Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #53: Try, Try Again (10/21/97)
Alea goes down the hall toward Veraik's office
Alea thinks she should really check his furniture too since the rest of the furniture is so... bright....
Alea replaces Veraik's Liorie uniform, frowning over how wrinkled it is and the very pale splotches of yellow and orange and purple on there
Alea sticks money for replacement of his uniform in the pocket of the shirt
<Alea> poor Veraik. He seemed rather partial to that uniform
LinnH hobbles up the stairs to the Sime Center in a determined fashion, hanging onto the railing for support.
Alea glances around and notes in dismay that Veraik's leather chair as well as the transfer couch and the sofa are all yellow and orange now
<Alea> this clashes with the lavender
LinnH pauses on the porch to rest for a moment.
<Alea> I wish they had waited before taking this stuff too
LinnH opens the door and peeks into the lobby, checking for Tarsh.
Alea sighs, pauses to pull her hair up and replace the clip that was falling out, then pushes the rest off her shoulders
Alea thinks she should really cut it all off, but just never finds the time
LinnH shuts the door quickly, reaches into her purse, pulls out a pair of sunglasses, puts them on, and tries to scout out the lobby again.
<LinnH> I don't think I'll ever understand Sime Territory taste in decoration.
LinnH , aided by the sunglasses, is able to determine that Tarsh is NOT in the brightly painted lobby.
Alea looks around Veraik's office again, deciding the yellow furniture doesn't look THAT bad with the lavender walls
Alea rubs her lower back and sighs
LinnH enters the Sime Center lobby.
Briel comes down the stairs and pauses
<Briel> Linn!
Briel looks around
<Briel> Gaah... Alea
<Briel> [second is said as a curse as Briel looks around in horror]
<LinnH> Hello, Briel. I was wondering if Hajene Veraik could spare me a few minutes.
Briel notes the embroidered filing cabinet, coat rack, ladder and groans... rubs at her eyes and hopes Veraik hasn't seen this
Briel goes on over to where Linn stands
Briel pauses
<Briel> I suppose so
<Briel> He dismissed himself... I uh, well....
<Briel> he is up... around....
<Briel> yeah, he can
Briel is not going to tell Linn what happened to Veraik
LinnH holds her ground, although she's still a bit nervous around Briel.
<Briel> why don't you go on into his office and I'll see if I can find him
Briel smiles trying to put Linn at ease
<LinnH> Thank you.
LinnH walks stiffly towards Veraik's office.
Briel goes off toward the donation rooms, wondering where Veraik has gotten himself off to
Alea decides there is nothing that can be done for Veraik's furniture, so she'll just lock the door and forget to give Veraik the key until she can fix it
Alea looks through the ring of new keys for all the rooms and tries to remember which one goes for which door
<Alea> I didn't remember THIS many keys
Alea frowns
LinnH looks into Veraik's office -- it's even worse than the lobby.
Alea hears someone at Veraik's door and glances up
<Alea> Why, Linn!
<Alea> Hi!
Alea smiles sweetly and goes over and pulls the door further open
<LinnH> Hello, Alea.
<Alea> come on in
Alea steps back
Tramila enters the lobby of the Bender Cove Sime Center and looks around.
<Alea> please, have a seat
LinnH 's face bruises are coloring nicely, with touches of green and yellow added to the purple and black.
Tramila shudders and thinks, 'Bender Cove again'.
<Alea> you look awful... Briel said you looked like death
LinnH limps in and sinks into a chair.
<LinnH> That's better than being dead, I suppose.
Alea sees the Farris and is surprised
<Alea> uh, can you wait here just a minute
Alea looks to Linn in query
Tramila hopes that this time around the people will be nicer to her
<LinnH> Certainly.
Alea goes to the lobby
<Alea> may I help you?
<Tramila> [goes to clerk] I am here to see Sosu Alea.
Briel checks in all the rooms, finally finding Veraik in the kitchen having tea
Briel goes over to Veraik
Tramila zlins the pregnant Donor.
<Briel> Veraik... I think you're going to be surprised to find out who is here to see you....
<Veraik> Hello Briel.
Briel nods, smiling
LinnH leans back in the chair and closes her eyes, so she won't have to look at the lavender walls and yellow-and-orange furniture.
<Briel> Linn has come... bruised and all to see you.
<Briel> Maybe she's here for you to heal her
Alea glides forward
<Alea> hajene
Alea nods her head formally to the Farris Channel
<Veraik> She has? [looks into his full tea cup then pushes it away]
<Briel> yeah... I didn't mention it earlier... but it seems she was beat up pretty bad....
<Briel> for some reason, Snake didn't heal her.
<Tramila> Are you Sosu Alea?
<Briel> I take it as a good sign that she has come here to see you
<Alea> I am. And you are?
<Tramila> Tramila zlins Alea .
Alea is certain this is Tramila... she's heard of her... thinks she remembers her from Zeor, but isn't sure
<Tramila> I am Tramila Farris
Alea nods
<Alea> of course
<Alea> what brings you here?
<Veraik> Snake. [depressed] Take Linn to a treatment room. I'll be right there.
Alea can't believe the Sectuib actually has sent someone to help her so soon... she wasn't sure he would... thinking it an easy way to get rid of a troublesome Farris by not helping her
<Briel> I think you'd better go talk to her, Veraik
<Briel> She didn't SAY she wanted treatment. I'm just guessing
<Tramila> You called the Sectuib. I'm a Midwife and a Farris. So here I am.
<Alea> I'm surprised they responded so quickly
<Alea> I haven't had a chance to talk to the controller yet about this
LinnH realizes that she's much more tired from the walk than she should be, and decides to take a cab back to Snake's.
Veraik stands and turns to Briel. "Where? I refuse to go to my office. It's... it's... beyond words."
<Veraik> Thank you Briel. Lead the way.
<Briel> I'd suggest you just see her in your office
<Briel> She is, after all, injured and shouldn't be moving around so much
Veraik zlins Briel to make sure she is telling the truth then simply nods and goes, head down.
<Alea> would you like to come into my office, Tramila?
<Tramila> After we put my bags away, can we go for a cup of Trin? The trip was long and dry.
<Alea> of course
<Tramila> Good.
Alea nods and shows Tramila upstairs to one of the best insulated rooms
Tramila zlins the insulation, satisfied then enters.
Veraik straightens head and walks in. "Linn?" not looking at the office but concentrating only on the Gen woman.
LinnH lets her eyes blur, until the flowers on the upholstry become irregular blotches, much like a yellow and orange cow.
LinnH turns her head stiffly.
<LinnH> Hello, Veraik.
<Alea> you know, Tramila, I am Veraik's Donor this month, I should really find him and check on him first
LinnH 's face looks more colorful than the furniture.
Veraik goes to Linn and gently takes her hand and zlins. "Linn, What happened?" [professional]
LinnH starts to shrug, then thinks better of it.
<Alea> and then there is... Tarsh... I have to find out how he is doing today. He's due transfer in a day...
<Alea> would you like me to find Briel for you to show you around? Or perhaps Jirelle?
<LinnH> I met with some people who disagreed with the changes I've made in the curriculum.
Tramila smiles at Alea and simply hands her the transfer card. "I'm afraid you have been reassigned to me."
Alea looks surprised
<Alea> but what about hajene Veraik
Alea thinks about how rotten things have been with him lately and smiles
<Tramila> He will have another Donor this month.
<Alea> oh, uh, I'm sure they'll send someone... Great!
<Alea> I mean, good
Alea feels lighter already, thinking that Veraik won't be harassing her about Tarsh or putting guilt trips on her... She smiles with pure glee
<Veraik> oh Linn. I'm sorry.
Alea thinks it's gonna be great to be with a Farris... no more underdraw... forces her mind away from how good it will be
<Alea> Well, then, would you mind if I just go check on Tarsh... then I'll take you for that tea.
<Veraik> A town in transition can be so cruel.
<LinnH> I know.
<Veraik> Will you allow me to heal you? [has been shielding himself from Gen pain]
<Tramila> Alea. please
Alea cocks her head, curiously studying Tramila
<Alea> Yes?
<LinnH> Snake did say she took care of the dangerous stuff...
Veraik projects need... the only thing he can do without Linn's consent.
LinnH 's nager, which is weaker than it should be nearly four weeks after her last donation, responds sluggishly.
<Veraik> Then you must have been in very serious condition.
<LinnH> Snake said that if she'd found me an hour later, there would have been nothing she could have done.
<Veraik> May I [points with tentacle] heal you? [concern]
LinnH looks at the tentacle, apprehensively, but without her previous terror.
LinnH weighs Snake's probable reaction against freedom from the pain of the past few days.
Alea cocks her head, sutdying Tramila curiously
<Alea> Yes?
<LinnH> Yes.
Veraik smiles and gently places tentacles on Linn's bruised shoulder. "Just rest. Close your eyes."
<Veraik> Would you like me to tell you about the progress I am making?
LinnH 's apprehension grows as she obeys Veraik and closes her eyes, but she thinks that at least she doesn't have to see the clashing decoration.
<LinnH> Please do.
Veraik projects hard need as he massages the tissue with his field.
LinnH flinches as Veraik's tentacles shift, touching a particularly sore spot.
<Veraik> Sorry Linn, I'll try to go easier. [shifts tentacles]
Alea studies Tramila curiously
<Alea> yes?
<Veraik> I have signed the papers for the building one block from your school.
LinnH relaxes slightly as the pain from the bruise eases.
<LinnH> So Briel said.
<Veraik> [shifts tentacles and projects to a very bruised spot]
<LinnH> Did you have the leaking roof replaced?
LinnH hisses at the touch, tensing with pain.
<Veraik> not yet. It is scheduled for tomorrow.
<LinnH> Good.
<LinnH> How soon do you think you can open the building for classes?
<Veraik> I've finished my schedule and requested that the Tecton print it.
<Veraik> They will send it and all the educational materials within the week.
<Veraik> I think they will arrive in perfect timing. [moves tentacles to back]
<Veraik> The building not only requires a roof. The plumbing requires repair and the furniture hasn't has arrived but should before the materials get here.
<LinnH> Good.
LinnH hopes that the furniture Veraik ordered has a more reasonable color scheme, so the children won't be scared off at first glimpse of the lobby..
<LinnH> Did you order extra glass for the windows? For some reason, the people who object to Tecton influence in Eastcove like to throw bricks.
<Veraik> [looks at Linn] I would like to work on the back of your head. May I place my tentacles there? [waits patiently]
LinnH 's left hand absentmindedly traces the recent scar across her right palm.
Alea goes over and seats herself on the bed
<Alea> it wouldn't actually take very long, Tramila for me to check on Tarsh. I am trying to make constant checks until after his transfer. However, if you feel we should talk...
Alea can't hide the worry in her nager though
LinnH nods, leaning forward to give Veraik better access.
Alea nods
Briel goes finds Jon in the library
Alea frowns
Alea feels guilty suddenly and glances down
<Alea> actually, hajene, I think there has been a small change in him
<Tramila> Alea [points tentacle to bed] Please sit down.
LinnH sneaks one eye open, then closes it quickly again as she spots one handling tentacle writhing by her shoulder.
Veraik places tentacles in a way that Linn only feels them but doesn't see them. [zlins bruise masses and works the masses loose]
<Briel> Jon
<Alea> oh, that
Briel goes into the library
Alea sighs
Alea flushes
<Tramila> Tarsh? Oh yes. Your renSime. [looks kindly]
<Tramila> Alea. Have you noticed a... change... in Veraik?
JonDrake looks up. Yes, Briel?
<Alea> It seems, hajene that I failed Veraik terribly then
<Alea> we have been going through some... personal problems... and I felt guilty when I was working with him and wasn't thinking clearly... it's my fault that he took transfer early
<Briel> I'm glad I found you. I think Veraik can use some help right now. Why don't we go join him
<Tramila> Alea? [sits on bed] His transfer was early? Why don't you tell me about it?
<JonDrake> Ok. Be right there!
LinnH runs through Snake's exercise: determining that there is no present danger and telling the fear what it can do. Even if that would require most of the staff of the Post Office.
JonDrake puts his books together and follows Briel.
<Tramila> yes. [waits for Alea to tell more]
<Tramila> Oh? Perhaps yes and perhaps no
Briel nods and goes toward Veraik's office
Briel pauses outside the office
<Briel> I have a bit of work to do... but I want you to go in there and support Veraik. He requires it more right now than I do
LinnH discovers that the fear is only partially subdued by this, but that's better than she's managed before.
<JonDrake> If you say so. I'll see you later then.
JonDrake enters Veraik's office.
Alea sighs, discouraged
<Alea> Yeah, but he's only a mid-level. I'm a Farris, Tramila
JonDrake signals first, though.
<Veraik> You're doing really well Linn. I'm proud of you.
<Tramila> Only partially. Veriak is a channel. He should have been more cautious.
<Veraik> Come in.
<Briel> I'll be right here, Jon
LinnH opens her eyes as she hears the door open.
JonDrake enters.
<JonDrake> Briel said you could use my help, Hajene?
<Alea> I should have been more careful. I should have thought and used my head when he raised intil.
<Alea> Instead, all I could think of was I wasn't going to hurt him again, no matter what
<Veraik> Yes. Jon. Could you support me while I'm healing Linn?
<Alea> and ended up doing exactly that, if his strange reactions are any indication
JonDrake nods and moves to position.
<Tramila> I know.
Tramila changes subject.
<Tramila> So how are you feeling. Is the baby giving you trouble?
<Alea> the baby?
Alea glances down at her stomach and smiles
<Alea> no, no trouble since the nausea has passed
LinnH is a bit more comfortable with another Gen present, just in case.
<Alea> just odd cravings and I'm tired all the time and a bit moody
Alea thinks, okay VERY moody
JonDrake has been spending much of his time each day training with Veraik, so he has gotten to know the routine...
Alea glances up
<Alea> know what?
<Veraik> You're doing a good job.
<Tramila> His strange reactions? You mean you don't know?
Tramila zlins Alea's baby.
JonDrake smiles, letting a little satisfaction seep into his support field.
Alea stiffens in anger and her field goes flat
Tramila frowns. I guess Veraik was right. You are not as trained as we thought you were when you left Zeor on your mission.
<Veraik> So Linn. Is there anything else that I'm missing?
Tramila adjusts the ambient with Alea's shifting field.
<Tramila> Alea [said gently] Veraik is in a dependancy with you.
<Tramila> That is why he is acting the way he is.
Alea looks shocked then denial
<Alea> no
<Alea> I wouldn't do that to him
Alea shudders, refusing to believe it
<Tramila> He NEEDS your nager and only your nager.
Alea shakes her head... "No."
<Tramila> I know you wouldn't on purpose but that is what happened.
Alea stands and moves away from Tramila, wrapping her arms around herself
<Tramila> It happens Alea... to all of us upon occassion.
<Tramila> Now the two of you have to decide to break it.
<Alea> you know, he probably hates me at the moment
<Alea> and I can't blame him
LinnH moves her shoulders cautiously, then smiles at the much-reduced pain.
<LinnH> Thank you. That's so much better.
<Tramila> Although I suspect that you have so little of the dependecy that you hardly will notice it during our transfer.
JonDrake works to hold a solid, even, supportive field.
Veraik removes tentacles from the back of her head. How about the legs now. Jon Drake?
JonDrake moves in response.
JonDrake looks to Veraik.
<Veraik> So how are your school kids Linn?
<Alea> Tramila... is there anyway I can get transfered... leave this place?
<Tramila> I'm afraid not.
Alea sighs, defeated that Veraik can do that, but glad because Tarsh is here and she isn't sure could leave him anyway
<Tramila> Veraik has taken care of that.
<Tramila> He wants to make sure you are properly trained.
<LinnH> No doubt giving my substitute a very hard time.
<Tramila> That is another reason I am here.
Alea knows the real reason is probably punishment
<Alea> You're here because I called the Sectuib and told him I was going to die without good help
Alea states it flatly
<Tramila> I will be training you and handling your prenatal care.
<Alea> the Sectuib, found it, in his kind help, to behoove him, to help me, for some reason I have no idea what... but I'm sure I will soon
<Tramila> What Veraik did was the stupidest thing he could have done in his career.
<Alea> I agree
<Alea> I imagine he was desperate
<Tramila> The only thing I can think of it is that he is in love with you and wants the best for you. No matter the cost to himself.
Alea eyes widen
<Alea> How do YOU know what Veraik did
Alea ~panic~
Veraik laughs. I can imagine.
<Alea> WHO told you?
Alea suddenly realizes what Tramila said
<Alea> Love? I don't think so. I've made it clear to Veraik that I love another. There is no way he could still love me, or would care what happens to me other than for punishment
<Tramila> I have the ear of the Sectuib AND my dear, as I told you before. I was assigned here and to you a couple of weeks ago.
<Tramila> How else could I arrive the next day?
<Tramila> Alea. You are very naive.
Alea is furious that the Sectuib has told someone something that could ruin her... it's bad enough Veraik found out. She wonders how many others know and are just holding that information to use against her
<Alea> I suppose I am, Hajene
Alea turns from Tramila
<Tramila> Just because you love another doesn't mean that Veraik isn't in love with you.
Alea shrugs
Veraik finally removes tentacles. "Better, Linn?"
<LinnH> Much.
Veraik smiles.
Alea laughs harshly
<Tramila> Alea. I am the only other who knows.
<Alea> I doubt that.
<Veraik> So why didn't Snake heal you?
JonDrake relaxes, but continues support.
<Alea> I can name three people right now who know... no, make that four
<Alea> word will get around....
<Tramila> Only if you have told them.
LinnH 's relief at the lessened pain mingles with her relief at the removal of Veraik's tentacles.
<Tramila> Sectuib told me so that I would be able to understand what is happening at this Center.
Alea thinks two found out without her telling them plus Tramila. She knows the only one she TOLD was Tarsh, whom she knows would never tell a soul
<LinnH> Because she considers me her friend.
<Alea> of course, Tramila
<Tramila> Also, we are looking for a way around Veraik's blackmail of Zeor.
<Alea> In other words, it wasn't that you were sent here to help me, but to observe what was going on and find a way out of what Veraik has done
<Veraik> Are you her friend Linn? [zlins for truth]
<LinnH> I'd like to think so. She's a very hard person to understand, sometimes.
<Tramila> THAT Alea was only the icing on the cake. I was sent here because Sectuib agrees that you require constant care during your pregnacy.
<Alea> why?
<Alea> if my calling and begging wasn't the reason, then why did the Sectuib agree?
<Alea> I mean, I'm sure spies are a dime a dozen in Zeor... so why would he care about me..
<Alea> I've been exposed
<Alea> I am of no more use to him
<Tramila> You are a Farris and a member of the House, Alea. That should be explanation enough.
Alea shakes her head
<Alea> I'm no longer a member of the house
<Tramila> And spies are not a dime adozen.
<Alea> I gave that up. I sent the letter to the Sectuib renouncing the House
<Tramila> You are a Member Alea.
<Tramila> That is what you are.
Alea shakes her head
<Tramila> Householding Zeor takes care of its own.
<Alea> but I am NOT their own anymore
<Tramila> Sectuib never saw that letter.
<Alea> but....
Alea ~shock, joy, despair, confusion~
<Tramila> no buts Alea. You are a part of Zeor
Alea turns her back on Tramila
<Tramila> You are Zeor.
Alea whispers "But what if I don't want to be"
<Tramila> Is that true?
<Tramila> Is that really true?
<Alea> I--I-I'm not... sure....
<Tramila> Deep in your heart is that true?
<Tramila> We want you to be part of the House.
Alea thinks that after giving up all hope on her house and deciding to get on with her life... to suddenly have this dangled in front of her...
<Alea> I don't know, Tramila
<Alea> there's too many other things involved now
Alea 's hand drifts to her stomach
<Alea> other things that are going to affect how I feel about this
<Veraik> Yes. Snake is hard to understand. I... I'm glad she has a friend in you.
<Tramila> Your baby you mean
<Alea> well... yes... there is that too
<Tramila> Look I know about your ren... Tarsh. If it is what you want, you can talk to the Sectuib about him pledging.
LinnH reflects that if Veraik showed Snake the same concern to her face that he does when she's not around, Snake might consider him a friend, too.
Veraik zlins Linn's conflict.
Alea thinks of Tarsh and doesn't think he would want to pledge to Zeor... however... a small glow of hope springs forth....
<Alea> I don't know.
<Alea> and it'll do no good to talk about it now, Tramila
Alea sighs and goes back over to sink down on the bed beside Tramila
<Tramila> I know you are probably wondering how I know about Tarsh. Veraik explained the entire situation when he blackmailed the House.
Alea groans, covering her face
<Alea> It figures
Tramila blankets Alea with her nager in comfort.
<Tramila> Why don't we go have the cup of trin now?
<Alea> that sounds fine
<Alea> I'd be glad to make it up, if you'd like
<Alea> or we can go to the kitchen
Tramila remembers everything about Veraik's report. "The kitchen is fine."
Alea stands and goes to the door
<Veraik> So Linn, what else do we have to do to get the school functional.
Alea slips out the door and toward the back stairs
Tramila follows
<LinnH> Well, what have you got in the way of staff?
<Veraik> I have a rotating staff who are willing to teach the classes.
<Veraik> I plan to take the first set of clases myself.
LinnH nods approval.
Veraik goes to the medical cabinet and pours a fosebine.
<LinnH> So, how are you planning to recruit your first students?
<Veraik> Drink this. It will help, Linn.
LinnH takes the fosebine, sips, and gags.
<LinnH> That tastes worse than Snake's cooking!
Alea gets two cups of tea and brings one to Tramila
<Tramila> Thank you Alea.
<Tramila> sips tea
<Veraik> I know but if will make you feel better in the long run.
LinnH raises a dubious eyebrow, then swallows the dose as quickly as possible.
<LinnH> Yes. It might even work, particularly if you find a name for it which doesn't include either "Sime Center" or "Tecton".
<LinnH> What sort of publicity are you planning?
<Veraik> So what do you think would be a good idea for a name?
<Veraik> well. [tentacle rubs chin]
<Veraik> Study Center?
<Veraik> Bendercove Study Center?
<LinnH> How about the Eastcove Children's Community Center?
<Veraik> Sounds good to me.
AleaF sighs as the warmth seeps into her
Tramila smiles.
<Tramila> Alea. You are simply glowing now with your baby.
AleaF 's eyes go dreamy
<Veraik> Do you think the community will go for it?
<AleaF> Thank you, Tramila. It's nice to have someone to talk with about the baby
Tramila stretches her tentacles. "It reminds me of my pregnacy."
<AleaF> you have a child?
AleaF is surprised
<LinnH> It depends largely on how long it takes the anti-
Tecton faction to catch on to what you're doing.
<Tramila> No. [looks down] It aborted at two months. It's why I decided to study midwifery.
<Veraik> True and I thought that will be lone since there will be Simes coming and going to the Center.
AleaF pales a bit
<AleaF> I see
AleaF knows this is a major problem for Farrises and is suddenly nervous
<Veraik> Also, we will have to put a Sime Territory sign on the door.
Tramila pats hand. You will be fine. You've carried the baby for a long time.
Tramila smiles.
AleaF tries to smile back
<AleaF> I'm sure I will
<Tramila> So. [looks around] who is the decorator here.
<Tramila> It's really bad.
<AleaF> It came pretty much this way...
<AleaF> I know
<AleaF> that's why I'm working in the lobby to change it
<Tramila> I hope that Veraik is going to sue the contractor.
<LinnH> Well, at least that means you can't be accused of hiding who's behind the place. Just be as discreet as the law allows, and that may win you the time to earn the trust of the majority of parents.
<Tramila> That yellow and orange makes my tentacles itch. 1
<AleaF> no, no... we took over this place....
AleaF realizes what she is talking about and flushes, glancing down at her tea
<Veraik> All right.
<Veraik> We'll be as discreet as a little mouse.
<AleaF> oh, um... well... I'm sure he'll see to whoever did this
<Tramila> It looks fresh. I'm going to have to talk to him.
<AleaF> oh, no... really. Let me talk to him.
<Tramila> That color reminds me of Rior.
<Tramila> oh good
LinnH reflects on the boldness of the rodents in the basement in which the four anti-Tectonist prisoners are kept, and hopes that Veraik can manage better.
Tramila shudders.
AleaF thinks and realizes
<AleaF> uh, yeah, it IS the color of Rior, isn't it
Veraik zlins some strange reflection coming from Linn but says nothing.
Veraik raises. "Did you require an escort back to your place or would you like to stay here overnight and rest?
<LinnH> I have cab fare.
LinnH stands.
<Veraik> You could probably use another treatment session in the morning.
Veraik nods. Very well If you are sure.
<LinnH> I'll be fine. I feel much better, truly.
Veraik smiles and zlins.
<Veraik> Well you zlin better tna you did when you came here.
LinnH is glad that Veraik is content to do his zlinning from a few feet away, instead of springing an unexpected transfer contact on her, the way Snake did.
<LinnH> I will be in touch with you, in case you have any more questions about how best to handle things in Eastcove.
<Tramila> yes. That color always hurts to zlin.
<Veraik> Thank you Linn.
Veraik walks her to the door.
AleaF realizes she has made another mistake
LinnH is walking much more freely, although she's still tired.
Tramila zlins Alea and has a funny feeling.
<Veraik> Get some rest Linn. It will help
<LinnH> I will.
<Veraik> Come back if you want me to continue your healing process.
<AleaF> You know, I really should go see Veraik
AleaF pushes her tea away
<AleaF> there are some things I should discuss with him
LinnH nods, trying to ignore the screaming colors in the lobby, and the upholstery in places upholstery was never meant to be.
Tramila raises. Sure. I'll go unpack and then I plan to take some donations. My systems are beginning to cramp up.
<AleaF> thank you, Tramila
AleaF stands
AleaF hurries down the hall... looking for Veraik
Tramila smiles and goes to her room.
Veraik goes back into his office and heads for the phone.
AleaF goes to Veraik's door and signals
<Veraik> Are you the Always Ready Contractor?
LinnH walks down the street, looking for a cab.
<Veraik> One moment. door
Veraik opens the door then goes back to the phone.
AleaF slips in and goes over to the sofa, sinking down on it
<AleaF> Veraik, I....
<Veraik> When could you come to the Sime Center to paint?
AleaF sees him on the phone
AleaF hears his words and blanches
AleaF wonders if he has found his Liorie uniform yet
<Veraik> Yes... yes... triple the wages for overnight? Fine. Do it. Just be here and don't forget that all the walls must be completely stripped before the painting begins.
AleaF thinks Rior has a pretty color
AleaF thinks perhaps she should have nixed the yellow and just used the orange instead
Veraik hangs up and dials another number.
<AleaF> hajene...
<AleaF> I wanted to talk to you about the um....
<Veraik> Do you do uphostery?
AleaF pauses
<Veraik> Great! Come to the Sime Center with samples as soon as possible.
<Veraik> You just did it?
<Veraik> I should have you sued then
AleaF brightens, hoping he'll let her pick the next...
<Veraik> Who authorized it?
AleaF 's excitement dampens at his words
<Veraik> Fine... just get over here and I'll have you do it again.
AleaF is horrified
<AleaF> you don't want them hajene [hisses it at him]
Veraik puts the phone down.
<Veraik> and turns to Alea.
<Veraik> I do not want what Alea?
<AleaF> uh, the upholsterers....
<AleaF> you don't want that company
<AleaF> they're rather pushy and don't listen
<Veraik> no I'll use the company. The job they did was fine.
<Veraik> The colors are what I object to.
AleaF thinks he must not have seen the coat rack or the coffee table or the ladder....
<AleaF> if you say so
AleaF remembers the way the wagoneer and helper looked at her, but decides not to say anything to Veraik
<AleaF> At least your office is nice and soothing
Veraik zlins for truth. "You had all... [waves tentacles around]... this done, didn't you?"
AleaF glances down at her shoes
<AleaF> well, actually, I did the painting myself
<Veraik> Look, Alea.
<AleaF> I just wanted a few of the pieces of furnture redone...
AleaF looks up
<Veraik> The lavender walls are only barely acceptable.
<AleaF> they even took the ladder....
<AleaF> oh
<Veraik> Afterall, they ARE almost the colors of Liorie.
<AleaF> well, Fiona said soft colors soothe and bright colors stimulate
<AleaF> she said it all depended on the colors... if you get the right colors, the moods will be right
<Veraik> But male Out-Territory Gens are never going to trust me with these colors.
AleaF flushes
<Veraik> Fiona?
<AleaF> I see
<AleaF> Fiona
<Veraik> Fiona is trying to teach you the colors that women wear.
<AleaF> she's my teacher that is teaching me grace
<AleaF> no no.
AleaF shakes her head
<AleaF> She is teaching dealing with other people
<AleaF> I would never wear orange
<Veraik> That just doesn't work for office walls.
<AleaF> oh
<AleaF> um, well... there's something else you should know, I suppose
<Veraik> What Alea.
AleaF looks at Veraik sitting in the yellow and orange chair and begins to giggle
<AleaF> uh, what?
<Veraik> [braces himself against her strong nager]
AleaF looks up at Veraik, trying to cover her giggles
Veraik shows anger on his face then quickly replaces it with forced neutrality.
AleaF swallows, seeing the anger, pulling her field in
<AleaF> I apologize, hajene
AleaF averts her gaze
Veraik shrugs and looks away.
<Veraik> That's all right, Alea.
<AleaF> I made a call to Sectuib of Zeor yesterday... he sent Tramila to help me
AleaF stands and goes toward the door
<AleaF> I thought you might want to know that
<Veraik> Just please check with me before changing the decor.
<AleaF> of course, hajene
<Veraik> Alea, come back
AleaF wonders why he is worried about that when he was angry only a moment before
AleaF glances over her shoulder, surprised
AleaF goes back over and sits down
<AleaF> Yes?
AleaF glances out the window and notes the clouds look dark which means rain since it isn't quite cold enough to snow
<Veraik> I requested to the Sectuib a couple of weeks ago to send you a Farris midwife. I'm glad they sent Tramila.
AleaF thinks she humiliated herself with the Sectuib for no reason and is frustrated
<AleaF> I see, Hajene
<Veraik> I'm glad she is here. I'll have to talk to her soon.
<AleaF> of course
<Veraik> Did you get her settled in?
<AleaF> yes. She's in the room next to mine
<AleaF> Snake's old room
Veraik stands and looks at his coatrack.
<Veraik> oh good. [looks at his Liorie uniform but says nothing.
AleaF clasps her hands together, trying to think how to approach the subject on her mind
<AleaF> I'm glad you are feeling better, hajene
Veraik turns back to see and zlin the strange nager coming from Alea.
<AleaF> I'm on my way up to check on Tarsh in a few minutes
<AleaF> he seems to be having a very hard time this month... bad needmares
<Veraik> [cautiously] only a little
AleaF glances up when Veraik speaks
<AleaF> huh?
Veraik moves to the other side of the room from Alea. [hoping that she doesn't notice]
<AleaF> uh, hajene
<Veraik> A third is with him, isn't he?
<AleaF> what I wanted to say is that... well, yes
<AleaF> he is staying with him until transfer time
<AleaF> I asked Briel to check on him...
<AleaF> The night of our... um... transfer
AleaF looks down again
<Veraik> good. That should help. I should drop in on him later in the day.
<AleaF> he had a bad dream....
<AleaF> I think... well....
<Veraik> It's all right Alea. I know. I understand. [tightly closed nager]
AleaF battles with her loyalty to Tarsh and her loyalty as a Donor
<AleaF> I think he might be planning to go to Snake
<Veraik> Snake?
<AleaF> he is terrified that this dependency thing... yes, Snake.
<Veraik> You know that's not a good idea.
<AleaF> I asked him to work with you on this
<AleaF> I know
<Veraik> I'll talk to him
<AleaF> How can we break this. It's going to tear him apart if something isn't done
AleaF flushes
<Veraik> He should have a good post.
AleaF thinks she knows someone else who is going to be torn apart
<AleaF> I'm not worried about his post you idiot!
<Veraik> That helps with his type of dependency.
AleaF stands and plops her hands on her hips
<AleaF> shen
Veraik blinks. What?
<AleaF> is that all you think about?
<AleaF> Sex?!
<AleaF> I am worried about him!
<AleaF> he can't go on like he is.
<Veraik> Calm down Alea,
<Veraik> I know.
AleaF gulps in a breath, trying to steady her nerves, moving further away from Veraik
<AleaF> then don't mention his post to me!
<Veraik> It's just that a good post helps a renSime to equal it with a good transfer.
AleaF knows she sounds waspish and is horrified
<AleaF> I know, I know
<Veraik> Then talk to me like a Donor, not a lover.
<AleaF> I just... I'm worried about him. I want you to help him and I know he's worried you're not going to be able to
AleaF sucks in a sharp breath at Veraik's words
<Veraik> Help me to understand what he is going through so I can help him.
AleaF forces herself to be detached
<AleaF> Tarsh is experiencing needmares again.
Veraik zlins her attention and is pleased.
<AleaF> He is killing Gens in them. This time, it was me and the baby he killed
<AleaF> At the end, he cut off his laterals
Veraik nods head.
<AleaF> He is worried that the many times he has had Gen Transfer has made him junct
<Veraik> I see. That is his greatest fear. Not only to lose you but to lose you and the baby.
<AleaF> No. His greatest fear is being Junct.
<AleaF> He is certain he's going to kill a Gen
Veraik cringes and locks laterals tight into their sheaths.
<AleaF> I can't make him understand he can't hurt me and that he WON'T hurt another Gen
<Veraik> Having Gen transfer won't make you junct unles you kill the Gen, you know that Alea.
<AleaF> Unfortunately, by my stepping in when Linn was here, he is now convinced if I hadn't stepped in, he would have killed her
<AleaF> I know that... convince HIM of that
<Veraik> But I can see his concern.
<AleaF> he won't kill, hajene
<Veraik> I know.
Veraik thinks.
<AleaF> The crazy druggie that was here... that guy provoked him beyond anything, yet he turned and ran
<AleaF> I just don't know how to help him.
AleaF sighs, depression sinking into her nager.
<AleaF> I can't help him.
<Veraik> We will have to prove to him that he won't kill.
<AleaF> if only we could
<Veraik> Are you willing to help in this matter?
<AleaF> if I hadn't stepped in maybe he would have realized that yes, that desire for Gen transfer might be there... but he wouldn't kill
<AleaF> Of course I am... but I don't see how I can help
<AleaF> I've already done too much damage
<Veraik> Good.
<AleaF> do you know....
<Veraik> We are going to make a classic disjunction triangle for him.
<AleaF> When he had that nightmare I went to see if he was okay and sent for Briel... and he screamed, sending me away, afraid he was going to kill me...
AleaF 's mouth drops open
<AleaF> how will that help
<AleaF> he's not junct
<Veraik> The triangle will include you, me and a willing donor Gen. 2
<AleaF> but why am I needed then?
AleaF is confused
<AleaF> oh....
<Veraik> He loves you and you are in his dreams.
<AleaF> and I am always stepping in?
<Veraik> For his transfer, we will give him the choice.
AleaF frets
<AleaF> is that a good idea
<Veraik> If he choses Channel's tranfer, he will be convinced that he will never kill.
<AleaF> But if I'm there... is he going to choose the donor or me over you?
<AleaF> he has got to know he can't kill me
<AleaF> although I am still pretty low
AleaF wonders
<Veraik> If he loves you and the baby, he will turn from you for tranfer.
<AleaF> hajene, just how low is my field right now....
<Veraik> Low.
<AleaF> I mean... with the selyn drain from the baby and what happened....
<AleaF> low enough that he could actually hurt me?
<Veraik> But I won't allow him to take transfer with you.
<AleaF> oh heavens... he could, couldn't he?
<Veraik> As a channel, I can augment faster than he can.
<AleaF> I realize that
<AleaF> but, no... he didn't know about us... he hasn't zlinned me
AleaF thinks it's creepy that the dream could actually happen...
<AleaF> I've NEVER been low enough that anyone could hurt me
<AleaF> I'm a Farris!
<Veraik> If he does take transfer from you, you will only be burned a little but if will hurt and it may damage the baby.
<Veraik> knowing this, are you stilling willing to try it?
AleaF debates....
<AleaF> I never...
AleaF raises vulnerable eyes to Veraik
<AleaF> If something happened, I don't think I would stop Tarsh... In his conditon I could kill him
<Veraik> You could.
<AleaF> But that might mean the baby...
AleaF thinks, or me
<AleaF> but you would be there and I....
<AleaF> I... trust... you
<Veraik> I know this is a very bad position for you so it has to be your decision.
AleaF realizes that despite all they've been through, that she does trust Veraik
Veraik smiles. Thanks Alea.
<AleaF> what choice is there really? Tarsh requires it
AleaF shrugs
<AleaF> of course I'll do it
<AleaF> but promise me something, hajene
<Veraik> And that is the decision of a Farris Donor. You're learning, Alea. [big smile]
<Veraik> What is that?
<AleaF> please don't tell Tarsh... I mean, I don't think he'll realize just how low I am on selyn or how much the baby is beginning to pull... I don't want him to know
<Veraik> Uh... Alea. I don't think you truly understand the story.
<Veraik> I am not going to tell Tarsh about the triangle.
AleaF eyes widen
<AleaF> you're not?
<AleaF> but he is due transfer tomorrow, or Thursday...
<Veraik> The triangle will be formed at the right moment and he will have to make his decision then.
<Veraik> I know.
<AleaF> oh
<AleaF> oh, of course
<AleaF> I... I wasn't thinking....
<Veraik> I will have to get a donor Gen volunteer between now and tomorrow.
<AleaF> you know, maybe Lowren will do it
<Veraik> Only his decison at the moment will tell him his true feeling.
<Veraik> After this works, he should be healthy.
<AleaF> but how will you trigger him into this?
<AleaF> fear seems to do it...
<AleaF> do you think Linn might help?
<Veraik> Linn is too sick. It will have to be another.
<Veraik> Besides it will have to be a Householding donor.
<AleaF> why?
<Veraik> or a friend of Tarsh's who is willing to put their life on the line.
AleaF allows a slow smile to curve her mouth
AleaF glances at Veraik and covers the smile quickly with a neutral expression
<Veraik> A Householding Gen would be my first choice.
<AleaF> of course, hajene
<Veraik> They understand disjunction.
<AleaF> we can't get one here on such short notice
AleaF wonders if she should mention what she knows or not
<Veraik> One of the donor workers at the Center might do it.
<Veraik> but it should be somebody who is steady and willing to die to help Tarsh.
AleaF thinks that rules out her idea
AleaF decides maybe she ought to say something after all
<AleaF> hajene, I might be able to come up with something that will help
<Veraik> Oh?
<AleaF> well....
<AleaF> You know Tarsh was involved in a situation similar to the distect...
<AleaF> you know, direct Gen Transfer?
<AleaF> that's what got him in this mess
Veraik feels that Alea's nager is getting too close to him so he steps back and listens.
<AleaF> well, I might know....
AleaF sighs
<AleaF> Tarsh didn't tell me this... and he would be upset that I know... and upset if you used this against him
<Veraik> [a tentacle flicks in and out of a sheath nervously] "yes?"
AleaF clasps her hands together and moves back a bit from Veraik when she realizes she is bothering him
<AleaF> Tarsh has this tendency to talk in his sleep
<AleaF> and he mentioned a couple of the people who he used to have transfer with... some of his former friends...
AleaF shrugs
<AleaF> They might be ideal as the third in a triangle
<AleaF> I also know where he went to go talk to them last week
Veraik smiles. "Do you think you could arrange it?"
AleaF glances back up at Veraik
<AleaF> Oh, I'll arrange it. I'll drag one of them here bound and gagged if I have to... but one of them will be here if you think it'll help Tarsh.
<Veraik> Now Alea, you know that it has to be a willing volunteer or it won't work.
<AleaF> oh, he'll be willing
AleaF grimly
Veraik almost laughs. "Sure it will."
<AleaF> I'll leave right now
AleaF goes toward the door
<Veraik> Alea?
AleaF pauses
<AleaF> yes?
<Veraik> Thanks.
AleaF opens the door and then tursn back to Veraik
<AleaF> Hajene?
<Veraik> I really think this will work for Tarsh.
AleaF nods
<AleaF> I hope you know I would never have caused this latest problem for you if I had been thinking like a Donor instead of... of... well... instead of a bubbleheaded idiot.
<AleaF> I want apologize for hurting you.
<Veraik> Be careful.
AleaF shows the true regret in her eyes and nager
Veraik zlins the regret. "I know Alea. It's my fault too. I'm sorry."
AleaF nods
<AleaF> I'm off to catch a train... I'll be back with a "willing" donor in time for Tarsh's transfer
AleaF smiles, her eyes narrowing
<AleaF> you can bet on it
<Veraik> Let's just try to break this dependency before it gets worse.
<AleaF> of course, hajene
AleaF turns and slips out the door
<Veraik> See you then
AleaF waves back at him as she heads for the stairs to gather her cape and money for the train
<Veraik> Be careful. Remember the baby.
Veraik returns to his desk and picks up the phone. "Is this a statuary? Good."
<Veraik> Can you clean paint off stutues?
<Veraik> uh... uh,
<Veraik> Can you please come pick up the Sime Center Gnome and clean it?
<Veraik> It's painted purple.
<Veraik> Gnomes are not supposed to be purple.
<Veraik> oh good. Just send the bill to the Center.
Veraik hangs phone up and dials again.
<Veraik> Hello, it this is Security Doors and Windows?
<Veraik> I require that the windows to my office have bars put in.
<Veraik> Tomorrow?
<Veraik> Oh good.
Veraik hangs up.
Notes:
1) Just imagine what B'cal would have thought, were she not missing.... [return]
2) Plus Tarsh... makes four in this "triangle"... no wonder Gens have a hard time learning Simelan! [return]