Summer Festival Opening

Summary: A night of song, dance, food and drink start off the summer festival called by the newly elected Tar Valon Mayor.

Setting: River Plaza: Northharbor, Tar Valon

The area is set up for a festival indeed, each shop decorated gaily with banners. In a fairly open space a platform has been set up where a conglomeration of musicians fill the night air with music designed to lighten the heels of the festival-goers. Small tables with chairs form the perimeter of an area apparently designated for dancing - an area apparently well-used. A small distance away, area foodmerchants and vintners provide refreshment for modest prices. Come join in the fun!

Nardolen walks into the plaza, strangely, his shirt is decorated with twin rows of silver bells, his hair is also in two braids, strangely seeming to fall back into Arafellin fashion.

Jhyn'na is seated at one of the tables, fanning herself with her hand, apparently taking a break from dancing. Her face is flushed from her recent exertion and a wide grin adorns her features, clearly she is enjoying herself.

Nardolen ahems triumphantly, "Trying to avoid me, Jhyn'na? I think I could find you anywhere.. just track all the men with sore feet."

Jhyn'na looks around at the address, her grin widening if that were possible. She fairly bounds to her feet to skip lightly across the distance, "Nardolen! This is delightful. I just adore festivals."

Nardolen says "You? Like festivals? I would've never guessed.." Nardolen laughs a little, and then bows, deeply, "I do hope the fair Lady Jhyn'na has not worn her feet out."

Alucard enters River Plaza from the east, leaving behind Luadge Street.

Jhyn'na giggles, moving to Nardolen's side to slip an arm around his. "You wouldn't, well, I was sure you'd have noticed by now." she comments with a wink. "No, I've not worn my feet out. I was saving a dance for you, remember?"

Nardolen says "I know.. Hopefully more than one.." Nardolen grins a little, "I wouldn't want to take too much of your time, though.."

Jhyn'na smiles around at the crowd, eyes alighting on a fierce looking warrior. She gives him a grin, making up for her initial reaction.

The musicians launch into another lively tune, almost blurring the transition from one song to another, effectively keeping the dancers inspired to stay on the dance floor. Bright-coloured whirling skirts rustle in the women's movement through the dance, accompanied by their partners.

Jhyn'na ooohs, excitedly, gulping another sip of wine and tugging on Nardolen's arm. "I like this song." she announces an unneeded explanation

Quim strolls in River Plaza from the south, leaving behind Jualdhe Branch.

Atalanta enters River Plaza from the east, leaving behind Luadge Street.

Malerin strolls in River Plaza from the south, leaving behind Jualdhe Branch.

Atalanta walks in with Quim, and smiles.

Quim arrives with Atalanta on his arm, glancing about, looking for dancers.

Jhyn'na hops up from her seat, her steps carrying her to the dance floor eagerly. The tune of a lively reel just about to start.

Atalanta grins to Quim. "Are you a good dancer?"

Malerin smiles as he walks into the plaza, his eyes immediately staying still as they find Jhyn'na. He walks forward to her.

Quim grins "Not bad, I can manage to avoid your toes, and as long as long as the steps start simple I can work my way up to more complicated things."

Atalanta laughs, "Okay, I'm about like that."

Malerin smiles. "Care for a dance, my dear?" Clearly he speaks to Jhyn'na.

Nardolen stretches slightly, "So, Jhyn'na.... should I show you that one dance I read about? I'll warn you, if you didn't like getting tossed last time.. Well, I'll wait my turn.."

Quim takes her hand and leads her out on to the a suitable place, he waits for a place in the tune he feels comfortable in starting and then leads. Muttering a one two three, he glances at his feet for the first couple of motion, but this gains confidence and manages to move with his head up.

Atalanta glances at her own feet occasionally, just to check, but dances with ease, having a good time, not worrying about how she looks.

Quim grins a bit, and throws in a twirl, humming along with the tune. He asks of her "Do the Aes Sedia have dances, say with the warders on holidays?"

Atalanta chuckles, "Not that I've seen. They /should/."

Jhyn'na calls out over her shoulder to Nardolen "I'd love to!" With a grin she curtsys at the gentleman who suddenly appeared by her side. "I always care about dances."

Malerin smiles and gently takes her hand. "Then let us dance."

Quim grins "Yes, I think everybody should find to time to celebrate." His eyes go a bit distant and he recites "To dance beneath the starry sky, for tommorrow we may die."

A slightly built young woman glides over to Nardolen, boldly and brightly requesting a dance. "Come," she motions to the dance floor "Don't tell me a handsome fellow like yourself would rather stand by the side and deny the women of a dance or two?"

Jhyn'na grins and proceeds to an open spot within the dance area. Her steps and movements are confident and sure, eyes twinkling brightly with the activity.

Nardolen blinks at the woman. "Well, I certainly can't just sit here..." He offers an arm and rushes the woman to the dancefloor, taking the lead quickly, in an odd dance. Must be one of those that he just learned from those old books.

Atalanta smiles. "Don't think about dying, Quim, just have a good time."

Malerin smiles and takes Jhyn'na's hand gently in his, and lets an arm slip around her waist as he starts the dance, with quite cunning steps.

Quim continues to move about the dance floor, managing to avoid mistepping too often, trying to just enjoy the motion and the air. "Yes, all my worry is spent on avoiding your toes. You put me to shame."

Elena (the woman dancing with Nardolen) throws her head back in laughter, not in mockery, but in delight. She moves awkwardly at first, not quite familiar with the dance her partner has chosen, but she tries to keep up anyway.

Atalanta chuckles and blushes. "Well,um..."

Nardolen smiles as the strange woman matches him stride for stride. He looks about curiously, wondering if anyone else picks up that this is supposed to be done with four pairs of dancers.. He takes three small strides to his left, his partner matching the steps, then he spins her, three steps back, another twirl, then a few steps back, breaking all contact with his partner for a moment, before moving quickly back up to twirl her once more.

Quim grins, not noticing her blush in the dark of the night, a fine sheen of sweat touches his brow, as the exertion and the concentration take its toll, but he still manages to smile, a genuine smile. "I see now why you where the fastest novice. It takes coordination to run with speed."

Atalanta grins. "It's just a knack I've got is all."

Jhyn'na keeps up with the dance quite easily, her hair almost flying with the frequent twirls she is sent into. Dizziness is not part of it, as she dances blithely on.

Quim grins as the tune speeds up and he manages to keep pace, enjoying the challenge, him against the tune. He chuckles "Well I do have the excuse of a shot of whiskey so, if do manage to make a complete fool of myself, I can just blame drink."

Atalanta chuckles. "Why blame anything? What, you think the Dance Guards will come drag you away if you misstep?"

Malerin offers Jhyn'na a warm smile. "You are a good dancer, dear..?" His steps take a slight turn.

Elena staggers a little with all the spinning around, but that smile manages to stay on her face, if a little uncertain of herself. "What dance is this? I don't know it." she asks him, between breaths, barely managing it at all.

Quim glances over his shoulder as if expecting to see those very same fictious guards. "Well luckily they have their day off, I don't doubt my style would deserve nothing less then a public flogging." his tone take on a rather pompous air, but his eyes squinting with amusement. "We must keep are standards musnt't we?'

Atalanta giggles.

Jhyn'na grins at her partner "Why thank you," she has just enough time to respond before the next step takes her to a dip, "Jhyn'na" she gasps out from her position and she is back upright again. On with the dance.

Quim chuckles as well, barely missing some poor couple, his apology is lost in the swirl "I think they need someone directing traffic, otherwise we might have ourselves an accident."

Atalanta chuckles and says, "Par for the course."

Malerin smiles. "Jhyn'na? That's a beutiful name. And quite uncommon too, I believe?" His steps yet again lead them towards the plaza's center.

Nardolen grins and says, "This is a court dance from.. well, nevermind that.. it was called Manetheren.."

Almost as if on cue, another couple fairly whirls into Quim and Atalanta. They are quite obviously deep in their cups with drink, but are quite friendly about it, spluttering laughter as well as apologies.

Atalanta laughs as well, giving her own apologies.

"I don't have the honour of your name," Jhyn'na asks of her partner, conversing quite easily through the movements of the dance.

Quim grins good naturedly at the couple, he checks his purse, you never know. Standar hit and run. All seems in order, he makes sure to grab the appropriate lady and continue on with the dance. His smile is a full one, no hint of the previous days discomfiture.

Atalanta smiles in return, happy to see him feeling better.

Elena grins "Ahh, a court dance. You must be a noble of some sort." The next step again takes her aback and she almost stumbles, grabbing at Nardolen's arm for support.

Quim finally allows themself to end up on the fringe of the dancing and slows it down, finally coming to a halt, taking a deep breath, he takes Atalanta's hand and lightly presses it to his lips. "To know you is a delight to dance with you more so, thank you."

Malerin smiles as they thwirl around. "My name is Malerin."

Atalanta smiles. "Thank you! Whew, I need a drink, how about you?"

The tireless musicians end the frenzy of that reel, transitioning into something a bit more sedate and stately. This clears the floor somewhat, some people taking the opportunity to refresh their mugs and glasses.

Nardolen laughs a little, but doesn't deny it. Heck, he is changing a lot. Festivals do wonders. "I think maybe you need a little rest, fair lady.."

Quim nods, swallowing "Quite. The night air and the dance seems to suck me dry."

Atalanta heads over to one of the vendors, finds a lemonade one, and pulls out a coin to buy some for herself and Quim.

Quim glances at the lemonade, smiling his thanks. "Lemonade, not something I have had in a long time. The perfect summertime drink."

The lemonade merchant calls out "An excellent choice m'lady to refresh you for the nights festivities." Deftly he serves up two tall glasses.

Atalanta smiles and takes a deep gulp of hers.

Elena giggles, "Perhaps. I'm sorry I couldn't keep up better with your dance. I'm afraid I don't know much of the court dances." She has stopped dancing and merely stands awkwardly for a moment "Thank you for the dance."

Quim becomes an observer, watching the various people flit about the square, grinning. He says to Atalanta. "Such nights as these are the kind you remember. People laughing, the mood happy. Soemthing not seen too often these days."

Atalanta nods, "Aye, indeed." She thanks the lemonade merchant.

Nardolen grins at the woman, "You did very well. And no one would know this dance.. unless they visited a nation gone since the Trolloc Wars."

Jhyn'na moves into the next dance well, adding a bit more dignity to her movements and a bit less whirling. This dance seems to be one that involves the pride of peacocks, judging by the movements of the other dancers.

Quim glances curiously at Nardolen at the mention of the Trolloc Wars. He shakes his head, business later, pleasure now. "I haven't danced in the longest things, other thing always got in the way. Sometimes we forget how to have fun.

Atalanta says "All work and no play..."

Elena blinks at that. "Trolloc Wars?"

Elena says "You know a dance from the Trolloc Wars?"

Renimar strolls in River Plaza from the south, leaving behind Jualdhe Branch.

Nardolen nods, but amazingly doesn't fall into his scholar talks, "That's is when the nation of Manetheren perished. I read about it in a book."

Nardolen suddenly spots his friend, even in the crowd. He waves wildly and shouts, though that is lost in the music.

Malerin throws a glance at the other pairs, adapting the dance with no big problem. "So, Jhyn'na, tell me a bit about yourself." He smiles.

Quim nods politely to Renimar, as he stand next to Atalanta, sipping lemonade, and talking quietly.

Atalanta sips her lemonade.

Jhyn'na grins over Malerin's shoulder, adding an arm wave to the dance. Oh, it's a greeting. "What's there to tell?" she asks her partner "I like festivals and dancing." She winks, obviously more intent on dancing than talking.

Elena glances over her shoulder at the friend Nardolen is waving to. "Oh, um my name's Elena." she offers "I suppose I'll just leave you to your friends."

Renimar enters the plaza with its boisterous crowd, musicians and entertainers out in full force today. He skims the crowd, greeting whomever he happens to know with a pleasant smile. He nods to Quim as he recognizes him and a small smile for the Accepted he is speaking with. "Quim. Atalanta." He doesn't seem to see Nardolen yet through the crowd.

Atalanta smiles. "Hello, Renimar. Enjoying yourself?"

Quim says quietly "Good day Renimar." he nods at Atalanta's question.

Malerin smiles and nods. "That sounds nice." The dancing continues on, steps getting better as they adapt.

Nardolen turns to the woman and bows deeply, "It was an honor, Elena. My name is Nardolen."

Renimar nods in answer to the question. "Well, I just got off-duty, but it seems the festival is in full swing. And you? Have you done much dancing yet?" A smile crosses his face.

Atalanta smiles. "Yes. Quim is an excellent partner."

Elena returns the bow with a giggle and a curtsy, "Pleased to meet you m'lord. I do hope I can have the honour of another dance with you sometime."

Nardolen blinks and laughs a little, "I'm just Nardolen. I'm no lord.."

Jhyn'na grins. "And you? What do you do besides dance wonderfully." An abrupt twist and dignified turn and she is facing away from her partner, stepping across the floor that way.

Quim grins "Oh, I wouldnt' go so far as excellent. If you edit out the mid dance collision, and a few misteps which I managed to cover up, I did passably well."

Quim grins, sipping his drink. "She on the other hand managed not to outshine me too much, I think she held back so as not to embarase me, for which I am grateful."

Atalanta laughs. "I was trying hard to keep up."

Malerin smiles over his shoulder to Jhyn'na. "Why, thank you. I run a menagerie, actually."

Elena giggles again, "Alright, just Nardolen. Save another dance for me? I believe that lemonade is looking much too refreshing."

Renimar chuckles. "Well, in this crowd, I doubt anyone would have noticed. I want to find a food vendor, there are always the most interesting things for sale during festivals. Perhaps I will see you two later? And perhaps I can discharge some of my... dancing obligations with you later, Atalanta." He winks.

Atalanta grins and curtseys. "But of course."

Quim nods "Take care Renimar."

Jhyn'na looks quite impressed, another turn and a twist later. "A menagerie? Where?" She looks around as if expecting to see it round the corner. Stranger things have happened.

Nardolen nods to Elena, trying to follow Renimar through the crowd with his eyes. He himself stands out quite a bit, now that he's gone back to his native ways. His hair is in a double braid and his shirt is decorated with stilver bells.

Malerin smiles. "It is just outside the city, dear." Their steps lead them slightly lefternwise.

Renimar waves as he melds into the crowd, flowing through the plaza. As he goes along, he greets fellow revellers and even does a few short impromptu dances for those who approach him.

Atalanta chuckles as she watches him.

Quim watches the dancers, finally finishing his lemonade. "An eventful night for me. One both emtotionally and physically draining, but it is that tiredness that feels good. Sort of comfortable."

The musicians change their tune again, stepping up the pace again to a light, bouncy tune. Apparently to the delight of quite a number of people. The dance area is athrong with them again.

Atalanta says "Like that point after a hard days work when you just get into bed?"

Alucard coughs.

Nardolen waves out and shouts again to Renimar, in the old tongue, even. He doesn't even notice. He is practicing that stuff way too much, one would guess.

Quim nods "Yes, The kind where you feel you accomplished something. If you run around in circles and get tired, well it isn't the same as the tiredness after you helped build a man's house. There is a sense of purpose with the second."

The female revellers approaching Renimar and falling aside after he passes react in a variety of ways. Some obviously disappointed at his departure and some only giving him a parting appraisal before making their way on.

Atalanta nods. "Yes, that's true."

Detaching himself from the river of people making their way around the square, Renimar approaches a vendor and selects a delectable looking pastry and a mug of cider from a young woman who looks like she'd rather be having fun, than attending a cart.

Jhyn'na laughs as she is nearly hemmed in by the onslaught of people in the dance area. "I don't think I can keep up with this one," she remarks, oddly enough. "I think some food and drink is in order."

Nardolen rushes over to join Renimar, since he is not being noticed. He looks at the vendor curiously, but doesn't order anything.

Quim watches the people the interchange of parteners, the smiles, the laughter, the meeting of eyes, He can't help but smile himself, the mood is infectious. He laughs a sudden as if for no reason. "It amazes me, the crowds don't bother me now. Maybe because I am watching, maybe because I feel more a part of them." He shrugs.

Malerin smiles. "That sounds nice." He continues the dancing, however, until they come much closer to where the drinks are at.

Atalanta grins. "Either way, it's a good thing!"

Renimar chats idly with the vendor as he eats and smiles when he sees Nardolen. "Ah! Nardolen, there you are. I was wondering where I might find you. How fare you? Enjoying the festival?"

Saldrina pushes through the throng of people from the southeast, entering the River Plaza.

Nardolen says "Oh, very much, Renimar.."

Gerimon pushes through the throng of people from the southeast, entering the River Plaza.

Nisonger enters River Plaza from the east, leaving behind Luadge Street.

The vendor smiles at Renimar, enjoying the break from her task, then bestows the same smile on Nardolen.

Quim nods to himself, "Yes, a good thing." he says quietly to himself, he listens to the chatter. For the first time feeling a part of this city he can never call home.

Saldrina walks in.. arm about Gerimons.. she seems not t9o look around much..

Nardolen grins at the vendor, "I see you are enjoying yourself.. I was wondering if you would care to help me demonstrate a little dance? It's not easy, but I think we can do it.. it's an old one, of course. I think I'm becoming a scholar of dances, now.."

Gerimon enters the plaza, walking arm in arm with Saldrina. He manages to smile a little, for the first in quite some time.

The musicians are currently playing a lively tune, the dance area crowded with bright colours of the revellers' clothing.

Renimar nods. "Good, good! I just got off duty, came wandering through this way, since I saw a lot of people gathered in this square. Have you seen Jhyn'na, perhaps?"

Gerimon swallows and suddenly leans in, to whisper though..

Gerimon mutters to Saldrina, "You... with... after this?"

Nisonger looks about and smiles at everyone.

Atalanta people watches, observing the interactions that she doesn't quite understand, but enjoys at any rate.

Saldrina tilts her head and looks back to Gerimon

Nardolen says "oh, she's around here somewhere.. I saw her a few minutes ago."

Saldrina mutters to Gerimon, "where... I... safe... your..."

Nardolen says "In fact, just before I started the cal.. the dance of the Red Eagle, that is.."

Jhyn'na laughs upon reaching the row of drink vendors. "A tall, cool glass of pear cider please," she asks a grizzled man with ruddy cheeks.

"Aye m'lady. Coming right up," the vendor responds.

Nisonger approaches Saldrina. "May I have this dance?"

Quim grins "I have always been a people watcher. I use to just sit and watch them pass, wondering why they smiled, or laughed, if it was for real, or a mask. I wonder what made them tick.

Malerin smiles. "I take the same."

Atalanta says "I made up stories about them."

Gerimon looks at Saldrina. "I would like to ask for the first dance, love. "

Saldrina blinks and looks to Nisonger and then to Gerimon. She bites her lip and looks down a little shifting...

Gerimon sighs and looks at Nisonger. "Could you for once give us a break?"

Nisonger doesn't even blink or shift his glance.

A small child, perhaps no older than 5 or 6 seasons, stops in front of Quim and Atalanta. His face, besmirched with some sort of sticky sweet food, stares up at them silently, as if examining them for something.

Renimar nods to Nardolen, as he finishes up his pastry and washes it down with the cider. He flashes a complementary smile at the vendor before turning to answer Nardolen. "Oh, I'm sure I'll see her around, then. I just had to get something to eat... this looks like it could go all night." He gestures to the crowd.

Atalanta looks at the child and smiles. "Hello."

Gerimon says in a frustrated voice "Do I need to take her /home/ to get a moment alone with her?" It is apparent that Nisonger's house is not 'home'.

Nisonger turns to face Gerimon. "There is no call for such behavior."

Quim grins "You too. I use to try to think of the most obsured things. Thatfellow was smiling.." he trails off at the sight of the little guy. "Hey there." he hunkers down. "You got a name litttle man?"

Saldrina mutters to Nisonger.

Nardolen grins and nods to Renimar, "You know, a woman thought I was a lord.. Maybe next time I shouldn't correct her.."

Gerimon looks back, straight at Nisonger. "If you are trying to make me feel worse than I already do, you are doing a wonderful job. "

The child waves a sticky hand at Atalanta and Quim, but says nothing more, eyes almost comically wide. He continues to stare for a moment longer when a harried-looking woman, bustles through the crowd "Nathaniel!" she screeches, answering Quim's question. "Never, ever wander away from me like that."

Nisonger chuckles. "I am not responsible for your shortcomings Gerimon."

Malerin smiles to Jhyn'na as he tastes the cider. "Summer nights... aren't they just lovely.."

Saldrina sighs adn then looks around her.. She takes a deep breath and walks away from the arguing duo... fists clenching at her side..

Gerimon frowns at Nisonger, and moves after Saldrina, moving his arm about her waist, whispering to her

Renimar laughs lightly at that. "You know, there are better ways to find your way with a woman than lying, Nardolen." He grins, elbowing him playfully. "If you learn to dance, you won't need to say you're a lord..."

Nisonger swiftly moves to Saldrina's side. "It'll be ok."

Quim grins and before the child can get away, he says "Lookee here." he pulls a shiny silver coin, seemingly out of the boys ear, "Silly place to keep your money." he presses it into the little guys hand and sends him in the direciont of his mother.

Atalanta hides a smile in her liemonade.

Nardolen says "Oh, I never lied, Renimar.. She put it all together herself.. I don't see how I could ever be mistaken for a lord, though."

Gerimon yells at Nisonger "For Light's sake, leave her alone for one minute! I am sick with worry, and you just go on in the most cold hearted manners! " He turns and starts to walk in the other direction.

Nisonger remains with Saldrina. "Just ignore him."

Nathaniel's eyes grow even wider at the interesting man's trick. He raises his hands to both ears, then takes them away, looking at them as if expecting to see more silver. His mother, looks suspiciously between her son and Quim, no doubt residual nervousness from the goings on about the city, but manages a polite smile. "I hope 'e wasn't botherin' ye."

Saldrina blinks and looks to Nisonger.. Then marches off.. away from him.. as fast as she can.. becoming lost in the crowd

Renimar shrugs slightly. "Perhaps something else about you impressed her," he comments, looking over his costume. He nods to a passing acquaintance, exchanging greetings before he is swept away with the crowd.

Nisonger walks to the east, entering Luadge Street.

Saldrina sighs slightly and sits off along a bench wrapping ehr arms about herself..

Nardolen says "Well, I think she was rather taken aback when I told her that the dance likely hadn't been done since the trolloc wars.."

Quim shakes his head "No, not at all." he says "Careful lad, with your hands sticky like that you could put them to your ears and not be able to pull them back down again." He smiles at the mother "Nothing is harder then keeping track of a little ball of energry and trouble."

Atalanta chuckles.

Jhyn'na downs fully half the glass of cider, as she moves to an available table. They are quite scarce by now, but luckily she finds one some distance away from the dance area. Settling with a sigh, she continues to grin about her at the crowd.

Renimar chuckles. "You actually found books of dances from that far back? I dare it's most difficult to find skilled dancers, centuries old..."

Malerin smiles and follows Jhyn'na along, seating himself on a chair near to hers.

Gerimon walks almost carelessly through the crowd, blinking as he finds himself seeing Saldrina sitting on the ground.. He swallows, and ignores angry comments, when he sits down next to her.

Nathaniel grins and pointedly licks his hands. They're still sweet from the candy he was gleefully attacking earlier. Still saying nothing, he grins up at the man even as his mother tugs him along. "Come on now, boy, ye've caused 'nough trouble as it is." The mother again, nods politely to Quim and Atalanta "The Light shine on ye both." and wanders away, taking her child with her.

Nardolen says "I've been practicing them. I think a few guards think I am studying some odd forms or somesuch. The rest just think I'm going mad. But I have learned several dances."

Atalanta chuckles. "I wonder if I was ever that small...I can't seem to remember that."

Jhyn'na sighs contentedly. She won't actually admit that her feet are grateful for the brief respite she allows them, but she seems quite content where she is, merely watching the people.

Saldrina blinks slightly and smiles as she sees Gerimon. She reaches out with her hand and takes his in it

Nardolen turns and spots Jhyn'na. He grins at Ren and says, "Say, you actually want to catch Jhyn'na? If so, you'd better hurry, she's not likely to stop dancing until festival is over.."

A young girl carrying a basket of fresh roses wanders by Saldrina and Gerimon. She meanders over offering one of the buds to them "A rose for your pretty lady sir? Only half a silver."

Gerimon looks up at the young girl, and considers. Then he nods, looking up at her, as he is sitting down.. He digs in his pockets, finding coins, just enough for the rose, and hands them to the girl.. Then slowly, he takes the rose with one hand, and opens Saldrina's hand with his other, putting the rose there, then closing the fingers around it slowly and gently, before putting his hand there, then whispers something.

Saldrina blushes slightly and looks to Geimon.. a slight smile upon her lips. The first of the evening

Gerimon sighs and says softly. He mutters to Saldrina, "... he... like..."

The young girl, grins and curtsys at Gerimon, looking rather pleased. Moving off, she chooses another couple to offer the same to them.

Nardolen walks towards Jhyn'na, without worrying if Ren is following or not. He seems to be studying the crowd at the same time..

Saldrina mutters to Gerimon, "... not..... me... he... had someone... he cared..."

That same girl makes her way through the crowd and reaches Quim and Atalanta. "A rose to compliment the colour of your lady's cheeks sir?" She names the price smiling persuasively.

Saldrina mutters to Gerimon, "maybe... to... himself. Really... i... is..."

Jhyn'na continues to sip on her cider, looking more refreshed by the minute. Her feet, seemingly having forgotten what dancing requires of them, are tapping to the rhythm of the music playing at the moment.

Nardolen smiles at Jhyn'na, adjusting his shirt, which clearly needs no adjusting. "I see you are already getting all steeled for the next tune.."

Gerimon swallows softly as he answers Saldrina.. He seems sad. He mutters to Saldrina, "... Saldrina.... at night if... are... I... when I... him. He... just... make... make... with... get... of... will not let... make... mistakes with you,... won't ever... have... an... inside... before... mean... to..."

Taeryl strolls in River Plaza from the south, leaving behind Jualdhe Branch.

Saldrina smiles even more and wraps her arms about Gerimon.. She holds him close to her.. "you will never lose me my love

Jhyn'na turns at Nardolen's address, grinning up at him. "My you look handsome today. And yes I am. You did promise to save a dance for me remember?" She waves her hand at a seat just emptying. "Sit, I want to finish my drink first."

Gerimon suddenly smiles at Saldrina, and leans forward to whisper more, while hugging her tightly to him.

Nardolen nods and slips into the seat, earning a glower from a man who was about to do the same. "You are trying to make me blush, aren't you?"

Taeryl slinks close to the buildings, the cowl of his cloak hanging down over his face...He continues on his way quickly, avoiding the celebrants.

Taeryl enters the shack.

Gerimon whispers softly. He mutters to Saldrina, "... are moving... will never... far... you... our..."

Somehow, the musicians keep playing, but perhaps that is because the faces behind the instruments are different. Through some near miraculous transitions, they keep playing smoothly, this one a slower dance.

Saldrina blinks and blushes a deep red. She bites her lips and looks downwards...

Atalanta watches the cowled man and hmms.

Jhyn'na grins slyly at Nardolen, winking impudently "But you blush so well."

Nardolen smiles at the tune, "Ahh, this will go well.. hopefully.." He blinks at the wink, it might look like he is returning it, though the sudden blush makes it doubtful. "Well, ummm.. what was I saying?"

Gerimon stands, taking Saldrina's hands in his, gently, letting go, only to take the rose from her hand to put it behind her ear. He smiles at her, quite shyly. "Would you like to dance with me? I am not very good, but I can try. "

Jhyn'na giggles. "I'm sure I've no idea Nardolen. Perhaps something about being ready to dance?"

Saldrina blushes and rises slowly.. "I.. umm.. " She looks down and then looks back into Gerimon's eyes.. She speaks softly 'i have never danced before...

A plaintive voice of a flute rises upon the air, enticing a number of couples onto the dance area to sway to the lilting of the notes.

Nardolen nods and smiles a little, "Well, the music is good. May I have this dance, Jhyn'na? You can choose the dance, too. I actually have a good chance of knowing it, now.

Gerimon moves one arm about Saldrina's waist, and starts leading her towards where the people are dancing. "My younger sister showed me how to once.. So I am not so good either. But come, it's easy. " He smiles genuinely for the first time and Saldrina

Saldrina blushes and leans upon gerimon as she walks where he guides her. A smile on her lips as well, forgeting about the days earlier happenings

Jhyn'na considers her complaining feet for a moment and decides to ignore them. Rising smoothly, she grins at Nardolen, curtsying for effect "Why I'd be honoured."

Gerimon stops where people start dancing, and keeps on arm about Saldrina's waist, and start moving his feet slowly to the dance. He says softly. "Don't look at my feet. Just move after me.. " He manages a weak smile. "Or at least, that's what my younger sister always told me to. "

Nardolen smiles, luckily forgetting having been tricked into a blush. "The honor is mine, Jhyn'na. Maybe later I can show you this one dance that I read about.. the Swan's Kiss, they called it.." He colors a little at saying the name of the dance, but he had to be accurate in the translation.

Saldrina blinks and blushes.. As she was starting to look down at Gerimons Feet.. She looks up to him and nods her head a little and starts to move slowly.. a little off of the dance slightly..

Gerimon actually almost steps on Saldrina's feet, but just barely manages to avoid it, easily keeping his balance. He blushes a little at that.

Jhyn'na chuckles, a twinkle dancing in her eyes. "That sounds like an enjoyable dance, Nardolen," moving to take his hand in hers, she means to head for the dance area.

Saldrina blushes slightly and sighs a little..

Gerimon might blush a little, but he smiles at Saldrina still, moving her around slowly, but in the way he should in the dance. Hardly skillfully, but without too many faults at least

Nardolen takes Jhyn'na's hand gratefully and heads off to dance, "So, you want to lead, or should I?" He winks a little, and nearly stumbles in surprise at it.

Saldrina misses a step and blushes . her hand coming up to her right cheek. She bites her lip and tries to follow Gerimon..her feet however seeming to have a mind of their own.

Jhyn'na starts to smile at Nardolen's boldness, then gasps as she recognizes the tune. A low mellow-paced beat marks an almost sultry song. A woman with a husky voice had joined the musicians, singing of a plead with her love to be true. A slow smile replaces Jhyn'na's reaction "It's your job to lead, a woman's place to follow."

Jhyn'na winks as she is apparently leading the way to an available spot on the dance floor.

Gerimon smiles a little to Saldrina, and stops as well, letting her take her time to get into the dance, before starting to move again. He grins a little and says softly. "We will need to practice on this. "

Nardolen tilts his head, his eyes widening. "Dovienya," he says with a small grin. He immediately puts his hands up flatly against Jhyn'na's, palm to palm. He guesses now is as good a time as any to try out yet another dance from a different age. Books are paying off, that is for sure. The movements are slow, each meaning something, according to what he read. It all looks like some very slow, sensual movement, closer than one would expect of him, but he's obviously focused on the dance, not noting how this dance would normally leave him blushing.

Saldrina blushes a little and bites her lip.. She looks down to Gerimons feet and bobs her head slightly. She begins to move once more with him. She stumbles occasionally and blushes . She looks up to gerimon and smiles.

Gerimon smiles faintly, and looks down at Saldrina's feet, for a moment, then at her face again. He seems to be studying every detail and outline of her face, still dancing

Surprise registers mildly on Jhyn'na's face, but that same slow smile creeps back again even as she concentrates on following what Nardolen seems to be doing. Some of her guesses seem to hit the mark, her own flair adding a dash of creativity to the dance, but others are wide of the mark, merely leaving her looking somewhat at a loss. She does not miss the closeness of the dance, but keeps from calling attention to it, if it helps Nardolen.

Nardolen smiles and goes on through the dance, which continues on, the distance between partners growing smaller, he blinks and then grins a little, remembering something about this dance that had slipped his mind. "I'll have to tell you the proper way to finish this dance later.. I can't show you, though." He laughs a little, obviously enjoying himself, the dance lasts as long as the song, the movements getting slower and more subtle.

Saldrina blushes and nods her head. She stops moving about and just hugs Gerimon close to her. A faint smile on her lips as she closes her eyes

Jhyn'na arches a slim brow in curiousity. "Oh? I'm sure I should like to hear that." She picks up on the subtleties of the dance, becoming more comfortable with each passing note of the singing woman's plea.

Gerimon returns the hug from Saldrina, then slowly pulls back, and takes her hand, and starts walking away.

A short, slimly built woman approaches the table Malerin sits at, motioning to the empty chair beside him. "Taken?" she asks in a high, lilting voice.

"No, please, have a seat." Malerin smiles.

The woman grins, extending a pale hand "Morisle" she states for introduction, taking the seat gracefully and settling her skirts about her. "How are you able to just sit and watch at a dance?"

Malerin smiles and bring her hand to his lips, kissing her fingers. "A pleasure, Morisle. Why, I was just waiting for someone like you to stop by, care for a dance?"

Morisle smiles coyly "I thought you'd never ask,"

Malerin grins and takes her hand in his as he leads her out to the dancing area.

Saldrina smiles and moves with Gerimon. Leaning upon him a little... Morisle follows quite happily at succeeding in finding a dance partner so easily.

Malerin smiles as he slips an arm around her waist and begins the dance.

Gerimon turns southeast and starts walking to NorthHarbor Road.

Saldrina turns southeast and starts walking to NorthHarbor Road.

Nardolen continues to lead through the dance, the steps suddenly becoming intricate, eating up a lot of space, though he manages to weave right through people. Some staring at the dance, very unfamiliar. Funny how a few thousand years make people forget. Nar doesn't notice, as he works close to the end of the dance.

Jhyn'na licks her lips, brow furrowed in concentration. It is all she can manage at the moment to keep up with Nardolen's movements about the floor, much less follow the intricate steps. She tries valiantly though, stumbling noticeably only once.

Morisle assumes the proper position, one hand on his shoulder, the other in his hand and moves easily about the floor.

Malerin smiles as he half leads, half gets lead in the twists and turnabouts of the dance. "You are very skilled at this, Morisle." He smiles.

Nardolen doesn't notice the stumble, smiling a little more, the ending is upon him, now. It is rather simple, though, all he has to do is.. He moves forward suddenly, lifting Jhyn'na gently off the floor when his hands find their way around her waist. He spins once, twice, three times, before he lowers her, keeping her close the whole time. He stops when they are face to face, not quite putting Jhyn'na on her feet. He seems rather startled, but he seems pleased to have made it this far, at least.

Morisle smiles up at her dance partner, "No no, merely passable. I am lucky I have managed to find such a capable partner. My toes were positively aching earlier, they were stepped on so often. Where have you been all night?" she adds wink.

Malerin laughs lightly. "I've been around." They come to another turn in the dance.

Jhyn'na had unconsciously placed her arms about Nardolen's neck, grey eyes going wide upon finding herself off the ground, more in surprise than alarm. She manages to breathe out "Well...that was unexpected," she starts then smiles, quickly adding "but nice. You've learned quite a bit since I danced with you last. I dare say you've surpassed me." she grins.

Morisle grins "Not around enough apparently. I think I should have saved my poor toes quite a bit of grief had I met you earlier."

Nardolen stares into Jhyn'na's eyes for a bit before blinking and coloring. He sets her down gently, "Well, I did like it, too. I nearly showed you the ending, though." He laughs a little at that.. nervously, but still a little laugh.

Malerin smiles. "If you say so, Morisle. So, what do you do except dancing and looking beautiful?" He adds a wink.

Jhyn'na chuckles at that blush, dropping her gaze for a moment, to peer up through long lashes but a minute later. "You're going to have to tell me this ending you keep speaking about," she interrupts herself to clap for the woman ending her song, along with the rest of the people.

Morisle blushes slightly at the compliment, "A mere merchant's daughter," she chuckles, hoping to hide her blush. She doesn't bother to mention that her father owns one of the most lucrative businesses in fur trading.

Malerin smiles. "Oh, really? My mother is a merchant." His eyes are on her face, yet somehow his feet manages the steps very well.

Nardolen laughs a little and nods, "I will tell you.. some time. Maybe later, if you'd like." He doesn't say anything more, letting it fade. He apparently finds it quite hard to shake the thought of, his blush returning as he thinks about it.

Jhyn'na tsks good-naturedly "I'd like that, though I warn you to tell me before I go mad with curiousity," She curtsys formally, her customary dimpled smile on her face "Thank you for the dance."

Morisle nods interestedly "Oh? What business is your mother in?" She too, continues the steps as the music turns to a purely instrumental one, still with a sedate mood.

Malerin grins. "She's mostly dealing in silks and jewelry and the such, really. What is your father, was it, dealing in?" The dancing continues.

Morisle says "Fur," again, she doesn't elaborate further. Her steps slow as the song nears its end.

Nardolen blinks at the curtsy, muttering something about 'bloody lord'. He looks around at everyone, some looking at him appraisingly. He looks like a lord, now. He seems displeased with that. "It was a pleasure, Jhyn'na."

Malerin nods. "I see.." He seems not to realize the song is over quite directly. "Would you like to get a drink and maybe something to eat, or shall we have another dance?" He smiles.

Jhyn'na chuckles at Nardolen glaring around at the people, then turns to lead the way to an empty table. They are easier to find now that most of the festival-goers have either found bed or another venue to frequent. Sighing, she settles on a chair, "I've been dancing most of today, do you realize that? It was glorious."

Morisle smiles "Perhaps a drink is in order." She motions towards some of the musicians who seem to be packing up. "I don't think there will be many dances left."

Nardolen follows, almost groaning as a girl tries to sell "m'lord" some flowers. He flips her a few coins, not noting that they are gold, rather than silver. The young girl gasps and hands him a dozen roses, which surprises him for a moment.

Malerin nods and smiles. "A drink would be nice." He hands over a couple of coins to a salesman and returns with two glasses of cider, offering one to her. "Here you go, Morisle." He smiles again.

Morisle accepts the glass gratefully, drinking a few swallows before choosing a seat. "What business do you do?" she makes small talk.

Malerin smiles. "I run a menagerie, actually." He takes a seat just by her side. "And you?"

Jhyn'na chuckles at Nardolen's reaction to the rose girl. "My, do you have a few admirers to impress Nardolen?" she asks apparently referring to the flowers.

Morisle says "I help run the business. My mum thinks I should, as the eldest in the family."

Nardolen smiles weakly, "I hope you don't mind a gift, mi'lady. Certainly you can't refuse a great lord such as I?" His laugh makes the last addition a jest.

Malerin nods. "Ah.. Ah, I see." His eyes are on her face. He smiles. "You are from Saldaea, Morisle, aren't you?"

Jhyn'na's laugh is light as she accepts the flowers "How can I refuse such charming flowers from a superb dancer and handsome....lord," she joins in the jest, though not in mockery.

Morisle smiles "You are well travelled to recognize Saldaean features. But perhaps with a menagerie, that is understandable." She takes a sip of her cider.

Malerin returns the smile, with a wink. "Well, I've been travelling quite a lot in my life, really." Not boasting, not at all.

"Then you've been to Saldaea?" Morisle asks, continuing the small talk.

Malerin nods and smiles. "Oh yes. I've been quite everywhere save the Aiel Waste, Shara, and the Blight, really."

Nardolen seems relieved that the flowers were accepted. He waves to a man carting some wine about. He gestures to the finer wine, which he instantly regrets, fortifying this fool notion of him being more than a commoner by spending coin freely.

Jhyn'na continues to be impressed by the transformation in Nardolen, but refrains from comment for the moment, taking the opportunity to take in the aroma of the fresh roses in her grasp.

Morisle nods "That's quite a bit of travelling. You never tire of it?" Her eyes are scanning the crowd, perhaps merely from curiousity.

Malerin smiles. "No, not really.. there is so much in life to see, to experience.." He winkwinks.

Nardolen manages to get glasses, too, before the vendor runs off again. Of course, everything costs at least twice the normal, as the festival does wonders for supply and demand. He looks at Jhyn'na and asks, "Care for a bit of wine to go with the roses?" He pours himself a glass, he's obviously thirsty. He almost never drinks wine. Well, he seems to have forgotten why, at least.

Morisle chuckles. "Oh, no doubt. I've travelled with my father on occasion. That's how we ended up here for this purely delightful festival. Tell me, do you know the mayor?"

Jhyn'na looks up from her study of the flowers to smile acceptance to the wine. "Yes please. It's a wonder how much I've drank today. One gets ever so parched with the heat and the dancing."

Malerin shakes his head. "Not really, no. I haven't been in Tar Valon that long, either, really." Winkwink.

Nardolen nods to Jhyn'na, filling the second glass and holding it out to her. He seems to be strangely focused, not off in another world as is his norm.

Morisle nods solemnly, frankly just a bit befuddled with all the winks. "Ahh, I've not met the man myself either, though he does seem quite popular with the cityfolk. I just wonder what he plans on doing about all the horrible things going on around here."

Jhyn'na takes the wine glass with a grateful nod and sips it experimentally. "Mmm...you have a fine choice in wines as well. Have you been studying that too?"

Malerin nods. "Mmm.." He takes a sip of his wine. Wink.

Nardolen seems relieved that the vendor was honest. "No, I haven't studied wines.. I just trusted that man.. I guess there are still many honest people in the city."

Jhyn'na nods, "So I've heard. Tar Valon is reputed to be free of crimes." she frowns at that reminder.

Morisle remains silent for some moments, perhaps an awkward silence.

Malerin smiles. "So, how do you like Tar Valon?"

Nardolen frowns a little and says, "Well, if it was free of crimes, I wouldn't be getting so much coin to spend. The alarm business is turning quite serious, now. No one seems to feel safe from theft or worse..

Morisle shrugs. "Well, considering its reputation for being so safe, it has disappointed quite soundly. I'm surprised my Da let me wander for this long. Perhaps he couldn't find me."

Malerin nods. "Aye.. It doesnt seem quite as safe as rumours claim."

Jhyn'na ahhs. "I can understand that. Though I am glad you have found a way to help." She frowns a moment, then realizes that she didn't quite understand what he was talking about.

Nardolen laughs a little, "Don't worry too much over it. And don't think too much about the bad. Why, this new mayor will get these streets clean if has to do it single-handedly.

Jhyn'na smiles "Oh, you've met him too then?"

Nardolen shakes his head, "No, I haven't, but I've heard enough of him. He reminds me of my father's father. A man who knows where he is, knows where he is going, and doesn't care what stands between. He'll get things done, and woe to those who stand in the man's way."

Jhyn'na smiles. "Yes, that does sound like him." She takes another sip of her wine, savouring the taste and watching the thinning sea of humanity.

Morisle nods solemnly "I just have to wonder whether it was always like this and the rumours were a lie or if this is something new." Malerin nods. "Yes..Yes, you're right." He smiles and takes another sip of his cider. "So, what does your mother do?"

Morisle smiles "What else would a mother do? She tells my father how to run his business and how to treat his children." she says with a wink, though it is probably not too far from the truth.

Malerin laughs lightly. "Ah...ah, I see."

A man in blue and gold livery strides through the streets, looking quite purposeful and apparently heading straight for Morisle.

Morisle spots the man, sighing and offering an apologetic smile to Malerin "It seems Da's found me. Or at least one of the servants have. It was a pleasure sharing a dance and some drink with you. Perhaps we shall meet again."

Malerin nods and kisses Morisles hand in a way of saying goodbye. "Pleasure meeting you, Morisle."

Nardolen suddenly hops up and offers a hand to Jhyn'na, carrying his glass easily, with the wine bottle now tied precariously on his belt. "Would you like to find out how that dance is supposed to end?"

Morisle's cheeks flush a little at the gesture, but regains her composure just as the man in livery reaches her. She raises a hand to him "Yes, yes, I know Tavarn, Father's looking for me. I'm ready to go now." With a final smile to Malerin she wanders off with the wordless servant.

Jhyn'na suddenly grins and rises smoothly, her flowers clutched in her right hand. Nodding to them, "Well, first can I put these in water at my house?"

Nardolen says "That sounds good to me.."

Jhyn'na saunters off towards the direction of her house, slipping an arm through Nardolen's arm quite contentedly.

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