Wendy Berber {@work}: *Today has been
rough. She's stacking books carefully on one of the lower shelves, hair over her
face as she looks at title.. then author.. then subject.. and aranges them in
whatever order of catagorization this cluttered little bookstore has. Dewey
Decimal? highly doubtful*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: The bell at the door
jingles, and in she walks. A momentary pause, just inside the door, to curl a
lock of pale blonde hair behind the ear. She looks around at the shelves and
shelves of books, expression calm, and starts to step her way further inside.
Somewhere in her mid-twenties, Annika stands at 5’7” before any heels or lifts
come into play. She cuts an attractive frame if you’re in to the Aryan look –
and how. Her hair is fine and straight, a pale blonde with several shades vying
for attention. The highlights, entirely natural, are nearly white. Full lips,
high cheekbones, strong bones, arched eyebrows laying serious and light over
blue eyes that gleam with intelligence and clarity. Her skin is fair, all of its
summer tan quick to fade under the slightest hint of approaching winter. Her
hands are slim, nails a maintained oval. She walks like a woman that knows how
to take care of herself, and her bright blue eyes, pale with the promise of a
fresh autumn dawn, are almost always attentive. She’s dressed well but not
richly in practical clothes fitted to her form.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *OW! She winces
at the bell, looking up and moving out from behind the bookcase that hides her.
A swallow, eyes on the floor as she adresses the well put together woman* um.
hello..welcome to james's oddities antiques and um. rare texts.. how can i help
you? *its said softly, memorized*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She looks over at
Wendy, eyes appraising for a long moment, before she nods, offering her a small,
polite smile. "Good day. I am looking for a book."
Wendy Berber {@work}: um.. kay.. *she
curls her hands into her sweater and rubs them together a moment, to fight off
the chill of the bookstore* um.. any particular.. uh.. genre?
Wendy Berber {@work}: miss *she adds
hastily with a slight frown at herself as she stays rivvetted to the spot*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Yes." She pills out
a small notepad, and flips it open. "I am taking a course on psychology, and I
am needing to do a report on Sigmund Freud."
Wendy Berber {@work}: oh um.. kay. *a bit
of a trip as she scurries into action like someone's wound her up, moving up 3
steps on the ladder and holding on for dear life as she cringes with every creak
and rattle it makes. headachey. A sniffle...oh no..she was going to sneeze*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Another chime as the
door swings open again. Something glimmers behind the young magyar's eyes as he
begins to move between the shelves. Agitation kept close and quiet beneath the
severe lines of perfect posture.*
Wendy Berber {@work}:
d10: dex ath ineptitude: 2,10,2,
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She watches the
strange girl with a curious look, moving near the ladder to watch her.
Wendy Berber {@work}: Achi.. achi..
ache.. achick! *she nearly falls off the ladder as she sneezes, but manages to
keep a good enough hold, keeping her balance by instead holding tight and
bonking her head on the rung above her, body limp a moment before she continues
climbing.. having not heard the bell while sneezing.* um. I'm sorry. Excuse me
miss.. um. *sniffling, several books are fetched*.. sorry.. um.. did you want
his um. his history, or his um.. theories?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Glassy eyes flick
across Wendy's precarious perch for a moment- and settle on the haunting form of
the kinfolk watchful below the ladder. Staring is rude.. as well as droll..
nostrils flare for a second- his lips press together tightly- eyes cast against
the bookshelves after one too many moments. The pale woman lingers in the corner
of his eye as he resolutely begins to sift through the books.. think on
something else..*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *Its too small a
bookstore to remain unnoticed for long, and the hairs on the back of wendy's
neck begin to crawl, attention moving to ingvar. a sharp intake of breath and a
sniffle* Oh. um. Sir. I'm sorry. um. hello sir.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "His history,
primarily," she says, arching a brow toward Ingvar as he comes in. "My report is
supposed to focus on his history and how it developed his theories upon
psychology." She nods politely to the man as she talks to Wendy.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *She takes down
several books and offers them to Annika, scambling off the ladder and standing
with her head slightly tilted away from the man speaking in magyar. She makes a
note. Magyar.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *A slight grunt of
affirmation into the phone as he turns.. one cannot hide for long.* mm. Good
evening, ladies. *A polite nod to the two women, before he double takes..
magyarol continues to flavor the air around him as Mattiash continues to suggest
books into the phone.* Ms. Brandt.. Ms. Berber.. *he looks between the two..
perhaps happenstance that pale green pools linger on the former for a bit
longer.* You have met?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Ramrod straight..
poised as ever, though the moon certainly seems to glow against the beast under
the skin a bit too much for the fine suit to hide entirely.. agitation lends a
slight tension to the air about the young Judge as bootheels click a bit
closer.*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Met is a bit
overstating it, I believe." She shrugs lightly. "How are you, sir?"
Wendy Berber {@work}: *Wendy doesn't
know what to say to that.technically yes. but not formally. what was the right
answer? She flushes a shade of red, very very still*um... just now sir. *she
blurts. the kin looks to her feet, certain that if Rhya invar knows Miss Brandt,
then she had better have given her very useful books* um. how can i um service
you sir?
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She takes the books
from Wendy, looking them over briefly, letting the other two converse for a
moment.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *eyes widen, and she
looks at her feet, shoulders hollowing. That had come out wrong. idiot. You'd
think SPEAKING wouldn't be so much of a challenge*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *His eyes flick to
Annika again- sharp, edgy, as the rest of his kind during such a time. He nods
once, gentlemanly if a bit twitchy.* Fine, Ms. Brandt- and yourself? *Rote..
pure rote.. there is little of reassurance behind it. His eyes flick to Wendy
again before he continues.* I see. So you are both aware, the three of us share
a certain family bond yes?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He grunts once into the
phone, hangs up, and produces a small notepad from one pocket. A pen follows in
smooth efficiency to scribe titles in two columns before he rips off the top
note and waits for Wendy to come down the ladder.* I have need of a selection of
books, Ms. Berber... *pale eyes scan the page.* As well as any others you think
relevant to topic..
Catie: *slips into the bookstore, blinking
slowly around. books. books are wonderful things*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *still watchin her
feet. there were more important kin here. she gives a limp little nod, magnified
eyes watching the dusty blue mat she stands on. she moves towards ingvar to
fetch the note, easing closer inch by inch like she's expecting a blow to fall,
head down* um. yes sir. *and she stands reading the list*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "I am quite well,
sir." She nods a little bit, looking up from her books. "My sister and I are
busying ourselves in our studies." The mention of the family bond draws a raised
eyebrow, and she looks over at Wendy, appraising her a little closer this time.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *His attention passes
back to Annika.. once.. twice.. a glassy sheen passes across his eyes each time.
A certain strange inward facing consideration.. She is much like.. he blinks
again- on task smoothly as he laces powerful fingers at his waist.*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *the pounding dingle
of the door chime gets her attention a breif moment.. and she murmers* um..
hello miss catie.. *a moments thought, and she puts the CLOSED sign on the
door.. looking bravely to invar a moment.. to see if its alright.. if she's
kin.. she's got no pureblood in her, from looking at her.*
Marcus Souma: *He hip-bumps the door open,
and slips through. The slight dingle of the bell makes him look up, and a small
smile touches the Asian American boy's face. He reaches up to hit the bell.
Again. Just to be an ass more than likely. He gnaws on a piece of gum, tucking
half-gloved hands into the back pockets of his black jeans, looking around the
bookstore with a too-curious gleam of dark eyes.*
Catie: *blinks and smiles warmly to Wendy*
hello, Miss Wendy. i finished the book you gave me. it was fabulous. *nods shyly
to Ingvar and Annika, makign quite sure her eyes never meet the man's*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *Or not.. as someone
bumps the door open and all but knocks her over, then dingles thebell.. again. *
Marcus Souma: *He flashes teeth to the
poor girl he almost knocks over, and then he moves to the shelves, to looks
around. chewing loud enough to wake the dead.*
Catie: *flashes Marcus a tiny frown and moves
to assist Wendy* are you all right, MIss Wendy?
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she rolls her
lips together, head drooping as she picks up the books she'd knocked over in her
mad scramble to stay upright, voice small*.. I'm ok. Its ok. Sorry. *where was
the note?! oh god! panicked action as she searches the floor*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He nods in regal return
to Catie.* Ms. Bellewhit.. good evening.. *The eyes slip back again as Marcus
has another go at the bell.. flat, unamused, but not overly concerned. His
eyebrow quirks slightly at Wendy's decision, three fingers scribe through the
air in allowance, curiosity painting the hard planes of his face for a moment.
He considers the small kin again.. good.. she emerges from her shell.. a hint of
approval colors the man's face before he moves to a bookshelf.. again gnawing on
whatever irritation harries the straight, hard lines of him.*
Catie: what are you looking for? *looking
across the floor herself*
Marcus Souma: *He knocked over books? He
peers around one side of the bookshelves, at the mousey girl, picking up books.
No, must... not... help. Must be a jerk...*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: The looks Ingvar is
giving her draws a modicum of interest from the girl...she opens her mouth to
say something, before Catie and Marcus step in, causing her to think better of
it. Not a discussion with strangers present, and while she knows Catie...Marcus
is definitely a stranger. The girl gets a nod, the young man, an appraising
look.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He smoothes an
eyebrow, adjusts the small, bright tie tac.. some form of bird.. and peruses the
shelves.*
Marcus Souma: *He seems to know what he's
looking for, however. Fingertips run over spines. Too curious.* Y'need help
picking those up, eh? *he calls out. No looking back. And definitely no accent.
Perfecto English.*
Catie: good evening, sir. *a soft smile
toward Ingvar, then returns her gaze to the floor, looking for...whatever it is*
Catie: *nods back to Annika, with another
smile. and blinks, puzzled. she only sees the floor on the floor, really*
Wendy Berber {@work}: oh um. its ok..
*she hands find the little note, releif sweeping through her gangly form, she
gets up with a wobble and turns the sign to closed despite Marcus. He'd leave
once he found what he was looking for. * oh.. um... *she pinches a finger and
sniffles*.. I um.. just.. just a moment.. kay? *she moves to get the books on
the list*
Catie: *nods cheerfully to Wendy and calmly
begins to browse a bit*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She takes a step
back, her expression toward Marcus a touch...colder then the others, perhaps.
Not overtly so, just a bit more cool. She looks away from him, over to Ingvar.
Marcus Souma: *He snorts at Annika's
look.* I thought lesbians were usually hot, *he mutters, and yanks down a book
about Kami, starting to flip through it. He shrugs, and walks over to the
counter, smacking the book down on the counter to purchase.*
Catie: *carefully chooses a title, flipping
through the book to get a better idea of whether or not she wants it*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Powerful fingers slip
around his wrist.. then pale razors flick to Marcus and the young Judge
freezes... he neither moves, nor seems to breathe, merely watching the young
man.. though he spares a glance back to the door.*
Marcus Souma:
d10: per+alert: 10,2,3,8,8,9,4,
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she's about halfway
through the list, a huge stack of books testing the metal of scrawny arms as she
wobbles through the aisles. The door. for its part, is shut. closed sign stuck
on the front*
Catie: ((need to reboot.))
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She freezes as well.
Dead still, a cold gaze on Marcus. Did the room just get colder? Emotionally,
quite. She levels pale blue eyes at him, her face in a small scowl. "Pardon,
sir? I did not hear that quite clearly enough..."
Wendy Berber {@work}:
d10: dex ath inept: 5,6,5,
Marcus Souma: ((*sucks out one success, as
I rolled wrong dice*)) *He looks over to the group.* Shoulda told me it was
mafia day here at the bookstore before I came in.
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 9,5,2,10,3,8,
Marcus Souma: For chrissake, lady, I just
came in to get a book. *He snorts.* I got it. No need to give me the fucking
staredown.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *and there goes
wendy, tensing mid step not so good when its only heavy books and momentum
keeping you on your feet. She trips, falling into a shelve and raining books
down upon herhead, curling protectively over the ones she's already gathered*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *after a chorus of
sickening thumps.. there's silence again in the tense bookstore*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "I see." She smiles
coldly, completely without mirth. "Then by all means, since you have
your...book...you are welcome to stop polluting the air with your presence."
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Slender fingers
open, spread, then curl again as the young Judge begins to move toward Marcus.
Quite enough.. though the threshhold of what is tolerable is a bit less logical
during this time of so brightly glowing a moon.* Sir... apologize to the young
lady, or make your purchase elsewhere. *One hand spreads, and descends toward
the book.*
Marcus Souma: *He sighs, and rolls his
eyes again. Moving ot help the girl gather up the books.* Shit. If it's gonna be
like this... should I just leave it on hold before someone can ring me up
without killing themself?
Marcus Souma: *He looks up to the scary
guy. Though he seems... veritably undaunted.* For what? For insuting her after
she fucking eyed ME like a thief? If anything, she should be apologizing to me.
Wendy Berber {@work}: um please.. just
take it sir... *they didn't want him here.. and so wendy tries to get him to
just go... the pile of books speaking*
Catie: *frownign slightly and easing toward
Wendy to help her unbury herself from the books. murmurs softly* are you all
right, Miss Wendy?
Marcus Souma: *He snorts, and takes the
book. I'm not a fucking thief, *he snaps. Tossing down a crumpled ten from his
pocket.* Keep the change, okay?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Nevermind the book...
irritation upon irritation finally finds purchase in the young man's ceaseless
attitude. One powerful hand whips through the air as Ingvar's eyes glaze over.*
I will not ask for civility... *The words vanish in a senseless boil, little
more than a grinding, ominous growl... ((initiative?))
Marcus Souma: ((*Sticks an asterisk
between book. and I'm.*))
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "At least I can hold
my tongue," she murmurs to herself, keeping her cold gaze on the exceptionally
rude young Asian.
Marcus Souma:
d10: Init: 4,
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 5,
Wendy Berber {@work}: *bright red..wendy
nods, one hand moving books back on the shelf, bleeding a tad through her white
kneesocks. The other hand arranges ingvars books.... head ducked*..sorry
Marcus Souma: ((10))
Catie: *swallows hard at the growl and puts a
hand on Wendy's arm. otherwise freezing in place*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: ((11))
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 7,8,4,2,4,7,5,
Marcus Souma:
d10: dex+dodge: 8,10,9,9,9,
Annika Brandt [PB 5]:
d10: Init (Just in case): 8,
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: ((13, but she's not
acting this round, so....))
Wendy Berber {@work}: *Wendy's quite
frozen.. in fact its rather impressive she hasn't wet herself.. just stalk still
and waiting for death*
Marcus Souma: *And in almost a freakish,
supernatural speed, he moves back.* Whoawhoah HEY... Hey, look, mister... if you
want an apology, you've got it. Shit...
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 7,6,9,10,7,2,
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She tenses slightly
at the sudden movement from the Lord and the Asian, but no other reaction.
Calmly watching them.
Catie: *stays very close to Wendy and
keeps quiet, watching from under her lashes*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *wendy is moving so
little its hard to tell she's breathing, magnified eyes wide on the action*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *A coral flush lights
faintly olive skin.. too fast for true sanity, the Judge calms down.. eyes
moving from mounting, glassy fury as he asserts self control again... to the
flat, dark gaze of a snake.* Goodbye, cur. Return with manners, or a helmet.
Yes? *He smoothes one eyebrow.. adjusts his tie as the flush fades and will
continues to wrestle with anger.*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: ((*Watches the
PM's fly around the room*))
Marcus Souma: *His jaw tightens, and his
dark eyes flare with restrained temper. A little animal just rearing to bite.*
Don't need a helmet. *He looks over, and grabs his book. Again, with simple,
unquestionable grace. He turns back to the front door.* Enjoy your mafia
meeting. *He doesn't slam the door behind him, to be fair, though the muttered
Japanese word for 'dog' is probably NOT heard.*
Catie: *keeps her hand gently on Wendy's arm,
small body tense while she waits for the chance--she hopes--to resume de-booking
Wendy*
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 7,10,9,5,5,4,
Jez: He walks to the store, annoyed by the
closed sign, then steps out of the way as Marcus storms past. He catches the
door before it closes and slips in.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *Wendy seems to care
little about being debooked. Thin frame so tense she's trembling*
Jez: Maybe they can be persuaded to make
one more sale...hang on. He blinks.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *People must know
wendy's the shop keep.. they don't even respect the closed sign. Seems about
par*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She looks between
Marcus and Ingvar, relaxing a bit when Marcus heads out. She turns her gaze
calmly to the Lord, smiling slightly, though still a bit tense. "Thank you,
sir," she murmurs, head inclining slightly.
Marcus Souma: *and he makes sure, very
carefully, not to even touch Jez. With a cold look that rather insists he knows
where he's been.*
Jez: He is dressed in a beautifully
tailored suit of twilight blue silk. It shows off his lean frame, no longer too
skinny but with some hard muscle showing now. Tailored to fit him perfectly.
Jez: It is with supreme dignity that he
ignored Marcus. Either that, or his surprise at the little group inside.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *A deep inhale...
Ingvar's lip curls as the briefly held breath gusts from his nose slowly.. the
corner of his eye twitches briefly as powerful hands continue to smooth the
flawless, but ruffled suit.. several more motions before pale eyes return to the
room, mask eerily in place- nothing more than mild curiosity as he checks his
watch.*
Catie: *well, the other fellow's gone. and
Mr. Urgahaldt seems sort of calmer. maybe. cautiously removes a book from Wendy,
keeping Ingvar and his reactions in the corner of her eye*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He nods slightly to
Annika, no more weight than precisely required placed on simple duty. He clears
his throat as Jez enters.* Meester Talino. Lock the door behind you. Ms. Berber
has placed the sign for a reason.
Wendy Berber {@work}: ...I'm sorry sir..I
should have locked the door sir.. *she's panicking, trying to get the books off
of her so as to get the rest of the ones he'd requested.. he's checking his
watch.. it shouldn't take this long wendy..*
Jez: His greeting to Ingvar is so subtle,
that most would not even notice it. A tilt of his head, his expression of the
utmost sincere respect. To the others, he simply smiles. "Did I come at a bad
time?" he murmurs to Catie. "Hello, Wendy."
Jez: He immediately turns and locks the
door.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She stands there, calmly holding her books near the shelf. A look over to Jez, and then to the two girls, then finally back to Ingvar. Her still face is placid, expectant, if still a bit cold over the whole to-do.
Catie: hello, Mr. Jez. *a sweet smile to
the man* mmm....there was a rude person in here just a moemnt ago. *helps Wendy
by getting more books off her, and then stacking them neatly when the girl
rises. not trying to shelve them--she might put something in the wrong place*
Wendy Berber {@work}: Hello Mr. Talino
sir.. *she says precisely, stacking books with a weak smile to catie, thankful*
Jez: He moves to help Catie and Wendy.
"Good to see you both again," he says quietly.
Catie: *smiles warmly back to Wendy, then
nods to Jez, dark eyes glad to see him* it's good to see you, as well. how have
you been?
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Good day," she
murmurs to Jez from her spot, eyeing him appraisingly.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *between the three
of them the books are quickly stacked and she looks over to Ingvars general area
a moment, .. .he was talking with miss Brandt.. She sets the books down and
climbs up to retreive the last 3, hands shaking on the ladder. She's forgotten
about the whole skirt thing in her panic to get ingvar the books he wants*
Jez: "Very well, Catie." He smiles. He has
*definitely* filled out, and it's not fat. It's lean, hard muscle, and he
carries himself with more self-assurance than ever before.
Jez: He gives Annika a warm smile. "I'm
Jez Talino." A nod to her.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He continues to calm
with methodical precision.. soon, too soon, the only sign of agitation is
slight.. and purely a result of the mood in which he entered the store in the
first place. His eyes touch on Annika again.. he seems to consider her for a
moment.. or something beyond her. Tracing the lines of her face with his eyes
and only slightly discreet. Once calmed again he looks away.. strangely, the
manner of one meditating before a portrait for a while.*
Catie: *looks Jez over and chuckles softly*
you are looking very well, sir. i think i'm jealous--your physical studies are
obviously going better than mine. perhaps i should hit the gym more often!
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: That look draws back
the idle curiosity, and she tilts her head a bit to Ingvar, reaching up to brush
her hair back behind an ear once more. "Sir...is everything quite all right?"
Said politely and calmly.
Jez: He glances towards Ingvar, reassuring
himself that the Lord does not want for anything, then smiles back to Catie.
"Thank you, I'm glad it's showing. I've filled my place with all kinds of
exercise and weight equipment. I'm trying to get into serious shape. The classes
I'm taking are going to get tougher."
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *The rest of the kin are
each considered in turn.. Wendy's precarious manner on the ladder as well. He
moves several steps closer, though something about Jez seems to draw his
attention, and a mild nod. Pleased, it would seem.* You continue to adjust well,
Ms. Brandt?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: mm. *He nods once in
answer to her question, apparently considering nothing amiss.*
Jez: The tiniest hint of a smile. It's not
pride of self so much as pride that he pleased his...er, *a* Lord.
Catie: *gives Jez a soft chuckle, then
flashes a glance to Wendy to make sure she doesn't look about to fall off the
ladder* it does, and it suits you. all i have at home is a yoga mat, a couple of
excercise balls, and a apir of dumbells. i have so many other classes i have to
deal with, too, and i sort of have a kind of job. *laughs softly* sort of. a
paid gig!
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He moves a step
closer to Wendy, reaching up if it is possible for her to pass books to him.*
Ms. Berber.. feel free to hand them down, yes? You are rather high in the air.
Wendy Berber {@work}: um..? *she asks
quietly... yes. that was a question, looking down a moment from the ladder a
story above them. then she frowns. no. that was a stupid idea. she swallows and
goes back to lowering herself down the ladder with one hand,books in the other,
bleeding through her sock*
Jez: Catie: "That's really good news, I
hope all goes flawlessly. He offers a hand to Wendy to help her getting down.
"Wendy?"
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "They are
progressing, yes, sir." She nods to Ingvar primly, head held high. "Thank you
for asking."
Jez: ooc> Getting the books down, I
mean *L*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *She nearly falls
off the ladder upon being spoken too, cringing and nodding, every part of her
shying away from the hungarian but her boney hand, that offers 3 books meekly*
Catie: *keeps an eye on Wendy and smiles to
Jez* thank you, sir. i rather hope so, too. *chuckles*
Wendy Berber {@work}: um.. yes sir.. *she
looks to Jez a moment, eyes magnified, blinking behind glasses through shaggy
black bangs*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *His eyes flicker across
Annika's posture for a moment before pale green eyes settle against her face
again. The similarity continues to haunt.. to cajole.. no hint given light on
his face as he watches her with mild interest.* I understand that your home
calms, somewhat.. things proceed well?
Jez: Of course, Ingvar has it well in
hand, but he prepares to catch Wendy if she falls.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *The books settle in his
hands after a short drop.. eyes drawn in faint consternation at their titles..
or something they represent. Stacked firmly and transfered to the register
counter, his face slips into mild curiosity again.*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She raises a pale
eyebrow at that, frowning ever so slightly, and moves to the counter, setting
the books that Wendy gave her there. Just somewhere to rest them. "I still await
for word. I am hopeful, though."
Wendy Berber {@work}: *once off the ladder
she struggles to pick up the other books, setting them beside Ingvars 3 on the
counter. she then looks for a place to store herself until she is asked to do
something, running totals in her head*
Jez: He's still watching Wendy, ready at a
moment's notice to stop her tumble.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *The words boil from him
a touch faster than the young magyar can catch them.. perhaps her breeding
elicits such.. hard to tell.* I will be making a trip north within the week.. I
intend to visit briefly. If you wish- *a glance, but he arranges the books with
smooth efficiency.. mindful of the maddening titles.* I could bring back news,
were you interested in something in particular.. *He blinks.. staring at a book.
This will need to cease.*
Jez: Relaxes when she's on the ground. Not
that that's a guarantee of her safety.
Catie: *blinks slowly and gently at Wendy*
Miss Wendy? are there any cookbooks that you might recommend to someone like me,
who doesn't have a lot of skill in the kitchen? *tilts her head*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He extracts a small
pocketbook from inside his coat, flipping through a small stack of bills.*
Wendy Berber {@work}: oh um. kay.. *she
nods, a glance to jez, then turning bright red as she feels his eyes on her...
she swallows and moves towards a scetion that doesn't look like it has much of
anything, saying apologetically* um.. miss catie.. we um.. don't really ave much
on cooking.. i'm sorry.. *she liberates 2 small books, steadying the shelf so
she doesn't knock anything over, head dipped in failure*
Wendy Berber {@work}:
d10: dex ath inept: 8,5,2,
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Mmm. That would be
most appreciated." She nods. "My sister and I have been trying to find a way to
get up there, as a matter of fact, to visit our family...but public
transportation being as expensive as it is, and we have no car, nor skill at
driving. But I would not impose upon you to take us up, as you surely have your
own business." She inclines her head to him. "Perhaps if you could relay a
letter from us?"
Jez: He glances at Ingvar, just a
momentary glance, his eyes flicking out the door. He straightens and gives the
others a smile. "If you'll excuse me, ladies. I'll return to purchase something
when the store is open." He slips out the door, stepping off to one side.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *a bit of a stumble
as she makes for the till, books in her hand.. Rhya urgahaldt would like to
pay... *
Jez: ((going to dinner, be back soon!))
Catie: *smiles warmly to Wendy, happily
taking the two books* that's just fine. these will be perfect. Miss Wendy, i
don't suppose you'd care to come by for dinner later this week? i'll be cooking
my Margarita Chicken. i ~promise~ i've managed to cook it well, too. if you
don't mind cats, i mean--i have three.
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 3,8,1,2,8,3,8,
Catie: *smiels warmly to Jez* have a good
night, sir!
Wendy Berber {@work}: Oh.. *she seems startled someone's actually.. you know.. inviting her somewhere..* oh. um. yes. yeah. I mean. yes please. um. thank you miss wendy..
Ingvar Urgahaldt: Ehm, yes.. certainly
a letter would be appropriate- *a momentary pause, the Judge's regal face locked
in stone as he continues only a bit too late.* Considering the brevity of my
visit. I may be gone for some time, considering the nature of the trip.
Wendy Berber {@work}: i mean catie.. I'm
wendy.. miss catie * Oh.. dear .. GOD! we knew it was going to happen
eventually nerdo.. but you're officially TOO stupid to remember your OWN
NAME.... she turns bright red and cringes* ...sorry.
Catie: *beams at the girl* wonderful! do you
have any allergies to any foods? *chuckles* or a favorite dessert. i won't
promise to make it, but i can try. and if it doesn't turn out, i can buy one
ready made. *dark eyes delighted at the accepted invitation*
Catie: *waves a hand lightly* we all make
slips of the tongue occasionally. i knew what you meant. *a happy little nod*
Wendy Berber {@work}: um. no.. I'm ok
with um. with whatever you cook miss catie. *still bright red and flustered,
head dipped as her cheeks burn* .. um. thank you.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Another glance at Catie..
hmm.. one to ask about such things..*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Of course," She
inclines her head once more to Ingvar, eyes lowering appropriately. What the man
does is not her business. "I shall endeavor to get such a missive into your
hands before you leave."
Catie: *gives Wendy a spontaneous hug*
thank you for accepting the invitation. it will be lovely. what day works best
for you? *tilts her head again* my schedule is flexible, so any night works for
me.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He clears his throat
briefly.. perhaps the Kin missed it.. good. He reaches into a jacket pocket and
extracts a slender steel card holder. Momentarily he offers the woman a gray
business card with a nod.* Do feel free to give me a call as you please, Ms.
Brandt.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She looks up,
considering the business card for a moment, before she reaches out and retrieves
it with pale, delicate fingers. "Thank you, sir," she murmurs. "I shall."
Wendy Berber {@work}: *theres an
awkward noise from wendy as she's hugged. Stiff. Its like hugging a sack of
bones..kinda gross. Catie can feel them crunching together*..uh.. wha- um. ok.
um. whenever you'd like..miss catie..*her eyes are HUGE, blinking as she
struggles to maintain her balance*
Wendy Berber {@work}:
d10: dex ath inept: 5,4,1,
Ingvar Urgahaldt -> Annika Brandt [PB 5]:
d10: per+emp: 7,3,10,3,8,
Catie: *chuckles softly* well, what night off
do you have this week. *small face happy despite the....crunchy sort of hug*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He closes the case with
a snap before replacing it in one pocket with a nod. Odd.. is he.. vaguely
nervous?*
Wendy Berber {@work}: Sat-urr...*not so
much with the balance.. in fact.. there's a sickening crunch noise out of
wendy's already swollen ankle as she weaves for balance and loses the war,
twisting sideways and falling with a GAck noise*
Annika Brandt [PB 5] -> Ingvar Urgahaldt:
She's very intrigued by Ingvar, and curious as to what about her makes him
uncomfortable. Very worried about things at home, and how her family is doing.
And the man makes her feel torn somehow.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she looks like a
bagladie's laundry heap, sprawled on the ground beside poor Catie, ankle
looking.. unnatural*
Catie: oh, dear--what's wrong, Miss Wendy?
*immediately drops to the floor to peer anxiously at Wendy*
Wendy Berber {@work}: its ok. I'm sorry.
um.. ouch.. saturday is the day i have off miss catie.. *its said through
gritted teeth as she just lays there a minute, dealing with the pain* I'm sorry.
um. just a sec. ..kay?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: esgeiyt... *He looks
around swiftly at Wendy's rather loud aquaintance with the ground.. a slightly
excusatory glance to Annika- perhaps presuming the Kin will assist her sister-
in- arms... for his own part the young Magyar does what any respectful Lord
would do... he pretends not to notice Wendy in a moment of weakness.*
Catie: oh, goodness...*nibbles her lip
anxiously* Mr. Urgahaldt? may i impose on you a moment, sir?
Wendy Berber {@work}: *oh god no..don't
get the true born* no..no its ok.. I'm good.. I'm ok.. its ok..*she's struggling
to get to her feet hastilly.. not wanting to bother the ryha*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She nods at the
look, and moves to help Wendy to her feet, bending gracefully down to help her.
Catie: if you're certain. but your ankle
is injured, and i can see that. *tries to help the girl up* where's a chair? you
need to sit down and take your weight off that foot. *blinks apologetically to
Ingvar* ah, never mind, sir--we have it, i think....my apologies.
Catie: *smiles gratefully to Annika*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she's easily
hauled to her feet, touching her through the sweater a little unpleasant.. girls
maybe 90 lbs? the sweater makes her look twice as big.. and thats pathetic*..
oh.um..*she's red, not wanting to be fussed over, tone apologetic* its ok..
really. its ok.. *she makes an attempt to hop over towards the counter, to get
behind it. thats where she should be anyway*
Catie: *arches a brow delicately* Miss Wendy,
if you don't rest your ankle, it could get worse. and then you'd perhaps be
unable to work for a long time.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: mm? Oh. *Ingvar turns at
Catie's polite request.. perhaps knowing to what her question pertains. He
affects an air of mild curiosity, then merely nods to the woman as she declares
the situation under control. Thus, the Judge considers a few titles on the
overstocked shelves..*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Nonsense." She
waves the bookwormish girl's protects off. "Allow me to help." She provides
support for the girl, moving with her to help her get to the counter with a
minimum of pain.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: ((protests.
Tiepeeng are ezey! :P))
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Embarassment
increases... finally the line between gentleman and polite gentleman can be
stressed no further.. carefully avoiding actually ~looking~ at the girl, the
broad shouldered hungarian simply reaches down, sweeps Wendy up into his arms,
and moves to replace her on the floor delicately... only on the other side of
the counter. ~Quite~ unseemly.. but efficiency over all.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *...there.. it will
stand. And will not be weak.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt:
d10: : 10,3,7,4,5,8,
Catie: *follows the others quietly, watching
Wendy worriedly*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She steps back as
Ingvar swoops in and moves Wendy. Nothing said about it, merely accepting, with
a prim nod to Ingvar.
Wendy Berber {@work}: *hobble.. wince..
hobble.. wince.. hobble wince.. GASP as she's picked up.. eyes wide on ingvar a
moment.. and then she looks to the floor.. turning a shade of red that was yet
undiscovered on human flesh. her mouth opens and closes like a fish's for a
moment and then she blurts*..um.. thank you ryha. Sorry. *a swallow as
embarrasement burns up her face and she holds onto the counter*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Coral threatens the
tone of his skin for a moment.. tie smoothed.. an eyebrow.. a slight crease
pressed from one sleeve with one powerful hand.. anything to keep his eyes from
Wendy until she rights herself.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: Ms. Bellewhit.. *Pale
eyes flicker toward the shorter woman.* Where do you work?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *His eyes do flicker to
Annika's for a moment, but the Lord makes no comment.*
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she swallows,
tugging at her sweater and leaning on the counter slightly, head down, a glance
spared around the store before she stares at the counter*
Catie: *blinks slowly to Ingvar* i don't
really work anywhere, sir. i've a paid gig soon, though.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She looks away from
Ingvar, to Wendy...waiting until she is stable before she can broach the subject
of paying for the books.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He blinks at Catie,
tasting the word.* A... "gig"? *Realization slips across his face for a moment.*
Ah- colloquialism, yes.. it is not a job?
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she's stable, and
folding nto herself like oragami, shamed and silent, just waiting at the counter
with her eyes on the ground*
Catie: i'm not sure if it's going to be long
term or simply for one evening. i suppose it will depend, in part, on how well i
sing that night. *bites her lip, just once, and then recalls herself. little
face smoothing, free of fear-failure. mostly.*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "Miss Berber...if I
may." She reaches over, collecting her books and placing them quietly on the
counter next to the register. She opens her bag and withdraws a small wallet.
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *ahems* This will be
all, Ms. Berber.. *One long finger taps the top book.* Do you have suggestion as
to where to begin? *Polite enough, the words flavor the air only mildly. His
eyes focus in firm demand against the top of her head. Recover, creature.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He takes a step back as
Annika begins her own transaction. A touch of relief slips through broad
shoulders as he is allowed away by her initiative.*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He pauses... slowly
his eyes slip back to Catie in mild suprise.* Singing... *his eyes slip across
her chest.. automatically assessing lung volume, the cast of her voice.* What
genre? And when, if I may?
Wendy Berber {@work}: *a small nod to
Annika, a few scratches of pencil as she runs the totals in her head.. its only
a moment before she quotes a price* 17.86 mam. *a swallow as she considers
ingvars question, not looking at him as she says quietly* um. Ferhelm and Yung
has a um.. breif overveiw.. its maybe a good place to um. start reading.. unless
um. you're already familiar? *her hands pick at her sweater, a wince as she puts
her foot down, then jerks it up again, red as a beet. her spine like liquid*
Catie: *blushes softly* the Supper Club. they
play a lot of 40s-era big-band sorts of music. left to my own devices, i tend
strongly toward ballads and story-songs with sad endings. *shrugs lightly* i'm a
soprano, but somehow those sorts of songs seem to work for me. *gives him the
date and time as well*
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She nods and picks
out a twenty, handing it over. "Thank you for the advice. I shall start there."
Wendy Berber {@work}: *she nods, fumbling
and getting the pretty kin her change*
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Ingvar's spine
straightens even more- if that is possible.. his eyes flick to Wendy as he
responds.* No. I am not familiar.*Only a hint of... offense? Something sharp-
taints Ingvar's voice as he answers, then turns back to Catie, watching her lips
as she speaks... training ensures the rest. The occasion will not be forgotten.*
I would like to attend.. will tickets be sold from the Supper Club?
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: She takes the change
with a politely grateful nod, slipping it back into the wallet, then taking her
books. "Thank you...good day." She looks over to Catie, then Ingvar, her gaze
pausing there once more, still a hint of that curiosity. "Miss Bellewit. Sir.
Good evening to you both."
Catie: *smiles softly* it's a restaurant,
sir, with live music as simply part of the night's enjoyment. i'm not sure if
they do reservations, though, so if you'd like to attend you may wish to call
them about that. i should be delighted if you choose to do so.
Catie: *smiles warmly* have a good
evening, Miss Brandt. it was lovely to see you again. please convey my regards
to your sister as well?
Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Pale eyes flicker to
the side as he feels Annika's eyes on his back.. he turns slightly, nodding for
a moment as he responds.* Good evening, Ms. Brandt.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: "I most certainly
will, Miss Bellewhit." She smiles slightly and turns to head out.
Wendy Berber {@work}: um.. goodnight miss.
*sorry... she doesn't say it, its more expressed in the curl of her shoulders
and the softening further of her posture. she looks to her scratch pad, and
limply makes a few calculations. ready for when he wants to leave. She'd
understand if he didn't want her to be under his protection anymore. She
certaintly wouldn't want her, if she were him. a roll of her lips as she waits
silently, head down*
Jez: A sleek, beautiful, silver
Maserati Spyder Cambiocorsa drives up and parks just outside the closed shop,
motor running. It's a convertible, but the top is on.
Jez: ((the car:
http://www.wodnyc.net/modules/coppermine/albums/uploads10296/JezCar.jpg))
Catie: *blinks happily to Annika* oh,
goodness--i'm going to have to get home soon. *a soft chuckle* if i don't get
enough sleep tonight, i'm likely to fail my English test tomorrow. and i'll be
heartily ashamed of myself if i do.
Annika Brandt [PB 5]: ((*Snickers* Ooh, I
love this icy bitch. Thanks for the scene, guys. *Hugs*))