when spring should be in season. So, suppose we give the Spring Courtiers some release, and mock Winter a little. They're big on hiding, so why not throw a 'secret party' and make sure everyone knows about it. Loudly tell people they're invited to the secret party, leave invitations lying out and repeat how secret the secret party is, stuff like that. Not so sure about the idea, for this party or any other, but figured I'd throw it out there." He shrugs.

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor nods. "I was wondering if we could get some place on university grounds cleared for something like this, maybe get some of their guards on our side - those kinda parties always work well when students are involved. It adds to the atmosphere, especially for spring. It can take a bit more to get it organized, but can work out good."

Kirkor looks to the side, his lips turned into a small frown. "Err, about the not-so-secret secret thing, you sure you wanna do it that way? There's a nasty chill in the air, and even if winter is overstaying its outcome it might not necessarily be a good idea to mock it just yet. I mean, it doesn't sound like a bad idea, it's just that it isn't necessarily the best time to go mocking people about, at least if they get it. Parties should be for people getting together and chilling out, not thumbing their noses at each other... Well, okay, summer parties may be a bit like that. When it get hot, people need something extra."

[Princess]

Mary leans her head to the side in thought, stating Yeah, we don't want to offend anyone, but I like the idea of doing this at my university, that has potential. She pauses, her eyes wandering around the room as she ponders her options. I get to decide on the food this time, I'm sick of you guys always deciding that part. Any thoughts on what the menu should be like? I'll need to try out a bunch of different caterers, right? We should make a list for me, maybe, or should I just be trying a little of everything? she says, adding Speaking of food, it's nearly dinner time. Would you guys like to come with me to a place where we can eat something while we continue with our planning?

[Fouredged Sword]

The group has decided on having a party at the university and going on a tasting spree for deciding the food. Now we just need entertainment. Any thoughts?

[Gaius]

Nick nods and shrugs at the responses to his suggestion. "Right, right. 'Mocking' was less what I meant than 'good-natured ribbing,' but it's how it'd be seen that matters. Idea withdrawn. And agreed on the university." He blinks at Mary's next statement, but decides he must have not picked up on the sentiment. "Alright, that being the case: I defer to your wishes, O Countess of Cuisine," he tells her with a smile, giving a half-bow from his seat.

"And yeah, I think lists of places to try sounds best, at least to start." Nick looks indecisive about going to dinner right that moment, but nods: he'll at least have leftovers for when he's actually hungry. "Sure, we can go to dinner. Maybe we should table the catering discussion until we're all fed, though; might be like wandering grocery aisles on an empty stomach. Oh, and I guess that place I mentioned isn't far, if anyone's interested." He's ready to go when anyone else is.

Nick's in agreement with the Storyteller's voice, unheard though it is. "How to keep the guests happy... If we're going for something kinda casual and relaxed, probably shouldn't have anything with much participation, or at least keep it voluntary, if we do. So, that puts a game or competition out of the limelight. ... Well, Kirk pitched it as a drink-and-watch-TV affair, so that's a starting suggestion: could put a movie, game, or show up on a screen."

[Princess]

Mary nods approvingly at Nick, before addressing the group again:
Well we certainly don't want to rush the decision. I'll have to compare all our options. I'll need to go to all the potential caterers, try out their menus myself, and then come to an informed conclusion. I'll also need some cash from one of you guys to do that.

She then turns back to Nick, adding We can certainly start off by trying the place you suggested. How long do we have to plan this? A month? Or are we stuck with a tighter schedule? How long do I have to work with?

As for the entertainment, we could go with a band. That would leave people to listen or dance as they see fit. If we had a film screening, people wouldn't feel free to chat. Sports are boring; I don't think we should have a game showing.

Actually, answer my questions after we get to the restaurant. I get dizzy if I don't eat meals on time. She stands up after that remark, gesturing for the others to leave with her.

[The_Shaman]

Kirkor stands and comes with Mary. "Okay, then, let's continue elsewhere. I've worked with some catererers every now and then, there are a few we should check out. I should have their contacts in the Mystery Machine. " he says, using the nickname his van earned early in their gatherings.

"About the party - we don't have to settle for one thing, you know," he says along the way. "We can try to get several rooms, and have different things - a TV with a game in one room, some music in another, maybe a kitchen with a balcony for people who want to smoke and chat in a less noisy place... You know, kinda like a flat party, but with bigger rooms."

[Fouredged Sword]

The group heads out to look for a food suplier who can do a party and you pool the group for ideas

(roll, roll, roll)

There is three places you can think off off the tops of your heads that you know have good food and will do parties at other locations.

The is Joes, a bar/resturant that works the nightlife in the area. Good burgers and such, run by a beautiful woman named joe. she speaks with a french acent.

Lazy Susans is chinese place. All the low end yakusa grunts like it alot.

The final idea is you know the manager of the local subway, he's a changeling cyclops called Percy. He's good for lots of food on demand.

Pick where first. First post decides.

[Princess]

Mary heads with the others to Lazy Susan's Chinese restaurant. Lazily strutting into the restaurant in a manner befitting its name, she follows the Hostess to their table and plops down into her seat. When Susan approaches, she turns to her with a beaming smile. We're considering using your catering service for a big party. Could you bring us a sample of everything you offer so we can try it all out?

[Fouredged Sword]

Lazy Susans is a nice little family run resturant that serves very good food. You all have worked with the chef (Mr Sato) before and the traid contact of Jacks oftine meets here. The waitress is Susan, the daughter of Mr Sato. You enter Lazy Susans and the whole place is nearly deserted. There are a few customers, but not many people. The waitress seems upset.

Empathy rolls. (roll, roll)
Mary, Nicholas -
She seems on the edge of a emotional breakdown. She is almost panicked and and trying to hide it.

[Princess]

Susan, are you alright? she says, looking intently at the nervous young woman. How about you tell your dad what we'd like eat and then come back and tell me all about what's wrong? Make sure I get to try everything! she adds, winking.

[Gaius]

Nick strolls inside and immediately smiles at the home-y atmosphere. It's rarely a crowded place -- one of the reasons he likes it so much -- but, on the way to their booth, he can't help noticing how empty it is.

Still, the Six-Whispers Motley has its own business to tend. "Oh yes," he backs Mary up, nodding. "Specialties, standbys, we want it all on this ta... ble..." Smile turning from cheerful to sympathetic, Nick decides business can wait a few minutes. What they learn might be useful, anyway. His fellow Fairest has the same idea. "Yes, please do. Your dad won't mind you humoring some business friends of his, and we bet you'd feel better if you got some things off your chest."

OOC: Curse you, ninja-Princess.