Event Information:
[Event Index]

Welcome to the IC celebration! Be sure to join in, because you have a chance of receiving unique items throughout the celebration!

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The village of Kellen treats this as one of their largest holidays out of the year. It began many years ago, when a little man, dressed in green and calling himself Patrick came into the village and helped the villagers fight off a sudden goblin raid. Without lifting a finger, he used his Fae magic to strike the goblins down, then proceeded to heal those that had been wounded, even those that they believed to be dead. After doing this, the villagers called a great celebration in honor of their small hero. Patrick only asked that the villagers would leave gifts of green and ale out for him and his kin every eve thereafter.

Thus the traditions of Patrick's Day began and continue to this day.

The village is decked out in banners of green and gold, and music can be heard coming from every small tavern and common house. Children run through the town, shamrocks and young flowers woven into their hair. They spend a day of games and laughter, while their parents enjoy the ale and music in a revel that lasts deep into the night.

The gifts left out on everyone's doorstep is now long gone, Patrick's kin said to have taken them to their homes, hidden in the hills around the town.

Now travelers have begun to appear, wandering minstrels and craftsmen, hoping to sell their wares in the small market at the edge of town, just as green-clad as the rest of the town. Others have come from the larger cities to simply enjoy the festivities in the country.

By midday, the festival is in full swing. And some have whispered rumors of seeing a small man, dressed in green with red locks darting about...

Forgetting who he was and everything that has happened in his past. Stallion Thunder walked day and night thirsting for the only thing he knew he wanted, blood. After walking aimlessly for such a long time, he heard the sound of people cheering and laughing in the distance. He headed towards the noise.

Stallion Thunder enters the small village of Kellen, standing on the path he then preceeds too look at the crowds of people, enjoying the celebrations. Laughing to himself, he smiled for the first time he could remember, which isn't much in the first place, as the scent of blood filled his nostrils.

Noticing He didn't quite fit in the rest of the cheery and laughing people. He headed towards the shadows of the nearest building. He leaned against the building and basked in the scent of all the Blood.

A small man, no more than two feet tall and dressed entirely in green (which wasn't much of a contrast in comparison to the villagers, almost all dressed in varying shades), with a well-trimmed beard and black cap, seems to appear from no where besides shadowy stranger.

He smiled up at him, from beneath his hat's brim, despite the menacing stature of the vampire. "G'day, sir! Would you like to make a toast in honor of this glorious festival? There's not a place in all of Imythess that is as green a full of life as these beautiful hills!" Judging by his red cheeks and slight stagger by which he moved as he made grand gestures throughout his speech, it seemed the little man had already drunken more than enough of the free-flowing ale, but sure enough two large mugs filled to the brim with amber-colored liquid were in his small, plump hands. He offered one to the dark man.

It had been a slow couple of days in Kellen as the village prepared for their spring festival, and Dmitri was getting bored. The town was pleasant enough, the inhabitants nice, but there was neither action nor excitement, and with the entire town too busy setting up to listen to music or drink, he was an out-of-work bard. It wasn’t until the festival started, earlier that day, that he could earn his keep.

He’d been playing for almost eight hours at this point, and his repertoire of songs was beginning to run thin. He’d already played “John Barleycorn” three times that day, to the cheers and toasts of the sloshed festival goers, and his throat was parched. Dmitri put his harp back in the case, and wandered over to the ale bar.

“Barkeep, I’d love a flagon of your finest.”

He set a silver piece down on the counter, and watched as the barkeep scurried off to grab him a drink. As he surveyed the town, he notice a short, red-haired man in a green suit feeding ale to a newcomer to town. He smiled at the sight, and returned to his perch with his new flagon of ale, drinking the thick, heady brew deeply. As he finished, he pulled out his harp, and began to play again.

“As I went home in Monday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw a horse outside the door where my old horse should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that horse outside the door where my old horse should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's the lovely sow that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
but a sattle on a sow sure I never saw before.”

The crowd began to laugh and cheer, and Dmitri smiled, getting into the spirit of the festival. There was nothing better for a bard than good ale and an appreciative audience.


”As I went home on Tuesday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw a coat behind the door, where my old coat should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that coat behind the door where my old coat should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's the woolen blanket that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But buttons in a blanket sure I never saw before.


As I went home on Wednesday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw a pip upon the chair, where my old pipe should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that pipe upon the chair where my old pipe should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's a lovely tin whistle that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But tobacco in a tin whistle sure I never saw before.”

A few of the prettier lasses in town gathered out front, and he winked mischievously at the one furthest to the right. She was a buxom lass, and he’d be damned if she weren’t looking him over like a side of meat. No matter—it had been a long time since he’d had a tumble in the hay, and he wasn’t going to pass up a good time. He set his harp case down on the crowd in front of himself, and kept playing.

”As I went home on Thursday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw two boots beneath the bed, where my old boots should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that boots beneath the bed where my old boots should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's the geraniene pots that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But laces in a gernaniene pot sure I never saw before.

As I went home on Friday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw a head upon the bed, where my old head should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that head upon the bed where my old head should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's a lovely baby-boy that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But a baby and his whiskers sure I never saw before.

As I went home on Saturday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw two hands upon her breasts, where my two hands should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that hands upon your breasts where my two hands should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's a lovely new night-gown that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But fingers in a night-gown sure I never saw before.

As I went home on Sunday night, as drunk as drunk could be,
I saw a thing in her thing, where my old thing should be.
Well, I called my wife and I said to her: Will you kindly tell to me,
Who owns that thing in your thing where my old thing should be?

Are you drunk, you drunk, you silly old fool? Still you cannot see,
That's that lovely tin whistle that my mother had given to me.
Well, it's many a-day I travelled, a hundred miles and more,
But hair on a tin whistle sure I never saw before.

Well, it became kinda longish, didn't it?”

The crowd burst out laughing as he stood and bowed. A few coins were thrown into the case, as well as not a few maiden’s scarves. He smiled, and looked about the festival. He could get to like this town.

Shinji, despite his mysterious nature as any assassin would have, actually very much enjoyed social occasions. A beggar whom he had encountered on the street told him of the festival:

"Good day sir, do you have any change to spare?" said the beggar.

"Why yes I do have a little." replied Shinji, who offered held out his hand, and dropped a few gold coins in the beggar's palm.

After some friendly conversation, the beggar told Shinji of the Patrick's day festival that was taking place in the Village of Kellen. Shinji was on his way over there anyway.

"What do I have to loose, I think I will attend this event. It could be fun. And the beggar even told me of a rumor of seeing a little man in green running about. I would love to know if that's true." thought Shinji.

So Shinji, decided to attend the event. He got there, with a few people looking mysteriously at him, but once he greeted everyone in a friendly manner, nobody was suspicious of him or thought he was up to no good, which he wasn't.

"I sure am thirsty, I think I'll get a drink at the tavern" thought Shinji.

So Shinji walked over to the tavern, and ordered a drink. He drunk his ale, while walking around and enjoying himself in at different activities.

"I wonder if there really is a little man in green" thought Shinji.

Stallion Thunder looked down at the Little Man In green. He tilted his head to the side and smiled lightly. He was thirsty, but not for ale. But seeming that the blood smell coming from this little man was more then grotesque. He decided to please the creature in having the drink. He reached out and took the mug and smiled he nodded his head and said "I agree it is very green here. It's actually very pleasent. It also smells very... delicious." As he said this he put his mug out so he could toast with the little man.

"A Toast to this beautiful festival" He tapped his mug against the little mans mug. He then took a couple of gulps of the Ale and it stung like fire as it went down. Stallion Thunder enjoyed the pain as it went down. So he took a couple more sips. "Ah... Thank you so much it's delicious!" He said thanfully as he wiped any remains of the Ale from his face.

Why was she going to a party in such a no where town? That was the question Veronna had asked herself as she had traveled to the village of Kellen. But when she had arrived, she found she was quite welcome and she was forced to join in the festivities. She was given a bright green dress to wear and kids had woven shamrocks into her hair, which flowed over her shoulders and back. She was not wearing her scimitars, or any other weapon at that. She had left them with her clothes when she had changed into the dress she wore now. She had walked around the merchants tents for a little while, but then found herself where the music was being played, watching those who were dancing. The music was cheerful and fast, the people dancing had smiles on their faces, enjoying every moment of the dance. Veronna let a small smile spread onto her face as she watched the people, wondering if she should join in.

But someone made up her mind for her, as a man who was dancing swept her in to the swirl of things. She did not resist when she was dragged into dancing, in fact, she very much enjoyed it. Her skirts whipped around her as she spun with the man who pulled her into the dance. Even though she did not know who he was, she was not suspicious of him, for everyone was here for a good time, from what she could tell. The music continued, growing faster and faster, until it finally stopped. Veronna grinned broadly and bowed, as the man bowed to her saying; "Thank you for honoring me with a dance, goddess." He looked up after that, respect in his eyes. She kept the smile on her face and nodded to him, "No, I thank you for dragging me in to join." The music was starting again and she gave him a sideways glance, "Would you care to drag me into another song?" She asked. The man smiled and placed one hand on her hip, and the other holding onto Veronna's hand. The song started at a very fine pace, and continued for a while. Until it came to a close, Veronna slightly out of breath, along with her dancing partner. They were both smiling, and bowed to each other again. "I believe I need a drink now." Veronna said as she wove her way through people away from the dancing area, the man following ahead, to get to mugs full of some sort of alcohol.

Veronna reached him and he passed the mug to her and he held his up, Veronna following suit, knowing a toast was coming. "A toast, to the Goddess of Blades, who somehow finds time to dance with even the most common of people." He shouted, some people staring at him, then at her, but most people who heard raised their own mugs. She held back a blush and downed the mug, the liquid feeling good as it slid down her throat as everyone else downed their own. She thanked the man again, and she walked off to see what else was happening at the party, her eyes falling to a small man wearing green, which did not surprise her, everyone was wearing green. She wandered around until she came to a bard who was playing a song, with people standing around him listening and laughing. She also listened, noticing some women taking much interest in this man who was playing on a harp. She was not here to make eyes at him, but to listen to him. A smile still on her face, her eyes watching his fingers as he plucked the strings. She was not musically incline and did not have the patience to learn, she would rather stay with her swords and other weapons.

She listened for the whole song, and nodded to him when he finished, "You play well bard. What is your name sir?" She asked, wondering if he might have played at the Song of Elves before.

Kalius enjoyed happiness, in every sense of the word. So after hearing of festivities in Kellen, Kal could not resist but to join it the games. His heart swelled as he passed the green and gold tapestries hung form every dwelling and tavern, the sounds of dance and music heavy on the mid-day sun. Coming to a circling of carts, a troupe of bards Kal thought by the melody he heard, all he wanted to do was lay on his back and let the warmth of the day and kindness of the people wash over him. Kneeling so his back was against the wall of the nearest cart, Kal removed his cloak and un-buttoned the top of his light green, long-sleeved shirt. About to let his surroundings take him away, a soft cry from a young girl broke his thoughts.
"I lost it...I dont want to be left out..."
A voice so visibly hurt in such a joyous time saddened the gentle man, so he walked over to the sobbing child.
"Hello, my name is Kalius" With a genuine smile he knelt down beside her "Please tell, what is wrong on such a nice day."
She stared at the man for some time, but did not look scared
"i..lost my green cloak, with out it im not wearing any green..." As soon as the girl finished speaking she turned to run, but Kal rested his hand on her shoulder.
"come now, i will not let that happen" while he spoke Kal drew out his dagger, which made the girl flinch slightly, and cut off both sleeves of his shirt.
"Here" wrapping one piece of material around her head into a bandana and the other across her waist, he patted her on the cheek. "now your as green as a leaf!"
Blushing a bright red, the girl smiled and ran off. With the innocence of a child in every city, and happiness such as today in every town then civilization can not be all bad Kal thought to him self as he headed for the tavern. Finding a stool near the front next to a bard in mid-story, Kalius let the atmosphere take him away again, and wished to himself he knew someone to share a dance with.

Meera was always one to join in on happy town celebrations. She had not, and would never forget where she came from. She was simply a girl from out in the country. For what reason would she miss such festivities as this? Her steps were light and slow as she made her way through Kellen. Though she was proud and regal, her chin stayed modestly low and her eyes only lightly danced across every face. She felt motivated to dress nicely for the occasion. It was lucky for her that her golden emerald eyes already matched. Meera had picked out a nice white dress that fell down to her knees, with soft ivy leaves crawling up the bottom. The top was decorated with clovers and flowers. Touching a hand to the one four leaf clover at the top, Meera wished everyone she passed the best of luck in their whole lives. She genuinely hoped for them to have true happiness. Her other hand reached gently up to run through her long amber hair self consciously. She saw many people, but they were all already interacting with one another. She felt slightly left out. She wanted to have fun, but didn't really want to intrude on any one conversation that a person had already started. Oh well, she would wait and maybe someone would approach her. A slight skip in her step, Meera perked up her chin and danced along. She stepped to the light beat of the music of a bard as her eyes fluttered around, looking for any familliar faces. When none met her, she was momentarily put back. Then, the thought hit her. Why should she be so upset not to see anyone that she knew already? This was simply a chance to meet someone knew. And that, became her exact mission for the night. Now she only had to find someone who didn't seem to busy and might do her the pleasure of talking. Would there be anyone willing?

As Meera walked along, she spied a man crouched down talking to a sobbing girl. Her first reaction was to be alarmed, but when she heard his speech, she realized that it was soft and kind. He meant the girl no harm. Meera halted for a moment to listen. A smile spread on her face as she witnessed the man commit a great act of kindness. He cut off his own sleeves just so that the girl would be satisfied with having some green on her. A laugh escaped from Meera's lips before she could hold it back. How sweet. Before she could say something to the man though, he was up and moving. Eager to talk, Meera followed. Her pace was no match for his though, since she wasn't really running. That would just seem suspicious. Instead, Meera kept her distance and watched him disappear into a tavern. She silently hoped that someone hadn't already immersed him in conversation and slipped her way through the door. Her green eyes slowly searched the area before spying him at the bar. There were no seats around him though. How would she get him to talk to her? It would just be awkward with her standing and him standing. Thinking back to her sudden urge before, Meera was struck with an idea. She could only hope that she wouldn't embarrass herself if he refused. Sweeping past others on the floor, Meera found herself in front of the man. She gave him a slight curtsy and brushed the hair out of her eyes with a light hand. She said, "I saw what you did for that little girl. I must say you seem very kind. Would you honor me with this dance?" A small smile played on the corners of Meera's lips as her eyes searched his face for any signs or reactions towards her appearance. Would he accept her offer, or deny it? She hoped for the first. He was the only person, besides the bard, here that she saw not currently with someone already.

Patrick laughed cheerily, guzzling the drink deeply, draining the cup in a single long draught. "Aye, this town is truly magic when this time of year comes..." he trailed off, his beady eyes distant for a moment as he watched the swirl of people moving along the main road.

"Here, keep this. It holds a bit more of a kick than the things they are serving in the tavern... not for the faint of heart, eh laddie?" He doubled over in laughter, shoving a stone jar into Stallion's hands, then swept his cap from his head with a flourish. "Enjoy the celebration, but don't enjoy it too much, Nightwalker," the small Fae said with a quick wink. Within a blink of an eye, he was gone...

--

The Fae reappeared in the tavern, which was so full, no one noticed the darting form slipping past legs and skirts. He reached the back of the tavern, where a small stage had been erected and a bard graced the floor. A crowd of people were gathered there, listening intently.

Patrick easily hopped onto the edge of a chair close to the stage and far off to the side against the wall and lit his dark wooden pipe. Someone of great importance was there, a goddess, no less. Patrick's red eyebrows arched as she watched her speaking with the bard after the bard had finished yet another set of music.

Savarkael, as usual, was wandering, this part of the journey, she was in a human form that was slightly tall, and slender, but she was strong still. She never stopped. Only when she reached a town, then she would stop and stay at a tavern. She had just reached Kellen, though, she had no idea that a party was about. She forgot about this holiday, but she has never celebrated it before, no wait, she had, she forgot, when she did it was years ago, when she knew Fios. She and him, and many friends from an academy had celebrated this holiday for ten years, until she had to leave, or until her time there was finished, but since leaving, she never celebrated it ever since. Her weapons were strapped to her, her lightning blade on her back, her scimitar on her belt, hitting lightly on her hip. Her throwing daggers strapped in her boots. Her dagger in her backpack.

Inside her backpack, a little creature squirmed inside of it, wanting out. With a long sigh, Sava reached over with on hand and opened the backpack while it was still on her back. Right when she opened it, a fly dragon zipped out, a buzzing sound going through the air. Sava? Is there a party going on tonight? I don't remember any parties this time of the year, Blackquill said, talking to Sava telepathically.

"I don't know, Quill." She said in a slightly annoyed tone, as she walked towards the noise, when she got there, she stopped. There were people dancing and having a fun time, and right there, she remembered having fun with her friends, her old friends who don't even remember her now. She stood there watching, they were having fun. Her hair was long and half way down her back, put in a long braid. The hair color was black and green, the same as her eyes. "I guess I'll fit right in with my green, black hair, people would just think me decoretive." She mumbled. You think so, Sava? asked Quill. "Take a joke, Blacky." Sava joked, walking forward into the crowds.

Aether Draka had found her way into Kellen with the crowds. She just hoped no one who lived here would recognize her from the little battle a few months back. She doubted it though. It was her demon friend and the conjured shadow hawk that drew everyone’s eye. Besides that she had managed to get all decked out for the occasion. She was dressed in a rich forest green that the lady who had dressed her up in it has said matched her eyes. It matched her bag and her elven blade at least. Carefully packing all her valuables in her backpack and setting Turin to guard it, like always, just inside the main packet. He would guard her from theft that way, not that she normally had trouble with thieves. Sometimes she was a bit of one herself…

Dressed in a long green skirt and bell-sleeved blouse, and her normal black suede bodice and black winged boots. She felt rather happy. It was probably the moods of so many others going to her head, bringing her along with their joy. She hadn’t even had a drink though and she felt giddy. AD stayed to the busy streets, avoiding the taverns and pubs. She wasn’t here to get drunk, at least she had no reason to drink. She was curious about the reason so many others were drinking though, and what ale tasted like, though and that curiosity was most likely going to find her drunk if she didn’t keep an eye on it.

She walked down the busy streets, moving with the crowds, but breaking off from them as they went into the taverns. She was suddenly caught amongst a group being who were handing out shamrocks. She found herself holding one of these little clovers as she was once more on her way. She stepped away from the throng of people into the shadow of a building to stop for a moment and look at the plant. Holding it up in one hand she tipped her head slightly to the right and spun the shamrock slowly in her fingertips, watching the four leaves blur into a tiny green disk before it paused and did so again as she spun it the other way.

Dmitri had hopped off of the stage, and was about to head towards the girl who had been moon-eying him, when he was stopped by a pleasant, unfamiliar feminine voice to his side.

“You play well bard. What is your name sir?”

He turned slowly, and stared at the short elven woman before him. She was tiny, no more than 5’1” or 5’2”, with dusky skin and a fighter’s build. A Drow, a race that once his family would have beaten him for speaking too, but that was long ago, in another life. Besides, she was quite pretty, with long, free-flowing silver hair and eyes that, though red, shown with intelligence. He decided to go with a charming approach, and so he bowed.

“Vladimir Leonovich Paedrov, my lady. Freelance bard, once of the Northlands, now of wherever the music and my feet take me.”

It was only then that he noticed the reaction of the crowd to the diminutive Drow. They seemed to hold her in some kind of awe, but for no reason he could think of. He still remembered most of the lessons his family had taught him on the nobility of the lands, and he certainly could not imagine a Drow ruler. He leaned in, close enough for intimate conversation but without offering offense, and asked,

“My lady, I beg your pardon, but everyone seems to be staring this direction, without much discretion. Did I grow horns during the song, or do they all know something I don’t know?”

Kalius sat with his back to the bar, not out of fear of an attack, not at all! Kal was purely enjoying the festivities and would hate to miss even the slightest event in his surroundings. Scanning the well-lit tavern, He loved what he saw. Hundreds of tiny lights illuminated the cozy establishment, most he knew were candles but some he thought were magic tricks. With a boyish smile filling out his young features, Kal thought 'I would not be surprised if a number of things this night were magical' he ran a hand through his hair 'maybe even this tavern its self!' Focusing on the stream of smoke trailing up from the nearest candle, magic or not, he could not help but chuckle as his gaze, along with the puff of smoke, rested on the ceiling. Long, silken curtains in traditional holiday colors covered the entirety of the ceiling, and safely encircled the light fictures, where more candles burned with a bright light. Tonight reminded him in many ways of his home, the village in which he grew up. Kalius grew up in a small agricultural settlement, in which both men and wood-elf lived and worked together, a village of only thirty-five. It was an existance of seperation, as the only population to associate with strangers were the top elders, and that was strictly for trading purposes. That life seemed meaningless to the young man, so even after countless discussions from the elders, his father included, about how larger civilized societies are corrupt and cruel, He left home.

That theory felt cold and hollow since his travels started. On a brilliant occasion such as this, a day of song and drink and a day when all races of imythess seemed to cast out all thoughts of evil. Kalius felt calm, as if all that will happen tonight will be purely innocent. He was still whistling the bards tune long after it was finished when he was approached. A woman dressed in a beatiful white dressed, with green plant life depicted throughout, stopped in directly infront of him and done a polite curtsy.
"I saw what you did for that little girl. I must say you seem very kind. Would you honor me with this dance?"
As soon as he saw the young lady approach a wide smile covered his face, and with her words he blushed deeply. She was about his height with light brown hair, She was very attractive. Before Kal could accept the generous offer he found himself looking at her eyes, emerald green. Fitting to the holiday... when he caught himself staring he blushed deeper.
" thank you for your kind words...and as for the dance, I would be honored, and perhaps afterwards we can talk or share a drink?" Kalius asked as he stood and extended his hand, motioning to the dance floor. "it is always nice to meet some one new."

(Kiss Me Iam of Irish Decent)

Arthur sat drinking in the tavern singing along with the men in their celebrating St. Patricks Day along with the others and he said," A toast to St.Ptrick and the merry days of Yore a toast to the Gods and Goddesses". The men raised there glasses and drank and Arthur began to sing," Oh drink up me fine Irish genbtlemen, Drink Up me buckos, Drink till the ye hearts of full wine and ale, drink to ye old St.PAtrick. For we go now to see him in a nevermore land where the wine is good and the girls are pretty. I fear we shall never see thee again. Drink up me fine Irishmen drinkup drink up. For we got to the Emerald Isles to kiss the Blarney Stone". He then npticed the Goddess Veronna dancing among the men and thought " Now I have seen everything". He then looekd at she talked with a bard and noticed that the bard did not know her which seemed immpossible to him.

Veronna watched as the bard looked at her, taking in her features. She was use to people sizing her up, for that was what fighters did before a battle, hoping to understand their opponent so they could have an advantage. But this man was not a fighter, he was a bard, which made her think of that night a few months back. But her attention came back to him when he bowed and introduced himself to her. She did not recognize the name, but he did not seem he recognized her, which was fine, except the people standing around them were watching them, or her. She had learned to ignore it, but when the man leaned closer to her and asked her why everyone was staring, she let out a quiet laugh, not one to make him feel stupid, but one of slight amusement.

"If I told you why people were staring, you may not see me as you do now, but I can tell that will make you even more nervous." She said, guessing what his reactions would be, so she changed her story a little. "My name is Veronna Darkblade Nydalath, I watch over the port city called Taras, and people seem to have much respect for me. Also, they could be staring because I don't get out much." What she said was the truth, she just did not add in that she was a goddess, which would not harm anything.

"Would you care for a drink, Bard Paedrov?" She asked gesturing towards the bar, inviting him to come with her. Her eyes looked around the tavern quickly, seeing if anyone she knew was there. Her eyes somehow fell on a squat little man running between and under people, she recognized him from outside, but did not ponder on who he was for now. She continued to look around the room, and she saw the new Goddess of Water, Meera. She had yet to meet her, but she was in conversation already, and Veronna had someone to talk to herself. She did not recognize anyone else right then, but she heard some men singing, and she could tell they were having a very fine time.

She hoped the bard would come to her invitation of getting a drink, for she was curious about bards, mostly because they were the opposite of what she was, and maybe he had some stories to share, for she had not seen all of Imythess on foot yet, and Vladimir had come from the north, so he most likely had seen a lot of the land.

Meera dipped her head graciously as the man accpted her offer. It also gave her a probable excuse to draw her eyes away from his. The break was only momentary, but within it, she sucked back her shy self and lifted her chin back up. Her lips parted for a moment revealing a bit of white teeth before she followed the man's arm out onto the dance floor. Once she was at the full extent of his arm, she spun on her heeel and said, "A drink would be great." She laughed softly and clasped the man's hand in hers and tugged him gently towards the dance floor. Waiting for him to move, Meera tilted her head and a perplexed look crossed her face. She said "I'm sorry! How rude of me. I didn't even tell you my name. And I don't believe you mentioned yours either. I'm Meera." She gave him a slight nod of respect. She wasn't used to much more. Nods became customary. Just as the bard was beginning a new song, Meera spied an open spot. She nimbly leapt backwards into it, dropping the mans hand so she didn't end up jerking him towards her. Her green eyes sparkled in enjoyment as they left the man's own face and traveled around over all of the various dancing couples. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. So the Patrick's day festival was hitting off well! Meera was glad. There had been many other failed parties in Imythess. It was heartlifting to see so many people finally getting together for a common celebration.

Reaching her arm out, Meera reconnected her hand with the mans. Slipping her fingers through his and putting her other hand at his shoulder, Meera waited for him to set up similarly. In the brief time of silence she asked, "What brings you here today? Just the celebration? Does Patrick's day have any particular significance to you?" It took a lot of effort, but Meera bit off the questions right there. She was a naturally curious person and she wanted to know more about him. Sometimes it got her into trouble, but yet every time she managed to handle it. So rather than change her ways, Meera figured she would deal with the troubles that ensued. Realizing that to him, she might seem just plain nosy, Meera hurridly rushed in to the man, "You don't have to answer all of my questions. I know I do ask a lot. I'm just...curious. Feel free to tell me if I've gone to far. I won't be offended." She smiled warmly at him again and gently did a small skip step to the beat of the music. This town's bard was really quite good a thinking up catchy tunes. Even those who sat around the edges looking uneager or unable to dance could not resist tapping something along with the beat wether it be their fingers, toes, or even mugs full of beer. That was one thing Meera would not have tonight. Many a person would get drunk, but not her. She had vowed to stay sober and designated herself as the town sheriff for the night. Should trouble arise, Meera would not be inebriated. Returning her attention to the man she was dancing with, she pushed forwards with the hand that was laced in his and spun them in a quick circle, the skirt of her dress billowing out around her knees. She laughed once more. It would be a good night.

As the girl accepted his hand and led them onto the floor, she moved with a classical elegance, A walk that entranced Kalius and made his blush darken. Trying his best to hide his shy nature, not very well he feared, from the young lady, Meera she said her name was, Kal scanned the happy couples nearby and thought back to his childhood lessons of dance not wanting to trip up and embarass himself. Placing his hand on her hip as she entwined their fingers of his opposite hand, He breathed a sigh of relief and retook his smile, for he seemed to remember more than he hoped. Kalius felt relieved as Meera asked questions of him because although he was not a bad dancer by any means, he thought himself rather good at times, Kal appreciated the mental distraction so not to over think his steps.
"No need for apologies, Meera, for i have forgotten my manners also" at this He focused his strength into the hand supporting her hip, and lowered her into a dip.
"My name is Kalius Aldura" Raising Meera back up into a standing position he finished. " it is a pleasure." Glancing over to the bard who's song they were sharing, he could not help but chuckle. It amused Kal the way the bard smoothly played the soft melody and sang in beat, but what he focused on was the candles. Earlier in the evening Kal speculated the lights being magical in nature and, as the ones surrounding the bard were blinking orange to green, it appeared he was right. Turning his attention back to his dance he slightly foucused on Meera's emerald eyes once more.
"I have never before celebrated Patrick's day, Nor have i heard of it."Keeping his feet in line and in check with the crowd he continued."Although, I will celebrate today on every coming year, since this is the first time i have been in a village other than my own and surrounded by people whom i do not know." After a slight pause He added " Today some how feels...special to me." Raising there joined hands to offer a twirl, Kalius went on " Please, do not worry, i enjoy your questions...it shows you care about what your doing" finally Breaking his trance on her eyes he concluded " If you do not mind, i would like to know your take on Patrick's day, does it influence you as it does this town?"

She let out a quiet laugh, not one to make him feel stupid, but one of slight amusement. It was a pleasant sound, low and warm, and for some reason, it made him think of home.

"If I told you why people were staring, you may not see me as you do now, but I can tell that will make you even more nervous. My name is Veronna Darkblade Nydalath, I watch over the port city called Taras, and people seem to have much respect for me. Also, they could be staring because I don't get out much."

A simple enough explanation, yet the name and the description tugged at the farthest corners of his brain, a memory trapped somewhere in its recesses struggling to get out. That name was familiar, so familiar—there was no reason for it, but he was drawn back to memories of the days after he had left the Abbey, sitting in his father’s study and reading through the various religious texts that the family owned.

"Would you care for a drink, Bard Paedrov?"

That was a question that had an easy answer. She gestured towards the bar. He didn’t know who she was, or why she was bringing up these memories that he had buried for so long, but a drink was a drink. Besides, he knew few enough people in the southlands, and those he knew in the North were, for the most part, trying to kill him. No better time than the present to make new acquaintances, and considering that as far as he knew assassins were still on his trail, knowing someone as obviously competent as Veronna could never be a bad thing. He smiled as her, and offered his arm.

“The first round, milady, is on me.”

Veronna accepted his arm, placing her hand on it and walked forward towards the bar. She had noticed some sort of thought go through Vldimir when her name had been spoken, but she would not press him about it. After getting up to the bar, where there were two empty stools she let go of his arm and sat down on the to the right, noting that the man who had just been sitting there was now on the dance floor with the Goddess of Water. It pleased her to see even the new goddess was getting out and enjoying herself. Why shouldn't the divine be allowed to have fun once in a while?

She looked back at the bar as a bartender came over. She never really knew what to get, but before she had much time to think about it, the bartender had two mugs filled to the brim with some type of alcoholic liquid. As he set them down in front of Veronna and Vldamiri (assuming he had taken the stool next to her), she nodded to the bartender who bowed low before going off to serve more people who wished for a drink. She grabbed the handle of the mug and brought it closer to her, but did not take a drink yet.

She looked over at Vldamiri, "So, have you practiced music all your life? Or is it something you picked up later on?" She asked, deciding to go with something simple to ask. Normally she did not enjoy 'small talk'. But right now she found that she needed to talk with people, besides her husband Ocar or her chosen Kona. She thought quickly as to where her chosen may be at, wondering why he was not here enjoying the festivities. Like her, though, Kona seemed to prefer being alone and practicing, hoping someday to be able to beat her. Which he had gotten very close to doing.

But she need not worry about that right now. For she did not want to think of things that had to get done, she just wanted to enjoy herself this one day.

When Arthur finished his drink he noted that Veronna took the bards hand and started to talk with him and so Arthru stood up and went into the middle of the Tavern and stood on a table and everybody silenced and eh said," A toast to road, to ruin, to that which was lost, to the Gods and GOddesses in their infinite wisdom, to the GOddess of The Blades who holds our hearts in battels, to dancinng with the Jack O' The Shadows". The people cheered and Arthur began to sing a battle hymn that was sung once by the great Band of The Red Hand,"

There is some delight in ale and wine
And some in girls with ankles fine

But my delight, yes always mine

Is to dance with Jack O’ the Shadows


We will toss the dice however they fall

And snuggle the girls be they short or tall

Then follow Veronna whenever she calls

To dance with Jack O’ the Shadows"

Meera let out a soft short breath as he placed his hand on her hip. Okay. It seemed like he knew what to do. The worst thing a girl could ask for was a tree stump for a dance partner. Many of those frequented bars. Meera was lucky enough at least to pick someone who had some knowledge. She fluidly relaxed into Kalius's arms and let him dip her. As he pulled her back up, Meera said simply, testing the name on her lips, "Kalius.." After that, she respectfully remained silent and simply studied the man as he peered around at something. Meera tried to discern all that she could just from his external features, but nothing really showed. All that she really knew about him was that he was a tad shy and that he also shared some of the curiousity that made Meera just so curious. The thought bubbled inside her head as to how he could simply satisfy that curiousity by ascertaining his own answers. Of course, Meera often came to her own conclusions too, but she often asked many questions. It was as much for her own knowledge as it was just to make sure her own conclusion was correct. Shaking her head slightly, Meera gently pushed out those off topic thoughts from her head. Eventually Kalius turned back towards her. As she listened to a bit of his history, she could not contain a brow that raised in question. So this was the first time he'd been in a new social situation. Everything was new. The holiday, the customs, no wonder he was so shy. Meera smiled. She would just have to change that and bring him out of shell.

Feeling her arm lift up, Meera properly accepted his invitation for a twirl. She gracefully spun herself away, feet stepping lightly and quickly as to mantain her balance. Her hair flounced around her, curling to hit her on the other cheek. Replacing her hand to its spot on Kalius's arm, Meera went on to answer his question. With a simple shrug, she said "I am not from the town of Kellen, so I was not brought up celebrating this holiday. I really do not have a true reason to. This Patrick person never showed himself for me. I suppose I may be here to celebrate along with the Kellen people because so many of them have become my friends and such...but why should anyone need cause to be in a good mood and to gather with loved ones?" She cocked her head slightly to the side at that, thinking a bit over her own question, for some people really didn't get along with their family. Shrugging it off though, Meera felt that problems should be the last thing on a person's mind right now. Her head straightened back up and said, "You hinted at this a little bit, but where did you come from? Was your town nice? I know some people have secret histories, but you seemed open. Forgive me if find me rude and nosy." Her hips swayed a bit with the gentle rhythmn of the music, just making sure not to bump into other couples.

Patrick had been watching Vladimir and Veronna's exchange with interest twinkling in the depths of his dark eyes. The drow moved to the bar, Vladimir not far behind. The harp was left in the safe, but unattended position aside the stage. The grin stretched Patrick's red beard, and using the enigmatic powers that were of the Fae, Patrick became invisible to mortal eyes. No one even noticed his sudden disappearance from existence.

He walked silently across the room, to where the harp sat. It was a fine instrument, obviously well cared for and rather old. The older the harp, the sweeter the music. He reached into a small leather belt pouch sprinkled a gold colored dust over the soundbox and strings of the harp, mumbling words in a very strange, very old language which lasted only a few fleeting moments.

The leprechaun stepped back, smiling to himself in accomplishment, as he made his way to the other side of the tavern, where music was still playing strong, and couples danced to lively tunes.

---

Dmitri escorted the lady over to the bar, and slid on to the stool next to her as the bartender put down two heavy flagons of the finest Kellen ale. The brew was foaming over the rim, and as Veronna pulled hers towards her, he took a deep draught from the flagon, and wiped the foam off of his face with the back of his right hand. Kellen ale was some of the finest of the land, as the nearby plains gave some of the best barley around. He looked at her, and smiled.

“So, have you practiced music all your life? Or is it something you picked up later on?”

A tricky question. A deep question, one which to properly explain would take much, much more time than he had… and yet, the woman was good company, easy on the eyes, and he hadn’t had this much fun in months. It would be discourteous not to answer.

“In my youth, dear lady, I was brought up with many arts, including the harp and singing. That being said, when I was younger I was also taught the art of the hunt, to ride, to use spear and sword like an extension of myself, to dance and to politic and to talk people, to read and write and enjoy the finer things of life…”

He let his hands fall to his sides, and then spread them out, gesturing towards his now shabby clothing.

“Alas, as you can see, that was all a long time ago, and all that is left to me is my music and my quarterstaff, and a modicum of the skill I grew up with. Though, I daresay, I’ve become proficient enough with this staff to win not a few village contests. I’d spar you, but I do believe you’d win, and I’d be none the wealthier nor the wiser, and with only some solid lumps to show for my efforts. Drinking here with you is much more pleasant.”

He didn’t know why he assumed she would win, but there was something about the name and her appearance that wouldn’t stop running through her head. He couldn’t quite place it yet, so he took another drink.

“So, my lady, how long have you been a warrior? And what brings a protector of Taras down to this neck of the woods? Or plains, as the case may be…”

Chuckling under his breath, Kal nodded in agreement to Meera's statement. She was perfectly right, nobody ever needs a reason to enjoy life Nor should anyone be denied the chance. He himself had even less of a reason to travel to kellen, Having only heard heart filled tales of a celebration, and yet he felt extremely welcomed by the people.
"Meera, you are absolutely right" Kal said, as he started up the converstion once more after a young couple passed by. "There is no better reason to do anything, than to just have fun. Have a little wine, enjoy the arts of both magic and song" Nodding towards the stage "and to make friends along the way is as fine a life as i could hope." As the song became a little slower, as did the dancing, Kal glanced over the crowd briefly to not bump into any obstacles. Questions directed towards kal's village, as with his younger years, did not upset him, just made him remember.
"And no i do not find you rude, like i said before i enjoy your questions. My town was small, homed only thirty-five both men and wood-elf, but beautiful. Settled in the deepest woods, hidden from civilization. They would not approve of me here..." Thinking back, His village elder's would not approve of anything he has done tonight. From a young age Kal was lectured on civilization and the cities of imythess. taught how they were evil and corrupt, no love left within the hollowed hearts of it's citizens. His people practiced the druidic arts to comune with wildlife and nature, this was also the path he was to follow. In order to be allowed lessons in the craft, Kalius would have to vow to not venture outside the woods, to live in solitude, and this was something Kal could not do. Even so, he desperatley wanted to learn the druids spellcraft, Which only meant he had to learn on his own.
"My people were not connected with the other races and i wanted to be, so i left. To become knowledgeable of the land, and earn the right of friendship." Rapidly blinking at his right eye to attempt to hide a forming tear " No, they would not approve"
Feeling uncomfortable, thinking he was ruining the joy filled night he easy returned his sincerely happy smile. As the melodies sounding throughout the tavern remained soft, but quickened Kal compensated his steps once again. Leading Meera into a smooth two-step-backwards-one-to-the-side dance technique, his favorite to learn growing up, Kal resumed the chatter.
" But enough about me, Meera, i wish to know of you... Where do you call home? If im not crossing a line I would love to hear of the family that daughtered such a beautiful woman."

It was too much for her, she couldn’t stand it. Even the odd plant in her hand was not providing enough of a distraction for the music and merriment across the way. Taking a moment of time, she tucked the shamrock in her hair behind her ear. AD sighed and gave in to her curiosity finally, as it continued to nag at the back of her mind even after she had decided to go with it’s call. Weaving her way among the crowd she paused at the doorway to a tavern. There were many people there and she didn’t see anyone she recognized. Feeling better about not being recognized herself she went inside. There was a lot going on, so much that it made her a bit dizzy, a bit too overwhelmed. She found herself grinning anyways and with the clover still in her hand she went over to the nearest empty char. The seat she found wasn’t exactly at a table, but sort of shoved up against the wall in order to make room for two tables to be shoved together.

She sat down and decided for now she would just watch. There was no harm in watching, was there? She wouldn’t get in trouble for that. AD unconsciously tapped her heels in time with the music, her hands and her green skirt tucked under her legs as she attempted to take in everything at once, a quite imposable task.

Veronna listened to him answer the question she had asked, surprised to know that he was capable of many more things then just music. Sure she could hunt, use a spear and sword, but she never was taught how to properly dance, which she learned later when she had arrived on the surface. Politics she despised. She hated having to sit around all day talking. She could never keep her temper with politicians. She took a drink from her mug, the ale tasting quite good as it went down her throat.

She raised her eyebrows when he said that she would most likely win in a battle against him. He would be right. She did not underestimate his abilities, but no one had beat her for quite some time and she suspected he would not be the one to do so. She was not sure if she would rather be sparring or talking now. Then she decided she was enjoying herself by socializing with people and talking with this man.

Before she could answer the question which Vldamiri had asked, her attention and eyes caught sight of someone standing up on a table and singing. When the man sang a part with her name in it, she looked away, and focused on the question at hand, hoping Vldamiri did not notice her reactions to the name which was given.

She looked down at here mug of ale, thinking to when she first had picked up a blade. She looked back up at him, her red eyes calm compared to all she felt as she thought about the Underdark. "I was taught how to use a blade as a child, though it was not what my house wanted. They wished for me to become a priestess, when I would rather have been a warrior." She smiled to herself, "Infact, they hated me for it, that is why I now live here on the surface." She looked around the room, thinking about how she should answer the second part of the question. "And as to why I'm here? Someone of my stature needs to get out and meet new people, you never know when you will need a friend." She was now smiling at him, showing she very much enjoyed his company.

Meera was very happy that he agreed with her small point of view in life. It was great to find another person who simply wanted to have just as much fun as possible. When the song slowed down, Meera's brain thought back to Aiden. She loved Aiden, he was still hers. For a moment, she felt a bit guilty that she was dancing with another man, then she told herself that it was all in good fun and did not mean anything. He would only be a friend. Though she repeated this over and over in her head, Meera's conscience was not settled. Kalius's voice gently pulled her back into their conversation. So he had grown up with wood elves. Meera was part wood elf herself, but she was not raised by them. Her parents had made sure of that. She, instead was raised seperate from almost everyone out in the woods. They lived near a village so that supplies could easily be attained, but they didn't particularly live with any one race. It was less political that way. Based on that isolation, it was interesting for Meera to hear about the ways of her ancestors. She was dissapointed though. Who were they to shun all others? Based solely on this musing of her own, Meera missed the small tear that Kalius blinked away. When her mind cleared once more from the haze of thought, Meera noticed that the beat had quickened once more in the song. She drew her eyes downwards, and matched her pace to Kalius's before looking up once more with a wide smile. He really knew what he was doing. Meera was still attached to Aiden though.

She gently removed her hand from Kalius's shoulder and twirled away from his body. Her hand still holding his, she offered, "I'm thirsty, come, let us attend to your offer of having a drink later. I must say, it was very nice to dance with someone that knows how to really dance. At the bar, I will tell about where I'm from. And feel no hesitation in asking me questions. Rest assured that I will tell you if you've gone to far." She smiled happily, but seriously. There were some subjects she would not go deeper into, and would not be embarrassed to say so. Assuming that he would follow her, Meera made her way towards the bar. As her eyes scanned it for some open seating, she spied Veronna, the Goddess of Blades and a man chatting over some drinks. Meera smiled, happy that another deity was there to share a moment with the common folk too. She would leave Veronna alone though. Besides, she might wish to remain anonymous just like Meera. Shrugging her shoulders and relaxing them, Meera finally spied two open stools. As she was making her way for them, a man came over and took one of them. Knowing that there were no more two empty stools in a row, Meera groaned inwardly. She walked up to him. Keeping her voice low as to not draw attention, Meera tapped the man's shoulder and said, "Would you please move aside for me and my companion to sit next to eachother?" The man let out a gruff laugh before turning his head to meet Meera's gaze. The laugh abruptly stopped as his own brown eyes connected with her emerald golden ones. Meera couldn't hold back a sigh as she was rewarded with the man recognizing her. He quickly scrambled to get up. As he got off his stool, he made a quick move to bow, but an instant flash of Meera's eyes told him no. He simply nodded respectfully towards her as Meera sat down. Turning back to Kalius, Meera brushed off the little incident and said "So, what do you want to know about my family? I have a mother, a father, and a brother. In fact, my brother is here in Imythess. Maybe you have met him? Varonen. He is fairly well traveled."

She had started at the mention of her name—just slightly, but enough that he had seen it. Someone had mentioned it in a song, and she had started. Peculiar for two reasons, the first being that the name had startled her, since it was her own, and secondly, and perhaps more so, someone had been singing her name. He knew that he was going to recognize her name eventually, but for now, the ale was loosening his mind and his body, and he was having too much fun.

She drank some of her ale, and looked down at the mug.

“I was taught how to use a blade as a child, though it was not what my house wanted. They wished for me to become a priestess, when I would rather have been a warrior,”

Her smile was infectious, and he found himself wearing a savage grin in spite of himself. A story he knew only too well. He remembered the day his father had told him he was entering the clergy, the smiles on the faces of his family, and his dismay at knowing he would never get to be a minstrel or a court musician, or a troubadour roaming the green hills. And he remembered the night he had returned from the Abbey, the storms brewing hard and fast and the wind and rain lashing him as he stumbled through the gates. Most of all, he could see the smoldering rage in his fathers eyes as he returned.

“In fact, they hated me for it,that is why I know live here on the surface.”

She gazed around the room, and he found himself staring. It was unlikely that two people with such a similar background should run into each other as a festival in a backwards town on the edge of a grassy sea, but here it was. And he was intrigued, because she seemed so familiar.

“And as to why I’m here? Someone of my stature needs to get out and meet new people, you never know when you will need a friend.”

She smiled again, and he grinned right back.

“Well, milady, it seems that fate has smiled on us both tonight, because I believe that we may both have found exactly what we need. A toast, then, to new friendships!”

He saluted her with his flagon, and drained it dry. Placing it down on the bar, Dmitri wiped the foam from his lips, and smiled again.

“It is uncanny, how similar our pasts are, considering how different we are. I for one am very glad to have met you, Veronna Darkblade of Taras. And should you ever have need of me, know that I am always at your beck and call.”

He bowed deeply to her, smiling still. He was only thinking of courtesy, the way a man was brought up to treat a lady in the north, but the motion brought it flashing to mind. Veronna Darkblade. Goddess of Blades. She was named after the Goddess of Blades. No wonder the name had sounded so familiar! He understood why she would assume it—no child ,thrown out of home, wishes to go by their old name, and when one was fortunate enough to meet the description of someone sufficiently famous within their given path, of course they would assume the identity as best they could. He smiled to himself. Silly, really, that he couldn’t remember something as basic as that. After leaving the Church, he’d studied enough religions while trying to find truth to encounter the name more than once. Besides, she didn’t seem to be exploiting the name, not like others he’d met. She was quite nice, really.

“My lady, may I call you Veronna? I know it doesn’t seem so much, but where I was raised, a gentleman did not use a lady’s given name without her permission. And if we are to be friends, and I deeply hope we are, I would enjoy that permission greatly.”

Arthur got down and sighed and looekd as Veronna and the man he knew from the desert were talking it didn't matter now. He sighed and went back to the bar and said," Another drink bartender make it Jose Cuervo before I go insane its 5 O' Clcok somewhere". The bartender smield and mixed him his drink and handed it to him and eh said," Brave singing about Death stranger very brave". Arthru just shook his head and said," We all must Dance with Death someday I do it all the time in fighting, but no one remebers what the song use to mean anymore". He raised his glass and said," To The Red Hand may it and The Red Eagle fly once more".He sighed and drank his drink. A new singer started to sing and he realized thsi singer couldn't carry a tune in a bucket but after another round he caught his boots tapping along to the beat. Soon Arthru couldn't resist singing along with her and he sang,"

I walked in and the band just started
the singer couldn't carry a tune in a bucket
Was on a mission to drown her memory but
I thought no way with all this rukus

But after one round with Jose Cuervo
I caught my boots tapping along with the beat
And After two rounds with Jose Cuervo
The band was sounding pretty darn good to me

Then some stranger asked me to dance
and i reviled to her my two left feet
Said "Don't get me wrong, im glad you asked,
But tonight's about beating an old memory

Then after Three rounds with Jose Cuervo
I let her lead me out on the floor
And after Four rounds with Jose Cuervo
I was showing off moves never seen before

Well, round five or round six
I forgot what I came to forget
After Round seven, Or was it eight?
I bought a round for the whole dang place

And after nine rounds with Jose Cuervo
They were counting me out and i was about to give in
Then after ten rounds with Jose Cuervo
I lost count and started counting again

One round with Jose Cuervo
I went two rounds
Three rounds".

Stallion Thunder walked into the lively bar. He wanted to have some fun on this festive day, He sat down at the table and ordered a Pint of brew. He looked at all the other people sitting around having a great time. He wondered if he had ever had any fun times. But thinking about such relics could cause the death of you, so he stopped and enjoyed the singing and celebration. He looked at the flask of the Leprechaun Ale the little man in green had given him and he frowned. He wondered "I wonder what could possibly be in this stuff... Maybe it is just ale?"

He dismissed the thought and looked over at the bar just as the bartender put his mug down. "Ah, thank you." He looked down at the mug, watching the foam in it slowly disappear. He lifted it up and inspected it for some strange reason. He then took a couple gulps of it, it burned as it had before, when he drank the same brew, with the little green man. But he enjoyed the pain so he just continued drinking. He looked around, he began to smile, for once he was enjoying himself. He noticed the smell of the blood but he dismissed it like it was just a stone in his shoe. He smiled and looked around at the some of the fine ladies.

Veronna raised her mug also, to his toast for new friendships. She lowered it down to her mouth level and to a few good drinks from the mug, but did not drink it all. She placed it back on the bar, quite glad she had met this man. She looked back over at him when he spoke, seeing a smile still on his face made her smile also.

It was interesting that they would have met each other, their pasts did seem similar, but she almost doubted that he had gone through the life she had. She remembered her matron mother, always using a whip on her, telling her she was a disgrace to the Darkblade line. Veronna never listened to her. She had continued with her sword practices, though she pretended to be interested in the ways of a priestess, just to make the other drow in her community think she was a good daughter.

But that was a long time ago. And this was now. She was surprised when Vldamiri bowed to her, but she knew it was out of courtesy and not because he had figured out who she was. But she had noticed an expression on his face that almost looked like he had placed the name, but he did not say anything about. Instead he asked if he could call her by her first name, saying that where he was raised he was taught to ask permission first. She nodded to him, "You have my permission to call me Veronna, most people do. And yes, I do believe we are friends." She still had a small smile on her face, as she looked towards the dance floor.

She raised an eyebrow at him, "You said you have been taught to dance?" She asked, as she stood up from her stool, noticing that Meera and the man she danced with had come up to the bar, a little ways down from where Veronna was at. "Would you care to dance with me?" She asked, knowing it was normally the man who asked for the dance, but she always forgot about that, especially since she grew up in a community which was run by females, who had all the control. Except she was not controlling, she just wished to dance right then. Maybe it was because it was the closest thing to sparring, she did not know.

Throughout the night, Kalius had a a nagging doubt that he had not remembered the proper dance movements and technique taught to him so long ago. So as Meera complimented him on that very same thing, Kal breathed a little easier, and laughed into the crowded tavern. He found that Meera herself danced beautifully, always following his leads seemingly before Kal even introduced them. Although tonight, in this distant tavern surrounded by strangers, people who Kal considered friendly and wanted to forge friendships with but strangers non-the less, He was reminded of the few fond memories he had of home...and Tier'Anon. Tier and Kalius grew up together, becoming almost joined at the hip throughout their teenage years. Tier being wood-elf, was just as in love with nature as he was and joined There villages druidic training a couple years back. That was until her kindness got her into trouble. But enough of the past, it is time for the present, Kal thought.

As Meera leaded him to a few empty stools, Kal focused on the tavern keeper and ordered himself a glass of wine before asking him if he could return in a few seconds, so that he may consult his companion on her choice of drink. Turning back he noticed Meera was talking to another patron, asking him kindly for his seat. His body tensing a little, he focused a little more on the man. Although Kal did not underestimate her ability to stick up for herself, Meera seemed very independant and far more wise than her young appearance would suggest, Kal could not help but worry some what. He could sense the man's heart was gentle and kind, but this was a night of party and the patron smelt of the drink. But as Kal had hoped, the night remained one of enjoyment as the man quickly retreated into the crowd. Throughout the confrontation between Meera and the patron, He could not help but raise an eyebrow in curiosity. Not at the fact the man gave up his seat, Kal would do the same with out hesitation just as he thought many others would, but the nervous nature of his posture and gestures. And did he start to bow? Quite an uncommon way to apologize to someone not of royalty or authority. Perhaps Meera was a little more well known than he had previously thought.
"Varonen" sitting down in the closest empty stool, and waving back the bar tender he continued, " I do not believe i have had the honor of meeting him, not having traveled as extensively myself, i have not made many friends." Noticing how she lead the converstaion more towards her brother, unsure whether on accident or purpose, Kal figured he would ask more of him. "Is he a explorer perhaps, or maybe a scholar in one of the magical arts? No matter which one, I do envy him for his traveling." Not wanting to sound curious about the man earlier Kal decided to wait to ask. Beofre she could answer the bar tender cleared his voice to get there attention " Ah, but before we get into that, what would the lady care to drink" removing his dagger from his hip and placing it on bar, somewhat beind him, for more comfort " On me of course."

Meera quietly settled herself into her seat as she turned to face Kalius. She crossed one leg over the other, her dress settling easily over her thighs, and her foot gently hooking on the bar of the stool. Meera's elbow gently rested on the bar counter and she tossed her hair back over her shoulder, causing it to cascade down her back. Her other hand, gently clenched in by her stomach, was just a reflex. She kept it there on normal occaisions so that it was near her hip where her sword was always sheathed. Now, she only had a stilletto, but that was concealed by her thigh. Though Meera wanted to readily believe that there was no need to carry weapons, and she was very confident in her spellcasting, one never knew. Better safe than sorry. That was a phrase all should live by. Meera didn't know how many times she had heard a story of someone dying because they were innattentive enough to carry something with them at all times. It was a very stupid reason to die. Meera didn't plan to go out that way, if she happened to at all. Patting her thigh discreetly, just to be sure, Meera confirmed that her stilletto was still there. She then looked up and once more enabled herself to focus wholly on Kalius. She shrugged as he said that he hadn't met Varonen. It wasn't likely that he would have. Varonen hadn't been here all that long, and like she had said, he was traveling often. Meera was just about to answer Kalius's next question about her brother, but she heard the bartender come back. Not eager, to keep the man waiting, Meera figured that she had better decide quickly.

She remembered her vow not to drink alcohol tonight, and was going to stick to that if it was the only thing she actually kept to. Thinking for a little bit longer, Meera turned her head and asked "Could I please get some cider?" The bartender nodded curtly, and then Meera turned back to Kalius. Her eyes followed as he put out his dagger. Maybe it was a sign of his unwillingness for violence tonight, but Meera took little note of it. She didn't wish for violence either. Hopefully there would be no need anyways. Meera then grinned mischeviously and said "You won't pay for me. I just won't allow it. I have the money, I could pay for us both." It wasn't like her at all to accept charity from people. It had never been. Especially now that she was a goddess. She had the authority to do whatever she pleased. There was no excuse for accepting money other than greed, and that was a sin that Meera did not wish to ever partake in. Finally coming to answer, Meera said, "Varonen does a little of everything. He can sing, he can fight with both a sword and magic. I guess it all differs upon what every need is." She then flipped the questions around once more, "Do you have any brothers or sisters? Maybe just a close friend that you could consider family?" Part of having a healthy conversation was letting both parties talk. So far, this was going well. She felt that she had learned a fair amount about Kalius, and Meera knew that she had told enough about her history for him to feel that he at leat knew her pretty well. Meera knew where to draw the line though. She also had carefully witheld anythign that could possibly disturb the peace. Anyone who did that tonight would get severe wrath. No one would mess this up for the world.

She nodded to him.

“You have my permission to call me Veronna, most people do. And yes, I do believe we are friends.”

She was still smiling, a small smile, and she turned to look at the dance floor. He wouldn’t have expected interest in dancing, but the dance floor was packed tonight, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. Though he wasn’t playing any more, a local trio of musicians seemed to have taken up the slack, and they were playing a rousing jig. She raised an eyebrow at him.

“You said you had been taught to dance?”

She stood up from the bar stool, and looked down the row, at a pretty woman and the man she was with. Dmitri smiled, and stood as well.

“Would you care to dance?”

He smiled and nodded. It had been a long time since he had danced, but he offered his arm and (assuming she accepted it) led her out to the dance floor. He listened to the rhythm of the music for a moment, modified it to fit one of the dances he’d learned, and swept her up in his arms, into the music, into the dance.

Kalius was pleased when Meera stated that she could pay for herself. Not because He did not wish to, After allowing him to get to know her Kal felt he owed her at least a drink, but it showed her interest in the converstaion was not one of money. Having been in the tavern for some time, it pleased and surprised Kal that so many of the faces he seen upon entering remained. Not only had people stayed, many more flocked in almost endlessly to join the fun. Shaking his head Kal let out a small chuckle, How far off from reality Imythess seemed than his village taught amazed the Kind man. Bringing his shoulder-high hair behind his head and tying it into a pony-tail, as not to let it dip into his drink, Kal listened intently to Meera's words.
"Your brother seems quite an accompolished man, knowing both sword and spell is very difficult. Your parents must be proud, to have raised two such strong children." Meera, seeming to want the conversation to continue and keep lively asked Kal if he had and siblings. Kalius was the only child to share his parents blood, but there was one who he considered to be very close to.
"No i do not have any siblings, not one of blood at least. I grew up with a wood elf, Tier'Anon, and while we were of different race and family we felt... connected." Taking a drink, he continued.
" But, I have not spoken with her in many months. Tier was exiled by the Elders for no better a reason than helping an outsider in need. I do not even know if she still travels Imythess." A thought came to mind, not wanting to turn the night some-what into a quest for answers Kal hated to ask...But he had to.
" If she is still in the land, she would have seeked out a place of knowledge to continue her studies...a library perhaps. Do you know of such a place?"

((Out of character...sorry if its kinda bad, or short. been a little bit rushed the last few days.))

Arthur barley could stand it this man was either blind or just stupid but Arthru decided he would hold his tongue. He took a long drink from a new flask of ale and just wanted to drown in it. He smield and said," Arthur you need a dance to somethin". Then a girl came up to him and said," You wanta dance stranger".