Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #50: Mystery Fluff (10/18/97)
Alea pulls on her brown woolen dress, adjusting the buckles at the sides
Alea pulls her hair up in a clip and then smiles with grim determination
Alea argues with Jirelle and then sneaks down the stairs, avoiding Briel, determined to go back to Veraik
Alea slips down to the infirmary and into the room Veraik is in
Alea dismisses the other person
Alea studies Veraik as he sleeps. He looks a bit pale
Alea goes over and grabs a stool and quietly carries it to the side of the bed
Alea sighs sadly at Veraik, before reaching up and softly pushing a stray lock of hair off his forehead
<Alea> what is it, Veraik, that happened that we are paying for now by going through this?
Alea climbs up on the stool and runs her fingertips softly down his arm to the large hand laying so still across his stomach. Gathering it into her smaller one she carefully holds it, not wanting to wake him up
<Alea> Get well, hajene. The Center needs you. Tarsh and Briel need you.
Alea sighs, and smiles sadly
<Alea> I need you.
Alea continues to stare at Veraik softly, keeping the contact with him, hoping to encourage him to heal
<Alea> it seems like we've never had a chance lately... do you remember how things had started to improve... before....
Alea thinks of all they have been through since she's been here and sighs despondently.
<Alea> I'm beginning to think we are paying for some past life experience
Alea chuckles since she doesn't really believe that, but the sound is tinged with sadness as she realizes it is because of her that Veraik is now laying here
Alea looks suddenly more serious
<Alea> you have to get well, Veraik. You see, I'm ready to be taught... and I want you to do the teaching... you're probably the only one who would do the teaching... and have been, if what you've been doing lately, to get me to pay attention to you as a Donor is really what I think you were doing
Alea is glad he's still asleep. With a bittersweet smile she lifts her hand to his cheek and cups it gently.
<Alea> forgive me, hajene, for all the pain I've caused you. I promise you it'll be different from now on
Alea settles back to wait... allowing Veraik his rest.
Briel walks down the street to Snake's house
Briel absently rubs a tentacle at the base of her neck under her hair.
<Briel> What a day....
Briel tries to smile as Jon Drake moves closer for support
Briel sees the house and goes up to it. Concern for Snake brought her out and she is determined to check up on her, despite how Snake might react to finding Briel on her doorstep
Briel signals at the door
<Briel> stay close, please Jon
Briel shudders as she remembers the terror Linn experienced the other night and her reaction to it
Briel unconsciously backs up closer Jon
Linn , unable to zlin the signal, continues trying to scrub mystery fluff out of the refrigerator.
Briel concerned pushes the door open
<Briel> Snake?
Briel is worried, not knowing what type people Snake might have in the house
Linn hears the call, assumes it's one of Snake's many clients, and limps painfully towards the door.
Briel reaches back and grabs Jon's arm not wanting another expierence with some Gen's terror
<Linn> She's not here just now...
Briel steps back, bumping Jon in her shock at Linn's condition
<Briel> what happened to you!
Linn stops, keeping her distance, as she recognizes Briel.
Briel feels Jon's hand on her shoulder and appreciates it. She zlins Linn
<Linn> There were some people who didn't approve of my classes, or my association with your Sime Center.
Briel hesitates before stepping into the house with Jon... she pauses just inside the door
<Briel> why hasn't Snake healed you?
<Briel> or is that what you came here for?
Linn nods towards the living room, which is now much cleaner than it was a few days ago.
Briel doesn't have to ask why Linn didn't come to the Center... and that bothers her to know Linn doesn't trust them
<Linn> You might as well come in and sit down. Snake won't be back for a while.
Briel looks around, surprised to see that Snake keeps it much cleaner than she did her own room or office
Briel nods and moves over to the sofa
Briel zlins Linn again
Linn sits down in a padded chair, careful not to jostle the bruises any more than necessary.
Briel struggles, then sighs
<Briel> I could help you, Linn... if you want it
Linn 's heart starts racing, then she remembers Snake's advice. She examines the situation, decides that Briel isn't an immediate threat, and tries to throttle back the fear.
Briel zlins her reaction and is impressed
<Briel> that's right, Linn... I said only if you wanted it.
<Briel> I wouldn't force anything like that.
Linn is glad that Snake's trick worked, but doesn't trust herself to hold together if Briel actually touched her. After what Snake said about the reasons Briel was stalking Linn, Linn decides that maybe getting healed by Briel isn't a good idea.
Briel is impressed that Linn was able to pull her fear under control so quickly
Linn shakes her head.
Briel subsides, though she does insist Jon move closer to block out Linn's screeching pain
<Linn> Forgive me, but I think that would be more risk than it's worth -- for both of us.
<Briel> do you know when Snake will be back? I came to check on her. After her problems the other night I was very hesitant to release her from the infirmary at the Center
Briel doesn't think so... but she accepts Linn's fears as real
<Linn> What problems?
Briel smiles though it is with effort
<Briel> Snake went into shock.
<Briel> I think it had something to do with witnessing things she shouldn't have had to witness
Briel thinks of the bubbleheaded Donor but doesn't comment not wanting Linn to fear
<Briel> She passed out
<Briel> I was worried about her so I took her to the infirmary and sat with her most of the night
<Briel> she left the next morning
<Linn> Why do I get the feeling that you've left out most of the important details from that account?
Linn shakes her head.
<Linn> Never mind.
Briel shrugged
<Briel> they're not important to you
<Briel> patient/client privilege also applies.
<Linn> Would you care for some tea while you wait?
<Briel> I wouldn't want to embarrss or hurt Snake
Briel shakes her head
<Briel> no thank you
Briel can only imagine the pain Linn would project if she got up and moved around
<Briel> have you got to talk with Veraik lately?
Briel settles back to wait
<Linn> I haven't been out of this apartment in days.
Briel nods
Briel wonders when Linn moved in with Snake but doesn't ask
<Briel> then you probably don't realize Veraik has bought the abandoned house right next to the school to set up for classes
Briel crosses her legs, dropping her hands into her lap as she relaxes into Jon's constant, steady field
<Linn> I hope he fixed the roof first.
<Briel> he has people working on that as we speak
<Linn> good.
<Briel> He also has written up special literature, hopefully that won't be quite so blatant for the kids... and it's at the printers
<Briel> He hopes to have classes started in two, three weeks at the most
<Briel> as a matter of fact... he's been over to OT three times already since you've talked with him
<Linn> I would be happy to look over his materials, to let him know what's likely to be offensive to the local parents.
<Briel> I'll be sure to tell him that
<Briel> If I'd known you would be here, I would have brought a copy of it
<Linn> You do realize, though, that at least some of the kids who seek you out will have parents who will be offended by ANY materials which can be of use to their children, no matter how politely phrased.
<Briel> of course
<Linn> There will be trouble. The people who did this to me won't accept your presence casually.
<Briel> I hope you realize, Linn, that we can only do so much
<Linn> I hope you're prepared for some unpleasantness.
<Briel> We can talk to the kids... do everything in our power...
<Briel> but we can't force the kids or the parents to change their attitudes
Briel chuckles
<Briel> unpleasantness? Oh, I think we've dealt with that many times
<Briel> I can only tell you that we hope with our presence in Eastcove so much, that some of the less stubborn people will change their minds
<Linn> Well, make sure you have a good sprinkler system installed, in case they try to burn your building down. You can't depend on the fire department.
<Briel> I'll tell Veraik that
Briel studies Linn
<Linn> And have a good supply of window glass on hand. They have a thing about windows.
<Briel> I take it you're speaking from first hand experience
Linn unconsciously traces a nasty, fairly fresh scar across her right palm.
<Linn> Yes.
Briel zlins the scar
<Briel> does Veraik know about this?
<Linn> I told him to expect trouble. He didn't seem to believe me.
<Linn> Perhaps you can convince him that I'm not exaggerating the danger.
<Briel> no, I mean does he know what happened to you?
<Briel> Veraik understands all about trouble and the possibilites of it
<Briel> this isn't the first Center he's worked in, nor the first time trouble has cropped up... however, he would be sick to know you had been injured
<Linn> I don't know what Veraik knows.
Briel makes a note to discuss this with Veraik when he's better
Briel smiles coolly at Linn
<Briel> well then, since you obviously haven't told him about the problems, I'll make sure he finds out.
<Briel> Is there something we can do for you to help keep this from happening again?
<Linn> If that convinces him to prepare for the worst, that's all to the good.
<Linn> Although I expect the ones who beat me would find it much harder to take on a Sime.
<Briel> I imagine you're right about that. Zlinning you, I would imagine they would also hesitate to take on anyone who might have a fighting chance against them whether it be Sime or Gen.
<Linn> True. There were four of them.
Briel nods grimly
<Briel> any idea who?
Briel shakes her head
<Briel> I suppose it doesn't matter
<Linn> Snake says a friend of hers saw them, and gave her a description somehow, even though they were all four wearing masks.
Briel nods
<Briel> nagerically. That's one advantage a Sime has over a Gen
Briel smiles
<Briel> good. I'll ask Snake about that before we go back to out-Territory
<Linn> She also said that the leader was probably the same one who threw the brick through my living room window.
Briel shakes her head disgusted
<Briel> what do the 'police' say about that?
<Linn> There was nothing they could do without a good description of the vandal -- and I don't think they'd accept Snake as a witness.
Briel thinks about the differences between out-Territory and the way they handle things and sighs
<Briel> Of course, you're right
<Linn> Well, they could hardly locate the perpetrator based on a description of something they can't perceive -- nor ask a jury to convict on such evidence.
Briel sighs
<Briel> I agree, Linn. It's just a bit different here in-Territory.
<Briel> And I'm not used to working out-Territory since I haven't been away from my household much
Linn nods (stiffly).
<Linn> I know exactly the kind of culture shock you're going through, believe me.
Briel zlins Linn again
<Briel> you should really get Snake to help you with that, Linn
Briel hopes Linn will do that
<Briel> it's not good to sit in pain and stiffen up when there are plenty of... people... to help you
Linn attempts a shrug.
Briel 's tentacles twitch
Briel winces
<Linn> Snake took care of the dangerous stuff, but said she wouldn't heal the bruises until I wanted her to -- not asked, wanted.
Briel zlins closely, moving forward a bit so Jon's field doesn't hinder her
<Briel> do you want her to?
Linn sighs tiredly.
<Briel> You're struggle with this is worse than most Gens I've met
Linn nods.
<Briel> would it help you to know that Simes fear your fear more than you fear them?
<Linn> Not really. Since I learned that, I'm starting to be almost as afraid of hurting Simes as I am that they'll lose control and hurt me.
Briel chuckles
<Briel> please, Linn. You're going to have me in the infirmary one way or the other, aren't you? Your fear or my total breakdown from your fear?
<Briel> serious, Linn. There is nothing to be afraid of... as you let go of your fear and learn more about Simes, you're going to find that you're more powerful than a Sime in many many ways.
<Linn> Oh, I've seen Nick and Rafe working on Snake. I've done the same sort of thing to her myself a few times, by accident.
Briel smiles, pleased
<Briel> That's great, Linn. Do you realize, then, it's probably only time now before you lose that fear.
<Linn> I don't see that it helps much to know that I can influence Simes that strongly -- when I can't control what's happening. I'm in the position of a small toddler playing with explosives -- a danger to myself and to everyone around me.
Briel shakes her head
<Linn> There are times I think I should give up before someone gets hurt and move far away from the Border.
<Briel> not as long as you're in a controlled environment like with snake AND a Donor
<Briel> it's complicated.
<Briel> oh, no, Linn. You've done so much to help
<Briel> I would hate to see you leave.
<Linn> Help? I've managed to let a simple unit on Sime Centers become such an issue that people are moved to violence because they feel so threatened. I've managed to force both you and Tarsh into very dangerous situations, and what's been gained from the whole mess?
Linn considers.
<Linn> Well, I suppose the Simes who eventually got my donations might think it was worthwhile. I'm not sure Snake does.
<Briel> If one child or adult learns about the advantages then it's worth the risks.
<Briel> If we can help you, then it's worth the risks
Linn thinks about a conversation she had with Nick about disjunction and the recent lobby crisis. She remembers what happens to Simes who break disjunction, and fails to see how accomplishing such meager goals was worth the risks to their lives.
<Briel> it doesn't matter about Tarsh or even me, Linn. We are trained. In situations like that, you become the most important person in the room
Briel thinks although she says it, she certainly didn't feel like that the other night when she was reacting to Linn's fear
<Briel> Sometimes situations aren't perfect
<Briel> But you will notice, with all of the ohter Donors that were there, problems were averted
Briel doesn't like the way that sounds but knows it's the truth
<Linn> So no irrevocable harm has been done--yet.
<Briel> and it won't be.
<Linn> How long can I depend on being that lucky?
<Briel> Like you said earlier... it's culture shock. What looks like a very dangerous situation to you was actually under control by the others in the room. Briel thinks that is basically true
<Linn> Look at you. You're hiding from me behind Jon. Would you be doing that if there really wasn't something to be concerned about?
<Briel> would you like me to dismiss Jon to find out just how well under control I am Linn?
<Briel> I promise you, you have nothing to fear from me
<Briel> Why I am practically sitting in Jon's lap is simple.
<Briel> Your pain bothers me
<Briel> If you're out in the sun and get hot, you move to the shade
<Briel> so, you are in pain and I am simply avoiding it.
JonDrake wonders if the direction this conversation is going is the most wise course...
<Linn> I wasn't in pain when you tried to apologize to me a few days ago -- and you were still clinging to Jon.
Briel flushes
Briel wonders how to answer that
Briel thinks she could tell her the truth, that she's jumpy but that isn't a wise course of action
<Briel> I'm training him
<Briel> by staying close to him it teaches him when I need him to concentrate more fully or not
JonDrake nods to let Linn know that that is the truth.
<Briel> I use my postion as well as signals to let him know that in some situations, like facing a Simephobe, whether there is a danger or not, it's preferable for him to stick close
JonDrake thinks "At least a major part of the truth, but fully applicable to the situation."
Briel despite her spiraling path to need forces a smile out
Linn is skeptical, since like most Simes, Briel has no real control of her body language, and thus is as easy to read when she's trying to decieve as a young child.
JonDrake lets his hand support her behind her back, giving extra support.
Linn has LOTS of experience reading small children attempting to deceive.
Briel allows his support continuing to face Linn
<Briel> I know you probably don't understand all of it. But watch Nick or Rafe when they work with Snake
<Briel> You'll see her do the same things
Briel thinks, if, she is training him correctly
Linn reflects that Briel carefully didn't mention whether facing a Simephobe was a situation in which there was danger -- or not.
<Briel> you know, I might just like that tea now, Linn
<Linn> Of course.
JonDrake is glad to feel Briel relaxing just a bit.
Linn stands stiffly and walks for the kitchen, trying to move as normally as possible to loosen her bruised muscles.
Briel thinks anything to break the tension flowing from Linn over the subject...
Briel winces at Linn's pain and leans back into Jon
Linn instead provides a steady flow of pain as she fills the teakettle.
<Briel> that woman is in bad pain. [whispered to Jon]
<Briel> I wish she'd allow me to help her
<Briel> doesn't Snake have fosebine in the house
JonDrake nods.
Briel sees Linn filling the kettle and thinks briefly of Alea
<Briel> Uh, Linn [calls out] would you like me to make that for you?
Briel moves back closer to Jon
JonDrake doubles his fields, just in case....
<Linn> I'm fine.
Briel think that sounds just like something Alea would say
Briel smiles weakly wondering why she let her guard down
Briel forces herself to put some room between her and Jon, letting her hand slide to his leg instead... hoping Linn won't realize how nervous she is making her
Linn removes three freshly washed mugs from the dish rack and opens the tea box, spooning the proper amount of fresh trin into each mug.
<Briel> It doesn't look like Snake is going to be back anytime soon
<Briel> I imagine she is out... working... somewhere
JonDrake leans in to whisper to Briel, "Don't worry, most out-T Gens don't have the problem."
<Linn> Sugar?
<JonDrake> "If anything, we get used to the little scrapes and burns, and almost become immune to them. "
<JonDrake> I'll have mine plain, Linn...
<JonDrake> Thanks.
Briel glances at Jon in surprise, realizing she must have been obvious in her thoughts
<Briel> yes, please, Linn
<Briel> but WE don't, Jon
Linn puts the sugar bowl on a tray with two spoons, and moves the mugs onto it as well.
<JonDrake> [whispered] I mean that the nageric shock is expected to be less.
Briel doesn't answer, but concentrates instead on how to possibly persuade Linn to let her help
Linn leans against the fridge, waiting for the kettle to whistle.
<Briel> you know, Linn, if you'd like to come back to the Center, we have some fosebine there we could give you temporarily to help the pain
<JonDrake> We'd all be more than happy to help, Linn.
Briel squeezes Jon's leg, nodding for him to encourage Linn
Linn considers the distance to the Sime Center, and how much it would hurt to walk it. Somehow, the equation doesn't quite balance.
<Linn> I'm actually feeling quite a bit better than I was two days ago.
Briel mouth drops open, horrified
<Briel> you've been in this much pain for TWO DAYS?
Linn picks up the teakettle as it begins to whistle and neatly pours the tea, without spilling a drop.
<JonDrake> Or we could work to help you right here.
Briel smiles relieved
<Briel> I've got Alea on the brain... Linn didn't spill a drop [to Jon]
JonDrake smiles conspiratorially...
Briel stands and goes into the small kitchen
<Briel> Linn, dear, I... don't know what to say. Two days of feeling worse than this....
Linn picks up the tray and offers it to Briel.
<Linn> The cat mug is the unsweetened one for Jon.
<Briel> are you sure you won't let me help you?
Briel gladly accepts the tray
Briel nods
Briel steps back to let Linn pass her
JonDrake takes the cat mug.
Briel looks surprised when she realizes Jon followed her
Linn returns to the living room, collecting the mug with the shiltpron on the way. She sits back in her chair.
Briel goes in and resumes her seat, taking her mug and reaching, with a tentacle to spoon sugar in
Linn has grown used enough to tentacles in the past few days that this doesn't distress her unduly -- at least, not as long as it's happening across the room.
<Briel> about the classes...
Briel picks up her tea and sips it, unconsciously stretching her tentacles on her other arm, a sign of fatigue
Linn nods encourageingly, using her mug to warm her hands until the tea is cool enough to drink.
<Briel> Veraik will be unavaliable for the next few days, but I'm sure he would like to be able to come by and talk with you about them...
<Briel> When do you expect you'll be back in Eastcove?
<Briel> or are you living here full time now?
<Linn> I'm not sure exactly when I'll be going home. It depends on several things.
Linn remembers the whole mess about her alleged kidnapping.
Briel waits patiently, sipping her tea
<Linn> I don't think Snake would approve of Veraik visiting here, but I'll certainly seek Veraik out at your new "school" when I'm able to work again.
<Linn> You said he's been visiting it often.
<Briel> yes, at least twice since you came to his office
<Linn> Well, then, I'm sure we'll manage to find each other.
<Briel> yes, of course
Linn 's tea has now cooled, and she sips at it, enjoying the comfort of the warm liquid.
Briel sets the cup down, most of her tea still in the cup
<Briel> Well then, Linn. I suppose we should go
<Briel> When Snake comes back, will you tell her I stopped by to check up on her.
Briel knows she really shouldn't have taken the time from the Center and is going to be really REALLY behind now
<Linn> Certainly.
JonDrake gets up with Briel.
Briel goes to the door
<JonDrake> Thank you for having us...
JonDrake follows Briel...
Briel pauses and turns
<Briel> if you require anything else between now and when you see Veraik... I do hope you'll contact us
<Linn> I will.
Briel nods thinking at least they've made a bit of headway
Briel goes out the door
Briel stretches her tentacles fully extended, raising her hands above her head
<Briel> we're going to be swamped with Veraik down, Jon
Linn closes the door and goes back to scrubbing unidentified crud out of the fridge.
Briel wearily runs her hands and tentacles through her hair
<JonDrake> Then I guess we'd best get moving.
<JonDrake> The work is never done, eh?
NickR strolls down the sidewalk, whistling, enjoying the clear fall day and the freedom of knowing he's off duty because Rafe is taking care of Snake at the moment.
Briel wonders why Jon can be so cheerful
<Briel> I wish it would be.
<Briel> I suppose I should be thankful that I won't get entran
Briel hears the offkey sound and winces, turning to zlin
<JonDrake> True...
<Briel> Nick...
Briel recognizes him as Snake's Donor in training
Briel can't help but zlin the field closer... almost drooling
NickR starts warbling a cheerful nonsense song.
Briel ignores the song, concentrating instead on the field...
<Briel> no wonder, Snake is so protective....
NickR recognizes Briel and Jon.
<NickR> Hello, there. What are you doing so far from your Sime Center?
<Briel> uh....
Briel blinks and looks up at Nick
<Briel> Sime Center?
<Briel> oh
<Briel> uh... we came by to visit Snake
<NickR> Yes, the place where you work?
Briel wonders if it's safe for him to be out walking with a field like that
<NickR> She's not in just now.
<Briel> I found that out from Linn
Briel zlins Nick again
Briel can't believe how good Nick's field "feels"
Briel drifts closer
NickR lets himself feel his disapproval of Briel's conduct.
<Briel> what are you doing out here?
JonDrake strengthens his field.
<NickR> I live right down the street, remember?
<JonDrake> Uh, Briel, we should be getting back.
Briel feels Jon's actions and snaps out of it
Briel backs closer to Jon
<Briel> of course you do
<Briel> can I ask you a question Nick?
<NickR> Of course. I'll answer if I may.
<Briel> who are you having transfer with this month?
<NickR> I hardly think that concerns you. I don't work for the Tecton, remember?
<Briel> I was just worried, with you walking around... a field like that... I'd hate for you to be attacked on the street or something....
Briel shrugs
NickR is pretty sure that Briel's concern is NOT that he'll get attacked, but that he'll get attacked by someone besides her.
<Briel> I meant no harm in my quesiton
NickR nods polite acceptance of the apology.
Briel thinks Nick, as a new Donor, is too arrogant... wonders if he realizes how much everything shows in his field... figures he'll learn soon enough
<Briel> we were just on our way for a drink. Want to join us?
NickR is glad that Briel got his message, without his having to say it out loud -- in front of her Donor.
<NickR> I've got some time. Sure.
<JonDrake> Briel, we really need to get back. Workload? Remember?
Briel zlins Nick again, thinking that field is going to get him into trouble
Briel glances at Jon
<Briel> Workload? Oh, we can wait a bit.
<NickR> If you're busy...
<Briel> not at all
<Briel> let's just go down the street to the shiltpron parlor
<JonDrake> Briel? Do you think that's wise? A shiltpron parlor?
Briel motions with a tentacle
Briel glances at Jon again
Briel zlins him, then Nick
<Briel> the tea house, then
<Briel> with the two of you, I think that might be a better choice
<NickR> It's too early for porstan. Let's go to the tea shop around the corner.
JonDrake isn't sure enough to put his foot down.
JonDrake nods. Accepts the compromise.
Briel goes down the street
<Briel> so, tell me, Nick. How's the training coming?
NickR shrugs.
<NickR> There's lots to learn. Some days I do better than others.
Briel nods
<Briel> that's normal
<NickR> Snake seems reasonably content, though.
<Briel> Jon's in the same boat as you
<Briel> that's good to hear
<Briel> how is Rafe working out?
NickR grins wryly.
Briel enters the teahouse and goes to a table, waving a tentacle at a passing waitress
<NickR> I wish I knew. He doesn't speak a word of Simelan.
<Briel> oh, that's right... Uh... an Ancient dialect or something... some revived language isn't it?
<NickR> I wouldn't know. Ancient languages are not my specialty.
Briel shrugs... orders tea and looks to the others to see what they want
NickR smiles at the waitress as she comes over.
see note 1
<JonDrake> apprenticing on a dock last year, we had a few seamen speaking such a language.
<JonDrake> They were from far south.
Briel looks interested
<Briel> I have started studying languages... have never heard that one spoken around here
<JonDrake> That's apparently were the coffee comes from.
NickR shrugs.
<Briel> Of course, he's somehow related to Zeor and you know how THEY are
Briel thinking of Alea... then remembers Snake was Zeor too
JonDrake chuckles at that, he only knows two people who have had ties to Zeor...
<Briel> is Snake comfortable with Rafe?
<NickR> Actually, I don't. He's the first member I've ever met, and I can't communicate with him.
Briel looks surprised
<Briel> You didn't know Snake lived at Zeor for several years? 2
<Briel> when she was younger
<NickR> Comfortable? They seem to get along pretty well. Snake can speak a bit of the language.
Briel nods, wondering if she should try to find Rafe and make sure about that since Veraik is down for now
Briel rubs a tentacle wearily at her forehead, wishing Veraik was better
JonDrake sees her weary body language and strengthens...
Briel accepts the tea the waitress brings... but doesn't drink it
NickR smiles at Elania as their order is delivered.
NickR notices that Briel isn't drinking her tea.
<NickR> What's the matter? It doesn't taste as bad as it looks, honest.
Briel glances up at Nick
<Briel> oh...
NickR sips at his own tea to prove the point.
Briel glances at Jon then back at Nick
<Briel> I'll be due transfer in just over a week... I'm not really thirsty
Briel thinks of the other tea she just had too...
<JonDrake> Is there something else you would like?
<Briel> no, I'm fine
Briel looks at the food and shakes her head...
<JonDrake> Ok.
Briel stirs the tea absently
JonDrake isn't sure he likes what he's feeling, reading in her body language.
NickR shrugs and helps himself to a cake.
<Briel> can you tell me how Linn's been doing?
NickR notices Jon trying to work on Briel and politely reduces his influence to give the other Donor a clear field.
Briel zlins Nick seeing the hunger and how the cake is making his mouth dry leans closer to Jon
<NickR> Linn? Well, she's no longer in danger of dying, as she was two days ago.
<Briel> I was very disturbed when I stopped by today to check on Snake....
Briel mouth gapes
<Briel> she was that bad?
<NickR> One more hour, and Snake would have stumbled across a corpse.
Briel stares, unable to respond
Briel picks up her tea and takes a healthy swallow
JonDrake supports Briel, knowing how she'll take this.
<NickR> They'd beat her until she fainted, then left her in the alley -- and it was a pretty cool day.
Briel sets her cup down
Briel wants to react to the outrage...
JonDrake helps keep a level field.
NickR glances at Jon, ready to support his efforts if necessary.
<Briel> do you realize she is cleaning the house?
<JonDrake> Do they know who did the beating?
<Briel> Snake does
<Briel> remember... Linn mentioned that... or you might have been distracted at that moment
<NickR> Yes, she's been at it since yesterday. It's exactly the kind of light exercise she requires to keep from stiffening up.
<Briel> she's been up, moving around since yesterday after almost dying?
Briel thinks no wonder Snake is nowhere to be found
Briel wishes she had zlinned Linn much much closer
<NickR> Well, Snake was able to heal most of the serious stuff before Linn came out of her faint.
<NickR> What's left is bruises -- painful, to be sure, but not dangerous.
<Briel> well, since you can't zlin her, I'd rather hear that from a channel
Briel remembers the pain and wonders now if there were any cracked ribs...
NickR chuckles.
<NickR> Believe me, Snake's keeping a close eye on her.
Briel sighs, glad Nick didn't take her remark as an insult
Briel responds to Nick's laugh and relaxes
<Briel> good. I'm glad to hear that
Briel isn't sure if she believes it... a Farris in the house when Linn is feeling like that?... yeah...
NickR reaches for a second cake.
Briel finds she is a bit hungry
<NickR> Actually, I think Snake is rather regretting her ultimatum.
Briel pauses in looking at the cakes
<Briel> what ultimatum?
Alea leans over against the bed... tired after hours of watching Veraik sleep and props her chin on her hand....
<NickR> Well, when Linn first came to, Snake asked if she wanted to be healed. Linn agreed, and it worked pretty well for a while, but then she had a panic attack when Snake tried for a full transfer contact.
Briel is soooo glad that was Snake and not her... she was still too raw from Linn and Zilla's actions to want to have to deal with that.
<NickR> Snake was pretty annoyed -- and I think she was a bit hurt that Linn didn't trust her.
Briel could certainly understand that. Snake wanted perfection from everyone
<NickR> So Snake has refused to finish healing her until she can get control of that phobic reaction.
Briel is surprised that Snake can be that patient
<Briel> that could be rather trying
Alea yawns and allows her eyes to drop shut, wondering when someone is going to come check on Veraik
JonDrake smiles in understanding of Briel's problems with Linn's phobia.
Briel zlins Nick again
<Briel> do you know who is going to qualify you, Nick?
<NickR> Well, the pain is at least giving Linn a reason to work on her problem.
Briel nods
<Briel> true
Alea feels the stool tip and jumps, just in time to keep from crashing to the floor....
Alea grabs the stool and glances back at Veraik, worried... but he's still asleep
NickR ignores Briel's ill-mannered question.
Alea thinks a channel must have put him to sleep as soundly as he is sleeping
<Briel> the reason I was asking, is there aren't that many channels around who are able to do it.
Briel absently takes a sip of her tea
<Briel> tell Snake Veraik is available to discuss the problem with if she wants
<Briel> if Veraik is unavaliable, I'll be glad to talk with her
Briel thinks she really doesn't want to talk with Snake and hopes Veraik is better by then
NickR wonders if Briel realizes just how blatant she's being.
JonDrake wonders where his qualifications stand at this point.
Alea goes back over and scoots onto the edge of the bed and picks Veraik's hand back up
<Briel> I know she's not quite up to you, possibly... I couldn't tell without zlinning you closer... but we have a channel, Jirelle who could use the practice... if Snake agrees
<Briel> of course... Snake or Veraik, or I would have to determine if she could handle you
Briel drops her spoon for the tea and sits back
<Briel> Just let Snake know the Center will help her if she requires it
Briel tries to force a smile again
NickR wonders why Tecton channels all have such terrible manners.
JonDrake places his hand on Briel's arm.
<NickR> I am sure that Snake will ask for any assistance she desires.
Briel smiles her gratitude at Jon
<JonDrake> Briel, you seem to be tiring. I think it's time we get back.
<Briel> of course, Jon
Briel turns serious eyes back on Nick
<NickR> And I should go back to the house. Snake will be back soon.
<Briel> I know Snake is watching out for you... but be careful... walking the streets like that... if she hasn't trained you in other things as well, could be dangerous
<Briel> Remember, we somehow lost a very well trained Donor not too long ago
NickR has his own theories about how B'cal disappeared.
<Briel> I don't know if you know it... but someone has... contacted, her House... it seems there was a note sent about... threats made..
Briel trails off and rubs at her forehead
<Briel> I don't know if Snake knows that or not
<NickR> I'm not surprised. The woman's a horror.
<Briel> So just be careful. Maybe tell her.
<Briel> horror or not... torture isn't a pretty word
Briel stands
NickR finishes the last of his tea and stands as well.
<Briel> tell Snake I was checking up to see how she was.
<JonDrake> Nick, I'm sorry to be rude, but I think that Briel really needs to get to the Center. It's been a trying day...
Briel reaches in her pocket and tosses some money on the table
<NickR> Of course. Take care of her.
Briel glances up sharply at Jon
NickR grins, Donor to Donor.
Briel zlins and then glares
<Briel> be sure to let Snake know I came by and tell her everthing I said
Briel turns toward the door, leaving her Donor in the dust as she strides off
<NickR> I will pass on your messages, I promise.
JonDrake rushes to keep up.
NickR looks at Jon and rolls his eyes in commiseration.
<JonDrake> Briel! Wait up.
Briel turns a sharp look on Jon, but slows down, not going to leave her Donor alone where the last one disappeared
<JonDrake> What's wrong?
Alea 's head droops and she scoots down a bit on the bed, propping her arm on the railing
<Briel> you want to tell me why you were just so high handed in there about getting me back to the Center
<JonDrake> High handed? You seemed to be having problems.
Alea 's eyes close and she slumps down, falling down on the empty edge of the bed next to Veraik... totally oblivious... but unwilling to leave her Channel
<Briel> problem?
<Briel> what problems that I had to be told to leave?
<JonDrake> You feel very tired.
<JonDrake> Very strained.
Briel opens her mouth to argue... but pauses
Briel thinks of the extra strain doing Veraik's job has put on her
<Briel> you're right
Briel rubs at her forehead again
JonDrake smiles.
<JonDrake> See? You ARE tired.
<Briel> I'm worried about Snake and now Linn... and if you could have zlinned the field on Nick... and he's out wandering around when B'cal came up missing and has a ransom note on her....
<JonDrake> It's been a rough week.
<Briel> and every time I asked him a question about Donation or Qualifying he bristled like I'd stuck a needle in him
Briel sighs and rubs at her neck
<JonDrake> Come on. Let's get back home. I can massage your neck and we can talk about it there.
<Briel> He had no idea what was the matter... and then he'd laugh and project that and sitting that close, that high field...
Briel trials off... responding to the promise in Jon's nager
<Briel> that sounds wonderful
<Briel> you know, JD... you're turning out to be a pretty good Donor
<Briel> there's just one small thing....
<Briel> next time I'm having trouble with a field like Nick's... you might want to sit just a little closer
Briel gives him a weary grin
<JonDrake> Ok, I promise.
JonDrake smiles back.
<JonDrake> Let's go...
Briel nods and goes
Notes:
1) A small number of lines are missing here. The log resumes halfway through a sentence of Jon Drake's. [return]
2) Snake was at Zeor for 2 years prior to changing over, and two months after that. [return]