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The Bishop's ReceptionOctober 12, 4995 -------------------------------------------- Ballroom, Manse al-Malik This immense four-walled chamber is brightly lit by a crystal chandelier, larger than a Vorox, which hangs from the high dome of pink sandstone overhead. Already, couples dance across the floor of gleaming white marble, veined in black, to the music provided by a small orchestra seated on a red velvet dais on the eastern side of the room. Others stand about the walls are recline on the scattered floor pillows or the rare chair against the wall. The northern wall is formed of a series of arches in which hang thick curtains of royal purple. The southern wall is mostly windows, which open out on the back garden. The other two walls are lined with pilasters between which alternate alcoves suitable for private conversation and short columns set with colorful arrangements of fresh flowers. Beyond the windows, the night is cloudy and cool The notables assembled here include Marquis Elijah of House al-Malik, and Marquessa Jennifer Hawkwood, conversing near the north end of the room. In one of the alcoves reside Climacus, the newly installed Bishop of Vargo, Brother Lamentation of the Eskatonic Order, Count Andrei of House Decados, and Father-Commander Leviticus of the Brother Battle. Near the exits hover Orsini, a Li-Halan lord, and Major Ethan Sawisha of the Muster. Alvaro scans the ballroom, his lips pursed contritely. His eyes come to rest briefly on the new Bishop, then move on in search of the hostess of this reception. Sarasvati steps through the curtains on the northern wall.
Sarasvati Savastri draws eyes like a flame draws moths--a tall, elegant flame with golden skin and the grace of a dancer. Her features are of extra-ordinary refinement, dominated by sea-green eyes, a slight tilt betraying some Li Halan ancestry, that can glitter like emeralds, dance like stars, or dream like mist, all in the space of a few seconds. Her thick, night-black hair flows loosely about her right shoulder and down to the middle of her back. The left side her scalp is shaved clean and upon it is painted a profusion of flowers in vibrant green and gold. The artwork continues out to surround her left eye, two golden stamens hanging down her cheek. In the middle of her forehead is a small, black tattoo of a jumpgate. She is wearing a sleeveless, high-necked gown of fine green silk which clings to her lithe but curvaceous form. A pattern of jagged, interlocking glyphs, embroidered in golden thread, begins at her shoulder, descends to her upper thigh where it grazes the slit in her skirt, then turns to wind across her lower back, the glyphs shrinking in size until they disappear altogether on the right. A belt of large gold loops hangs over her hips, and a half-dozen thin golden bracelets decorate each arm. From her ears hang large gold earrings in the form of the al-Malik starburst, edged in emeralds. A gold-colored sheath hangs from the center of the belt, the handle of a Ukari ceremonial knife clearly visible. Elijah says, "Welcome to my home, My lord." Jennifer smiles and takes another sip of her champagne. Orsini says, "Pardon me, Marquessa, but might I be permitted to step outside? If I don't miss my guess you have some offworld fauna growing there that I havent had the opportunity of appreciating before." Sarasvati says, "Certainly Orsini. Though if you are truly interested in offworld flora I suggest the Arboretum, it's back through the Main Hall to the East." Orsini says, "Really? Thank you, Marquessa!" Orsini bows to Marquessa Sarasvati, then hurries across the ballroom. He pushes a drape aside and leaves the ballroom. Orsini has left. Alvaro steps up to Elijah, leaning close. He whispers, "Your pardon, My Lord, but might I beg of thee an introduction to the Bishop. I fear, due to the absent-mindedness of my valet, I have missed his ordination altogether." Elijah says, "Greetings my lord. By all means." Sarasvati turns to the newcomer Alvaro, "Good evening, I am Sarasvati al-Malik. This is Lady Jennifer Hawkwood. Apparently you know Elijah?" Jennifer nods politely to Alvaro. Alvaro bows to the Marquessa with a flourish. "Only by reputation, My Lady." Elijah wonders what that is supposed to mean. Sensing Elijah's attention upon him, Alvaro whispers, "No offense intended, My Lord; I simply did a bit of research before arriving here unnanounced. It is so trying, being a newcomer to an alien environment." Elijah smiles at Alvaro's comment, then takes Alvaro over to the Alcove. "My lord and graces, This is the Baron Alvaro." Climacus stands, "Good evening my son. I hope the Light finds you well."
Climacus A tall man of indeterminate age with broad shoulders and a spare frame, wearing a simple crimson cassock. Around his neck hangs a large silver jumpgate cross, a second, tiny jumpgate cross hangs from his pierced left ear, and a scarlet and gold(colored) prayer rope loops around his left wrist. His skin is a rich copper in color, his hair a slightly lighter red-gold. His curling, untrimmed beard reaches almost to the bottom of his rib-cage; his scalp is shaved clean except for a thick braid which hangs from the back down to his waist. A second, very thin braid grows from his right temple and is then tied to the larger braid. His broad features are peaceful though his piercing eyes are an incongrous sparkling blue, surrounded by tiny smile wrinkles. Sarasvati looks to Jennifer, "Apparently we are abandoned." Andrei nods at Alvaro, eyes glittering.
Andrei Tonight Andrei is wearing tight fitting black clothing, accentuating every contour on his body. A black billowing cloak is fastened at his throat with a bright green emerald clasp, which if you look closely has the Mantis symbol engraved on it. The inside of the cloak is a a very dark green silk, with the Mantis symbol subtly hidden in the weave of the material. Black knee high boots complete the picture. The simple yet elegant cut of his clothing is further enhanced by the obvious high quality of the material. A strange scent wafts out every time he moves his cloak, slightly sweet but not unpleasant.. conjuring thoughts of the man eating plants on Severus luring their prey closer.. Jennifer smiles. "I don't know why." She looks down at herself. "Maybe I should have chosen my clothes better." Elijah says, "The two of us, wanted to apologise for missing your Ordination, unfortunatly I had pressing business. Now if you will excuse me, I must return to the ladies afore they begin plotting my death." Alvaro bows deeply to the Bishop and other notables. "It does, Your Grace. And indeed, I would like to apologize for missing your installation." Elijah bows to the bishops and rejoins The ladies, Jenifer and Sarasvasti. "I beg your forgiveness." Elijah says, "The lord requested an introduction. I do apologize." Sarasvati smiles, "I doubt that's the problem--but apparently a trio of bishops trumps two Marquessas." She gestures at Jennifers wrist, "May I ask about that bracelet though? It seems to scream 'I have a story.'" Jennifer holds up the bracelet to Sarasvati. "Oh yes, it came from my old command." Elijah says, "Your command, Where did you fight?" At the Bishops' alcove, a circulating waiter approaches Alvaro with a tray of champagne flutes. Climacus says, "That's quite alright my son." Alvaro says, "Oh, but it is not, Your Grace. As a representative of the Hazat, I must do my utmost to serve my House well." He pauses to accept a champagne flute. "And that includes making a good first impression with the new Bishop of Vargo." Andrei sits patiently, smiling thinly. Lamentation chuckles. "Funny how nobody wants to make a good impression on me." Andrei sips from hus flute, casting an amused look at Lamentation "I think it is just a matter of perception Vladika.." Lamentation has an amused twinkle in his eye. "Naturally." Climacus waves a hand, "My son, it is your service to your house and the Pancreator in the days ahead which will matter. Not whether you managed to attend a single service." Climacus gestures at Lamentation, "This is Brother Lamentation--and my fellow bishop." Lamentation says, "A pleasure." Alvaro bows to the second Bishop, then inclines his head respectfully to Climacus. "I will accept this wise counsel, then. But I have taken up enough of Your Grace's time. Nevertheless, I hope to call upon you soon in your offices, to correct my oversight of this evening." He bows again, then moves off to circulate. Climacus says, "Certainly my son." Jennifer turns her head to Elijah. "On a variety of planets, or rather.. Above a variety of planets." Elijah says, "Ah, a spacer. I did all my fighting in the mud." Jennifer says, "Ah? On what planets did you fight? I mostly fought out from the Al-Malik worlds." Sarasvati bows to the two, "I sense war stories coming on." She smiles, "If you two will excuse me." Jennifer says, "Of course." Sarasvati strolls up to the episcopal alcove and leans against its side. Ethan looks passively in Sarasvati's direction, nodding to himself. Climacus stops in the process of sitting and stands again. "My child, thank you for the hospitality of your house. It is most generous." Sarasvati says, "Think nothing of it, Master. House al-Malik is always happy to do its part for the Church." Leviticus nods to the lady. Elijah says, to Jennifer, "All over the place, but the one that seems to come back to haunt me seems to be Cadiz." Elijah says, "I met The Father Leviticus there at the Seige of Badajos. He was leading the Forlorne Hope." Jennifer says, "Indeed?" She raises a tattooed eyebrow. "I did fight there a couple of times, but only raids. None of the major battles I am afraid, when were you there?" Elijah says, "Almost ten years ago." Sarasvati smiles at Andrei. "May I ask the topic of conversation?" Climacus glances at Andrei. "We were discussing the substance of my speech." Andrei smiles back, eyes flickering to the Vladikoi. Sarasvati says, "Ah, yes, Murder in the Cathedral." Climacus says, "Yes. Exactly." Andrei says, "Perhaps this is not the best of times to discuss such grave matters though..." Climacus rubs his cheek. "Perhaps not. I'm afraid the vigil required before ordination is taking its toll on me right now and I am not at my best." Out on the floor, Jennifer smiles at Elijah. "I was but a girl then, a 16 year old capitan. It is a shame we missed each other." Elijah smiles back at Jennifer. "A captain so young? I am amazed." Orsini comes in from the rear garden. Orsini smiles. Ethan shifts at Orsini's entrance. Alvaro sips carefully from his glass, his eyes roaming the room. He seems somewhat at a loss for what to do with himself. Orsini closes the doors to the back lawn. Andrei hides a grin behind a sip from his glass. Orsini moves to join the nobles and clergy. Jennifer shrugs. "We House Hawkwood needed the man power. Of course, I was not in front line service at that time, I had to wait a year to send my ship into combat." Elijah says, "You sound like you were so eager. When I discovered my talent I could not wait to join the dervishes." Alvaro wanders closer to Jennifer and Elijah, his interest piqued by the martial talk. Jennifer laughs. "Anything to get away from my family and give me a chance to prove myself. I suppose in hindsight I should not have awaited combat so eagerly. But nothing quite beats giving the order to fire a Spinal Mount Meson Cannon." Elijah says, "We always look forward to our first fight, it is the second that is the one we dread." Jennifer says, "Indeed. Although as a Capitan I could not appear to be afraid, which is difficult for a 17 year old girl." Elijah nods. "I guess I was lucky. privates are allowed to crap themselves." Orsini bows to Marquessa Sarasvati. He says, "I'm afraid I managed to get rather lost, Marquessa, but there were several large young men with weapons back there that pointed me in the right direction. I told them I'd thank you for their pains. You have an exquisite collection of fauna, may I congratulate you on it." Sarasvati says, "Why thank you Orsini." Orsini says, "I was honored to make your acquaintance and spend time in your lovely home." Orsini bows again to the Marquessa. Orsini says, "...and I will take my leave of you and your guests with a fond heart." Sarasvati returns the bow with a slight curtsey, "You are sweet to say so, Orsini. I hope we shall see you here again." Andrei looks around at the Vladikoi and at Sarasvati. Alvaro glances at Orsini, making a poor effort to suppress a smirk. Orsini says, "I look forward to any opportunity that I might be of service, or merely in your company." Orsini says, "farewell." Orsini pushes a drape aside and leaves the ballroom. The purple drapes on the northern wall are brushed aside and the alien form of Ocquin
steps into view. Covered slightly by the shadow of the curtains, he surveys the large Ballroom, taking in who is present, where they are
and making a mental note of it. He scowls slightly as his gaze wanders the room.
Ocquin Ocquin is an Ur Ukar - his black pupiless eyes and ugly ritual scarring (which covers the
entirety of his body) immediately setting him apart from the typical looks of 'ordinay', human folk. He is of average height, muscular, but
lean with it - a man used to training and action. His hair is pure white, long and tied back in a severe pony-tail. His face is not
unattractive, but the perpetual sneer, scars, harsh nose detract from his appeal. Andrei looks at the newcomer with interest, eyes glittering. Ethan gazes for a few long moments at Ocquin, eyes empty and dead.
Ethan A man, of middle height and pale skin. His short, spiky hair, matches his eyebrows and piercing blue eyes for colour; a blue too intense, and translucent, to be found in nature. When with people, a warm smile is quick to form and laughter dances in his odd eyes. Ethan wears a long shirt, left untucked and unbuttoned near the neck, made of some sort of thin fabric. As it moves and shifts the colours swirl from deep blue to verdant greens. On closer inspection it actually looks as if the shirt is made from some form of snake-skin, incredibly thin and light, it still retains its scales. Each fold and wrinkle seems designed to showcase his too perfect body. A pin in red carnellian and gold, is affixed to his shirt above his heart, depicting the Muster insignia. The long sleeves come to tight cuffs around the wrists of his strong hands. His fingernails are that same odd blue. Black pants sweep down to the floor in ripples of soft leather. Hard heeled boots of black leather rise nearly to his knees. Clasps and buckles of all sorts adorn them, and they shine as if lacquered. In all, he seems more like a work of art than a living person. His movements are too graceful, his body too sculpted, and his eyes are too unnatural. Noticing Andrei's gaze, Sarasvati's eyes follow his. They widen at the sight of Ocquin and she smiles. Sarasvati says, "If you gentleman will excuse me, apparently I have another guest to greet." Sarasvati approaches Ocquin. Climacus nods, "Of course," retaking his seat. Ocquin notices Sarasvati standing and approaching him, and a flicker of emotion washes across his face. Sarasvati says, "Greetings and welcome under the roof of my house. I am Sarasvati al-Malik." Sarasvati follows this with something unintelligible to most of those present. Elijah looks around, he seems slightly surprised at the newcomer's apperance. Jennifer turns to face the newcomer. As Sarasvati speaks, Ocquin bows his head. "I thank you - I am heartened at your greeting." he says in a gruff voice, his accent slightly tainted with his Ukar heritage. Alvaro raises one eyebrow as he studies the newcomer. His gaze is speculative. Elijah says, "Welcome indeed." Jennifer's face betrays no emotion she might have at the sight of a Ur Ukar. Elijah says, "Where were we? Ah yes, in battle." Jennifer turns back. "Indeed, in battle." Alvaro stares at the Ur Ukar a moment longer, then shrugs dismissively and turns away Ocquin looks beyond Sarasvati's shoulder and into the room, to return the stares he is apparently getting. Maintaining his gaze, he says to Sarasvati. "Let me introduce myself." Sarasvati says, "Please." The Ukar returns his gaze to the al-Malik noblewoman. "My name is Anari Foellen Ocquin. I am the agent of Archbishop Kalatch of the Urth Orthodox. I am here to present myself to the new Bishop of Vargo." Sarasvati's widen in some surprise, "Certainly. If you will come with me, I will present you." Climacus blinks. Ocquin bows his head once more and awaits the al-Malik to lead on. Jennifer smiles as she hears what Ocquin said. Andrei pauses, then seems to decide to stay a while longer as Sarasvati approaches.. Sarasvati leads Ocquin over to the bishop's alcove. "Your Grace Climacus, may I present Anari Foellen Ocquin, an agent of Archbishop Kalatch. Ocquin, His Grace Climacus of Vargo." Ocquin bows deeply to the newly installed Bishop and holds his bow, awaiting his recognition. Climacus has risen, he inclines his head to Ocquin. "Greetings. I hope the Uncreated Light finds you well this day." Jennifer is watching the action out of the corner of her eye. Climacus says, "Archbishop Kalatch? I'm afraid I don't know his Eminence." Lamentation says, "I have not heard of him either." The Ukar straightens and gives the Bishop a funny look, something approximating a smile. "I am well - the Pancreators light guides my path to yourself. His Eminence has sent me to herald his arrival. In approximately 3 days he will be arriving by Church Ship. There are matters he must discuss with you, Bishop Climacus." Andrei looks at Sarasvati with raised eyebrows, eyes glittering slightly. Sarasvati returns Andrei's gaze with a slight tilt of her head Climacus says, "Oh yes, forgive me. This is Master Lamentation of the Eskatonic Order, Master Leviticus of Brother Battle and Count Andrei Decados." Lamentation says, "May your light never fade, father." Ocquin bows to the church men in turn as they are introduced and then gives the Count a deeper bow. Andrei nods to Ocquin, smiling, eyes glittering. Alvaro swirls the contents of his champagne flute, his dark eyes returning to the Ukar. Elijah shakes himself. Climacus says, "Ah. Thank you. Three days you say? Hmm. I should probably return to the Cathedral to start preparations to welcome him. Would you like to accompany me Ocquin? Or I presume the reception will continue for awhile if you would like to remain." Ocquin bows his head slightly. "I am as you will, Father." Lamentation says, "Might I join you two?" Ocquin looks up slightly at Lamentation, a curious look on his face. Climacus glances about, "Well, I think I would like to talk to you in more detail certainly." He glances at Lamentation, "That's acceptable to me, certainly." Then back at Ocquin. Ocquin bows his head in obeisance. Lamentation stands. "Well then." Andrei bows slightly to the Vladikoi "You will excuse me. I will see you at a later time" He nods to Ocquin before leaving the alcove. Lamentation steps out of the alcove, followed by Climacus. Ethan shifts, keeping his gaze on the people around Andrei. Sarasvati captures Andrei's arm as he emerges, "It seems you have a moment, my lord." Andrei smiles at Sarasvati "Why yes my Lady" Jennifer watches the people preparing to leave, swirling the last of champagne in her glass. Leviticus precedes the Clerical party out of the room. Climacus gestures to his little party, "If you will?" He nods good-bye to the rest of the room. Climacus pushes a drape aside and leaves the ballroom, followed by Ocquin and Lamentation. Jennifer looks around. "Well that caused a stir." Elijah says, "Yes It did. I had not known that there were any aliens on Vargo. I guess that was true up untill now..." Jennifer shrugs. "Its not like it matters, I was refering more to the Archbishop. I wonder what he wants here." Elijah says, "It doesn't. That is a good question." Sarasvati mutters to Andrei, ""That... question.... talk--without your..." Andrei mutters to Sarasvati, "And... all... lonesome?..." Sarasvati looks about, "Perhaps an alcove? Then we can continue to enjoy the panoply. Andrei motions Ethan over. He whispers something to him. Andrei smiles. "After you my Lady" Sarasvati settles herself in the alcove. Sarasvati takes the flute with a smile, "Thank you my lord." Alvaro sips his champagne, his expression unreadable as he studies one of the flower arrangements. Jennifer looks around. "Hmmm. It seems like the party is dieing down, shame." Alvaro approaches Jennifer and Elijah, nodding to each in turn. "An' I have but just arrived. A terrible shame." Elijah says, "Would you two like to come up to my room?" Jennifer blinks once, and lets a dry chuckle escape her lips. Jennifer says, "No. I belive I should be going now, but thank you for the offer." Elijah says, "I have none but the most honorable intentions in mind. I have some paperwork to do, but I wanted to continue this conversation." Jennifer laughs. "I never thought otherwise, but none the less I have work to do at home, as the only real member of my house here times can be difficult." Elijah says, "Alright. Safe home, then. Alvaro, would you care to join me?" Alvaro glances at Jennifer, then Elijah. "By all means, My Lord. I had thought to thank the Marquessa for her hospitality, but that can await another day." Elijah says, "Oh go ahead." Alvaro nods, then steps closer to the alcove where Sarasvati and Andrei are deep in conversation. He pauses, and clears his throat to attract their attention. Andrei looks up, eyebrow raised. Jennifer glides up behind Alvaro. Sarasvati stands up and steps to the entrance to the alcove. Jennifer waits politely for Alvaro to speak first. Alvaro executes a slight, but still elegant bow to Sarasvati, and nods to the Count."Pardon the intrusion, My Lady."He casts his voice low, but still quite loud enough for anyone in the room to hear him. "My Lady, I have but recently arrived upon this world, but already have I been regaled with tales of the Marquessa Harrapa's graciousness." He smiles warmly. "I find that the tales were in no way exaggerated, and I am grateful for the opportunity to experience your hospitality firsthand." Dawn steps through the curtains on the northern wall. Sarasvati tilts her head, "Why thank you, Alvaro." Dawn hesitates at the door, looking at all the assembled nobles uneasily. Alvaro says, "If you will excuse me, I bid you a good night." He bows again, more deeply, and steps away. Sarasvati says, "And a good night to you, Alvaro. I hope I shall meet with your courtesy again soon." Dawn 's eyes fix on Alvaro for a moment. Something cold and deadly creeps through her eyes. Jennifer bows to Sarasvati as Alvaro leaves. "As the Baron said, your champagne is excllent, and your hospitality is greater. I see I shall have to work to even challange you my lady." She smiles warmly. "However I must take my leave, there is much work to be done at home." Andrei flicks an annoyed look in Alvaro's direction. He does not seem unhappy at his departure at all. Alvaro glances at Dawn, but seems oblivious to her gaze. He steps up to Elijah's side. Dawn 's eyes follow him. Then, she turns to Andrei, and her eyes change again. They become darker, but not so hate-filled. More like she already knows everything she has to know - whereas she positively seems to hate and fear Alvaro at first sight. Sarasvati nods to Jennifer with a smile. "And thank you for coming my lady. Please feel free to visit at any time." Andrei looks at Dawn, by the entrance. Jennifer bows and nods at Andrei. "Thank you my lady." She then steps back, and glides away. Andrei smiles at Jennifer "We will meet again my Lady" Kav steps through the curtains on the northern wall. Andrei smiles at Dawn, eyes glittering darkly. He flicks a look at Kav as he enters the room, something unreadable crossing his gaze. Elijah says, "If you all will excuse me, I have much work to do. If any of you want me, I'll be in my suite." Elijah pushes a drape aside and leaves the ballroom. Alvaro pushes a drape aside and leaves the ballroom. [END OF LOG] |