Sime/Gen Roleplaying: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #148: Floating in the Sea which is Not (2/1/98)
Eliza wonders if it's too early to go visit Mostan
Alea is in the lobby going through the files
YotaHond stalks up to the door to the Sime Center, radiating controlled fury.
Eliza wanders down to the infirmary to see....
YotaHond looks around, sniffs disdainfully at the "artwork" and glares at Alea.
Alea pauses, her hands still on the files and looks down her nose at Yota.
<YotaHond> I wish to speak to your Controller.
<Alea> And who may I say is here?
Eliza notices the room that Mostan was in is empty and clean and realises that he has been sent back to his own quarters [wonder where they are]
Alea turns from the files and fingers her black braid around her waist, waiting.
<YotaHond> Yota Hond, of Hond Motors. I wish to know what action has been taken with respect to the complaint I filed against Hajene Sumulo.
Eliza figures if she heads for Mostan's room and stands outside screaming she will find him
Eliza giggles at that silly idea
<Alea> Have a seat. I'll see if she, or he, is in.
<YotaHond> I was promised that I would be appraised when action was taken.
<YotaHond> Since I have heard nothing, I must assume that no action has been taken.
Alea grabs her crutches, then pauses.
<Alea> And how many days ago was it you were in?
Alea seats the crutches under her arms.
YotaHond plops down on the couch with disgust, not particularly reassured by a messenger who apparently is so unfamiliar with the Controller that she's unaware of her sex.
<YotaHond> It was the middle of last week.
Eliza strides back towards the lobby to find someone she can ask
Alea turns and sloooooowly, starts down the hall.
<YotaHond> More than enough time to handle the matter.
Alea finally arrives at Briel's office and signals
<Briel> Come.
Briel looks up from her paperwork, zlinning.
YotaHond sits back to wait, fuming.
Alea pushes the door open.
<Alea> Hajene, a... person... named Yota Hond is here.
Eliza walks into the lobby just as Alea leaves [misses seeing her] and smiles at the waiting person
<Eliza> [Simelan] hello, are you being serviced err served?
YotaHond looks at the child, wondering why she isn't in school.
<YotaHond> A rather confused individual headed that way in search of the Controller, who appears to be a hermaphrodite.
YotaHond points down the hall.
<YotaHond> That would certainly be understandable, given the rest of the staff here.
Briel rubs at her neck, cursing.
<Briel> Is Veraik in?
Alea shakes her head.
Alea has no idea where Veraik is at the moment
Briel grumbles and gets up, striding past Alea and to the lobby.
Briel sees Yota.
<Briel> Good day, Mr. Hond. How may I help you?
Eliza wonders if she said it wrong again
Eliza smiles at Briel and goes over to ask Alea where Mostan's room is
YotaHond stands, towering over Briel with Gen largeness.
<YotaHond> I wish to know what action has been taken on my complaint
<Eliza> Alea, I was wondering if you could tell me where I would find Mostan's room?
Alea leans on her crutches and smiles
<Alea> Yes. In the Sime Quarters.
Alea gives directions
<Alea> Through the doors down that hall, down and on the right.
<Eliza> Ta. 1 How's the leg today?
Briel stares up at Yota coolly, unintimidated by his size.
<Alea> the same.
Mostan decides to venture downstairs.
<Eliza> Was there anything special you wanted me for today Alea? Or will I just continue with Lanyi?
<Yota> I remember.
<Alea> Oh, um... well... I do want you working with me when I have to work with Veraik.
<Yota> However, strangely enough, it's been nearly a week, and I have received no such letter.
<Briel> As I told you, it would take a few days to process the work and decide his punishment.
Mostan decides to take a shower fist.
<Briel> And I believe, I also promised you a letter in writing of the punishment we took
<Yota> It has been more than a few days.
<Eliza> ok Alea - when will that be - do I have time to visit with Mostan first?
<Yota> What action has been taken?
<Alea> I'm sure you do. Just be careful when you're around him, please.
<Alea> Oh, and tomorrow is the Controller's transfer day. I'd like you to be present too.
<Briel> Well, the suggestions are currently on the Controller's desk. We should have an answer in the next two or three days.
Eliza promises to be careful, smiles and turns and runs off - taking the steps 3 at a time
<Eliza> oh!
Mostan leaves his clothes in the bedroom while he goes into the shower.
Eliza stops and turns around
<Eliza> [from the steps - loudly] that would be great!!!
<Alea> Don't run! OR YELL!
Alea flushes as she realizes she yelled that after her.
<Briel> Yes, it has. And as I said, you would be notified when a decision was made.
<Yota> You say that the suggestions are on the Controller's desk, and according to that rather confused individual who fetched you, you are the Controller. That means the whole mess is still sitting on your desk, a week after I made the complaint, and nothing has been done.
Eliza runs to the hallway and looks for Mostan's door....
Eliza signals at the door, and, when there is no answer tries it to see if it is locked....
<Eliza> [the door opens and Eliza peeks in... she can't see Mostan so steps inside for a better look]
<Briel> There are co-controllers of this facility. Veraik ambrov Liorie and me, Briel ambrov R'lea.
<Briel> A decision like this has to be made by both of us. We have to agree since this will effect the Center.
<Yota> And I suppose that neither of you has the authority to take action, and you can't seem to get together to discuss it?
<Mostan`> [pajamas scattered on floor, sound of running water.]
<Yota> Fine. You have the authority to punish Hajene Sumulo. It appears, then, to be the will that you lack.
Briel rubs at her neck.
Eliza realises that Mostan is in the shower and decides to clean up the room a bit for him
<Briel> You obviously have no idea how a Center runs. Of course we have authority.
Eliza picks up the pajamas and puts them under his pillow, pulls the bed clothes up and makes it neat and tidy
<Yota> I believe it is. If I don't receive word that proper action has been taken on my complaint by day after tomorrow, I shall approach the District Controller's office, and lodge an additional complaint against you for failing to resolve the matter on a local level, as you should.
<Briel> And I will guarantee you, that we will make a decision. However, since this involves an individual, you know, we aren't simply paper pushers here, we will take our time, question people who work with him. If you aren't happy with that, perhaps you should call our superiors.
Mostan comes out of the shower, drying his face with a Tecton standard towel.
<Briel> I believe this conversation is finished, Mr. Hond
<Briel> If you'll excuse me, I have work to do.
Eliza turns around and gasps then turns bright red and turns her back
<Eliza> oh Mostan - I'm sorry!
Mostan jerks at the shock and embarrassment and drops the towel.
Eliza briefly considers jumping into the bed and pulling the covers over her head - but decides that wouldn't be appropriate...
<Eliza> I, err, just was making the bed, came to see if you would like to get dressed - I mean come for a walk - I'll just wait outside
Eliza bolts for the door
<Eliza> ~~embarrassed~~
Mostan stands slack-jawed as she runs out.
Eliza slams the door and stands in the hall waiting for her heart to stop pounding
Eliza wishes she could just drop dead
Mostan didn't think he looked _that_ bad...
Eliza doesn't know if to wait or just go away - she is sure that Mostan will never want to see her again
Eliza decides that Mostan won't want to see her just now and, shaking, walks down to the cafeteria to get a cup of trin for her nerves
Yota snarls at Briel's back and stamps out of the Center.
Mostan finishes drying off and grooming, then dresses.
wisesnake nearly runs into Yota coming into the Center
<wisesnake> Ah... excuse me.
Yota looks up at Snake, and blinks at her weird eyes.
<wisesnake> Are you all right? Sorry I bumped into you.
wisesnake realizes she didn't actually bump into Yota and wonders why she is apologizing
Yota 's mood thaws just a bit at this courtesy -- the first he's seen that day.
<Yota> That's quite all right.
wisesnake thinks it must be a reflexive action at the person's terrible mood.
<wisesnake> Ah... good.
Mostan goes out into the hall and is surprised that Eliza isn't there.
Yota looks back at the Center.
Eliza sips her tea and wishes she could turn back the clock
<Yota> Do you work there?
wisesnake checks to make sure Rapol is still with her
<wisesnake> Me? Uhm, sort of. Why, do you require any assistance?
Alea comes back into the lobby.
wisesnake zlins Yota curiously
<Yota> I was wondering what it takes to convince Controller Briel to take action.
<wisesnake> What kind of action?
Mostan thinks he'll go downstairs first.
<Mostan> [decide what do when he gets there]
<Yota> I lodged a complaint almost a week ago against the channel who took my last donation.
<Eliza> ~~embarrassed and miserable~~
<wisesnake> Not Briel! [surprised]
Rapol watches Snake and Yota engage in social amenities.
<Yota> My complaint against Hajene Sumulo has been sitting on her desk all week, and no action has been taken.
Alea gets back over to where the files are and leans her torture devices against the wall, before starting to dig through the files again
<wisesnake> Hajene Sumulo? Oh. [grimaces] Yeah, he's a bad one.
<wisesnake> He tried to rape my cousin. 2
Mostan comes to the bottom of the stairs.
<wisesnake> But I'm sure Briel is doing everything she can about him. She has to deal with powers higher than herself and they are being difficult.
Mostan zlins negative emotions near the door and recoils.
Alea sees Mostan near the stairs.
Alea carefully controls her field.
<Yota> He's got connections powerful enough to get him excused for attempted rape?
Alea watches him recoil.
<wisesnake> Umh, actually I don't know if his uncle ever heard about that little episode.
<Yota> His uncle?
<Alea> Mostan?
<Alea> How are you today?
<wisesnake> But listen, I talked to Briel about this myself and she didn't even know what was going on with him until a couple of days ago herself. Trust me, she wants to get rid of him as much as the rest of us.
Mostan is looking nervously at this angry Gen near Snake.
Alea slips her crutches under her arms and goes over toward Mostan
Eliza wonders what Mostan must think of her now
wisesnake draws Yota's attention to Mostan and stands slightly aside to let people access the Center's front door
<Alea> Mostan?
wisesnake blocks Yota's field from affecting Mostan
Alea projects toward Mostan ~~ support, comfort ~~
Yota steps aside.
<Yota> Who is this uncle you were talking about?
Mostan turns. "Alea. Is that another ..."
<Alea> No.
<Alea> It's fine.
Alea [smiling]
<wisesnake> Oh. Sumulo's uncle is Sectuib in F'jord.
Rapol doesn't understand what Yota and Snake are talking about, but maintains a bubble around Snake. watching for signals that she wants to zlin Yota.
<Yota> He is? Enry ambrov F'jord?
wisesnake doesn't actually have any clue what Sumulo's dad's name is
<Yota> The one who run the F'jord Motor Corporation?
Briel goes back to Veraik's office, checks the paperwork, sees what is written, then nods in satisfaction before deciding to go on infirmary rounds
Yota remembers Enry raving about his nephew, and how the poor boy was always being persecuted by those who were jealous of his status.
<Mostan> Are you *sure*?
Mostan notes that Alea is unarmed.
<Yota> I think I begin to see.
<Alea> Of course I am. I'm a Farris. [grins]. We're always sure.
<Mostan> Briel was telling me to take walks...
<wisesnake> I guess so.
Eliza feels slightly better - perhaps Mostan wasn't so insulted after all
<Alea> Well, then, what's say we go for a walk.
<wisesnake> I offered to take him off their hands, but it seems they had something else in mind. [shrugs]
Rapol wonders why Snake is dealing with what is clearly a Tecton problem.
Yota looks at Snake measuringly.
Rapol wonders about this other channel...
<Yota> Just what did you have in mind to do with Sumulo?
<Yota> Do you think you could teach him some manners?
<Mostan> ~~ nervous ~~ "Uh, I was, looking for Eliza... I thought she would be ..."
Alea smiles
Eliza walks out of the cafeteria and sees Mostan and Alea talking in the lobby
<Alea> Have you tried the cafeteria?
<Mostan> Not yet.
Eliza is so pleased that Mostan has a Donor of Farris abilities to help him
Eliza doesn't know if to go to them or go hide under a bed - or no - not a bed! somewhere else that isn't a bed
Alea glances over and sees Eliza.
<Alea> Eliza.
<Alea> Mostan was just asking after you.
Alea smiles
<Eliza> errr Hello
wisesnake tries to smile
Eliza blushes as she looks at Mostan but tries not to show anything
<wisesnake> Well I could do some things with him probably, but unfortunately I haven't been able to obtain permission to do so.
<wisesnake> Controller Veraik says no, and that's that. [spreads fingers and tentacles]
Yota looks at Snake, considering.
<wisesnake> Short of kidnaping the kid, I don't know what else I can do. Sorry.
<Yota> You look almost like a Farris.
Eliza wonders if Mostan will talk to her - or snob her like Snake did
wisesnake thinks she has gone right off the idea of kidnaping, since the whole Anti-Tectonists thing
Alea awkwardly reaches out to touch Mostan's elbow to increase support
<Mostan> Hello Eliza.
<wisesnake> I do? Gee... a compliment.
<Mostan> I'm sorry I surprised you.
wisesnake covers the Zeor ring casually with the tip of one tentacle
<Eliza> ~~relief~~ I'm sorry I surprised....
<Eliza> oh!
<Yota> No, a family resemblance, unless I'm much mistaken.
Eliza watches Alea touch Mostan's arm and realises she is being lax
<wisesnake> Well I...
Eliza remembers what Snake said about not trying to take control off a Donor - so stays neutral
Phyllis turns in off the street, walking a bit stiffly.
Phyllis is a sweet old lady, dressed in worn clothes of out-T manufacture.
Alea nods to Eliza.
Rapol tries not to sneer. You don't tell Farries by their faces... The nagers are distinctive.
<wisesnake> I may have a small bit of Farris in me.
<Eliza> Well Mostan would you like to go for a walk? I haven't seen the garden yet
<Alea> I'll let Eliza walk with you. If you'll excuse me.
Phyllis shuffles past the group chatting on the sidewalk and makes her way up the stairs.
<Eliza> The weather looks good and I hear there is a gnome and a gazebo
Eliza looks nervously at Alea wishing she would stay
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
Phyllis steps hesitantly into the lobby.
Alea shuffles back, then moves over toward the files again.
<Phyllis> ~~nervous~~
<Mostan> Yes. ~~ accepts support ~~
Mostan relaxes in the nager of a Donor with a less powerful (and therefore less threatening) nager.
Eliza smiles at Mostan as they turn and head toward the back door. "where did you come from Mostan? I mean before you came here to Bender Cove?"
<Mostan> A big city deep in-territory.
<Mostan> Famous for the Arts.
<Eliza> oh [Eliza thinks of her little farm and feels inadequate]
<Yota> Since the local authorities are unable to take action -- and I do understand politics -- I shall have to take other action.
wisesnake grimaces
<wisesnake> I see.
<Eliza> how are you feeling today anyway - have you had anything to eat yet?
<Yota> If Controller Veraik could be persuaded to agree, would you still be interested in tutoring the young man?
JonDrake heads out of his office, preparing to take a walk to stretch his legs.
wisesnake thinks there is little or no chance of that happening
<wisesnake> Ah, sure.
<Mostan> No, not yet.
<Eliza> maybe after our walk you might like something to eat ~~hunger~~
Phyllis looks around timidly.
<Mostan> Tarsh was a friend of mine there.
Mostan considers the now appealing idea. "Probably"
<Eliza> oh! Does everyone from the Center come from a city?
<Yota> I'll see what I can do, then. Enry is quite reasonable, if he's approached correctly -- and he very much wants to use the smaller, more efficient motors my company produces in his own machines.
<Yota> what was your name again?
<Mostan> No, all over. Jon Drake is from some rural area out-T.
wisesnake backs away from Yota slightly, eyes narrowing
<wisesnake> I don't want to get involved in anything on that level.
Rapol thickens his field between Snake and Yota.
Yota raises a surprised eyebrow.
Eliza steps outside and looks at the garden covered in slush and looking pretty dreadful "Isn't this umm pretty"
Mostan doesn't think so and so withholds comment.
Eliza looks uncertainly at the wet ground
<Mostan> classic January thaw. It will all freeze over again in a week or two.
<Eliza> not much snow where I come from [smiles up at Mostan]
Eliza looks at the interestingly painted gnome
<Eliza> oh dear! who painted it that! *giggle*
<Mostan> That is a mystery, though there are suspicions.
<Mostan> Or you can buy into the ghost stories...
Eliza bets it was Alea - or maybe Snake
wisesnake feeling a bit defensive doesn't elaborate immediately
<Yota> Well, then, I shall have to find another solution to present to Enry. The young man must learn some manners, or he'll destroy the company when he's in charge.
<Mostan> Most years there is a warm patch in late January.
Eliza doesn't feel the least bit cold
<Eliza> ~~support~~
Mostan relaxes on Eliza's field without realizing what he is doing.
<wisesnake> I wish you the best of luck.
wisesnake nods at Yota and enters the Sime Center.
Yota heads for his office, composing a letter to Sumulo's uncle.
Eliza and Mostan walk to the gazebo and climb the stairs
Rapol follows Snake.
Phyllis is still waiting for someone to notice her.
Mostan sits down on a wooden bench.
<Eliza> That was a short walk - would you like to go somewhere else or sit here awhile?
wisesnake nearly runs into Phyllis
<wisesnake> Oh... excuse me.
Phyllis looks around as Snake enters.
wisesnake wonders what in Shen all these Gens are doing standing really close to doorways
JonDrake has a brisk walk around the streets near the Center.
<Eliza> ~~support~~
Phyllis reddens.
Rapol is concerned about this second near collision today.
wisesnake is surprised by Phyllis's change in color and zlins her cautiously
Alea finishes in the files, pulling the ones she wants and closes the filing cabinet
<wisesnake> Have you been helped?
Rapol clears his field between Snake and Phyllis.
Phyllis is an elderly Gen, somewhat arthritic, dressed in out-T clothing.
Phyllis looks around.
Eliza sits next to Mostan and waits - just sitting calmly and offering support
<wisesnake> er, Have you been helped? [in English this time]
<Phyllis> Err... Not yet.
<wisesnake> Did you come to donate? I could get you the forms.
<Mostan> I haven't been outside since...
Alea sees Snake, Rapol and the Gen and smiles
<Phyllis> Yes, I did.
Mostan notices that Eliza forgot a cloak, and so did he.
wisesnake tries to think if she had misphrased the question, and ultimately concludes that English is a very flexible language
<Mostan> But we should get in out of the cold...
Eliza starts to feel a little cold
<wisesnake> You came to donate just now?
<wisesnake> [just to be sure]
<Phyllis> I filled out some forms the last time I was here...
<Eliza> ok [smiles brightly] how did you know I was feeling cold?
wisesnake zlins Phyllis to determine if she is high field or not
JonDrake heads back to the Center. He decides to come in by way of the garden...
<Mostan> Little thing called zlinning.
<Phyllis> No, I came to donate several months ago. I was visiting my grandson, and I got lost, and my purse was stolen...
Mostan reaches out to touch Eliza joshingly, but stops short of contact.
<Eliza> oh! I wondered about that - so you can tell if a person is well or sick... [stops in confusion] you can't tell what I'm thinking can you? [goes red]
JonDrake has noticed that it is started to get just a bit warmer now. A better definition may be "not quite so freezingly cold."
Alea turns back to the files and pulls Phyllis's file.
Mostan smiles. "No. I can read your emotions to an extent, but not what inspires them."
Eliza is relieved
<Phyllis> I knew my grandson couldn't afford to help me out, and I'd heard that you get paid for donating.
<Mostan> I zlin you are embarrassed now, but not why. Though I can speculate...
<wisesnake> Yes.
<Phyllis> ~~high field, several months since last donation~~
JonDrake enters the garden, wondering when the new growth will show up.
wisesnake goes and picks up a monthly donation form and brings it back
Eliza looks at her feet "I am sooooo sorry about that Mostan!"
Briel sees Veraik and calls out, going into his office with him to get caught up on their work.
<wisesnake> This is just the form people fill out every month. If you'd like to take it over there and fill it out, a channel will take down your field and pay you.
<Mostan> Let's get back inside.
<Alea> Uh, Snake?
wisesnake looks over at Alea, surprised
<wisesnake> Yes?
Phyllis flushes as she realizes that Snake wasn't asking about her previous donation.
JonDrake sees a couple of people in the gazebo.
<Alea> I'll go find her a channel. Here is here file, by the way.
Mostan gets up and steps to the door and zlins JonDrake.
<Phyllis> Oh, of course.
Alea holds up the file.
Eliza follows mostan across the garden and sees Jon "oh hello Jon" [smiles at Jon]
<Eliza> ~~support~~
<wisesnake> Ah. Thank you.
Phyllis takes the form over to the couch, sitting stiffly.
<JonDrake> Good morning Eliza, Mostan!
Alea turns and heads off down the hall toward where she last saw Mostan and Eliza go
wisesnake takes the file and flips through it idly, then puts it on the desk to put the form into whenever Phyllis is done with it
Mostan decides he should not mention the shower incident further so as not to bother Eliza.
Alea goes down the hall, looking as she goes.
<JonDrake> Nice weather this morning. It's nice to see the sun out.
<Mostan> Good morning Jon.
<Eliza> yes - but it's still cold - we were just heading back inside
Phyllis squints at the fine print, struggling to read it.
Alea goes to the door and sees Eliza and Mostan, and Jon Drake and signals
Eliza waves back to Alea
Rapol doesn't understand how all this paper makes up for the lack of a long term association.
Alea hopes to catch one of their attention without... relieved
<JonDrake> I was just heading back from a walk.
<Eliza> I think Alea wants us
<wisesnake> [to Rapol] normally I wouldn't do any work here, but in cases like this where I am the only one who happens to be around when I walk in, I sometimes pick it up.
JonDrake looks up and sees Alea.
<wisesnake> In these cases I try to stick to Tecton procedures as closely as is practical.
Alea pushes the door open.
Rapol whispers to Snake. "Are we waiting for B'cal? or are you going to take her donation?" nageric gesture toward Phyllis.
<wisesnake> Normally I wouldn't. Let's wait to see if Alea gets somebody in here to do it.
Eliza stays in "support position" beside Mostan as they head back inside
<JonDrake> Good morning Alea.
Phyllis reads "eddies of chord".
wisesnake goes over to Phyllis
<wisesnake> Would you like any help filling that out?
<Eliza> ~~support~~
Alea smiles
<Alea> Good day, Jon.
Mostan nods to Alea.
<Phyllis> Why thank you, dear. My eyes aren't what they used to be.
wisesnake sits down beside Phyllis and takes the form and pen
<wisesnake> Okay... First and last name?
<Alea> Mostan, I thought you might want to take a donation.
Mostan moves toward the door.
Mostan looks frightened.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
<Mostan> A ... donation ... from a ... Gen?
<Phyllis> Phyllis.
Alea realizes what she is asking.
wisesnake writes down "Phyllis"
<Eliza> ~~supports~~
<Alea> I um...
Alea reddens
<wisesnake> Um, no last name? Okay, address?
<Alea> If you don't feel up to it, well, um, that's fine. I'm sure someone else can do it.
<Phyllis> I live in Narstown, near Hamish.
Eliza doesn't understand what the problem seems to be ~~supports~~
<wisesnake> Well, you've certainly come a long way.
Alea looks at Jon Drake wishing he would just take her out back and bury her. How could she have forgotten so quickly Mostan's fear of Gens?
wisesnake writes Narstown in the town blank, leaving the address line empty
<Phyllis> My grandson lives here in Bender Cove, on one of the fishing vessels.
wisesnake notes down this tidbit of information mentally, but since there is no blank for it, doesn't write anything down
Eliza tries to thicken her "bubble" [clumsy attempt]
<wisesnake> Ok, time of last donation... that's in your file, yadda yadda yadda... bla bla... okay, have you been ill recently?
<wisesnake> [Snake has skipped most of the lines]
<Phyllis> Just a touch of arthritis. It's always worse in winter.
Phyllis is, indeed, rather stiff.
Eliza looks from alea to Mostan to Jon
<wisesnake> Okay. That won't affect your eligibility to donate at all, fortunately.
wisesnake makes a note of the arthritis
<JonDrake> [to Alea] Have things been busy for you?
<wisesnake> Ask the channel about it and he or she will give you some medicine to take home that might help relieve the symptoms.
<Phyllis> Oh, that's good. My grandson's little girl is ill, and he can't afford medicine for her.
<Alea> Uh, not really.
Alea shifts on her crutches
<wisesnake> Remember, as long as you are donating, you can get medical care at a Sime Center for nothing.
<Alea> I'm sorry Mostan, but everyone else is busy.
wisesnake pauses
<Alea> I didn't even think about... but well, you know, it might be best for you.
<wisesnake> Who is ill? Somebody here in Bender Cove and he hasn't brought her here?
Eliza looks at Mostan to see if he is going to do it or not
<Eliza> ~~supports~~
<wisesnake> [concerned]
<Alea> It's actually not that hard.
Phyllis doesn't quite see how this would help, since the last she heard, children like her great-granddaughter weren't old enough to donate.
<Mostan> Well, let me zlin first.
Alea looks greatly relieved.
<Alea> Great.
Mostan goes up to the door.
Phyllis is astonished.
<Phyllis> Here?
Alea hobbles around out of the way to let Mostan, Jon and Eliza in.
Eliza will hand out towels - she knows where they are now
<wisesnake> Well this is where people usually come for medical treatment here in Bender Cove.
Rapol realizes that is why Snake is here. To pick up more 'business'.
<wisesnake> Is your grandson only a recent arrival here? Perhaps he didn't know.
<Alea> Feeling better Jon? I had heard you had been feeling a bit under the weather.
Alea turns and swings her way down the hall behind Mostan, Eliza
Mostan walks slowly down the hall, fighting dread by leaning harder on Eliza.
<Phyllis> Oh, my Forry's lived here for years, when is isn't out on the boats, but he's never had any use for the Tecton.
<Eliza> ~~support~~
Alea watches closely to make sure Eliza is offering proper support.
<Phyllis> I don't think he's ever been in a Sime Center, not even on Faith Day.
Alea isn't going to leave Mostan alone with a new Donor, nor is she going to interfere unless she has to.
<wisesnake> Well then that's his loss. But it would be kinder to his daughter to allow her the benefits of full citizenship.
wisesnake takes the form over to the desk and clips it carefully into Phyllis' folder, then puts the folder in the ready tray
<Phyllis> But Forry's still a New Washington citizen, and so is his wife.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
wisesnake can see she's flogging a dead horse here
<wisesnake> Well. You, at least, have come to the right place.
<wisesnake> Be sure to mention you'd like help with your arthritis and the channel will do the best he can to make sure you go home comfortable and stay that way.
Mostan comes to the end of the hall and zlins the group.
wisesnake sees Mostan approaching and backs away from Phyllis, drawing Rapol with her
Alea keeps her field neutral.
Rapol closes his field around Snake again.
wisesnake says quietly to Rapol "this is the guy whose job we were just horning in on. Time to step back."
Phyllis doesn't see why the girl should be dragged miles in freezing weather, when she can't donate to earn the money for medicine anyway.
<Phyllis> ~~confusion~~
Rapol watches Mostan warily, lest he attack Snake for poaching.
wisesnake waits, just to make sure Phyllis is taken care of
Alea hopes this doesn't screw up and she get blamed for it.
Mostan zlins her age and arthritis and decides she can't be too much of a threat.
JonDrake walks along with them without interfering.
Mostan thinks if he tells himself that enough maybe he'll even believe it...
Eliza smiles at the old lady
<Eliza> ~~ soothing safety ~~
<Eliza> ~~ promise of support and protection ~~
Mostan forces a smile. "Hello Ma'am. I'm Hajene Mostan. May I help you?"
Phyllis smiles back at the cute kid, thinking that with any luck, Forry's daughter will look like that in a few years.
wisesnake nods to Rapol and heads down the hallway to go up and find B'cal
Rapol recalls some of the fights he has seen over Gens...
<Eliza> ~~desire to help~~
Phyllis stands slowly.
<Phyllis> Yes. I'm here to donate?
Rapol follows after Snake, glad to be away from the danger.
<wisesnake> You're a little tense, Rapol. [notices]
<Mostan> Very good. Welcome to Bender Cove Sime Center.
Bcal straightens her jacket, then grabs her boots and pulls them on.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
<Phyllis> Thank you [a bit shyly]
<Rapol> Worried he would... be angry at you.
wisesnake climbs the stairs
<wisesnake> Mostan? [pauses] For handling that donor's paperwork?
<wisesnake> ~~curious~~
Eliza wonders what room they will use and if there are clean towels ready
Mostan picks up the folder and glances through it.
<Eliza> ~~support~~
<Rapol> You were stealing his... business. Or so he might have thought.
<Phyllis> [folder says one previous donation, GN-3 level, no particular problems, considering]
Alea realizes how badly she is wanting to support and decides perhaps she shouldn't go in the room.
<Mostan> If you'll come this way?
Alea steps back to Jon and whispers. "Go with them. Be there if anything happens."
<wisesnake> Oh... well, I think the Sime Center is mostly pretty lax about my flitting in and out.
Phyllis follows Mostan to the donation room, moving slowly as her joints ache.
<wisesnake> I generally only pitch in if the client would have gone with no help at all otherwise.
<wisesnake> And I do my share of pulling or driving customers to them, after all.
Bcal grabs her cloak and leaves her room.
<wisesnake> I daresay I lose a good deal more customers to the Tecton than vice versa.
Eliza takes the old lady's arm to help her
wisesnake nearly runs into B'cal
<Bcal> Early?
Bcal steps back and stares at Snake
<wisesnake> Oh, and Rapol... try to ease up on that weird flutter thing. It's throwing off my direction sense.
<Rapol> Isn't that bad business? Losing customers?
<wisesnake> Hi B'cal. [genuinely glad to see her]
JonDrake nods to Alea.
<Phyllis> Thank you, dear.
<wisesnake> Well, it is and it isn't.
Bcal smiles
Bcal nods to Rapol
<Rapol> flutter? I'm not sure which you mean.
wisesnake points at B'cal's room
Eliza directs her to sit on the couch and stands next to Mostan
<wisesnake> Then let's work on that right now.
Phyllis sits carefully on the couch.
<wisesnake> As for losing customers, when I lose a customer to the Tecton it generally means either they decided to straighten up their lives and fly right, or they have decided to take the plunge and become a part of Bender Cove when they have moved in from Gen Territory.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
<wisesnake> Either way, good news.
<Mostan> Phyllis... May I call you Phyllis? This donation will be just like the last one, but perhaps with a bit higher payment.
Alea goes over and leans against the desk, clasping her hands nervous
<Eliza> ~~ soothing support~~
Phyllis finds this reassuring.
<JonDrake> For most people, once they begin donating regularly, their selyn levels go up, making more money.
<Phyllis> Oh, that will help. Children are expensive, especially when they're sick and require all the extras.
<Rapol> If you say so.
wisesnake looks at Rapol curiously
Eliza didn't know that
<wisesnake> Of course it's good news. The more people are happy and living legally, the better place Bender Cove is for everybody. Don't you think?
Mostan looks back at the file, seeing no mention of children, and thinking she's old to still have young ones.
<Rapol> Put that way, certainly.
wisesnake opens B'cal's door and gestures for both of them to enter
Bcal smirks at Rapol
Phyllis sees Mostan's confusion.
Rapol goes in, carefully staying focused on Snake behind him.
<Eliza> ~~ calm confidence ~~
wisesnake follows
Bcal follows
Mostan realizes they must be orphans, related or net.
<Phyllis> My grandson's little girl is sick, and his fishing boat hasn't been able to get out in this weather.
JonDrake observes from the corner of the room.
wisesnake closes the door
<Mostan> Helping heal children is one of the better parts of this job.
<wisesnake> Now, Rapol, let's see if you can find and kill that flutter.
<wisesnake> Now don't get me wrong, it's very slight, but it is having this effect on me as you can see.
<Rapol> Certainly. A flutter in strength or directivity?
<wisesnake> In frequency.
Rapol looks concerned at Snake.
Phyllis wonders why all the Sime Center people seem to think that a three-mile journey through icy streets in subzero weather is just the thing for a frail toddler with pneumonia.
wisesnake does look a little bit nervous
Bcal stands back to watch
Mostan goes over to the transfer couch.
<wisesnake> You might try going down to a zero state first, making yourself totally calm and readied.
Eliza moves to keep him close to her
<Eliza> ~~support~~
Rapol exhales and tries.
Alea wonders if she ought to go get a channel to go monitor Mostan... just to make sure
Rapol closes his eyes and visualizes a still pond.
Mostan sits down.
wisesnake zlins Rapol critically
<Mostan> Whenever you are ready Phyllis.
Mostan reflects that he won't be, regardless.
Eliza has seen Lanyi do this lots of times now and wonders why Mostan is moving so slowly
Eliza decides it is because the lady is old
Phyllis holds out wrinkled hands that shake visibly.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
<Eliza> ~~ soothing calm support ~~
<wisesnake> Huh.
<wisesnake> Rapol, try relaxing your entire body too, not just your nager.
<wisesnake> Imagine your tension flowing downward, from the top of your head and flowing out your fingertips and toes.
<Phyllis> ~~nervous anticipation~~
<wisesnake> A little bit more with each breath.
Rapol moves over to sit on the corner of B'Cal's bed.
wisesnake follows
Rapol bends his head and hangs his arms down.
<wisesnake> Feel your spine, and the muscles over your heart, and deliberately let them loosen, let that tension flow downward too.
Mostan slowly reaches out and takes hold of Phyllis's arms, alert for any hostile intent...
Rapol inhales and exhales, sagging a little further each cycle.
<Eliza> ~~ soothing safety ~~
Phyllis sees Mostan reaching for her arms and reaches as well.
wisesnake zlins Rapol intently
<Rapol> ~~ tension flowing downward, but still a strong spot in the chest ~~
Mostan carefully extends his ventrals and dorsals and takes firm grips.
<wisesnake> Now feel your breath, when you breathe out feel it run down over your chest, and wash the tension away, like a river of calmness running right over your heart.
Alea decides maybe she shouldn't get a channel, but should move just a tad closer to the door
Phyllis gasps at the pain as he arthritic wrist joints are squeezed.
Eliza provides ~~ support ~~
Alea slips the crutches back under her arms and moves down the hall to the donation room and waits.
Rapol 's nager concentrates on his sternum as he washes the tension down onto his thighs.
Mostan loosens his tentacles... "Ssorry."
Mostan thinks she'll attack him for hurting her...
<wisesnake> Very good. Don't forget your whole body, breathing out from the top of your head down your arms and legs, out your fingers and toes.
Phyllis relaxes a bit as the pain decreases.
Eliza looks at Mostan in concern and increases her support
<wisesnake> You can feel yourself becoming empty, and light, can't you?
Phyllis moves her arms experimentally.
Mostan screws up his courage and cautiously extends his laterals.
<Mostan> ~~ alarm ~~
JonDrake looks on to see how the two of them approach the situation.
Eliza places a hand automatically on Mostan's shoulder and makes what Lanyi calls a "bubble"
<Mostan> [ a bit curtly ] "Please stay still. Ma'am"
<Phyllis> Oh! I am sorry.
Phyllis holds still, embarrassed.
Eliza smiles encouragingly at Phyllis
<Rapol> ~~ nervous impulses to nod produce no actual motion through the relaxation ~~
Mostan is breathing a little harder.
Mostan leans forward.
Eliza realises that there is more to this that she knows about and wishes Alea had stayed
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
JonDrake watches very closely, ready to interject.
<wisesnake> okay. You're doing very well now.
<wisesnake> Now, what I'd like you to do, is without changing your body at all, now make your nager smooth and calming. Supportive.
Phyllis braces herself, apprehension increasing.
<Rapol> ~~ relaxed satisfaction ~~
wisesnake moves to put herself in the correct position so he won't have to move
Rapol exhales, blowing relaxation out into his nager.
Bcal moves over to sit down, being very careful as she does
wisesnake feels her own tension start to ease away as Rapol's nager changes
Mostan touches Phyllis's lips, breath hissing through his nose.
Phyllis finds Mostan's obvious tension catching.
Eliza supports Mostan with ~~ calm confidence ~~
Mostan feels the tension and tries not to let it feedback....
Mostan starts a careful slow draw from the GN-3.
Eliza is relieved that it seems to be going well - but doesn't remove her hand from his shoulder
Phyllis is frozen in place, hoping that whatever Mostan is afraid will go wrong, won't.
Rapol feels his relaxation suffusing into Snake and pauses as he has to suppress the urge to push it in.
wisesnake weathers the process reasonably well
Rapol continues to blow the relaxation out to try and fill the room.
<wisesnake> Ah, Rapol... you're trying a little too hard there.
Bcal folds her cape across her lap and then drops her hands to the arms of the chair... and watches
Mostan approaches the end of the GN-3 level, and dares to hope he will survive this.
<wisesnake> Keep your body relaxed, now make your nager soothing and relaxed, just like your body.
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
Rapol lets the relaxation flow out and go where it will...
Eliza relaxes a bit
Mostan reaches the end and breaks lip contact.
Mostan leans back and exhales the lungfull of air he hadn't realized he was holding for ... how long?
Phyllis relaxes as she sees the donation is over, but sees Mostan is still nervous.
<Phyllis> There, there, now.
Mostan quickly pulls his laterals back in.
Phyllis twists her hand and wrist just enough to pat Mostan's arm reassuringly.
Eliza smiles at Mostan and gives his shoulder a quick rub before stepping back
<Mostan> ~~ alarm ~~
Eliza hands Phyllis a towel
wisesnake touches Rapol's shoulder lightly
<wisesnake> Okay, now stand up...
Mostan whips his tentacles off and yanks his arms back.
Eliza steps forward and puts both hands on Mostan's shoulders "are you ok?"
Mostan pants wide-eyed.
<wisesnake> If you feel your shoulders, or any other part of you, trying to get tense again, just let it go, let it flow on out.
Phyllis starts at the sudden movement.
<wisesnake> Learn the feel of your body when it is at zero, when it is ready.
<Phyllis> Goodness gracious!
<Eliza> ~~ soothing safety ~~
Eliza looks at Jon for help
Mostan reaches up to clutch Eliza's hands.
<Eliza> it's ok Mostan
<Eliza> everything is fine!
<wisesnake> This is the body of an athlete, of a dancer... of a Donor.
Eliza glares at Phyllis
Rapol lifts towards a standing position without opening his eyes.
<Phyllis> What is the matter?
Rapol stands swaying back and forth.
<Eliza> Jon - maybe you could take umm Phyllis outside for a few moments?
<wisesnake> Now, it is possible to go through life ready, at zero, waiting for input... and that is what I want you to learn to do.
Bcal continues to watch.
Mostan pants. "Nothing ma'am. Not your fault. Thank you."
<wisesnake> It will take practice, granted, but when you are free of tension and fully in tune with your body, you will be more prepared to both understand my field, and to control your own.
Bcal wonders if he's going to fall flat on his face, then decides with her luck, he'd fall on her bed and mess up the crease more than he already has.
Eliza watches Mostan in concern, continuing support
Rapol idly wonders how he'll go through life with iffy balance and closed eyes, but is too relaxed to worry about it....
Phyllis knows "nothing" when she sees it, and she doesn't.
JonDrake nods.
Mostan 's breathing slows as he clutches Eliza's hands.
wisesnake adds, "You should open your eyes."
JonDrake helps Phyllis out of the room.
Eliza matches her breathing automatically to Mostan's
<wisesnake> The state you are looking for is, I believe, called "relaxed alertness."
Alea is startled when Jon and Phyllis come out.
Phyllis balks in the hall.
<Phyllis> My voucher!
<Alea> Ah, Jon...
Eliza leans into Mostan until she is standing against his back
Mostan hears this and snatches for the clip board.
Alea glances at Phyllis and worries, wondering if she ran out this quick what must have happened.
Mostan scribbles furiously.
Phyllis has no intention of hiking nearly seven miles (round trip) and not even having money for medicine to show for it.
Rapol contemplates the apparent contradiction of "relaxed alertness."
Alea goes around Jon and Phyllis and hurries into the room, sees the scene and pauses
Rapol realizes this is what that gypsy he met once was talking about...
<Alea> Uh, voucher?
Alea goes forward for the paper Mostan is scribbling
Mostan rips off the copies and stuffs them in Eliza's hand. "Please give this to her."
Alea looks at Eliza in question
Eliza stays at Mostan's back but looks at Alea in concern
Alea holds out her hand with a slight shake of her head telling her to stay
Eliza hands the papers to Alea
Rapol carefully opens his eyes without looking at anything.
Alea takes them, looks concerned once again, then leaves
<Alea> Here we are [to Phyllis]
<wisesnake> It will probably take some practice, like I say.
<Eliza> Mostan - are you ok?
<wisesnake> [adds] But the flutter is gone.
Eliza wants to pat him and calm him or something
Phyllis takes the vouchers, and smiles when she sees the sum.
<JonDrake> A bit larger than last time?
<Phyllis> That will cover the medicine, an extra blanket or two, and nourishing food.
Rapol recalls that the gypsy called it "Floating in the Sea which is Not."
<Mostan> [much larger than last time due to transposed digits]
<JonDrake> Good. You can expect that for the next few donations, the amount will continue to increase before levelling off.
Mostan reaches up to take Eliza's arm and gently pull her around to in front of him.
Phyllis shuffles happily off to the payment window, still moving with arthritic stiffness.
Alea looks at Jon.
<Alea> Okay, Jon. Why does Mostan look like he's about to lose his breakfast?
<Alea> What happened?
Eliza looks at Mostan and repeats "are you ok Mostan?"
<wisesnake> We'll talk about this more later. I think maybe you've had enough lesson for now.
<JonDrake> From all indications, the donation was just fine. At the end, Mostan had some sort of reaction.
Alea ~~ relieved ~~
<JonDrake> There was no danger to the donor.
<Alea> I suppose that's only to be expected for the first few times.
Mostan puts his arms around Eliza and hugs the side of his head to her stomach.
<Alea> Good.
Eliza awkwardly pats his head
Eliza resists the temptation to say "there there"
<Eliza> ~~ calm support ~~
Rapol nods slightly and slowly looks around the room.
Bcal decides he's not going to fall over after all, then looks at the crinkle on her bed and glares
<Mostan> Thank you 'liza.
wisesnake glances at B'cal hoping the Donor's disgust doesn't mean she thinks Snake is doing a bad job of teaching
<wisesnake> ~~worry~~
<Eliza> oh that's ok Mostan
Mostan makes himself breath slowly and deeply.
<wisesnake> Uh... well... I guess we'd better get going then.
Bcal looks at the plaque "honor" and smiles
wisesnake hurries for the door
Bcal stands and slips her cloak on.
wisesnake feels B'cal's warm fuzzy feelings and glances back to see what she's looking at
wisesnake feels a little bit better
Eliza continues to pat Mostan's hair worried that Lanyi never acted like this
Bcal smiles at Snake
<Bcal> Good job.
<wisesnake> ~~relief~~
<wisesnake> Oh... thanks.
<Bcal> Not so bad yourself [grudgingly to Rapol]
Bcal smiles wondering if that is being "nice" to Snake's other Donors like she wanted.
Rapol slowly turns to follow Snake...
Eliza kneels down so she can look Mostan in the eyes. "You going to be ok now?"
Mostan gulps and nods. "Yeah."
<Mostan> Thank you again. For ... being there.
<Eliza> Mostan - I'd like to always be wherever you need me [smiles]
wisesnake is pleased that B'cal is putting out some effort towards pleasantness to Rapol.
Alea turns and slowly makes her way back into the room
Mostan sits back in the lounge.
Eliza is relieved to see Alea - she wishes she knew just what happened then
Alea studies Mostan and Eliza
<Alea> So, Mostan, how'd it go?
Eliza sits on the lounge next to Mostan
wisesnake opens the door and heads for the stairs
Eliza takes his hand
Alea moves over to a chair near the lounger and lowers herself into it.
Bcal waits for Rapol to exit then pulls the door closed behind them all.
<Mostan> I ... [ pant ] I may have alarmed her. Sorry.
Alea shakes her head.
<Alea> She was fine. More interested in her money than anything.
<Alea> I was asking how YOU did. How YOU felt.
Eliza personally thinks that that stupid old lady deserves to be hit
Alea looks at Eliza
Rapol goes out. "Thank you." [to B'Cal]
<Eliza> I think he did great
<Alea> Good.
wisesnake comes down the stairs and enters the lobby
<Mostan> [pant] Me? Scared out of my sheathes. Then she moves... twice!
Eliza desperately wants to talk to Alea but doesn't want to leave Mostan
Alea chuckles
<Alea> You made it through, though.
Rapol carefully keeps his hand sliding down the railing as he follows Snake.
<Alea> I'm very happy for you, Mostan.
wisesnake realizes the new technique is keeping Rapol rather distracted; frowns
wisesnake realizes she will have to put up with a bit of weirdness until he really has it down, and sighs
<wisesnake> All right, here we go then.
wisesnake leaves the Center
Mostan looks at Eliza. "It's all her fault that I made it."
Eliza ~~supports~~ Mostan
Alea looks at Eliza, very pleased.
<Alea> I'm glad to hear you think she helped you.
Bcal follows Snake
Mostan relaxes ... well more like collapses on Eliza's field.
<Eliza> ~~joy~~
Eliza thinks that Mostan needs a nice cup of trin - and something solid
<Eliza> ~~ hunger ~~
Rapol smoothly looks around to gauge nageric obstacles ahead.
<Mostan> I think I should have breakfast now.
wisesnake glances at B'cal and is pleased that B'cal is satisfied with letting Rapol try to do it for now.
Eliza smiles and stands up - not letting go his hand
Bcal shrugs
<wisesnake> B'cal, have you talked to your Sectuib at all about Nick?
<Bcal> What about him?
wisesnake blinks, disconcerted
Eliza wants to run - but realises that the others (particularly Alea in her cast) would not appreciate it
<wisesnake> If if if I, thought they,um, had transfer. [nervously]
<Bcal> Well, yes. As I understood it, they were to have transfer.
<Bcal> But I never see Nick
wisesnake stares at B'cal
Mostan gets up.
<Bcal> And I haven't gotten a letter yet from Sectuib
<wisesnake> Really.
Eliza wonders if Mostan would like his hand back now
wisesnake frowns
Mostan puts an arm over Eliza's shoulder.
<wisesnake> I'll guess I'll just have to go on what Nick said he said, which was about one sentence.
Mostan shows no sign of it...
wisesnake thinks she will have to write to B'cal's Sectuib herself, sighs
<Eliza> Alea - can you come and have lunch with us? I'd like to ask you about the Controller's transfer tomorrow
<Bcal> This time of year, the mail is slow. If I get anything I'll let you know
<wisesnake> thanks.
Alea stiffens, the sighs.
<Alea> Of course, Eliza, if that is, Mostan, do you mind me joining you ?
Eliza looks at Mostan to see if that is ok
<wisesnake> So, I heard a rumor a boatload of people from Gen Territory landed and dumped about a hundred high field Gen refugees at the Bock harbor last night. I was thinking we could see how many of those Gens we could round up.
Mostan notes that Alea is nervous, but can't imagine why.
<Mostan> Sure.
<wisesnake> You know, convince them they really have to have their fields taken down, check them for injuries or illness, etc.
<Bcal> That would certainly keep the entran away.
<Rapol> Bock Harbor? How far is that?
Alea gets up and grabs her crutches and leaves the room toward the cafeteria
<wisesnake> It's right in town here. Down on the other side of the commercial docks.
<wisesnake> Actually it's not usually called that, the neighborhood folks call it "Hulk Harbor" because of all the wrecks floating there with various homeless people hiding out on them.
<wisesnake> I don't think midwinter is the usual season for people to move into those so I have a feeling they're all over the low end of town by now.
<Bcal> I see.
Bcal ignores Rapol to ask her own questions.
<Bcal> Does it ever flood down here?
wisesnake looks forward to the pleasant challenge of using her various connections to ferret out the newcomers
<wisesnake> What? Flood? Um, well in the spring when it melts there will be fast running water in the streets.
<wisesnake> No general large scale flooding, standing water, that kind of thing. At least not here in town... too hilly.
Bcal nods
<wisesnake> When the thaw cycle first starts the streets will be really icy from water running over them and freezing, so there will be a lot of injuries.
wisesnake carefully keeps all hint of anticipation from her voice
Mostan goes to breakfast with two kind Gens...
<Bcal> Much luckier than V'lar.
<wisesnake> Yes. I suppose you will be in V'lar then.
<Bcal> I suppose so.
wisesnake carefully keeps all opinion of the dreadfulness of this future to herself
wisesnake is thinking, of course, of the dreadfulness from HER point of view, supposes it will actually be rather pleasant for B'cal
<Rapol> What about mud?
<wisesnake> Mud? Here?
<wisesnake> Terrible, like everywhere else.
<wisesnake> And there are mudslides up in the heights where the rich peoples' mansions are, although of course that hardly concerns us.
wisesnake conveniently ignores the fact that she is about to purchase a large piece of public property and is therefore hardly poor
Alea nods goodbye to Mostan who is going up to rest and then picks up her tea cup
<Alea> So, tell me Eliza, how did he really do? Donor to Donor?
Eliza looks after Mostan and feels empty
<Eliza> well he was dreadfully shaky - don't know why!
<Eliza> he seemed umm frightened
<Eliza> and that woman didn't make it easier
Alea sips her tea.
<Alea> It is hard for him. His arms, laterals, were nearly wounded fatally by a Gen.
<Eliza> oh! would that make it... oh yes - I see
<Alea> I'm sorry I didn't inform you of that beforehand. I thought you had heard.
Eliza feels so sorry for Mostan
<Alea> It's only normal that he would be scared. I'm surprised he didn't fall completely to pieces afterward.
<Eliza> I knew about that - I just didn't realise it would cause a reaction as it did
Eliza is very thoughtful for a moment
<Eliza> will that affect him when he needs transfer next?
<Alea> I imagine it will.
<Alea> I suggested to Briel you might be good for transfer. I'm not so sure now if you can handle it.
Eliza looks surprised "wouldn't he need a real Donor?"
<Alea> You are a real Donor, Eliza.
<Alea> Do you think I would have let you in that room with Mostan if I hadn't believed it.
Eliza digests this and decides she likes it
<Alea> The only problem is he might really fear you when transfer time comes.
<Alea> Simply because you're Gen.
<Eliza> I don't think he will fear me
<Eliza> he doesn't seem to be scared of me
<Alea> No, he's not scared of you. But when he opens himself up, giving you access to his arms, to hurt him, I imagine he will be.
<Eliza> how could I hurt him?
<Eliza> why would I hurt him?
Alea reaches out and takes Eliza's arms
<Alea> Grip my arms like you would in transfer.
Eliza takes Alea's arms
<Alea> Now, right above where your hands are would be the nodes on a Sime.
<Alea> See how open I would be if you were to lean forward and squeeze.
Alea pulls on her a bit, pulling her forward
<Alea> With me already pulling you forward... anything could happen.
Eliza falls forward
Eliza falls against the cast ~~ ouch ~~
<Alea> ouch
Alea moves her foot
<Alea> Anyway. See what I mean.
Alea releases Eliza
<Alea> A Sime always feels vulnerable. But after being hurt, then he would feel very very vulnerable... even scared, or terrified
JonDrake exits his office on his way to the kitchen to get some tea.
<Alea> Some don't survive it.
Briel storms out of Veraik's office, still angry... and runs into Jon.
Briel jumps back trying to keep from knocking him over.
Eliza is horrified
<Briel> Shen, Jon, I'm sorry.
JonDrake backs up, surprised.
<Briel> I didn't zlin you.
<Eliza> Alea that is the complete opposite to what I learned at home
<Briel> Had my mind on other things
<Alea> What did you learn at home?
Alea ~~ confused curious ~~
<JonDrake> Quite all right, Brie. How are you doing this morning?
<Eliza> well it was just KNOWN that Simes killed Gens
Briel glances around, sees no one else.
JonDrake notices Briel's body language.
<JonDrake> What's wrong?
<Briel> Ready to pull my hair out by the roots
<Eliza> we, John and I, were totally surprised when umm I didn't die
Briel sighs and rubs at her neck
Eliza blushes
<Alea> Of course you were.
<Alea> But here Simes fear Gens. Because it's a Gen's fear that hurts that Sime.
<Alea> I imagine Mostan is having terrible fears about dying.
<Eliza> but why then do Gens fear Simes so much out territory?
<Briel> That Sumulo... channel hurt a person who came to make a donation
Eliza feels the urge to run to Mostan and comfort him
<JonDrake> ~~~comfort~~~
Briel relaxes gratefully against Jon's field, taking his arm and walking on down the hall.
<JonDrake> Is there any thing I can do?
<Briel> Well, since everything has happened this week... I hadn't been able to meet with Veraik for one of our "what do we do about all of this" meetings.
Eliza is terribly curious about something else - but doesn't know how to raise the subject
<Briel> Yes. Tea. And just be with me for awhile.
<Eliza> ummm Alea.... tomorrow after Veraik's transfer - what will happen?
<Alea> Anyway. Let me figure out a way to get you two into more contact and see if...
<JonDrake> I'd be glad to.
<Alea> What do you mean?
<Eliza> I mean - should I leave the room straight away and let you be alone with him?
Briel sighs
<Briel> Great.
Alea's face stiffens into a hard mask.
<Alea> What has Veraik or someone else, said to you?
Eliza shrinks back away from Alea's anger... "nothing! it's just... I'd heard... John did...."
Briel goes toward her office.
<Alea> Oh.
Alea flushes
<Alea> I'd forgotten you have some experience...
JonDrake walks with her.
<Briel> List is out finally. Looks like we've been assigned together again for Transfer.
<Alea> Well, yes. When a transfer goes great, the Sime usually has a release of emotions and sex often follows.
<Alea> However, just because you give that transfer doesn't mean you have to serve that post.
<Alea> I love Tarsh. I wouldn't offer myself to Veraik like that.
Eliza giggles thinking of Veraik taking transfer from JonDrake
<Alea> What is so funny?
Eliza tells her
Alea gapes, then starts laughing.
<Alea> Oh, I would love to share that with the Controller.
Alea shakes her head.
Alea 's laughter slowly dies.
Eliza pales "please don't tell him I said it!"
<Alea> I don't know... Oh, I won't.
<Alea> I don't know what I'm going to do with him though.
<Eliza> Alea - if you aren't going to be Veraik's "post" partner - who is?
<Alea> That's the problem. Veraik can be such a shendoni idiot sometimes.
<Eliza> or isn't that a polite question
<Alea> He gets on this trip... he doesn't need anything, even refusing to work.
<Alea> Well, hard as it is to believe, he's done it with sex.
<Alea> No, that's an acceptable question, since I'm working with you.
<Alea> You and I can discuss things others might not.
Eliza blushes
<Eliza> so he just umm won't?
<Alea> He's gone three or four months now.
<Alea> He insists he just can't find anyone, according to his records.
<Eliza> is that bad?
<Alea> Very bad.
Eliza frowns and worries
<Alea> I thought about talking to Briel about it.
<Alea> Since I'm his shendoni Donor this month, I feel responsible
Alea thinks if she can even get him post.
Alea is terrified she's not going to be able to suppress that anger.
<Eliza> so it is your responsibility as his Donor to make sure he does whatever is needed to keep him well?
<Alea> I won't have him crying, saying no one cared for him and that I failed in my job.
<Alea> Yes.
Alea looks up and her eyes widen.
<Alea> Only to a um, point.
Alea flushes
Eliza gets depressed at Alea's predicament
Eliza sighs
<Alea> Not by giving... I mean, I will be there to help him through it... but, well, to tell you the truth, Eliza....
<Eliza> poor Veraik
<Alea> Veraik and I don't like each other very much.
Eliza HAD noticed this
<Alea> Veraik and I detest each other at the moment.
<Alea> And that might just affect the transfer.
<Eliza> oh no!
<Alea> I am not the ideal person to sit with him during his post reaction.
Eliza thinks "oh great - Mostan AND Veraik"
Eliza starts to say that she will help... then stops realizing what it would mean and blushes
<Eliza> I err
<Alea> I don't know what to do.
<Alea> Perhaps I should just shoot him and put him out of our misery.
Eliza looks up in shock wondering if Alea is kidding or not
Alea considers it, then tosses that aside.
<Alea> But, since that isn't an option, I guess I have to find someone who has enough compassion to help the old goat.
<Alea> lecher.
<Alea> tyrant...
<Alea> Controller [said like a curse word]
Eliza looks at Alea "oh Alea"
Alea realizes she is getting worked up again and forces herself to calm down
<Alea> What?
<Eliza> you really don't like him at all do you....
<Eliza> it's ok - don't let him get to you - take a deep breath...
Alea drops her head into her hands
<Alea> It's a long story.
<Eliza> we are here for you [smile]
<Alea> At one time, we did care for each other. But things happened, I fell in love with Tarsh.
Eliza pats Alea on the shoulder thinking that it is much easier to support a channel then a Donor
<Alea> Veraik is out on a vendetta... anyway... He is angry with me now and out to make my life miserable.
<Alea> And, I'm afraid, my mere presence makes him miserable too.
<Eliza> oh I'm so sorry you aren't happy
<Alea> In one act of vengeance he got me assigned to him. But because of our blow up... now, his transfer and post are in jeopardy
<Eliza> but you have Tarsh - and the baby coming....
<Alea> Yes.
<Alea> And I think he knows that now.
<Eliza> poor Veraik doesn't
<Alea> But he just did this, this assignment thing in anger.
<Eliza> I mean
<Alea> yes?
<Eliza> he doesn't have anyone like that he can lean on does he?
<Alea> No.
<Alea> He's never made any close attachments while he was here.
<Eliza> you have Tarsh - and Snake is there for you
Alea thinks Snake isn't there for anyone but doesn't say so.
<Eliza> probably cause he has to run the place - he probably doesn't have the time to make friends
<Alea> If he had someone, I wouldn't be worrying about him now.
<Eliza> poor Veraik
Alea wants to slap Eliza. Poor Veraik indeed. He is the one who put off Tarsh's transfer.
Alea instead smiles.
<Alea> Yeah. It's sad.
Eliza is miserable thinking of poor Veraik
<Alea> By the way, I want you to be there tomorrow. During the transfer.
<Alea> I think I mentioned that.
<Eliza> Oh yes! But are you sure?
<Eliza> if it mightn't go well - I might be in the way
<Alea> You won't be in the way.
Eliza doesn't want to add any extra tension
<Alea> You might actually help.
<Eliza> Well sure! If it's ok with Veraik
Alea thinks then Veraik wouldn't dare try a thing.
<Alea> I'm training you.
<Alea> Of course it'll be okay
Eliza beams with pride thinking she might be of some help
<Alea> And you can see how a Donor Channel operate in the Tecton
Eliza gets excited and makes sure to be back from her walk with Mostan in time
<Eliza> What does the Donor do before transfer?
<Alea> I'd like to meet with you in the morning too. I have some ideas of things you might can do to help Mostan relax
<JonDrake> That's wonderful, Brie.
<Eliza> that would be great too
<Eliza> you know - Snake was right
JonDrake reaches to take Briel's hand.
<JonDrake> it's been a long time.
<Eliza> she said that if I just gave the Center a chance I would learn here
<Briel> I'm glad you'll be back with me this month.
<Briel> Believe me, I didn't like reassigning you last month
<Alea> Well, I'm glad to know that.
<Alea> What do we do before transfer?
<Alea> Well, there's a lot.
<Alea> It's always a good idea to make sure the room is comfortable, like the way that Channel likes it.
<Alea> Each one has their own likes and dislikes.
<Alea> In case of Veraik, it will be a good idea to have meds out. 3
Eliza thinks of a certain grain silo with lump bags of wheat
<Alea> Of course, you should always check and make sure the med kit is stocked.
<Eliza> meds?
<Alea> medications.
<Eliza> what do you need medications for
<Alea> Well, sometimes transfers go wrong. Things happen.
<Alea> It's always good to be prepared
Eliza worries again
<JonDrake> Well, I'm sure it was necessary.
<Briel> Yes, it was.
Briel turns into her office with Jon Drake, still clinging to his arm.
<Briel> I appreciate the support. I hope you'll be there when I inform Sumulo of what has been decided
<Alea> It's also nice to have towels, tissues, tea sitting out and ready if the channel wants to brew it.
JonDrake nods gravely. He's heard some of the rumors.
<Alea> I even go so far as to check drapes, open closed anything like that
<Briel> He's going to be furious.
JonDrake nods
Eliza sees that Alea is tiring
<Eliza> I'm sorry to hold you here this long Alea
<Eliza> I know you have work to do
Eliza shrugs
<Eliza> I'm sure it will all come together in my head eventually
<Briel> One week off work, confined, and then a half an hour delay in transfer is going to put Sumulo on the warpath
<Alea> Actually, Eliza, when you start doing hands on like tomorrow, it'll make a big difference.
<JonDrake> I'm sure. I wouldn't wish it on any one.
Eliza wonders what "hands on" Alea is talking about
<Briel> Yeah, well, since I'm helping Veraik out I don't have much choice.
<Briel> I really dislike that channel.
<JonDrake> I'll be there to help buffer your field.
<Briel> Thank you.
Briel places a quick kiss on Jon's cheek.
<Briel> Now, how about some tea?
<JonDrake> Sounds good to me, Brie.
<Alea> Come on, Eliza, let's go get to work.
Eliza hands Alea her crutches
JonDrake walks with Briel to get some tea.
Alea slips them under her arms and walks with Eliza back to her office.
Notes:
1) Ta = Australian for "Thanks" [return]
2) Wise Snake is referring to Alea. The word "cousin" is possibly inaccurate since at that time her exact relation to Alea is unknown. [return]
3) The use of the word "Meds" in this context was cause for a good deal of consternation on the part of an Australian player, as that is the name of a feminine hygiene product available on that continent. [return]