Dean
Spring had arrived in Miller Dale. Greenery flourished; hedges and trees budded. The winds blew gentle and a bit cool, and the sun shone lazily through the clouds in the sky.

Boats with products and people busied Miller Dale's canals, and many of them found docking near Palladium Park, with its plethora of vendors. Weapons and silks, spices and scents, and delicacies of many kinds from all across Eluaria could be found in the stalls and shops that dotted the Park.

Lir, as he often liked to do, wandered through Palladium Park with his walking-stick in one hand. He hummed to himself as he strolled (though a close listen would reveal that he was somewhat out of tune). Some people waved to him, and he was more than happy to wave back, though one or two turned away when they saw that he had put his septum ring in today. A few simply showed him their backs entirely.

Despite the generally amiable atmosphere in Miller Dale, Lir no longer felt comfortable leaving the house unarmed, and so he did have his scimitars clearly on his person, and probably some daggers besides. Still, he enjoyed wandering through his new hometown, and, as usual, he had a mission.

Today, he was looking for flowers.
Heather
A merchant vessel laden with heavy textiles and furs docks along one of the canals in line with many other such boats. Sails are furled and a simple bell rings out for the crew to lower the gang plank so unloading can begin. Cy is hardly handy when it comes to heavy lifting so she flits to the quartermaster to pick up her meager pay. Most of the coin gets stowed away in various hidden pockets sewn in the lining of her satchel while the rest is slipped into a few pockets in her rather flouncy pants.*

*She skips the plank all together instead choosing to fly over the side to the walkway. Feet never touching the ground she weaves her way through the crowds toward Palladium Park. There are likely a few startled gasps along the way but she doesn't pay them much mind. The proximity to the Lilac Wood should mean she's not too terribly much of a novelty here. Surely there are fey creatures more unusual than her non-fey self.*

*The scents of the market reach Cy before it is visible. She smiles a broad, excited grin flying up over a particularly slow bit of foot traffic congestion. A gentle breeze makes the flight go a little off course but she still manages to get a clear view of the market. Licking her lips Cy dive towards a cluster of fruit stands, flipping up so her feet come down first as she slides in line for some sort of spicy roasted something.*

*Her pack thumps against the sheathed kopesh swords strapped upside down on her back, knocking her forward a bit at the sudden stop she has to make to not land right atop of someone just stepping into line.* "Oh! Pardon. I didn't see you stepping up." *She smiles and gets a confused look from the other patron. Soon though Cy has purchased a sticky grilled fruit on a stick and drifts on to another stall.*

*A shock of bright colors and unfamiliar blooms catches Cy's attention. Fruit stick in hand she flits from one bundle of flowers to the next.* "These are glorious. I've never seen the like."
Dean
As her feet never touched the ground, the sylph's help with the cargo hastened the unloading process, so she received a few extra coins here and there for her efficiency.

Indeed, whilst the sylph received several curious looks as she floated through Palladium Park, the majority of the crowd ignored her. Still, a few people regarded her with, for the most part, wonder. One or two turned away in trepidation, but there are always those sorts.

The patron in line nodded to Cy, and the vendor sold her a skewer of grilled apples and pears in a sweet sticky warm maple sauce topped with sugar and just a bit of chile, a lovely concoction.

Lir, too, milled around the flats of colourful flowers that had sprung up. Blues, pinks, purples, reds, oranges, and various variegated blooms sat in carts and on tables, soaking up the sun. He perused the flowers, ordering several roses, and one flat of lilies and one of bluebells before nearly colliding with a floating sylph with her grilled fruit skewer.

"Oh, I beg your pardon, darling," He started as he nodded his head... Then realized that the sylph's feet were floating off the ground.

"You are, er, floating, my dear," Lir said.
Heather
Completely engrossed in her examination of some large orange blossoms she's unfamiliar with Cy doesn't immediately clock someone getting so close. She lets out a soft 'oof' at the bump and there's a wild moment she nearly loses her skewer. It flips out of her hand up into the air, tilting forward the point seems on a trajectory to stake right to the ground but in a whirlwind of busy hands Cy manages to snatch it and return the fruit snack into the safety of her grasp. The whole foible sets her to laughing and she looks up at the taller man who'd been the catalyst.

"It's alright I really should have been minding myself better. Especially in a new city." She rolls her wrist, checking her hand to make certain there is no sticky fruit syrup on it before holding it out to the man in greeting. "I am floating." Cy smiles and adds a friendly wink while her hand remains proffered for shaking. "It's a bad habit of mine. Well spotted and well met sir...?" Her gaze quickly sizes the man up taking note of his swords and missing eye. Her own curved blades are easy enough to spot holstered on her back in their sheaths though she likely looks about as intimidating as a kitten.
Dean
Lir watched the sylph's hands flutter about to rescue her fruit skewer from the impending doom of landing on the ground. He blinked as the sylph began giggling and raised a brow.

"No, my fault entirely," He told her. "I don't see as well these days," He admitted.

He studied the sylph, eyeing the pale nebulous mist that appeared to make up the young woman's hair.

Lir did take the outstretched hand... And completely misconstrued the sylph's words. "Erm, Floating, you said? Charmed. An apt name, it seems. Velir Silivasti. Lir, please."
Heather
Cy's whole self bobs up and down counter to the motion of the handshake, the result leaving her a few more inches higher than she was before. Her smile spreads becoming a crooked, amused grin. "It would be apt." She laughs and gives her head a little shake taking back her hand.

"Very nice to meet you Lir. My name is actually Cy. Just Cy, no house name." *She continues to grin and float in place, drifting slightly to the side to get out of someone's way.* "I just arrived. I don't suppose you have any recommendations on things to do around here do ya?"
Dean
With the missing fingers on his right hand, Lir's handshake was not as firm as most, and he was happy to release his grip quickly. Realizing his mistake with the sylph's name, he pressed his lips together.

"Oh, my dear girl, my apologies. Cy, then, it is." He shuffled back a step, both out of embarrassment and out of a bit of fear, as Cy now floated a little higher than she had previously.

"Well, darling, there is rather a lot to do here. It depends on what you're interested in, really. There's shopping, taverns, eateries, a grand theatre, a spa... Canal tours, if you like that sort of thing. A gazette, too, which reminds me, I've got to pick up the latest one." He scratched his head and eyed the swords on her back. 

"I imagine there might be others looking for fighters, yet I'm hardly a part of that realm myself."
Heather
*Perhaps noting that her raised position seems to be unsettling the man Cy lowers so that her feet are just barely floating above the ground. She laughs at the little misunderstanding of her name and gives her head a little shake.* "No apologies needed. I found it a fun mix up." 

*She listens with a tilted head and lopsided smile to the list of things to do. Her eyes widen at the mention of the theatre.* "A theatre! Wonderful! I will have to spend time there. I do so love entertainment. I'm a bit of a performer myself, if it comes to it. More than fighting." *Cy reaches a hand behind her over her shoulder to tap one of the sheathes.* "I can fight, mind you. It'd be crazy bold to walk around with these and not know how but I'd rather perform with them than fight any day." *Lowering her hand she looks around the market with a curious expression.* "A gazette sounds incredibly handy. I've no notion about anything going on in this part of the world."
Dean
Lir nodded to the young sylph. "Well, thank you for humoring me, my dear." Cy's drifting closer to the ground did seem to mollify him a bit, though the floating cloud-haired maiden before him did still cause him a bit of consternation.

He canted his head at the sylph and managed a smile. "I tended more towards... Erm, 'performing' myself in my youth, though not as much these days. It's not terribly useful in combat, sword-dancing, but it's better than nothing at all. Goodness, I must have been your age last I did it regularly." 

Lir turned around to look at a well-populated alley. "There's a bookseller down that road. They usually have the gazette soon after it's distributed. I understand it has got quite a lot of information about recent goings-on." He gestured towards the road. "Shall we, my dear?"
Heather
"Hmm very true. I just try to get fights over with as quick as I can. Enough of that though! Yes, please lead the way." *Cy grins and goes through the motions of walking even if her feet aren't on the ground. It generally settles people more if she at least presents like a typical human in behavior.* 

"So you danced swords too, huh?" *She looks the fellow up and down then gives a nod.* "Yeah, I think I can see it. If you have any styles or tricks to share I'm always open to learning more."
Dean
Cy's "Walking" At his side still meant Lir's muscles remained tensed as they made their way towards the bookseller. The populace moving around them largely ignored them.

"I did. I was a very young man, then, darling. Erm... I might remember a few moves, I suppose. I did end up learning how to actually use the swords, eventually." He forced a smile, yet this conversation appeared to be unnerving Lir even more, despite the two swords he himself carried and despite the easy grace with which he moved... Well, for a human of his age, at any rate.

Lir paused outside a shop that flew a banner bearing an open book. "This is it," He told Cy.
Heather
*Well there's only so much she can do to put people at ease. Sure, she could actually walk on the ground but also that grates at her very being so selfishness wins for now and she continues to faux walk along with Lir.* "If you don't fancy telling me any tricks that's quite alright. Always more to learn from those willing to teach." *Cy laughs and lets out a long sigh. Shame he wasn't going to be a teacher but she supposed that would be far to serendipitous.* 

*Lookup up at the banner just fluttering in a small breeze Cy nods.* "So it is! How very apt the banner is. I suppose I'll just find one of these gazettes then." *Rubbing the back of her neck with one hand and reaching for the door with the other.* "Might not hurt to pick up a few tales while I'm here. Always enjoy an epic story or two."
Dean
"Goodness, my dear, I seem to have forgotten my manners to-day. I certainly didn't mean that, only that there's a time and place for such things. Definitely not in the middle of a busy town, and most assuredly not in a bookstore. I hardly know what you do know, of course, so we would have to start there to see if I could even show you anything useful."

Lir's walking-stick tapped the cobblestones as he approached the bookstore. "Ah, yes. Stories are quite lovely, especially when they're told well." While his voice was mostly chipper, his tone had an underlying bit of trepidation.

The written word had never been terribly friendly to him.

Lir opened the door to the bookshop and gestured inside. "After you, darling."

A few patrons muddled around the stacks, and a stand near the front desk was devoted to displaying copies of the seventh edition of Madame Yenasha's Plumage Gazette. Behind them were a few pickings of previous editions.

Sections ranged from fictional tales to works on the history of Eluaria, manuals for professions, and even a small section of magical tomes.
Heather
Cy hums pleasantly and shakes her head at the seeming distress or discomfort Lir seems to display.* "No, I don't think you're being unmannerly. I guess it just seemed you weren't keen on the idea in general not so much that we were in the middle of a market." She offers what she hopes come across as a warm smile and steps into the building.

 "Depending on who I'm traveling with it can be handy to have a little collection of stories. Sometimes you really luck out and get a hand to heart storyteller along with a caravan but usually it's just folks that know a few tales. A little anthology is always welcome for when it's the latter." Cy looks over her shoulder at Lir then moves to start looking through the books. She does pause by the Gazettes to pick up the ones available.

The books on magic do catch her attention but that sort of thing she knows she does better when taught then trying to read it. Not wanting to make the shopkeeper nervous about her intent to pay for her purchases Cy is quick to queue up with a book and the broadsheets, already digging in her various pockets for the coin to pay. She might look around more after the purchase but being new in town it seemed a good idea to not delay in payment.
Dean
"Well, my dear, youth isn't on my side anymore. I might remember a few things, yet it's been a while. We can discuss that elsewhere." After Cy floated through the doorway, he followed her, gently shutting the door behind them. Her warm smile appeared to calm him a bit.

"Caravans generally have the best stories," Lir agreed. "Not many books, at least not in mine. Heavy to carry." That statement might well give some insight to the discomfort he felt in the bookstore. Still, he went to the stand and plucked out the most recent copy of the gazette. He smiled as Cy grabbed as many editions as she could.

The tired half-elf at the front desk took Cy's coins for the book and pamphlets, then gestured to Lir. Lir slid a few coppers to the steward before slipping the little pamphlet into his waist-coat.

"What have you gotten there, darling?" He asked the sylph after they had made their purchases.
Heather
"That'd be great if you're up for it." Cy nods enthusiastically about the caravans. "They really do. Even when there's not a proper tale teller on hand. Usually not too many books, that's true. I try to pick on up when I'm in a town then trade it off after I read it. No way I could carry around more than one or maybe two." 

She drifts to the side after paying for her items and carefully folds away the gazettes into her satchel to read over later. When asked about her book she holds it up, flipping open the cover to the title page to reveal a quaintly decorated title page. "Seven sons of Sven. A collection of tales from across Eluaria," She reads aloud then gives a little shrug looking back to Lir. "Never heard of any of it but it seems like a good time." Cy closes the green covered book and holds it out should the man like to look at it himself.
Dean
"Well, I certainly could use the practice myself. Let's see what we can manage, in a bit."

Lir raised a brow. "A caravan not having even one decent storyteller? I would say not, but the caravans here tend to be frequently blended. Nearly all of us could tell a decent story."

Lir studied the green book that Cy showed him and tried to sound out the letters. "Sven... Sons of Sven. Sven's a fine name. Or... Wait, one of those words is 'even,' perhaps? Yes. Even and seven. Or eleven." (None of the words on the book Cy showed him was 'even' or 'eleven.') He nodded. "It... Seems all right, I suppose? Something at least worth a read?"
Heather
*The realization that she'd missed several clues that perhaps Lir was not quite literate Cy blushes, a dusting of lavender across her cheeks and nose. Not wanting to draw more attention than she already rudely had Cy nods and closes the book.* "Yeah, I think it will be a nice read. Something for the quite hours anyway. If I'm lucky something worth retelling later." 

*Cy busies herself putting away the book until she's fairly sure her flush has faded.* "How long did you travel with caravans? Did you travel very far? I've only recently found my way out of Ostia." *She makes sure she floats out of the way of any other shoppers and her volume just at a level Lir can hear her but she hopefully doesn't disturb the calm of the shop.*
Dean
"It seems like it may; I've not heard of any of those tales myself. You may have to enlighten me once you've read them." Lir strode towards the door of the bookshop.

"I suppose, I do, erm, need a bit of practice on my reading," He admitted. "That... That wasn't at all what it said, was it?" He sighed. "Ah, well. I get words mixed up frightfully often."

The other shoppers, despite one or two curious glances, hardly seemed disturbed at Cy's floating about.

At the question about caravans, Lir laughed. "Oh, my dear, I was born in one, and lived in it most of my life. We went... Here and there."

Lir pulled open the door to the shop. "And you, my dear? You were born in Ostia, you said?"
Heather
Cy follows Lir out back into the open air of the town. The shift from the scent of paper and ink to flowers and sea breeze distracting the sylph. The suggestion she might tell Lir of the stories in the books takes a moment to register. "Hm? Oh! I'd really like that if you don't mind my company again." 

She offers a kind smile at his admission. "You weren't very off. Seven sons of Sven. You'd the core of it!" Cy hopes that's encouraging but is more than amendable to moving to another subject. Her eyebrows raise and her hands excitedly come together just over her chest. She forgets for a moment that her floating causes Lir some discomfort and flits up off the ground closer to eye level with the taller man. "You were! That's marvelous!" The airy woman truly seems enamored by the notion of being a life long caravanner. "You must have seen so many things and met just about every kind of person." 

Suddenly remembering she should be pretending to walk Cy raises a hand to brush back a tendril of her cloudy hair while letting out a short, nervous chuckle before lowering herself to resume her play at being more typical. "I'm from Ostia, yes. My first memories are from there as a child. I didn't begin traveling with merchants and the like until about three year ago and only left Ostia this past season or so. The passes in the Dragonclaw mountains were particularly interesting... Almost harrowing really. So many attempted raids..." It is her turn to sigh and look uneasy. This is very short lived though as Cy gives her head a little shake and a wide smile breaks across her face as she looks up toward Lir. "The boat ride down to Miller Dale was lovely though. The coast is in bloom and so very green. I can see why someone would settle here after a live well traveled."
Dean
"Certainly," Lir agreed as they stepped out of the bookshop. He stood for a moment, considering where might be a safe place in town to swing their swords about for a bit. 

As Cy floated up in excitement to meet him at eye-level, Lir raised his brows, yet managed, this time, not to step back. He cleared his throat.

"Well... Yes. I have met quite a few sorts, though not as varied as here." He pressed his lips together. "Anyone who's done a bit of travel likely has. I'm sure you have yourself, my dear? Even in just the three years?" He paused.

"Raids are... Never kind. I'm sorry you had to face them, darling."

Lir began ambling towards the apple orchard, his walking-stick stick gently clacking against the cobblestones. He shuddered as Cy mentioned her maritime passage.

"We came by sea as well. A wagon is just dandy; simply a bit bumpy and jostly, if the road is in disrepair. A ship, though? I avoid those unless I've no other choice. I get awfully seasick."

As they passed through crowds and along the canals, Lir nodded. "It is rather beautiful. Bit cold in the winter, you see, but the spring and summer make up for it."
Heather
"I've met plenty, certainly. More every day. Once I met a mothkin in the heart of the Golden Fields and that was just before leaving Ostia. I take that to mean there's always more out there even if I think I've seen it all. I like to be open to learning more." *Cy laughs and lets out a heavy sigh* "Can you imagine how drab it would be to think you already knew all there was to know? How boring."

*She lets the bit about the raids pass without more commentary. Walking the lovely streets in spring time was hardly the place to speak of such messy and unpleasant things.* "The boat did take me a bit to get used to... Even with my, um, floating."

*Happily following along Cy quite frequently got distracted by the people they passed and the small boats in the canal. She very much had to reign in her impulses to fly off and look at this or that. Birds, flowers, interesting shops, all of it pulling at her attention.* "I imagine even the winter here is it's own kind of beautiful though."
Dean
"Ah, well, there's always the particular safety of knowing what to expect. I suppose novelty is engaging for a lot of people."

He tilted his head and furrowed his brows. "A... Mothkin? Goodness, I've not encountered one myself yet."

As they walked, Lir pondered. "I didn't think of that. You could float a bit above the deck, yes? And save yourself the rocking back and forth. That *Would* Be useful."

He hardly seemed put out by Cy's frequent distractions, slowing his pace a bit to let her take in this and that. He had nowhere to be urgently, after all. Several people were happy to wave at them, an elderly tea-seller hawked her wares, a few bright red birds fluttered around the apple trees. 

"It is. The snow *Is* Lovely, even if it's freezing. Yet clearing the walks isn't terribly pleasant."

Lir laughed. "I'm not overfond of winter, my dear, in case you couldn't tell."
Heather
"I honestly hadn't thought of it that way." *Cy looks thoughtful and files that away.* "That does add some perspective." *Nodding at the rarity of the mothkin Cy elaborates a little* "Mhm. About this tall." *She gestures above her head though not quite so high as Lir is tall.* "With wings though he didn't fly often. They live off honey and fruit juice." *What she doesn't mention is their gift of arcane sight, leaving it to the moths to divulge that if they wish.* 

"It took a bit to get used to the motion of the boat in relation to my floating. Having the 'floor' constantly dipping was still visually stomach churning at times." *Flitting between the vendors and over to the trees Cy flies up to get a better look at the red birds. She doesn't get so close as to spook them but does try to mimic their bird song with a whistle. Grinning broadly she returns to Lir's side again remembering to appear to walk.* "Lovely creatures, birds. Do they stick around in winter? That alone would be reason enough not to be overly keen on the cold months. I'm not much of a fan of being cold myself though rather than than too hot."
Dean
Lir listened to Cy's explanation of what the mothkin had been like... Its height, its flight, its diet.

"Interesting, indeed." Lir tapped the pommel of the scimitar at his right hip as the two of them passed through the town. "I shall keep that in mind, my dear, should I ever meet one. Did it seem amiable? Was that the first one you had ever encountered?"

Lir sighed, remembering again the throes of the ship he had been forced to travel on. "I *Do* Hate it when the ground surges so. Fortunate that you avoided at least most of that unpleasantness, darling."

Lir kept his unhurried pace as Cy flitted about, keeping his eye on the young sylph as she explored her surroundings.

"The birds? A few of them do. At least the red ones, the cardinals, are often still about in the winter. Some species of sparrows, starlings, doves, some wild fowl, as well. Hawks and gulls, too." They neared Miller Dale's main apple orchard now, with its enticing lazy paths.

"There are the pine trees, so there's still some greenery when the weather chills. You've got to wear layers in the winter, though, my dear, to keep the cold at bay. Oh, and put towels by the windows, else the seawater gets inside and freezes. Bit annoying to clear up."

Although the trees had just barely begun to bud, they still spread their green over the orchard. People walked along the paths that Lir and Cy did, strolling happily. Several families had picnic spreads under the trees in the shade, enjoying the beautiful weather.

"I would rather be too hot myself." Lir spun his walking-stick a few times. "Even now, it's a touch chilly for me. Though to each one's own!"

Lir began scouring the orchard for an open-enough area.

"Ah, darling, may I assume your weapons are battle-ready, and not strictly for performance?"
Heather
"We have cardinals back in Ostia but I swear they aren't this red." *Cy remarks as she returns from one of her quick looks. As to the moth her commentary is far more neutral.* "Ah, he was very earnest about being able to leave his farm. I'm sure he is doing well." *Her gaze travels skyward at the mention of hawks. She was always a little jealous of how high they could fly with so little issue but also enjoyed watching any larger bird soar. None were currently visible though so her attention was pulled back earthwards.*

*Grinning at the flourish of the walking stick Cy raises an eyebrow.* "I suppose so! Though honestly I'd rather not be either too hot or too cold. Not all the time anyway. I don't mind either so much as long as it's passing and means I'm traveling somewhere interesting." *While they made their way into the orchard Cy was sure to offer friendly finger waves to families and others strolling about. It was her thought that it rarely hurt to be a little extra pleasant when first arriving in a new town.*

*Lir's question did catch her off guard, confusing her for a moment.* "What?" *Reaching behind herself she touches the hilt of her swords causing the ribbons to start to wrap around her wrists.* "Yes... Both! I mean, I can fight with them now yes. What did you have in mind?" *Releasing the hilts and letting the ribbons retract Cy moves her hands to her hips, looping her thumbs casually into the waist of her flouncy pants.*
Dean
"That's good, for your mothkin friend. Assuming he wants to leave his farm, and isn't being told to. I do hope he is doing what he wishes." Lir followed Cy's gaze skyward. Whilst no hawks appeared above them, a few calling gulls did.

"Ah, well, my darling, the weather is never completely fine for everyone." He rested the walking stick on his shoulder.

At her little waves to the various members of the populace, Cy received several waves back, as well as a few smiles. 

Whilst they passed along the roads, Cy's response to Lir's question about her weapons by releasing the swords at her back now did make the man stride several steps away from her.

"Goodness, darling, have a care! I mean, if we are merely going to practice, we really ought to have blunted weapons. That was what I was asking about." He studied the area around him. "Truth be told, mine are real as well. It's hardly ideal, but it's what we've got to work with at the moment. So we really *Must* Be mindful." 

Lir had found a large enough sward of land far enough away from others. He watched the ribbons of Cy's swords curl around her wrists.

"Well... You wanted to see about sword-dancing, am I right?" Lir's tone betrayed his uneasiness. "Not fighting, per se?"
Heather
*Cy looked confused at the man as she only touched her swords and didn't draw them. Perhaps this town was particularly finnacky.* "Ah, right. Sorry. I'll keep that in mind." *Clasping her hands in front of her body, clearly away from any part of her swords she does her best to look very timid.* "I wasn't really expecting a demonstration or anything. I'm happy enough for one but talking about it is fine. I don't have any practice weapons though. What I carry is what I own... I don't keep much."*She shrugs and pats the satchel. She'll need to purchase a new pack when she leaves the town but that won't be for a while yet.* "But, yes, just the dancing. I get enough fighting out on the road..." 

*Fairly certain she'd made some sort of awful social blunder Cy sinks down to just sit on the ground by the open area Lir had found. Maybe if she was just quiet and small for a while he'd be less uncomfortable around her.*
Dean
Lir himself sighed, and then crouched in front of Cy as she sank to the ground.

"Oh. Oh, darling," He said as he lowered himself in front of the sylph.

"I... Didn't mean to upset you, sweetheart, truly. Just to let you know that we're in a public place, and that both you and I ought to be careful with what we are doing, since we have both got real weapons. But, regardless, my dear, I've upset you, and I am terribly sorry. I was too on edge, and that was uncalled for."

Lir grimaced as his back cracked, and he plopped down into a sitting position, unable to keep the crouch up for very long. 

"I'm a bit off with my communication to-day, darling. What I meant to ask is... Can you show me what you can do with your swords? If you want me to teach you any tricks or give you any advice, that would be most helpful. I need to see what you can do first."
Heather
*Grimacing in sympathy at the loud crack Cy tucks her feet under herself to sit on her heels, hands on her knees. She sighs at being reminded she's in public as though she'd put people in danger off handedly. Cy supposes that's fair enough given that Lir doesn't know her but it still disappoints her. Bunching her hands up on her knees, fingers scrunching up the fabric, Cy puts a smile back on her face.* "It's alright. I've made you uneasy a few times I think or at least it seems that way."

*Rocking back on her heels and pushing against her knees with her hands Cy goes to stand. She dusts off her pants and then stretches her arms overhead.* "There's no music but I suppose I can do a few things." *Floating up a few inches then drifts out to the center of the open spot in the grove. Reaching behind herself she undoes the straps that keep her swords in their sheaths then wraps her hands around the hilts allowing the ribbons to start their crawl around her forearms.*

*As she draws her blades Cy looks around the space again, slowly rotating to get a view of every direction, to ensure no one was too close. When she comes to a stop she holds her arms out and down from her body, the kopesh swords pointing down toward the ground. With a flick of her wrist the pale, near white ribbons unloop partially to leave a tailing streamer off the end of hilts. Cy starts slowly moving her blades in tandem. A gentle swoop to the right, one leg raised and bent, her whole body rotating in the direction of the movement. The ribbons follow the spiraling of her form even has she bends to dip downwards and back up with the blades. The whole first part of the dance is not unlike the motion of some graceful creature swimming in the depths.*

*As she speeds up the swords begin to windmill counter to one another. The ribbons slide up to grasp her wrists even as Cy lets go of the hilts. The extended reach of the blades allows her to fly higher and flash the metal in ever more elaborate patterns.

As this is not a full piece she slows the pace again, pulling the blades back in and ending the whole exhibition with a last flourish. The whole endeavor lasts only two or three minutes and comes to a conclusion as the swords find their way back into their sheaths.*
Dean
Lir smiled sadly at the sylph. "I do... Get a bit uneasy when I oughtn't. Something I've got to work on, darling. My apologies." 

As Cy rose, Lir rose as well, less elegantly and with far more crackling of joints. "I usually have a drum beat in my head. It helps. I've got it on good authority that I'm an awful singer, so I'll not subject you to that horror." He stepped clear of the sylph as she drew her swords, giving her ample room to perform in the grove.

Lir watched the ribbons on Cy's swords wrap themselves around her wrists. He studied her moves as she slid through the air like a dolphin, her blades whirling around her.

After Cy finished, Lir stood with his hand to his chin for long moments, thinking but also nodding in approval. Several picnickers in the orchard had been watching, and a few of them applauded Cy's performance.

"It's a good slow start and end. I like it," Lir told Cy. "Have you ever balanced one of your swords on your head and moved about? Erm, half a moment." Lir shed his tailcoat and tossed it on the ground. 

"Bit binding, that," He explained before drawing one of his scimitars, spinning it swiftly, and setting it on top of his head.

"Or, well... Both of them." He drew the second scimitar and slid that to balance on his head as well.

After several moments, he pulled the scimitars down. "Feels a bit ridiculous to do, but it pleases the crowds."

Lir glanced at Cy's feet floating off the ground. "You can float; you've got endless possibilities there. There *Must* Be even more you can do with that," He said. "Pass the swords beneath your feet during the slow parts? Make it look like you're standing on your swords? Turning more somersaults in the air, perhaps? Slowly and quickly, both. Er, could you do a handstand in the air? That might be something to work with as well."

Lir spun his scimitars about. "You've got the ribbon between them, and that's not something I've often seen. Very impressive." He spun both of the scimitars before the one in his right hand thudded to the ground after a few rotations.

"Bah," Lir mumbled to himself as he picked up the scimitar. "I'm sorry, my dear."
Heather
Waving a hand at the apology Cy gives a relaxed smile. "It's really alright. I'm usually not half as cautious as I ought to be when just out and about. Camping or working is different of course. Slacking at night around a camp fire almost always leads to a midnight scuffle of some kind be it bandit or beastie." 

Giving her head a shake side to side in the negative Cy watches Lir's demonstration. "I actually haven't tried that. I might need to pick up performance blades, I'm not sure mine will have the same visual effect. They balance great, of course, just... Won't look quite the same." She does clap at the display and then nods enthusiastically. "I do a little of that. If I let the swords momentum pull me I can usually get a few fun flips in... Also handy when fighting. The rest though I'll see about working on. Definitely haven't tried standing on them."

"The ribbons are cheating a little if I'm honest. But... Well also not really. They're enchanted but you have to learn how to work them or you just get tangled up in a useless mess. Quite useful really, once you have the knack of it." Floating back a couple paces to make sure she allowed Lir the space for his flourish she continues to grin as his blades spin and flash in the light. She lets out a startled "Oh!" When he drops one and starts to move forward to help, stopping herself short of actually reaching down which might possibly just put her in the way instead of helping. 

"It's nothing to be sorry about. We did just kind of start up cold. Usually I've got some time to warm up and maybe even get to dance a little before if there is a group going round." 

"What do you do with your time now that you're settled here and not caravanning around the world?" Given that the sword play seems to be taxing the man Cy tries to switch back to the less physical activity of conversation. She knits her fingers together in front of herself and floats just a breath above the ground in a fervent attempt to not make Lir unco

Mfortable again now that things seem to have settled a bit.
Dean
"Thank you, my darling! You are too kind," Lir said as Cy reached down to help him retrieve the dropped scimitar.

"One has got to be careful on the road. Always." Lir twirled his swords around a bit before lowering them.

"Pick your places right, and the bandits and beasties are less of a problem. We had a few incidents, but not terribly many. Towns were far more dangerous for us.

"Hmm... Well, I don't think the ribbons are cheating, really, but perhaps you should work without them sometimes." Lir narrowed his eye in thought. "You can work with and without the enchantment and the ribbons. Both would serve you well."

Lir spun his swords around. "For practice, blunted blades are better. Less chance of hurting yourself whilst you're planning your moves. Of course, you will perform with real blades, but you've got to prove that, if you want to. Cut an onion or tomato in the air, if you like. Part of the performance."

Lir pondered. "Perhaps come out, and balance the swords on your head first thing. Float up and down with them thus. Have to keep your back and neck straight so they're level. Ah! Have you tried this?"

It was a dangerous move to do, with a real sword with a cutting edge, but Lir sent one of the scimitars spinning flat on his knuckles, above his head. The sword lazily whirled around on his hand.

"It's... Been some time since I danced with others." He lowered his hand and smoothly snatched the sword away from its pirouettes.

"I am... A chamberlain, my dear." Lir sheathed the scimitars. "And you? Are you meaning to perform? If so, I think you've a bright future ahead of you. I might be able to give you a few tips, but you're rather proficient." Lir shot the sylph a sad grin. "It seems you don't really need my help much."
Heather
Scrubbing at the back of her neck Cy looks a little embarrassed as she has to admit a short falling on her part. "I actually am almost never on my own so choosing a spot for camps really isn't ever up to me. When it is I just hide out in a tree if I can. Even then I do my rounds and set up bells if I have them. I do have a tendency to get left in towns or cities because I wander off from my group..." She laughs and lowers her hands, looping her thumbs into the waist of her pants. 

"It has been a while since I trained without the ribbons. You're right on that count. I'm probably getting rusty and don't even know it!" There is a momentary pout as she realizes that she's been slacking. The expression is quickly replaced by one of earnest determination as she internally vows to correct that. 

Her eyes widen as Lir demonstrates another trick she can practice and add to her larger routine. "Oh that's marvelous. I'll have to try that for certain! After I pick up some blunted blades to try it out with of course. You've a point about the proving edges though. Maybe I can add some fruit to the mix just for fun. Have an audience member toss them out. Everyone loves to participate." Her hand moves from her hip to tap a finger against her chin as she considers the idea. It does sound like it would be a fun addition.

"Shame about the dancing." She winks playfully but quickly moves on to other things. "Do you like being a chamberlain? It sounds very serious." Shoving her hands in her pockets Cy looks around the orchard and shrugs one shoulder. "I will probably perform a little while I'm here. Not just my swords. I can busk with my flute too for extra coin. I'll hang around until I suppose someone who is hiring is going somewhere that sounds interesting." Looking back to Lir she grins a wide, toothy smile. "Until then if you don't mind my company sometimes I'll have those tips and maybe I can pay you with stories about Sven."
Dean
"Certainly. It's generally the elders who select where to go and when to stop. Others should have at least a voice."

Lir paused. "That's probably... Not the sort of caravan you joined. But you still ought to have a voice. In my opinion, at least." 

Lir began pacing around the grove, stretching his muscles. The swords curved over him as he leaned back as far as he dared. "It is generally best to either stay with your caravan, my dear, or have the coin to shelter elsewhere. But... Learning the lay of new towns is commendable, as long as you've not a predisposition for finding trouble, which I don't think you do. And then you can find your way back home eventually."

Lir sheathed his scimitars. "Have an audience member toss a piece of fruit out? Why, that's a fine idea! They do like to be involved. I did that a few times. And since you can play the flute, that will give you an edge. Can you switch from your flute to your swords quickly? Perhaps keep your flute in a sort of quiver at your side?"

Lir picked up his tailcoat from the ground. "I... Do like being a chamberlain, mostly. Unfortunately, my employer is very ill." Lir stopped, staring at the grass for many long moments. "I really wish he wasn't."

Lir draped his tailcoat over his arm. He smiled at Cy.

"Of course I would welcome your company, my dear. You're a lovely young woman. Did you want to practice further, or shall we stop for today?"
Heather
"Usually just merchant trains. A few times I have gotten to tag along with more of the community type caravans. That's a bit more rare though since they don't usually need too much in the way of outside help. Eventually I'll see about getting some kind of wilderness guide to teach me how to get on myself a little better."

"A quiver for my flute could be fun! Really helpful too. Sometimes I forget I have it and it really does the trick for a bit of a distraction when folks are getting a bit rowdy in taverns. Not always, mind, but if it's just a small row sometimes it helps." Cy taps her chin again and hums a moment to herself. "Need to find a leatherworker to commission something for the flute... Shouldn't be too hard."

Her expression softens as does her voice, sympathy clear in her tone. "I'm so sorry about your employer. Is there anything can be done about it? Still hope for recovery?" Twisting her hands together in worry she gives her head a shake. "I think I'm sated on practice for today. I should probably see to a meal that isn't sweet fruit on a stick. It's been fish and rations for the past week."
Dean
Lir was grateful for the brief break. "Most caravans should have some people of that sort. Who know where to hunt, find water, find food, and all that. If no one's got any of these skills, I'd stay away from those caravans. They're bound to find too much difficulty otherwise."

Lir began slowly walking out of the grove. "Miller Dale has many proficient craftsmen, so you ought to find someone who could make you a quiver for your flute, if that's what you'd like." 

At the question about his employer, Lir tensed again. "It's... Complicated. I think he can be helped up to a certain point, but no... I don't think he'll ever be like he once was. It's... Well, it's a touch difficult." The man's voice wavered a bit before it steadied.

"We can go to the Singing Shepherd, if you'd like something to eat? My treat, if you need."
Heather
"Oh, certainly. Just getting them to take time out to teach is the trick of it. I've not really pressed it so it's not as though I've been out right denied or anything." After checking the straps that hold her swords in their sheathes for a final time to ensure they are firmly stored Cy goes to pick up her travel satchel from the shade. When she returns she offers a sympathetic smile. "I hope things work out with your employer. It sounds like you care a great deal."

Looping the strap of the bag over her shoulder Cy hums a moment in thought as she considers how much she earned on the boat. Enough for a couple weeks lodging if she was careful. Best not to turn down a free meal to help stretch the coin she has further. "The Singing Shepherd is a delightful name and I'm more than happy to be treated." Grinning broadly she looks up to Lir awaiting instruction on which way to go.
Dean
"I'm certain you can find someone to help you with those skills, my dear. Especially in a well-prepared caravan." Lir smiled at Cy as a few people came forward after the performance, several handing Cy some coins as she and Lir exited the grove. One or two of the people, as they did so, shot Lir either angry or frightened looks, though others smiled at him and addressed him by name.

Lir frowned uneasily. "I hope he gets better as well. He's improved a bit since we've been here, though it is slow going, and we've had some setbacks. This way."

Lir gestured down the streets and led the way to the Singing Shepherd.

As they walked, he asked, "So you've only just arrived, then? Miller Dale *Is* A lovely place, for the most part." After pondering a few moments, he said, "Perhaps you might look into the Amethyst Theatre. They might let you perform there. Could get you more coin. You're quite talented, and that's a benefit. I do know of a few others who are good performers. I think you would get along very well with them."
Heather
Cy happily accepted the coin, floating a bit more off the ground as she bowed each time she received a tip. She tried to ignore the odd looks that Lir received figuring it to be something personal. Overall more folks seemed to offer him friendly greetings than not. "Seems we're getting some mixed reviews," She laughs and follows along. Not wanting to offer empty platitudes she merely gives a sympathetic look and hopeful nod to the status of Lir's employer.

"I have indeed just arrived. Quite literally right before I met you. From the dock to the market. I do agree it is quite lovely. I'm looking forward to checking in on the Theatre. Even if they just let me busk a bit out front it will be worth it. I've never actually performed on a stage or anything but I'd give just about anything a whirl once."

"Did you perform there as well? Is that how you know the performers or are you more on the side of being a patron?" Cy drifts along with her hands clasped in front of her.
Dean
Lir shrugged. "There are *Always* Mixed reviews, my dear." He ignored the occasional odd looks he got.

He continued walking. "Ah, so you're very new, then. Welcome to Miller Dale. I suppose I'm the welcome wagon, as it were." They approached the Singing Shepherd, a quaint, small little tavern.

Lir laughed. "Oh, I've never performed there myself. I don't know any of the performers, per se, although I've chatted with one or two, and they're lovely folk. So... Patron, I suppose?"

Lir pulled open the door. "After you, my dear," He said, before adding, "Erm... Mind how high you float; the ceilings are a touch low. Don't want to whack your head, now."
Heather
"Ah, well, folks are always on about something or other." The looks don't seem to particularly bother Cy one way or the other. "I'm pretty used to be new to most places. This one does seem pretty great though so I thank you for the welcome."

Before entering the tavern Cy takes in the appearance and the sounds. She inhales deeply to take in the scents surrounding the building, a mix of cooking, brew, and smoke. All perfectly normal for an establishment of good repute. Given the warning Cy lowers until the soles of boots nearly brush the ground. "Thank you for letting me know!" Floating through the now open door Cy rotates around to take in the space stopping when she's back round to Lir. "Have a favorite spot?"
Dean
Lir laughed. "Of course they are. It's the way of things."

The Singing Shepherd, even with its low ceilings, catered to most. The scent of fresh-baked bread and cinnamon and apple filled the air as Lir entered after Cy, lowering his head to avoid the chandelier. Several of the tables and seats at the bar were filled with various sorts, a scattering of mostly humans, dwarves, halflings, and gnomes, with the occasional other besides.

A barmaid waved at them. "Afternoon, Mister Lir! And friend!" She ushered them to an unoccupied table, and the halfling barmaid's eyes sparkled at Cy floating just above the floor. "Ooh!" She gasped, impressed. "And who might you be, miss?"

Lir, for once, remembered to be gentlemanly. Before sitting down himself, he pulled out a chair for Cy to sit in.
Heather
The smile on Cy's countenance doesn't slacken as she enters the sweet smelling tavern. She offered a friendly finger wave at any who looked her way. A swath of lavender rose across her face at the excitement displayed by the barmaid.* "I'm Cy. What should I call you by? Oh, Thank you." The last to Lir for pullin her chair out for her. She floats down to sit, hooking her feet around the legs of the chair to help her remember to really sit.

"This place is lovely! A little like the tavern I worked in when I first left the houses. Not, in appearance or anything but in feeling. One loves to find such a welcoming place!" Cy beams and breaths deep again. Looking to the barmaid she asks with seeming boundless enthusiasm,* "What do you recommend?"
Dean
"It is a very lovely place. I come here often." After settling Cy into her chair, Lir moved to the opposite end of the table, settling down and stretching his right leg under the table.

The halfling smiled at Cy. "Oh, you can call me Eila. I just work here a few days of the week. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Cy!"

Eila pulled out a pad of parchment. "We've still got a bit of apple pie, and always fresh-baked bread and jams and jellies. Roast chicken and potatoes, if you like. A good, hearty beef stew. Cheeses as well, and there's braised mutton with spring vegetables. We've also got some nice local ales and wines ready to go." She glanced at Lir. 

"Port for you, Mister Lir?" She asked, and Lir nodded.
Heather
"It's ever so much a pleasure to meet you Eila! How lucky for me that today should be one of the few you are here!" Cy smiles broadly and taps her chin thoughtfully. "I should probably pass on the pie. I had some roasted honied fruit not too long ago. You know... The beef stew sounds like heaven. I've been on a ship for weeks and a little turf after all that surf sounds just the thing. If it's not too much trouble to get a glass of something red to go with the stew that would be marvelous." 

Likely she should have waited for Lir to order to judge what would be the polite amount to obtain for herself but the sudden realization of just how hungry she was over road manners for the moment. "Mister Lir has been filling my ears with praises about this place. I admit I'm quite excited to enjoy a meal."

"You aren't just getting a port are you, Mister Lir?" Cy looks to her companion after he nods to Eila, tilting her head to the side curiously.
Dean
Eila giggled. "So a beef stew and a glass of red wine. We've got a few on offer. Do you prefer sweet or dry?" Eila smiled at Cy.

"Some of the best food in the Dale!" The halfling puffed out her chest proudly and then looked to Lir.

"Just Lir is fine," He told the women, though he knew the halfling, at least, wouldn't listen. "And, er, I ate earlier, so a charcuterie board, perhaps? At least to soak up the port."
Heather
"Whatever you think will go best." *Cy winks then turns her attention to Lir.* "Makes sense. I didn't want to seem rude eating a whole meal if you weren't going to be partaking at all."

*When the ordering is all good and handled Cy sits up and folds her hands in her lap while she awaits her dinner.* "How long did you say you've been in Miller Dale? Or did you? You've certainly got a 'well established' presence to you not to mention it seems there isn't a soul here that doesn't know you."
Dean
"I think a dry would go best with the beef stew. A merlot! I'll get those in, and I'll be right back with your drinks." She skittered off.

Lir smiled. "Oh, it's fine. Truth be told, most of the food here is a bit bland for my tastes. In fact..." He reached into an inner pocket of his waist-coat and pulled out a small bottle. "Chili oil," He explained as he set it on the table.

Lir leaned back in his chair. "Erm, that's a bit... Complicated. We've been here just about two years, but there were some... Incidents. Ended being named defenders of Miller Dale, even though I personally did rather a lot of nothing." He glanced down at his right leg. "Still have a bit of a souvenir from the previous Spring Dawning Festival."
Heather
*After thanking Eila for her recommendation Cy turns her attention back to Lir. She gives a lopsided grin and reaches toward the oil.* "Have to admire someone who carries their own spice around. Mind if I try some? Are the chili's local?" *If she's allowed to pick it up she will. Then she'll carefully examine the bottle before opening it and waving her hand over it to waft the scent toward her nose. Cy had made the mistake before of just smelling something spicy straight from the container before and didn't fancy burning out her sinuses should it prove to be very potent.*

*Even if she didn't get to examine the bottle Cy does eventually sit back in her seat as well to wait for her wine and stew.* "Two years really isn't nearly so long as I would have expected! Shame about the incidents though. I hope that doesn't mar your first memories of this place too much." *Tilting her head to the side and folding her hands in her lap Cy looks as compassionately curious as she possibly can.* "Unfortunate souvenir. Did you get a chance to give as good as you got? Was it a raid?"
Dean
Lir shrugged as Cy reached out and took the bottle. "If you like. Most people can't handle it, though I certainly don't understand why. It's not *That* Hot." 

As Cy picked up the bottle, Lir shook his head. "No, not local, goodness. I think this one's made in Hikitaw. Thank the heavens for trade. You probably ought to try a drop or two on your finger before you put it on anything. And do be careful with it, my dear." 

When Cy cracked open the bottle and wafted the scent towards her, the chili oil emitted an extremely sharp and hot and pungent smell. It was a well-balanced scent but also a potent one.

Eila interrupted then, coming up to their table and setting down the port and the glass of wine. "Here you are!" She said. "The food will be a bit longer."

Lir nodded as Eila slid away again, then turned back to Cy. "It was... Unfortunate. Halfway between a raid and a massacre, I'd say. People died." The man sighed and took up the port glass, sipping it.

"Honestly? No, I really didn't give as good as I got. Got a few cuts in before a warhammer shattered my leg. Nearly bled out under the dessert table; not terribly heroic at all." He did laugh tightly. "Others were... Rather more effective."
Heather
*Eyebrows raising at the scent Cy lets out a,* "Wooof," *And sets the bottle back down, sliding across the table back to Lir.* "That stuff isn't playing around, huh? You must be at least a little fire spirit." *She winks in a friendly, jovial manner at Lir then grins at Eila as the drinks are delivered. Cy is quick to thank you to the latter of the two. Her expression sobers as Lir continues.* 

"That's terrible. Where did the raiders even come from? Storms, I feel so bad for everyone. I've never been through anything that I'd call a massacre. And your poor leg! I'd have tucked myself away too. Have the town guard been increased since then or have defenses improved? I can't imagine nothing changed."
Dean
Lir picked up his glass and sipped at the port. He laughed.

"Fire spirit? I should certainly hope not. And not to my knowledge." He shrugged. "It depends on what you grew up eating, I suppose. I find it rather nice, but many others certainly don't." 

Lir tapped at the base of his port glass. "From what I understand, they were Ironhammer dwarves, coming to reclaim the Dale from the Firebeards, who are the ruling family in Heatherstead." He sighed. "A dragon supposedly flew overhead afterwards; quite a few people saw it. I didn't myself, but I believe my employer did. I have been wondering if the dragon might have had a hand in the attack."

Lir glanced at his leg. "Sir Jathak is fortunately a good bonesetter, so I'm able to walk on it. And I've been through worse than a broken leg. As for the defenses..." 

He paused to drain the rest of the port from his glass. Setting the empty glass down, he shook his head. "There was an increased security force at this year's festival. And some dwarves did come to make trouble. But all that security... Did nothing. Festival-goers ended up handling that. Which is more than a bit concerning. Thankfully, it ended up being just a few young dwarves wanting to cause a bit of trouble. Nothing terribly untoward."

Lir shifted his weight in the chair, the wood creaking.

"And as for you, my darling? What brings you to Miller Dale?"
Heather
"I'm sure there are some perfectly lovely fire spirits out there. Maybe even charming ones." *Cy laughs and leans forward to prop her chin on her fists, elbows on the table, to listen to Lir. Her expression goes from concern to wide-eyed wonderment at the mention of a dragon. She sits up straight and does her best not to seem giddy. She knows it would be rude to be excited about such matters amid a tale about death and destruction.* "Really? Truly there was one here? Why would it bother with the town. Aren't they all meant to be gone? Oh... That is dreadful about the Ironhammers."

*Taking a breath to slow her roll out of questions Cy presses her hands against her thighs. Giving her head a little shake she looks around the room then back to Lir.* "Houses are always going at it in Ostia but I'd hoped it would be less so elsewhere. Do they have an actual legitimate claim? Not that it would excuse their actions I'm just curious about the history. I suppose I don't feel I missed out by not arriving in time for the festival. Not if it came to all ... That." *Cy shivers at the thought of vigilante justice even though she has a propensity to overdo it in scuffles herself.* 

*Shaking off that thought she returns to the final question at hand.* "I'm just drifting about the world a bit. This just happened to be where the boat I was on had chartered for when I hired on with it. I was thinking next I'd see if anyone was headed toward the Lilac Forest."