Sime/Gen Roleplaying: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #135: Too Much Information (1/19/98)
<Rhelana> [crying]
Alea is in her office gathering up some files from the precarious stack on her desk.
Alea grabs at the stack the Clerk brings in and tries to balance them on the next set and keep them all from spilling.
Rhelana slightly augments down the hall and passes Alea's office. She ducks inside.
Alea glances up, surprised.
<Alea> Uh....
Alea sets the sketchbook on top of the mountain of files and tries to figure out what Rhelana is doing in her office.
<Alea> May I help you?
<Rhelana> [crying] Oh. Oh.
Alea ~~concern~~
Alea motions to a chair in front of her desk.
<Alea> Please. Have a seat. Would you like me to send for some tea?
Rhelana sits down.
Rhelana nods.
Alea goes to the door and sends Clerk for tea, then grabs the tissues on the way back and passes them to Rhelana.
Alea takes a seat next to her, carefully avoiding the stacks of folders on her desk.
<Alea> Are you okay?
Alea thinks she shouldn't ask... it's none of her business since the renSime burst into her office... but she looks like she could use someone to listen.
<Rhelana> I... Oh. [stands] I'm sorry. [looks around] I shouldn't be here. You are too important to hear a renSime's problems.
Alea sighs and puts aside her discomfort of the girl and motions her back to the seat.
<Alea> That's what I'm here for.
Rhelana takes the tissues and dabs at her eyes, knowing that the makeup is gone no matter what.
<Alea> Donors and Channels are often put in the position to offer advice.
Alea smiles encouragingly.
Alea ~~soothing~~
Rhelana sits again, keeping her eyes down.
<Rhelana> You don't mind? [hopeful]
Alea hesitates, remembering the girl's actions the other day when she snubbed her, then sighs and shakes her head.
<Alea> Of course not.
<B'cal> So, Snake. You sure you're comfortable with Simone?
<Rhelana> [cries] Well, you see... [sniff, blow into tissue]
Alea nods, clasping her hands.
<Rhelana> There's this renSime. He is the cutest, most handsome man here.
B'cal stands at the Center door waiting for Snake to open it.
<Rhelana> You may know him, He's the CFO, my boss. His name is Tarsh.
Alea ~~wary as she remembers just who she's been watching~~
Alea ~~sigh~~
Wisesnake opens the door and holds it for B'cal.
B'cal goes inside.
<Alea> Yes, I know him.
<Simone> ~~support, caring~~
Alea wonders how to break the crush this girl is developing.
Wisesnake is surprised as Simone ambushes her just inside the front door.
<Rhelana> Anyway, he just had transfer and I had been hinting all week that perhaps he and I could get together.
<Wisesnake> Oh... uh... [recovering] Hello, Simone.
B'cal looks Simone up and down, then looks at Snake.
<Wisesnake> Can we continue that conversation a bit later? [to B'cal]
Alea's eyes narrow.
<Alea> Yes.
Simone smiles. "Hi, Snake."
Wisesnake [weakly]
<B'cal> Of course.
Simone looks at B'cal and smiles a knowing smile.
B'cal sneers at Simone.
<Rhelana> I had transfer the day before.
B'cal ~~not impressed~~
B'cal turns and starts up the stairs.
<Alea> I see.
<Rhelana> So when I saw him coming out of the transfer room, I stopped him and made suggestions.
Alea thinks the girl is obviously upset because Tarsh dumped her.
Wisesnake watches B'cal leave and looks at Simone.
<Wisesnake> You seem to have recovered from yesterday.
<B'cal> If you need me Snake....
B'cal goes on up the stairs to her room.
<Rhelana> He seemed to want me though he kept on hesitating. I don't know why.
Alea stiffens.
<Rhelana> Oh, gosh. He is so cute and so incredibly delicious and I wanted him so bad.
Alea's smile freezes on her face.
<Alea> I would say, Rhelana, that if he didn't want you and sent you away, that would be explanation enough.
Alea keeps her voice steady.
<Rhelana> But you don't know, you could never know how much I want him and he gave me the impression that he wanted me.
Alea ~~shock~~
<Alea> Perhaps you misunderstood.
<Rhelana> I thought I was going to die when he almost kissed me, but then he stopped and I was left wanting.
Wisesnake looks at Simone closer.
<Wisesnake> Are you okay?
Alea feels a bit sick.
<Alea> I see.
Alea isn't sure what to say.
<Simone> Yes. You go to many places I would never have gone but.... [grins] I can take it.
Wisesnake thinks Simone hasn't seen the half of it... she's only shown him legitimate work.
<Wisesnake> Sure.
<Wisesnake> Great.
<Alea> You say that he initiated it?
<Wisesnake> Do you feel more comfortable with the regular support work now that you've had a few hours of it?
Alea is finding this hard to believe.
<Rhelana> [wrings hands] But then he told me... [crying harder]
Alea stands.
<Alea> Uh, I think... perhaps you shouldn't be telling me this.
Alea ~~angry/sick/lost~~
<Alea> Perhaps Hajene Veraik would be willing to speak with you.
<Simone> Yes. And rested I'm willing and able. [grin] Where do you want to go?
<Rhelana> He told me that he couldn't... wouldn't because there were two others in his life and I was only third.
<Wisesnake> That's good to know.
Alea thinks TWO others.
<Rhelana> Then [wail] he told me that one of them was a baby... HIS baby.
Alea ~~relief~~
<Rhelana> Why did he give me mixed directions!!! Why!!!
Alea leans against the desk, feeling giddy with relief.
<Wisesnake> Simone, I usually spend some private time with B'cal after we get done working. I appreciate your... er, quick appearance... but I really won't require your services for another hour or two.
<Alea> Are you sure, Rhelana, he was giving you misdirection or were you simply misunderstanding the situation? It's possible he was post and was tempted if you came onto him.
<Wisesnake> Do you have something you can do in the meantime?
<Rhelana> And then on top, that other Farris channel saw us and she threatened me. [wail] And I was so scared that I ran.
Alea hears "Farris" and "she" and grins, certain it had to be Snake... since Tramila isn't that intimidating.
Wisesnake knows better than to try to spend time with both Donors together!
<Simone> Well, I could use some food and then perhaps I could talk to Controller Veraik before you are ready for me.
<Simone> Would that be all right?
Wisesnake looks at him oddly.
<Wisesnake> You're asking me?
<Rhelana> No. No, I came here shortly before his turnover day and realized that we were in sync.
<Simone> Yes. Is there a problem with that?
Wisesnake gives Simone an even stranger look.
<Simone> You are older, Snake, and have been learning a lot.
<Simone> Why wouldn't I treat you differently?
<Wisesnake> Well I... [still not understanding] ... I don't see any problem with you eating or talking to Veraik.
<Simone> Good. Then just have me paged when you return.
<Alea> So? A lot of people have transfer near the same time, what does that have to do with anything?
<Rhelana> I just knew he was right for me then.
Alea turns slowly and studies Rhelana thinking she doesn't like this attitude at all.
<Alea> You just knew?
Alea crosses her arms.
<Rhelana> Only that he and I could share post and it would be wonderful.
<Rhelana> ~~ crying~~
<Alea> Rhelana, dear. Please try to stop crying.
<Alea> I'd like to ask you some pointed questions, if you don't mind, and we can get to the bottom of this.
Alea is definitely feeling ill.
Rhelana senses the coldness in Alea's nager and looks up.
Alea [ill with building frustration, confusion, and anger]
Wisesnake nods.
Rhelana zlins.
Alea ~~neutral field~~
<Alea> You came to the Center and met Tarsh? Correct?
Wisesnake starts down a hallway, planning on going to B'cal's room.
<Alea> You decided that he would be perfect for your post partner. Correct?
<Alea> And yet, when he turned you down, you're upset about it?
Simone goes to the cafeteria, looking forward to a great meal since it is the Gen shift to eat.
<Alea> I have trouble believing he was interested at all.
Wisesnake hears voices in Alea's office as she passes by... pauses.
Alea turns and starts around her desk. ~~anger~~
<Rhelana> Yes. [sniffle] But is just so cute and he seemed to me to be willing.
Wisesnake notes that the soundproofing in Alea's office walls is entirely nonexistent... tries not to breathe too loudly as she eavesdrops.
Alea bumps her folders on her way around her desk.
<Alea> Shen!
Alea grabs for the stacks of papers on her desk.
Alea shaking with her anger.
Wisesnake flinches back automatically at the sounds of bumping and Alea swearing, but the nageric insulation is quite adequate.
Rhelana suddenly stands, eyes wide open, looking at a picture which fluttered to the floor.
Wisesnake eases closer to hear more.
Alea follows Rhelana's gaze, still simmering.
Rhelana leans down and picks the picture up.
Alea ~~vulnerable~~
<Alea> Please give me that.
Wisesnake shrugs, hearing no talking.
Wisesnake leaves.
<Rhelana> [shock!!!] [A picture of Tarsh without his laterals, bleeding, dead.]
Wisesnake continues down the hall and starts up the stairs.
Alea moves forward to take the picture.
Rhelana looks up. [horror]
<Alea> Rhelana, I think you should just leave.
Rhelana augments out the door.
<Alea> I'll have someone .... talk ... to you later [through gritted teeth]
<Alea> HEY!
Alea goes out the door after her, looking for Rhelana.
Wisesnake hears Alea yell and hurries the rest of the way up the stairs.
<Alea> Shendoni!
<Alea> What in shen would she want that picture for?
Wisesnake approaches B'cal's door and signals.
Alea ~~shaking with anger and vulnerability at her special artwork being seen ~~
<B'cal> Come in.
B'cal sitting at her desk and writing.
Alea decides to find Tarsh for some answers.
Wisesnake slips inside B'cal's room and closes the door.
Wisesnake comes over by B'cal
<Wisesnake> I got rid of Simone for an hour or two.
<B'cal> Simone not trailing you in hot pursuit?
<B'cal> Ah. I see.
B'cal ~~support~~
B'cal indicates for her to take a seat.
Wisesnake sits, looks to see what B'cal is writing.
<B'cal> I'm writing a letter to Pamlos and Fraeyan.
Alea goes to Clerk to find out where Tarsh is.
Clerk says he thought Tarsh was out running with Tamlen.
Alea nods and turns, still shaking with anger and hurt as she goes back to her office.
<Wisesnake> Oh.
Wisesnake zlins B'cal
<B'cal> ~~fondness~~
Alea has all kinds of thoughts since she didn't see Tarsh last night and Rhelana is saying that she was certain that Tarsh actually wanted her....
<B'cal> Have you and Simone worked things out?
<B'cal> Or are you still scared spitless of him?
Tarsh comes jogging down the street.
<Wisesnake> Um... [squirms]
<Wisesnake> As long as he watches his nager I'm fine.
<B'cal> I see.
Tamlen is running in front of Tarsh.
<B'cal> Is it his nager that scares you? Or the transfer too?
<Wisesnake> His nager.
B'cal replaces the pen and pushes the papers away, giving Snake her undivided attention.
<B'cal> Why?
<Wisesnake> He's strong enough to... push me around so I can't think. The way you used to do.
Tamlen is running easily.
<Wisesnake> It's terrifying, to "wake up" moments later and realize it wasn't my little problem, it was somebody's nager holding me under.
Tarsh is sweating and puffing like a steam engine.
Alea begins picking up the pile of file folders she knocked off.
<B'cal> Have you talked to him about this? Told him you don't like it?
<Tamlen> Remember, augmenting defeats the purpose.
<Wisesnake> And... either he's playing some kind of head games with me, or he is so out of practice that he is having trouble with regular support and field control.
Tarsh nods.
<Wisesnake> He knows it is wrong.
<B'cal> Of course he does.
<B'cal> But if you stand up to him, Snake, and tell him that you don't appreciate it, it might make him back off.
<B'cal> As for support...you're much more sensitive than you were....
<B'cal> and...
B'cal chuckles.
Kadi wanders through the residential wing, looking for entertainment.
Wisesnake looks at B'cal curiously.
<B'cal> Though channels like to think Donors are Gods, I can tell you sometimes we do have problems and we allow them to affect us and our support.
<Tarsh> Tiring... [gasp] myself... [gasp] is the... [gasp] whole... [gasp] idea.
<Wisesnake> He said it was because he's been stationed out-Territory for a long time, and rarely works with Simes except around transfer time.
Kadi pokes her nose into a room, and growls as she identifies the occupant by the smell.
<Tamlen> Good. You have to push yourself to find out what your limits are.
<B'cal> Ah, I see.
<B'cal> In other words, he's gotten lazy.
<Wisesnake> I took him on the tour most of the day yesterday, and he was pretty wiped out, but now he says he's raring for more.
Kadi sees that the room's occupant is not currently present.
Alea stacks one by one the files back onto her desk, ignoring all the distraction going on in the lobby.
<Wisesnake> I guess I just don't like the... the IDEA of the Donor being able to turn off my brain.
<B'cal> That's a good sign.
<Wisesnake> Well, I don't like it in practice, but I don't like the idea even when he's not doing it.
<B'cal> At least he's willing to stay.
Kadi decides that the smell of the room really could be improved.
Wisesnake looks at B'cal oddly.
<Wisesnake> Stay?
<B'cal> With you each day.
<Wisesnake> Oh.
<Wisesnake> For all of two days...
Kadi starts by sharpening her claws on some clothing which was carelessly left lying around--I mean, what else is it good for?
<B'cal> He could have simply waited until the last minute, cruised in here long enough to pass off a bit of selyn and gone his own way.
B'cal sneers.
<B'cal> To be honest with you, me, too.
<B'cal> Simone is known for his quick services.
Wisesnake's tone makes it clear she is more interested in long term total commitment than two-day Donors.
<Wisesnake> That's what I thought was going to happen this time.
<Wisesnake> And frankly, two days isn't much better than two hours. It's a lot of work to drag someone who's inexperienced with it through Bender Cove.
<B'cal> Yes, it is.
Alea sighs and sinks down onto her chair, a stack of files clutched to her chest.
<Wisesnake> I would rather have an adequate transfer and really top notch daily support than a kick ass transfer and erratic, inadequate or annoying day-to-day.
<Wisesnake> [quickly] not that I'm saying Simone is any of that, necessarily, er....
<B'cal> Yes, but you need a kick ass transfer this month...
<Wisesnake> Well, they are nice to have....
Tarsh comes in the front door, sweaty and out of breath. "You go on!" [over his shoulder ]
<B'cal> We can go to adequate transfers next month.
<Wisesnake> Granted.
Tarsh trudges into the lobby, over to the tea service.
Kadi feels the cloth tear under her claws.
Alea stares blankly at her desk, charts still clutched to her chest.
Kadi likes the feeling, and finds several more outfits to claw.
Kadi explores further, discovering a nice pair of leather dress shoes.
Alea finally stands and goes to the lobby to return the charts she has.
Kadi thinks their smell could be improved, and besides, there isn't a convenient litter pan, so she redecorates with enthusiasm.
Tarsh finds that gulping hot tea is unwise.
Kadi crouches behind a chair as a rustle discloses a mouse behind the curtain.
Kadi peers out, watching carefully.
Alea glances around as she hands the charts to the clerk and sees Tarsh.
Kadi's hindquarters wiggle experimentally.
Kadi's tail lashes.
<Alea> Tarsh!
Tarsh gasps even louder than he had been.
Tarsh turns. "Alea. Hi."
Kadi sees the mouse's nose peer around the curtain.
Alea studies Tarsh much like one would study a dead bug pinned down under a microscope.
Kadi crouches, motionless.
Kadi sees the mouse venture slowly into the room.
Alea moves slowly forward to where Tarsh is standing.
<Alea> Have you seen Rhelana?
Kadi explodes from her hiding place, and in two bounds lands on the mouse's neck, breaking it.
Alea ~~curious~~
<Kadi> Grrrrrrooooooowwww!
Kadi picks the mouse up and shakes it, tossing it across the room.
<B'cal> I'd suggest you talk out your frustrations and fears with Simone.
Wisesnake gives B'cal a "Get real!" look.
Tarsh looks guilty. "Yeah. Yesterday."
Kadi pounces on the mouse, tossing it again.
Alea sees the guilt and stiffens.
<Alea> I meant in just the past five or ten minutes.
B'cal shrugs.
Kadi continues to play with the mouse for a while, but eventually notices that it's no longer moving.
<B'cal> If you tell him, and then he doesn't straighten up, tell me. I'll be glad to have a Donor to Donor talk with him.
B'cal smiles, her eyes narrowing.
Kadi gets bored, and prods at the mouse, trying to get it to play some more.
<Tarsh> No... not today.
Alea winces at that reference to yesterday again.
Kadi sniffs at the mouse, and decides that it smells pretty good, even if it is broken.
Alea looks around sees the busy area.
<Alea> Would you have a moment to step into my office?
<Wisesnake> What good is it going to do to tell him that out-of-practice Donors who can't help but flatten my mind into paste make me uncomfortable? That won't make him magically more in practice, or better matched to me nagerically.
Kadi takes an experimental bite or two.
<Wisesnake> Especially since he is only to be here for another day.
<B'cal> It might make him pay more attention.
<Tarsh> Sure.
<Wisesnake> He is paying more attention than he was yesterday.
<Tarsh> Want some tea?
Alea goes slowly back into her office.
Kadi has just finished eating her breakfast, however, so she's not really hungry.
<Alea> I... um.... had some already.
<Wisesnake> You can talk to him if you like, though.
B'cal ~~anticipation~~
Wisesnake adds this after finally realizing that B'cal must be concerned or she wouldn't be bringing this up.
<B'cal> Thank you, Snake.
Kadi decides to save the rest of the mouse for later.
Wisesnake is pleased that she picked the right response.
Tarsh refills his mug and follows.
Wisesnake smiles.
<Wisesnake> Yes, why don't you talk to him... I'd appreciate that.
<Alea> Please close the door behind you.
<B'cal> I'll be sure to do that.
<B'cal> As soon as I finish the letters.
Wisesnake pauses.
<Wisesnake> You will... be gentle with him, right?
Alea clasps her hands.
Kadi becomes worried that someone will steal her half mouse if she leaves it in the middle of the floor.
<Alea> I... um....
<B'cal> Of course.
<Wisesnake> I don't want an out-of-practice, overpowered Donor who is also resentful and carrying a chip on his shoulder.
Tarsh closes the door. "Is something wrong, Alea?"
B'cal lifts an arrogant eyebrow.
Alea turns to face Tarsh. ~~hurt/confusion/anger~~
Kadi debates bringing it to her mother for safe keeping.
<Wisesnake> Or too upset to deliver a halfway reasonable transfer... [voice trails off at eyebrow]
<Alea> Rhelana was just here.
<B'cal> Of course.
<B'cal> I understand completely. [blandly]
Wisesnake zlins for sincerity.
B'cal thinks she will enjoy this talk with Simone, since he has been pushing her buttons since he arrived.
Wisesnake grimaces.
<Wisesnake> That was not very believable, B'cal.
Kadi is, however, fully endowed with feline sloth.
<B'cal> Well, I'd hate to lie to you.
<Wisesnake> I doubt you could. [points out]
<Wisesnake> Am I going to have to be there during this talk?
<B'cal> No.
<B'cal> No. We'll be fine.
<B'cal> We're both full grown Donors.
<Tarsh> Alea, nothing happened between me and her.
<Alea> She wanted to talk....
Kadi decides, on second thought, to store the mouse nearby.
<Wisesnake> So are you and Nick. It doesn't always work out. I'm just being cautious.
<Alea> I see.
Kadi looks around for a suitable hiding place.
<B'cal> I would expect you to be cautious. I should have said we're both Tecton.
<Tarsh> By my choice.
B'cal grins.
Kadi notices a drawer, halfway open.
Alea ~~relieved/confused~~
<Wisesnake> Ah.
Wisesnake grimaces.
Kadi pokes her nose in the drawer, and sees lots of socks and underwear.
<Alea> I ... well, we had set an appointment a week ago but then I never saw you last night and I wasn't sure what happened.
<Wisesnake> Well, I warn you, if Simone is rendered unsuitable for transfer by your conversation, I'll have to hunt you down and take you again. [half humorous, half serious]
<Alea> Then Rhelana comes in here crying her eyes out about losing the love of her life and how she was certain you were... um... well interested.
<Tarsh> No, that wasn't what she wanted....
Wisesnake [a little nervous]
Kadi experimentally drags socks and undies out of the drawer, investigating the hole left behind.
<B'cal> I'll leave him in good enough shape to transfer with you.
Kadi decides that the sock drawer is too low, and looks around for a better
hiding place for her half mouse.
<Wisesnake> What are the letters about? [waves a tentacle at the desk]
<Alea> It wasn't?
Kadi sees the bed, and is struck by inspiration.
Tarsh remembers. "Oh, shen I'm sorry, Alea. I forgot. I had a bit of a rough time with need and the transfer. And then getting loose of Rhelana, I was just wiped out.
Wisesnake wouldn't normally have asked a question like that, but B'cal has asked her the same sort of question so many times it feels normal to ask it of B'cal.
Kadi picks up the half mouse and jumps up onto the bed.
<B'cal> Just reporting on your progress and asking how things are going.
Kadi places the mouse on the pillow, and carefully "digs" at the coverlet, pulling it back.
<Tarsh> Rhelana was, well... direct. She seemed to consider talking secondary.
B'cal shoves the one to Fraeyan over to her.
<Alea> Ah.
Alea nods.
Wisesnake picks up the letter and reads it.
<Alea> I understand.
Kadi burrows under the covers, then places the half mouse tenderly in the hiding place.
<Alea> I thought perhaps... well, it doesn't matter. So, you haven't seen her in the last few minutes?
Alea ~~nervous~~
Kadi rakes the covers back up over her catch, smoothing them until her efforts are unnoticeable.
Kadi surveys her work with pride, then jumps down and leaves the room to look for her mother and brag a bit.
<B'cal> The other letter is to Palmos. I asked more detailed questions about his friends there.
B'cal shrugs.
<B'cal> Just regular personal stuff.
Wisesnake appreciates B'cal's very neat handwriting, as in her experience the neatest handwriting is most easily learned for the purpose of forging.
Wisesnake looks at both sides.
<Wisesnake> You didn't ask him about staying longer.
Kadi checks her room, but finds it empty.
<Alea> Rhelana took a picture of mine and augmented out of here like the building was on fire. I'm trying to find her.
Alea ~~grimly~~
Kadi wanders down the stairs, thinking that maybe she'll tell Valrie about how great a hunter she is, instead.
<Tarsh> No, I was out running with Tamlen. Why?
Kadi discovers to her disappointment that Val isn't in her usual infirmary room.
Alea remembering the picture, looks at Tarsh.
<Alea> How was the transfer?
Kadi searches further, finally stopping outside of an office.
Alea moves around the desk and slips onto Tarsh's lap.
Kadi hears her mother's voice on the other side of the door.
Kadi does not think much of the whole door concept.
Kadi claws at the offending door.
<Kadi> Mrrrooooww!
Tarsh smiles at Alea's touch.
<B'cal> I'm sure I'll be here longer. We had a long talk about your condition and my staying here while we were at V'lar.
Wisesnake brightens.
<Wisesnake> Really? What did he say?
<Tarsh> Well enough, but I had a flashback to my needmare.
Alea hears the cat and gets up, opening the door and letting Kadi in before going back to Tarsh and sitting back down in his lap.
<Alea> Hi, Kadi.
Alea smiles at the cat.
<Alea> Needmare?
Alea turns to look at Tarsh.
Kadi strolls in, tail still twitching at the thought that a mere DOOR was allowed to interfere in her inalienable right as a kitty to go wherever she pleases.
<Tarsh> Hello, Kadi. What have you been up to?
Alea pats her lap for Kadi to jump up.
<B'cal> That I could stay here as long as necessary to see you through first year.
Kadi strolls over to rub against Tarsh's legs, marking him as her property.
<Tarsh> I had a real bad one yesterday.
<Kadi> Mmrrrrupp!
Tarsh instinctively pulls his arms closer in.
Kadi jumps up onto Tarsh's lap.
<Kadi> Mmrrrrruppp!
Alea ~~wary~~
<Alea> what was it about?
Alea strokes Kadi.
<Kadi> Purrrr, purrrr
Wisesnake looks alarmed.
<Wisesnake> But that's only another month!
Kadi begins kneading enthusiastically, working her claws in and out.
<Tarsh> You don't want to know. I certainly don't.
<B'cal> And we'll go from there.
Kadi notices that Tarsh is trying to ignore her.
<Kadi> Murrrrupp!
Wisesnake edges closer to B'cal.
Kadi reaches a paw out to pat at Tarsh's arm.
<Alea> Yeah. Well...
Alea snuggles down against Tarsh.
<Alea> No!
Alea grabs at Kadi.
<Wisesnake> B'cal, you know I depend on you greatly. I don't know what would have happened if you hadn't come back and agreed to spend your nights working with me.
<Tarsh> OW!
<Alea> No, no, sweetie.
Tarsh grabs for Kadi.
<Wisesnake> ~~anxiety~~
<B'cal> And I will see about staying until you can find a replacement.
Kadi gets excited and starts trying to wrestle.
<Kadi> Purrrr, purrrr!
Alea catches Kadi up against her chest.
<Alea> Shush, Kadi.
Kadi bats at Alea's braid.
Alea tries to stroke it.
Kadi pulls the braid closer and tries to chew it.
Alea allows it, turning back to look at Tarsh.
<Alea> You okay?
Wisesnake tries to fight down the anxiety.
B'cal ~~support/promise~~
<Tarsh> Yeah.
Wisesnake feels relief at the promise.
<Tarsh> Tramila was real good.
<Wisesnake> You will?
<Alea> Good.
Wisesnake leans on B'cal's support.
<Alea> I was so worried about you.
<Alea> You know I tend to draw when I'm nervous or anxious.
Kadi wonders if there are any mice in Alea's office.
Kadi wriggles to be let down.
<Wisesnake> Hey, um, B'cal, I was thinking...
<B'cal> Yes?
<Kadi> Mmrowww!
<Alea> Rhelana took a picture I was drawing yesterday....
Alea releases Kadi and lets her down.
Alea looks at the end of her hair.
Tarsh puts his arms around Alea to cuddle her.
<Alea> Ugh.
Alea releases the braid and fans her hair to dry the ends.
B'cal studies Snake, curious.
<Wisesnake> Maybe later on if I get the heat working... and the water turned on... and some furniture... [pauses, knowing that sounds like an awful long way off]... at the building, maybe you could come live there instead of here.
Kadi, the Fierce Jungle Huntress, goes off to stalk her prey.
B'cal looks at Snake steadily.
<Wisesnake> I was going to ask a lot of different people... it would be safe, not deserted like... you know, there would be no chance of anything happening.
<B'cal> Snake, I am Tecton. Will always be Tecton.
<B'cal> You know that.
B'cal ~~compassion~~
Wisesnake blinks.
<Alea> I have no idea why she took off with the picture. Unless it's simply because it was of you...
<Wisesnake> Well, uh, yeah, I know, I was just talking about living. There's no rule that says you have to live at the Center.
<Tarsh> Why did she take your picture?
Wisesnake edges even closer to B'cal, to bathe in the compassion.
<Tarsh> Ah. Well, she has a image, you have the reality.
<Alea> She wouldn't want this image.
<B'cal> No, there's not.
<B'cal> And we'll talk about it after transfer.
Alea smiles.
<Tarsh> Why not? I am handsome, aren't I?
<B'cal> You should only be thinking about how good this transfer is going to be right now.
Wisesnake is thinking about how good B'cal's nager feels right now.
Wisesnake is practically in B'cal's lap.
<Wisesnake> Ummh [incoherent]
<Alea> It was a picture of you... of well....
<Alea> Let's not talk about it.
B'cal grins.
B'cal shakes her head.
<Wisesnake> ~~need~~
B'cal ~~soothing~~
Tarsh looks puzzled. "OK."
Wisesnake goes ahead and does climb in B'cal's lap.
Wisesnake closes her eyes and floats on gentle soothing nager.
B'cal sighs and accepts her thinking this young girl seems to like her lap an awful lot.
Alea runs a hand up Tarsh's chest.
<Alea> You say the transfer went well?
Alea smiles up ~~inviting~~
<B'cal> Feel better?
<Wisesnake> Mmmmm.... nice.
B'cal works at relaxing Snake and helping her work any kinks out from the night before.
<Tarsh> Oh, yes.
Tarsh smiles at her touch.
Wisesnake wonders if it would be possible to take B'cal this month again.... maybe it could be arranged somehow... made safe.
Wisesnake starts feeling extremely mellow under B'cal's influence.
<Alea> I see....
B'cal eases up just a bit with her field.
Wisesnake starts feeling really broad-minded and experimental.
Alea leans forward and nibbles on Tarsh's ear.
<Alea> Just how good was it?
<Wisesnake> No... no, that was nice.
B'cal returns to working with Snake.
Wisesnake slides out of B'cal's lap and turns to take B'cal's hands.
B'cal allows it, holding them out.
Wisesnake smiles at B'cal.
Wisesnake's fingers hold B'cal's hands gently, the tentacles teasing her wrists.
<Tarsh> It was that good, but Alea....
Wisesnake pulls lightly, an invitation to rise from the chair.
Alea runs a hand up to cup Tarsh's cheek and she leans forward.
<Alea> I'm glad to hear that....
Alea kisses him.
Tarsh kisses back.
B'cal stands.
<B'cal> What are you up to, Snake?
B'cal ~~curious~~
<Wisesnake> shhhhhh [smiles]
Alea runs her hand around to the front of his shirt, playing with the buttons.
<Alea> I hated the week we had to spend apart.
<Tarsh> Alea ...
B'cal allows Snake her game, since it's so rare she sees Snake in this good a mood.
<Alea> Yes?
Alea looks up at Tarsh, eyes filled with desire.
Wisesnake's fingers and tentacles stroke B'cal's arms gently, raising tingling sensations along the selyn paths.
<Tarsh> I was thinking... that...
<Alea> Yes?
<Tarsh> in view of your... condition....
JonDrake is in his office finishing up some paperwork.
<Alea> My condition.
Alea laughs low.
<Tarsh> I thought it might be better if....
<B'cal> What are you doing?
Wisesnake pulls herself forward into the heart of B'cal's nager, the intensity of it.
<Wisesnake> [near B'cal's ear] [whispered] Don't you like it?
<Tarsh> we ... didn't.
<Wisesnake> ~~need~~
B'cal gently dampens her field.
<Alea> Didn't what?
Alea slips a button loose and slides her hand into his top, stroking his chest, half listening.
<Tarsh> I'm just worried about....
<B'cal> Snake....
Wisesnake clutches B'cal's arms suddenly, as what she sought fades.
Tarsh puts a protective hand over Alea's navel.
Wisesnake sags against B'cal.
Alea hears worried and forces herself to look back up at Tarsh.
<Alea> Worried?
<Wisesnake> What, B'cal?
B'cal ~~offers support~~
Wisesnake leans on the support.
Alea slips a hand to cover Tarsh's hand.
<Alea> Are you okay?
Tarsh's face twists up.
<Tarsh> We wouldn't want it to... happen again.
<B'cal> Just relax.
Alea looks at Tarsh.
<Alea> You're worried about the baby?
<Tarsh> Yes.
B'cal is tingling from head to toe after what Snake did, and is now worried about Snake.
JonDrake heads out to the kitchen to get some tea.
Wisesnake relaxes further, leaning on B'cal physically as well as nagerically.
Wisesnake's hands still grip B'cal's arms, firmly but not hard enough to hurt.
<Alea> And you think we shouldn't...?
<Alea> What?
<Alea> Have sexual relations?
Alea is rather incredulous, finding this conclusion impossible.
<B'cal> Now, why don't you tell me what's going on in that head of yours?
<Tarsh> It might hurt the baby....
<Alea> It might hurt....
Alea looks at Tarsh to see if he's serious.
<Alea> Where in the world did you get that idea?
B'cal moves over to the edge of the bed and sits down, easing Snake down by her.
B'cal ~~concern~~ [arms still entwined]
Wisesnake follows.
<Wisesnake> I..
<Wisesnake> [sweating]
Tarsh opens his mouth but can't think of how to explain what he thought was self-evident.
Alea takes pity on the man.
B'cal ~~soothing~~
<Wisesnake> I'm know I'm going to lose you.
<Alea> Tarsh. Sex will not hurt the child. It is actually acceptable to continue with intimacy until such a time as a channel deems it necessary to stop, around the last three or four weeks.
CounterGuy is feeling bored and he spikes a random cup of tea with 200 proof vodka
CounterGuy hands it out to the next customer who comes along
Tarsh looks at her. "Are you sure?"
Alea smiles slowly.
<Alea> Very.
<Wisesnake> I can't... I can't.
<Tarsh> I mean, so many of my mother's friends... they had... problems, I heard.
<Wisesnake> It's as if all my problems will be over when First Year is done... how can that be true!
B'cal ~~soothing/promise~~
<Wisesnake> [anguish hinted at in tone]
<B'cal> I'll be here for you, Snake. You're not losing me.
<Wisesnake> If anything it will be worse.
<B'cal> I'll be right by your side.
Wisesnake listens desperately, wanting to believe the promise.
<Alea> Tarsh. Pregnancy is always a risk. I was stupid last time, not careful enough.
Alea drops her eyes with remembered pain.
Tarsh hugs her tight.
<Alea> I promise you, this time I am being extra careful.
Wisesnake presses her head against B'cal's shoulder, fingers and tentacles still gripping B'cal's arms.
Alea slides her arms around Tarsh, returning the hug.
<Alea> I promise you, this time I won't lose our child.
<Wisesnake> ~~needs to believe~~
<Alea> But surely you can't expect us to refrain from er... making love for an entire six more months?
Tarsh looks at her with semi-mock seriousness. "Promise? I'll hold you to that."
Alea smiles at Tarsh
<Tarsh> Why did you think I was out with Tamlen exhausting myself?
<Alea> Besides, if you're so worried about that, I'm sure I can become very... inventive for you, so you won't have to worry.
Alea tilts her head.
<Alea> I'm not sure
Alea suddenly grins.
<B'cal> Believe me, Snake.
<B'cal> I'm here for you. I will be here for you.
B'cal ~~promise~~
<B'cal> After first year, things will only improve.
<Wisesnake> They will? [whispers] Will they?
<B'cal> Yes, they will.
<B'cal> We just have to get you over this hump.
<Alea> Yes?
<Tarsh> One thing though...
Tarsh hugs her close and whispers in her ear. "It didn't work."
Alea sighs.
<Alea> Good.
Tarsh follows up by nibbling on the ear.
Alea wiggles.
Alea works her hand back into Tarsh's shirt and strokes his chest.
PrimDonor sits primly on a lobby couch waiting to make her donation.
PrimDonor is sitting near a wall, under a large painting.
<Tarsh> Best news I've heard all week.
Alea is no longer paying attention to words as she runs a hand down Tarsh's arm to check his laterals and tentacles... stroking gently, counting silently as she makes sure all are still there.
Valrie wanders into the lobby, surprised to find the reception desk unoccupied.
<B'cal> Do you want to go downstairs and work?
<B'cal> I'll stay with you, if you'd like, until Simone is ready.
Wisesnake wants to grab B'cal, throw her onto the desk, and strip off all her selyn.
Wisesnake pushes herself away from B'cal.
<Wisesnake> Sure... sure.
Tarsh shivers at Alea teasing his tentacles.
<Wisesnake> That would probably be a good idea.
<Wisesnake> Take my mind off of... things.
B'cal nods.
<Alea> I've missed you, Tarsh.
Valrie sees PrimDonor waiting.
Valrie thinks about what Sumulo said about how it's time she started acting like a Donor, gulps, and walks over to PrimDonor.
Alea leans up and gently tastes his neck.
<Valrie> Have you been helped, Ma'am?
PrimDonor is a neatly dressed, librarianish woman with glasses, and her hair in a bun.
PrimDonor looks up at Valrie over her bifocals.
<PrimDonor> No, Miz, I haven't. [out-T accent, sounds habitually severe]
<Valrie> Oh.
B'cal waits for Snake to release her hold.
Valrie is taken aback by the severity.
<Valrie> Well, I could try to find somebody to help you, if you'd like?
Valrie looks at PrimDonor timidly.
Tarsh mumbles something into Alea's bosom that may be "I massd yow toll."
PrimDonor notes Valrie's out-T accent and tries to place the girl.
<PrimDonor> Aren't you... [recognizes the Forrest girl and her eyebrows shoot up]
PrimDonor realizes she is being inexcusably rude.
<PrimDonor> Yes, please, if you could find somebody to assist me that would be fine.
<Valrie> All right.
PrimDonor wonders how much budget old Forrest would vote into the school library system for information on his daughter's location.
Valrie heads off to find a channel.
Wisesnake lets go of B'cal's arms.
B'cal stands and goes to her door, waiting for Snake.
LinnH enters the Sime Center lobby, briskly scuffing the snow off of her boots.
Wisesnake moves with B'cal, somewhat restlessly.
B'cal ~~support~~
B'cal goes out her door and down the stairs.
PrimDonor tenses as she suddenly hears a soft moan out of nowhere.
Valrie checks the hall leading to the donation rooms and the infirmary, and finds nobody.
PrimDonor looks slowly over her shoulder and sees only wall; turns back, unsettled since it had seemed to be coming from directly behind her.
Alea works the buttons loose on Tarsh's shirt and slides down a bit to kiss his chest.
Wisesnake follows.
LinnH pushes the hood of her coat back, removes her scarf and unbuttons her coat.
Valrie sees Snake and B'cal heading down the stairs.
Valrie remembers that Snake was introduced as a channel.
<Valrie> Excuse me, Hajene. [respectfully]
Wisesnake stops.
B'cal pauses.
Tarsh slide his arms up under Alea's shirt. Turnabout is fair play, after all.
<Wisesnake> Yes, er... Valrie?
Valrie points towards the lobby.
<Valrie> There's a lady waiting for a channel.
PrimDonor jumps as a very distinct, soft moan is heard quite clearly once again.
<Valrie> There wasn't anybody else around, so I told her I'd try to find one.
<Wisesnake> Ah... well... I suppose I could handle it. Thanks.
Valrie can't help wondering if she'll be punished for showing such initiative.
B'cal ~~approval~~
LinnH hears the moan as well, and turns her head.
<LinnH> What was that?
PrimDonor shifts nervously.
Alea gasps softly at Tarsh's actions.
<PrimDonor> It sounded like a moan. [shortly; disturbed and not knowing what to do about it]
<PrimDonor> Coming from behind that wall.
PrimDonor avoids looking at the wall in question.
PrimDonor flinches as a crisply realistic gasp sounds through the evidently tissue-thin wall.
LinnH flushes as the nature of the sounds becomes apparent.
Wisesnake walks out into the lobby and sees various people waiting; the one Valrie pointed at is sitting near Linn.
<LinnH> My goodness!
<Tarsh> Ooohh, baby....
PrimDonor flushes bright red; obviously uncomfortable.
<PrimDonor> Well! I'd heard the Sime Centers were centers of iniquity, but... this... [appalled and embarrassed]
Alea chuckles low, and runs her hands down, lower, spreading his shirt.
Valrie tags along after Snake and B'cal.
<PrimDonor> This quite goes beyond my worst expectations.
PrimDonor slightly breathless.
Wisesnake approaches Linn and the stranger.
Wisesnake nods at Linn.
<Alea> Oh, shen, Tarsh....
Alea hisses with pleasure.
<LinnH> Why, Snake, you look so much better today.
<Wisesnake> Uh... thanks. [takes this to mean she looked like a scum roach the other time]
<Tarsh> Shuven, Alea.
B'cal looks around curious.
Wisesnake sidles a bit nervously to one side as strange sounds seem to emanate from... nowhere.
Wisesnake crowds B'cal as she looks curiously at the blank wall behind the two Gen ladies.
PrimDonor certainly hopes this woman who just walked in isn't going to get served before she does!
<Alea> Oh... oh yes... shen yes!
Wisesnake decides it would be best to ignore what she hopes she isn't actually hearing from Alea's office.
Wisesnake hears that last one and finds this is going to take considerable effort.
<Wisesnake> [strained] [to PrimDonor] Hello. Are you here to donate?
Valrie listens curiously, not quite grasping the significance of what she's hearing.
Tarsh starts breathing hard again.
PrimDonor's ears grow hot as the breathing commences.
<PrimDonor> [stutters] Yes I... Yes.
Valrie sees the other adult's embarrassment, and starts listening closer to try to figure out what the fuss is all about.
Wisesnake wonders if she is overreacting or if anybody in their right mind would think this is a disaster.
<Tarsh> Alea. Should we? [gestures towards the upstairs with his head]
Alea nods.
<Alea> Yes.
<Wisesnake> Great, uh... Have you filled out any forms yet?
Tarsh picks her up.
LinnH is heartily embarrassed that a fellow out-T Gen should be subjected to such a display when trying to donate. Even in a Sime Center as disorganized as this one, it seems a bit extreme.
B'cal frowns sourly and decides to go pound on the door.
<PrimDonor> Yes, yes I did. Efffie Ringrun.
Alea slips her arms around Tarsh and bites his ear gently.
PrimDonor had already pegged B'cal as the most responsible person there (due to her age and Genness) and is relieved when B'cal stomps off evidently to take care of the matter.
<Wisesnake> Great.
Wisesnake hurries out of hearing range of the wall, and, incidentally, to the front desk to find Efffie's paperwork.
B'cal starts toward the office.
<Wisesnake> Ah... here it is.
Wisesnake returns.
<Wisesnake> This is your first time, yes?
LinnH sees B'cal on the warpath, and for once doesn't feel any sympathy for her prospective victim(s).
<Efffie> Yes. [a touch nervously]
Efffie grips her purse with both hands.
B'cal pounds on Alea's door.
<Wisesnake> Hey. It's all right. You're doing great and I'm sorry you had to wait. Would you like to come with me?
LinnH is, however, very sympathetic towards Efffie.
<Wisesnake> Linn, did you just require something quick or can you wait?
Alea jumps in Tarsh's arms.
Efffie looks at Linn curiously for the first time.
<LinnH> Oh, I'm just here to borrow a few books from the library.
LinnH looks back at Efffie.
Efffie is reassured by Linn's out-Territory and well-educated accent.
<LinnH> Efffie _Ringrun_. So you married him after all?
Efffie is doubly reassured by the mention of book reading.
<Efffie> Do I know you?
Tarsh is distracted and gives his usual response to a knock by reflex. "Come!"
<Tarsh> Oops.
B'cal shoves the door open. "As much as I'm sure you enjoy the voyeurism, it's getting old to us. Take it upstairs."
B'cal gapes and then sneers, leaving the door open as she walks off.
Tarsh puts Alea down hastily.
<LinnH> Weren't you on the library committee the year I was chairing the curriculum committee?
Alea grabs at her shirt, trying to straighten her shirt, flushed.
<LinnH> My name is Linn Haskins.
Efffie looks curious.
B'cal stomps back over to Snake.
<Efffie> Oh... hello. I don't remember you, but it's been three or four years since I've been on the committee.
Veraik walks by, quirks an eyebrow then quickly leaves.
Wisesnake looks questioningly at B'cal.
<B'cal> Rabbits!
B'cal shakes her head.
Alea waves belatedly.
<LinnH> Yes, it would have been just about the time I first tried to introduce a Sime Center unit for the lower grades.
Tarsh tries to rebutton his shirt.
Valrie is slightly disappointed that the interesting noises have stopped, and the adults' embarrassment with them.
Alea reaches up and straightens her hair.
<Efffie> I'm running a combined library for the three middle schools now.
<LinnH> You were trying to get a firm commitment from the school board to purchase all titles which received the National Excellence in Children's Literature Award.
Wisesnake's tentacles start to flick about with need tension and boredom as she tries to wait patiently for the little reunion to finish.
<Alea> Uh...
Alea decides she can't stand it anymore.
<Alea> Come on.
<Tarsh> OK.
<Efffie> Yes, I remember. [regret and self-derision]
Alea grabs Tarsh's hand and decides to find a place of safety and privacy.
Alea thinks AND well sound proofed.
<Efffie> Now, I'm lucky if I can get any books at all. Two years ago they combined the three libraries. Last year they cut the budget and again this year. Now I hear they are going to cut again next year.
Tarsh wraps tentacles around Alea's hand and follows her.
<Efffie> ~~furtive guilt~~
<LinnH> It's not your fault that Eastcove has a school board which doesn't believe in education. [fiercely]
LinnH sees Snake's tentacles flicking, and hopes that Efffie doesn't.
<LinnH> But you're not here to discuss work, I expect.
<Efffie> I never thought I'd see the day when good, honest citizens are forced to donate to buy books for the school's library.
<Efffie> [tone matches Linn's]
LinnH nods sadly.
B'cal ~~soothing support~~
Wisesnake considers offering a large supply of free Tecton books but decides that wouldn't be a good idea.
Wisesnake's tentacles retreat back into their sheaths with B'cal's soothing.
LinnH nods towards Snake.
<LinnH> Hajene Snake is waiting. She'll take good care of you, I'm sure.
Efffie looks at Snake and realizes that the moment has come and suddenly realizes that she's gotten herself into it for real.
<Efffie> Oh. [a dozen meanings packed into one word]
<Efffie> ~~appalled more than resigned~~
<LinnH> She's a friend of mine. [soothingly]
<Efffie> [nervously] Oh, dear.
LinnH is glad that Snake is at least freshly showered and dressed in clean clothes, even if her hair would do as a squirrel's nest.
<Wisesnake> Why don't you just come with us, Miz Ringrun. You'll be all done in just a few minutes, and Linn will be here.
Briel strides into the lobby.
Briel looks around.
<Briel> Snake. B'cal. [nods]
<Wisesnake> Ah... Briel, a word please?
Briel steps over to Snake.
<Wisesnake> [aside to Briel] Could you see about putting some good sound insulation into Alea's office? I'm concerned she isn't getting enough privacy. We just overheard her taking care of some... important business that probably shouldn't have been overheard.
Briel concerned.
<Briel> Well, certainly.
<Wisesnake> I realize that funds are limited, but in this particular case, since she does have a number of important responsibilities and her office does front right on the lobby....
<Briel> Sime Center business should certainly not be overheard by strangers.
<Briel> I'll see to it.
<Wisesnake> Or personal business. [adds]
<Briel> Personal?
<Wisesnake> ~~nager completely unrevealing~~
<Wisesnake> Come along, Miz Ringrun. [kindly]
Briel shrugs.
<Briel> Personal doesn't matter. It's the business that shouldn't be overheard. I'll see to it. Thanks for letting me know.
<Briel> You going to do some work here today?
Efffie, who understands Simelan perfectly well and thinks Snake was putting too fine a point on it, rises to follow Snake and B'cal.
<Wisesnake> Uh, well, I hadn't planned it, but.... [glances between B'cal and Valrie]... I guess so.
<Briel> Good.
B'cal ~~encouraging~~
Wisesnake leads the way to a transfer room.
B'cal moves with Snake.
Wisesnake closes the door when they have all entered the room.
Briel moves over to Linn.
<Briel> Hello, Linn.
LinnH looks after the trio, feeling just a bit like a traitor for not warning Efffie how frightening donating can be.
LinnH consoles herself with the thought that most Gens don't seems to find it quite as bad as she does, and that Efffie just might be fortunate enough to be among them.
<LinnH> Hello, Briel.
<Briel> Can we help you today?
<LinnH> I was hoping I might borrow a few more volumes from your library for Nick.
<Briel> Of course.
Briel motions for Linn to come with her.
<Briel> What are you wanting this time?
LinnH reaches into her purse and pulls out a list of titles Nick found interesting in V'lar's library.
<LinnH> Here is the list.
Briel takes the list and scans it.
<Briel> We should have most of these. There are one or two I'm unsure about.
<LinnH> Well, we'd be grateful for whatever you can find.
Briel goes into the library room.
Briel searches through and finds the volumes and comes back with all but one.
<Briel> Here we go.
LinnH takes the stack.
<LinnH> Thank you.
B'cal supports Snake until she's done.
Wisesnake squeezes out as much selyn as possible from the librarian (all in the good cause of helping children read, of course) and gives the woman her voucher.
<Briel> Anytime.
<Wisesnake> You did very well. Now, the payment office is just down the hall, here, and when you've been paid you can just come back this same way and go out through the lobby.
Wisesnake smiles
Efffie a little bit numb at the moment.
<Efffie> Well I... thank you.
<Briel> Tell Nick if he'd like to come browse our library, he can do that too.
Efffie walks slowly toward the Bursar's office.
<Efffie> [looking at the voucher and thinking it's going to be a long time before she understands how she feels about what she's done]
<LinnH> I'll tell him.
<Briel> Good.
<Briel> Well, then, if you'll excuse me?
<LinnH> Certainly.
Briel smiles at Linn, wondering if the woman knows she's only two days from need. and thinking she is doing much better around Simes.
LinnH makes her way back to the lobby, carrying the stack of books.
Briel goes into her office to order the work on Alea's office.
<B'cal> You okay, Snake?
B'cal ~~concern~~
<Wisesnake> Fine, fine.
<Wisesnake> I was just thinking, is all.
B'cal nods.
<B'cal> Good.
Wisesnake looks after Efffie, then turns in the direction of the lobby.
B'cal follows.
LinnH reaches the lobby, and looks around for Efffie.
Wisesnake enters the lobby and takes a minute to finish filling out Efffie's paperwork.
LinnH wonders how Efffie weathered the ordeal.
Wisesnake looks at the desk, scratches her head, finds the new correct place to put the paperwork.
Wisesnake "watches" Linn nagerically and wonders if Linn has had any more thoughts about her offer or has put it from her mind.
LinnH looks down the hall towards the payment window, feeling a sense of responsibility for Efffie's welfare.
Efffie feels a little bit better about what she's done once the bank voucher is in her hands.
Efffie feels a lot better about what she's done once the bank voucher is in her hands.
Katryn comes in to do her work and sees the Farris, with an unknown Donor.
Katryn smiles brightly and walks up to where the channel is.
<Katryn> Good day, Hajene.
Efffie feels relief as she realizes that she's done it, and now the library can afford all the books on the "parents' requests" survey.
Wisesnake looks at Katryn.
<Wisesnake> Hello.
Katryn ~~looking a bit awed by Snake's presence~~
Wisesnake can't for the life of her remember Katryn's name.
<Katryn> I'm just coming on. I'm scheduled again in donations.
Katryn smiles brightly.
<Katryn> What are you working?
LinnH sighs in relief as she sees Efffie return, not too upset by the experience.
Katryn goes over and looks through the charts, before grabbing two and then looking back up at the Farris.
Wisesnake looks at Katryn curiously, having no idea what she is asking her.
<Wisesnake> I guess I'm not, really.
<Katryn> Oh.
Katryn smiles again, then thinking she has taken up enough of her time nods. "I had better get to work."
Katryn hurries out of the room.
Wisesnake watches Katryn leave.
<Wisesnake> Huh.
B'cal sneers.
<B'cal> Farris worship.
<B'cal> Disgusting.
Wisesnake thinks worship feels better than disgust in the nager.
<Wisesnake> Hmm.
LinnH sees B'cal sneer and decides not to go over to chat.
<B'cal> You'd think these new kids out of the school hadn't ever seen a Farris.
Wisesnake's eyebrows raise.
<Wisesnake> Maybe they haven't.
B'cal shakes her head.
B'cal stifles a yawn.
Wisesnake is not at all tired after the marathon sleeping session the other day.
<Wisesnake> Don't you dare make me sleep again.
B'cal smiles.
<B'cal> Oh?
<B'cal> You don't like it? Well, then, should I mention what you tried to do to me earlier? [chuckles]
<Wisesnake> You go on. I'll be fine until Simone is ready.
Wisesnake looks confused.
<Wisesnake> Do what?
B'cal shakes her head.
<B'cal> Forget it.
Wisesnake zlins B'cal.
B'cal turns toward the stairs, trudging up them.
Wisesnake watches B'cal leave in the direction of the stairs, not understanding what just happened.
LinnH blinks after B'cal, not certain that she really did hear the woman laugh.
Wisesnake sits down on the nearest available object and feels depressed.
Wisesnake stands up, removes the stapler to a safer location, and sits again.
Wisesnake idly looks through the pile of expected transfer and donation appointments.
LinnH sees Snake slump, and comes over, since B'cal is safely out of the way.
<LinnH> What's the matter, Snake?
Wisesnake looks up at Linn.
<Wisesnake> Oh... the usual. Need. Things in general not working out right.
Lanyi is checking Tecton regulations in the Library.
Clerk comes back in after his break and up to his desk.
LinnH's reaction to the word "need" is much reduced from what it used to be.
<LinnH> Didn't they get you a Donor for this month? I thought that was all settled.
<Wisesnake> Yeah. There's a Donor.
<Wisesnake> For transfer.
Lanyi closes the book and puts it away.
<LinnH> But not to help you work?
Lanyi comes out of the library.
<Wisesnake> Two days of that.
<LinnH> That's not much of the month.
<Wisesnake> No.
<LinnH> ~~sympathy~~
Clerk sits down at the desk and then tries to pull on a file the channel is leaning on.
Lanyi comes down to the lobby to see if any unscheduled donors are waiting.
Wisesnake absently gets up, pushes the file away from her, then sits again.
Clerk opens the file and pulls the proper forms and begins to file them away.
Wisesnake sees Lanyi and stands up suddenly.
<Lanyi> Good morning, Snake.
LinnH blinks at Snake's sudden transition from apathy to alertness.
<Lanyi> Hello, Linn.
<Wisesnake> Good morning. [arranges her showfield to hide most of the depression]
<LinnH> Hello, Hajene Lanyi.
<Lanyi> Call me Lanyi, please.
<Lanyi> [to clerk] "Anything unscheduled come in?"
Clerk shakes head.
<Clerk> No ma'am.
<Lanyi> Thanks.
Clerk pulls out another file and separates the form, putting all the sheets in the proper place.
Clerk smiles and nods to Lanyi.
<Lanyi> How have you been doing Linn? [zlins]
<LinnH> Well enough, considering the weather.
LinnH edges a little closer to Snake, uncomfortable with the way Lanyi is zlinning her.
Wisesnake automatically puts a hand on Linn's shoulder to steady her.
<Lanyi> ~~surprise~~ "Ye-es, we have had a lot of minor illnesses in here lately."
Lanyi raises her eyebrows.
LinnH wonders why Lanyi is so amazed at the existence of routine winter sniffles.
Lanyi notes Linn's reflexive move to Snake for protection.
Lanyi looks at Snake.
Wisesnake maintains a neutral expression and a fairly bland field with just a hint of humor underneath it.
<Lanyi> ~~Shocked but not surprised~~
<LinnH> What's the matter?
<Lanyi> I'm glad to see you have been doing so, well, Linn.
<Lanyi> Oh, just the usual amazement at what Farrises do.
<Wisesnake> She is referring to your GN-1 status.
<LinnH> Oh.
<Wisesnake> In a not-entirely-approving fashion.
Lanyi reflects that Snake's rushed qualification of Linn does have some retroactive justification in Linn's attitude towards Snake.
LinnH wonders why Lanyi would disapprove, since she thought all channels were out to harvest as much selyn as possible.
<Lanyi> Yes your field is much higher than when I arrived in town.
LinnH is slightly confused, having thought that the object of donating was to make one's field lower.
<Wisesnake> I believe Linn would have been a natural TN-3 if it hadn't been for the Simephobia.
<Wisesnake> She has declined that training, however. [adds]
Wisesnake thinks, on the whole, that this means she should have taught first and asked later.
<Lanyi> We all have to make our own decisions as to what path to take in life.
Wisesnake smiles, pleasantly surprised by the subtlety of the put-down.
<Wisesnake> Yes, we do.
<Wisesnake> I think I will go look for Simone.
<Wisesnake> If you two will excuse me?
<Lanyi> Certainly, Snake.
Wisesnake brushes off paper clips, nods to Lanyi and Linn, and leaves the lobby to check the cafeteria first.
<Lanyi> Is that your Donor for this month?
Wisesnake pauses
<Wisesnake> Simone.. yes.
<Lanyi> Haven't met her yet.
<Wisesnake> He will only be here for another day. You may not get a chance.
Clerk scowls and gathers the paper clips.
<Wisesnake> He is not assigned to the Center.
Lanyi looks sympathetic. "One of those mail-through transfers?"
<Wisesnake> Something like that.
Wisesnake leaves to the cafeteria
LinnH looks after Snake.
<LinnH> I worry about her.
<Lanyi> Linn? [gestures toward the couch area near the front window] Could we ... ?
<LinnH> What?
LinnH follows Lanyi's gaze, then goes over to the couch and sits down.
<LinnH> What is it, Lanyi?
Lanyi goes over and sits in an adjacent chair, then leans forward to talk in a low voice.
<Lanyi> Linn. I just want to be sure, you aren't being... pressured into anything.
LinnH looks at Lanyi, confused.
<LinnH> Pressured into what?
Lanyi debates if she should tell Linn how fast Snake is pushing her. It might just make things worse.
<Lanyi> Donating. At GN-1 levels.
LinnH considers.
<LinnH> No, Snake didn't pressure me into that.
<LinnH> She just went ahead and did it.
<Lanyi> Snake does seem a bit... assertive.
<LinnH> Although, she did tell me first this time.
Lanyi smiles weakly. "Well that's something."
LinnH considers this an improvement, although she would have preferred time to express her opinion as well.
<Lanyi> Gens shouldn't feel that they don't have choices. I wanted to be sure you know that you do.
LinnH nods, reflecting that her choices right now are limited to donating, or going home and getting slaughtered by the Anti-Tectonists.
<Lanyi> Just remember that there are other channels besides Snake. If you want help, ask me.
<LinnH> Of course.
LinnH thinks that she finally understands what this conversation is about: a channel trying to drum up some extra business.
LinnH is greatly relieved at solving the mystery.
<Lanyi> OK.
<LinnH> I really should be getting home.
<Lanyi> I will say that while I don't care for Snake's methods, her judgments... no, let me say her _evaluations_ are fundamentally sound.
<Lanyi> All right, Linn. Just remember what I said.
<LinnH> I will.
Lanyi gets up. "Thank you."
LinnH gathers the books again.
Lanyi idly looks at the titles.
LinnH's stack contains an eclectic mixture of beginning, intermediate, and advance Donor training manuals.
Wisesnake returns from the cafeteria, having not found Simone, and is now on her way to Veraik's office to check there.
Lanyi thinks sourly that looks just like the kind of crash course Snake would shove her into.
Wisesnake crosses through one end of the lobby and pauses as she notes Lanyi and Linn over on the other end of the room talking.
Wisesnake forces herself to continue on and disappear into the other corridor.
LinnH notices Lanyi's interest in the stack.
<LinnH> Nick wanted to look up some things.
<Lanyi> Ah. Researching? Be sure to tell him check the footnotes on critical items. Farrises are exceptions to a lot of the generalities. Just like Tigues.
<LinnH> He knows. And that blue one on the bottom is just about Farris exceptions, I believe.
Lanyi twists her head to read the upside down title.
<Lanyi> Yeah, that's a good one.
LinnH pulls the book out of the stack and thumbs through a few pages.
<LinnH> At least the math isn't too complicated.
Lanyi idly wonders if the library has any Tigue-specific texts.
<Lanyi> I've never gotten into the math end of it that much. Too much Theory, not enough Practice.
LinnH reflects that with Snake severely limiting Nick's chance to practice, he has no choice but to approach the problem from the theory end instead.
<LinnH> The math isn't for everyone.
<Lanyi> True. Of course it's easier to skip it when you can zlin instead....
LinnH looks down at her untentacled arms.
<LinnH> Well, some of us don't have that option.
<Lanyi> I'm sorry, that came off arrogant didn't it?
LinnH nods gracious acceptance of the apology.
LinnH sets down the stack long enough to button her coat.
<Lanyi> Actually channels often debate about Gens sensing fields in First Year School. We can't figure out any other way for Donors to always know the perfect place to stand..
<LinnH> Practice?
<Lanyi> Any way, it was good talking to you Linn.
<LinnH> Likewise.
LinnH picks up the books again and starts for the door.
Lanyi goes back over to look at the board.
LinnH leaves the Sime Center and heads home.