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AGELESS Campaign Episode 2 - Temple of the Cat-Goddess
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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 4836398" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter Thirty-three, “Before the Ball", September 4th, 1882, 3:30 P.M.</strong></p><p></p><p>Alsoomse then leads Nanuet and Abigail through the 'Elvan' district of Jacksonville, where the Siminole fishermen live and work. They stop off at a building where three dozen elven men and women are working on rugs and tapestries, some using cotton thread, some using wool. She approaches an ancient man, probably at least six or seven centuries in age, and engages him in conversation in a language that neither Nanuet or Abigail recognize. She then turns to them and says, "This is Wahunsonatou of the Algonquin tribe. His nephew was King Powhatan, the chief who first encountered the English colonists at Jamestown 275 years ago. You may have heard the story of his Great-Neice Pocahontas."</p><p></p><p>The older elf smiles and says in a thickly-accented deep voice "Hello friends and students of Alsoomse, I welcome you. I have always been a man of piece. I came here twenty-five years ago to help end the Siminole Wars against the United States, which lasted for four decades from your years 1818 until 1858, due to the tribe's refusal to be relocated." Alsoomse adds, "Yes, they became the only tribe not removed from this region by President Jackson. My friend here helped to negotiate the final truce between Chief Coacoochee and the Army's Colonel Harney. Those provisions allow the tribe to continue to reside throughout the State." </p><p></p><p>Abigail comments, "I must admit, I'm always a bit astounded to hear someone talk firsthand of things that happened hundreds of years ago. Does the tribe still reside together on their ancestral lands, or have they spread out among the new inhabitants?" He says, "My own tribe was relocated to the mid-west and west. The Siminoles are actually an amalgam of various tribes, most of which occupied Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi but moved to Florida while it was still held by the Spanish to escape from persecution by the United States." </p><p></p><p>Abigail says, "So they banded together to stay in their new home, and won. An unusual outcome here in the United States, and one at least I wish had been repeated more often. Did they share a great deal of cultural identity to keep them together? It always seems the choices are to keep the tribe and it's cultural identity together but be forced to go where the government says, or to allow the tribe to scatter and lose it." </p><p></p><p>He says, "That depends upon who you ask. Many of the elders feel that each individual tribe has lost some of its culture, but I for one feel that by remaining in the same region of the country they have retained more than they would have lost if they remained pure but were forced to relocate to the plains states or western deserts as happened with the majority of the other tribes. And they have also gained by creating a unique Siminole culture that draws from the best of each previous tribe.' </p><p></p><p>Abby says, "Yes, where a culture originates, the weather patterns, the landscape, all have profound effect on culture. For instance, most cultures in tropical climates don't value modest clothing much. It's just too hot to be burying yourself under clothes. I hope you'll forgive my manners, or lack thereof. I tend to get excited and ask questions before I think about whether they're appropriate." </p><p></p><p>He replies, "Alsoomse has indicated that you students of the Timucuan Conservancy are here for a relatively short time. She has stated that during that time wish to learn as much as you can about Native American cultures." Alsoomse says, "Yes Wahunsonatou, but Miss Marters here is not one of the students. She has completed her graduate studies plans to stay on at the Conservancy in more of a faculty capacity." He smiles and says, "Then all the more reason for her to ask as many questions as she can, so that she will know the answers for the students." </p><p></p><p>"I was always a questionsome girl, and I hardly feel any older now," she laughed. "It seems strange to hear Alsoomse say that I've completed my studies, the more I learn the more I realize I don't know. Now, what drew you to the plight of the Seminole's here in Florida? It's a long way from the original lands of the Algonquin, if I remember correctly." </p><p></p><p>He replies, "Algonquin itself was the name of the common language spoken by a variety of tribes in the northeast, each tribe had its own name. My tribe was called the Virigina Algonquin or the Powhatten Algonquin. Comparatively speaking, we occupied a fairly small amount of land, mostly what is now the Virginia coast and rivers inland from it. To the north were the larger Nanticoke and Delaware tribes and to the south were the Iroquois. As the humans moved into our lands the majority of my tribe moved either south and intermixed with the Iroquois or north to Canada and became part of the Canadian Algonquin nation. Our own dialect of the language disappeared nearly a century ago."</p><p></p><p>Alsoomse says, "Which is how Wahunsonatou first became acquainted. He assisted me with my linguistic studies at Dartmouth College. Even thought the Virigina Algonquin dialect is now for all practical purposes an extinct language, due to their having the initial contact with the English several of their unique words live on." He says, "Yes, the animal names muskrat, opposum, and raccoon are our words." She adds, "As well as the words moccasin and tomahawk." He says, "Professor Alsoomse was the one who suggested my name to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to act as facilitator and mediator to end the Siminole Wars. The Siminole were appreciative and invited me to remain here with them." </p><p></p><p>Abby says, "All practical purposes? There are still other native speakers then. I would think one of the advantages of such a long life-span would be slowed loss of such things, and as such, more time to save them if you see what's happening." </p><p></p><p>Nanuet had been quiet until this point and now steps forward "I am honored to meet you Wahunsonatou. It is a noble thing you have done, helping to make peace between elves and humans. I participated in similar activities with the Apache and the humans in the west. Any friend of Alsoomse shall be treated as a friend by me.”</p><p></p><p>He replies, "Then I am honored to meet you as well. Things are currently tense between the humans and Apache, so whatever work you have done is helpful. You may have heard that a few months back a group of Western Apache attempted to kill the top Government official in charge of Indian Affairs. That incident has done great harm to our people, and had they been successful I hesitate to think of what the repercussions might have been." </p><p></p><p>Nanuet says, "That is unsettling news, as things there are very tense. It is unfortunate that things drew me away from there before a lasting peace could be obtained. Hopefully peace is something that can be obtained and should I ever return there I will focus my attentions towards doing just that.” </p><p></p><p>Wahunsonatou spends the next hour taking Alsoomse, Nanuet and Abby around the room. He introduces them to the various Siminole artisans in the room and each explains what they are working on. Some are simply artistic pieces, others are histories of their people, and a few are religious in nature. The trio next go to an outdoor market still in the Elvan area and Alsoomse purchases some snacks of local food for them to sample. They then take the ferry boat back across to the main city and return to the telegram office to wait for the others</p><p></p><p>George and Ruby explored the city looking for unique items and anything else that caught Ruby's eye. She also searched for fabrics for the ladies to make sundresses out of, and bought a few bolts for them to be able to make sundresses for everyone. George orders orchid corsages for all the women from the Conservancy who will be attending the ball and arranges for them to be delivered to the ball and waiting when they arrive. Once the shopping was finished and the time drew near they began making their way back to the telegram office. Lawrence rubs his back. He says to the others, "And now our reward. It's been a while since I've been to a ball. I think I can remember how to dance." </p><p></p><p>The seven meet the Sheriff back at the telegram office. Sol checks with the manager and there is indeed a reply from Governor Bloxham. Sol reads through it and says, "Very interesting. Governor Brown died fifteen years ago but his only son predeceased him, having died in the war at Gettysburg. The son's wife moved to Europe with their two children following the war. The children were educated there and then became professional dancers with the Paris Ballet. Their mother died a few years back and the children then returned to Florida. They still own the Brown estate in Tallahassee, but he says they reside primarily at a seaside property at Atlantic Beach." </p><p></p><p>The Sheriff says, "That's on the coast due east of here, and only around six miles away from the Timucuan Conservancy. It's in the same county, so falls under our jurisdiction." Sol says, "Oh, one final comment. He says they are both now 24 years of age, twins, named Percival Brown and Penelopie Brown." The Sheriff departs and the group of Abby, Alsoomse, Fish, George, Nanuet, Ruby and Sol head back to the boat. The women spend time down in the boat's cabin preparing for the ball while Sol breaks out some cigars and whiskey for the men to partake of above deck while they wait. </p><p></p><p>Ruby helped Abby in whatever ways she needed, fixing her hair and dressing her in her lovely lavender gown. She found it refreshing, she missed her best friend and while it was always fun with George she also enjoyed spending time in the company of girls her age. Once Abby was satisfied with Ruby's help she disappeared into her own room. George knew better than to disturb her when she was preparing to surprise him with a new gown. Abby let Ruby fuss with her until the younger woman was satisfied, as she seemed to greatly enjoy it. Once she had left to prepare herself Abby made her final preparations. </p><p></p><p>At approximately 5:45 PM the carriage from the Timucuan Conservancy arrives near the boat slip. Lawrence and Luiz are driving the carriage while James, Mina, John and Thomas are inside. Luiz, dressed in the finest of clothing, then walks down to the boat to see if the others are ready to head to the ball. </p><p></p><p>The coach arrived and Ruby was still missing, late as usual. Finally she emerged from her room and swept up onto the deck of the boat. Dressed in a stunning white gown that was covered in crystals, she sparkled as the remnants of the sun glittered off the gown. It was a big poufy confection of a dress, the delicate lace fabric sat low off her shoulders, the bodice cut low and snug against her chest highlighted with the tiniest of pearls and behind her trailed a train of satin and tulle. Her hair was pulled back and hung long down her back, accented by clips of shining diamond stars that matched the decoration on the gown. "I'm not late, am I?" she asked innocently with a grin as she reached the waiting group of men</p><p></p><p>The woman who came onto the deck about five minutes after Ruby could not have been a greater contrast. Her warm, honey-colored hair was twisted neatly behind her head but soft in the front with a jeweled headband disappearing into the tresses at the sides. A wide choker set with the same clear stones as the headband circled her throat. The lavender gown was narrow through the skirt, with square bustled layers all the way down the back. It exposed her shoulders and most of her arms, leaving her long, silver gloves to take the place of sleeves.</p><p></p><p>Abby stepped onto the deck of the boat, the picture of cultured elegance, only marred by her inability to quite manage her own mirthful expression. Once Lawrence sees the women, dressed in their finery, he climbs down from the carriage. He removes his hat in a sweep and bows. "Ladies, might I say you all look beautiful. Allow me to help you aboard." Upon entering the carriage the others see Mina Parker is attired in a long-sleaved plum-colored gown with gold embroidery that has a middle-eastern style to it. She smiles at Ruby and Abigail, complimenting their choices in gowns and saying that each favors the wearer. </p><p></p><p>The carriage rides through the city into a neighborhood with a remarkable number of handsome residences. Nearly all of these are surrounded by ample grounds laid out in tasteful gardens and lawns. Many lawns and gardens are perfect little parks, and the fruits, flowers, and shrubs. The ride up the cobblestone path of a large driveway towards a large well-lit mansion. A dirt lot adjacent to the house is filled with parked carriages and horse teams. Several ogres dressed in tuxedos and tails are standing by the main doorway and opening carriage doors for the guests. </p><p></p><p>As the carriage rides up one of the ogre servants approaches and offers to park it for Luiz and Lawrence. Luiz says, "I'll do so myself once my passengers disembark. But please good Sir, step up here and help direct me to its destination." Another ogres approaches the side coach and helps to open the door. Two more tuxedoed ogres are standing at the top of the stairs to open the doors to the mansion. </p><p></p><p>Lawrence nods at the ogres working the door. He holds out his arm for Abigail. "My dear, we have arrived." "Why thank you, Mr. Cantrell. Such a gentleman." Abby placed her fingertips lightly on the offered arm. "We wouldn't want to keep our hosts waiting." "Certainly not, my dear. You'll be the belle of the ball."</p><p></p><p>George offers his arm to Ruby as she exits the carriage and escorts her up the stairs. At the top George pauses "My good man, I arranged for a delivery of flowers for the ladies of our party to be delivered, would you be so kind as to see if they have arrived. The name is George Eastman." he says to one of the ogres at the door. The doors are opened to reveal a multi-room mansion interior, with four large rooms within sight of the doorway. Most of the furnishings appear to have been removed, with the only chairs along the outer walls of the building. The remainder appears to be available for dancing. A small wooden stage has been erected near a grand piano and a seven-piece orchestra is setting up. </p><p></p><p>There are somewhere between eighty-and-one-hundred people in sight. One-third of them are elven females attired in similar waitress attire, long black dresses with white aprons and hats. They are carrying silver platters with either hors derves or beverages to the guests. The women in the room all where elaborate gowns of various styles while most of the men have on suits or tuxedoes, although several of the men are wearing military uniforms, both Union and Confederate, indicating former service in the war.</p><p></p><p>A human male with white mutton-chops and wearing a tailed tuxedo similar to that of the ogres is standing just inside the doorway with a leather booklet in his hand inside which is a list of names. He asks those arriving who they are. After Lawrence and Abby identify themselves he checks the name off on his list, then loudly announces to the room "Mr. Lawrence Cantrell and Miss. Abigail Marsters". Nobody appears to pay any particular attention to them.</p><p></p><p>George and Ruby next approach him. When checks their names and announces "George Eastman and finace Constance Grace West." That causes a flurry of activity, as several couples move in their direction. They are surprised to recognize one of the couples, Eric and Paula Wenzel, who they met the previous month at the marriage of Ruby's mother Alma. They are friends from Baltimore of Lucas Burnham, Ruby's new stepfather, and were among the two-dozen or so guests at the wedding. </p><p></p><p>Nanuet disembarks the carriage and spends his time fidgeting with the suit and pulling at his collar. He sees George and Lawrence help Abigail and Ruby out of the carriage so he keeps an eye out for when Alsoomse is ready to get out of the carriage and he offers a hand to her to help her down. "Here, let me help you" he says in a meek voice. </p><p></p><p>John Hardin twitches uncomfortably when his name is announced, still not used to the stiffness of the new suit. His left hand brushes against the concealed Lightenings - reassuringly - as he reaches up to doff his bowler. He glances around - a crooked smile on his face and takes in the room, noting the exits, the caliber of the crowd and any visible armaments. As per the previously discussed plans, Thomas and Fish enter together and are introduced as "Doctor Thomas S. Crane and his servant Benjaimin."</p><p></p><p>James and Mina are introduced as "James and Wilamina Parker", with Nanuet and Alsoomse immediately following the Parkers in without introduction, giving the impression to the social elite that they are the pair's personal servants. Solomon Star enters afterwards and is likewise introduced. Luiz is detained with parking the carriage, although his primarily objective at the moment is to obtain information from conversation with the ogre parking attendant. </p><p></p><p>Ruby takes George's arm and lets him lead her into the room. She smiles warmly as they approach the couple they know, "Mr and Mrs Wenzel," she curtsies, "How nice to see you. What are you doing here in sunny Florida?" Eric says, "I had to take care of some business down here with shipping contracts." Paula interjects, "My parents own a large house a few miles east of here, they use during in the winter months, so let us stay there whenever Eric has to travel down here for business. Father belongs to the Jacksonville Fraternal Order so we were invited to their ball. Now what are you two doing down here?" </p><p></p><p>Ruby replies, "It's nice to have someplace homey to stay when you travel, isn't it? George and I are here by invitation of the Timucuan Conservancy. I believe we will be conducting some business with them in the future as members.” Paula says, "Oh, we have some elvan servants at the house who were saying something about that place. It's looking for history of old elvan homes isn't it?" "Yes, we are researching old tribes of elves from this area, actually. What were they saying about us?" she asked curiously. </p><p></p><p>Paula says, "That you are a group of college history students looking into elvan history. What college is it that you attend Ruby?" “Oh, I don't attend college. My grandmother's husband is one of the men in charge so he invited us down. Probably to get his grips on George here," she laughed lightly. "He is a history buff." "Well, that and I have a little experience with a camera" says George with a smile. "But, yes we are helping establish the resources needed for the visiting students to gain some first hand archeology experience and to make sure the Conservancy is able to document and preserve what they find of the ancient way of life by the elves here.</p><p></p><p>Ruby asks, “What kind of shipping business do you do, Eric?” Eric says, "I transport primarily agricultural products by barge, around here it is a combination of beans, rice and yams that I ship to northern ports. My connections in Washington D.C. help give me preference for some of the major contracts." Ruby replies, “Very interesting, I will have to file that away in important information." Fish turns his head to whisper directly into Thomas' ear, "Let's join Miss West. Call it a hunch..." </p><p></p><p>A pianist takes to the piano and the orchestra begins to play. They begin with light background music for the opening reception. The waitresses continue to circulate offering snacks and beverages to the guests. Luiz finally arrives and is announced as "Doctor Pedro Luiz Napoleao Chernoviz". Luiz is approached by a distinquished looking gentleman who introduces himself as Doctor Richard Letourneau. He says that he is one considered to be Jacksonville's top surgeon and that he regularly uses Luiz's medical texts.</p><p></p><p>As people circulate through the rooms they see that the large wooden deck on the back of the house has been set up with chairs and tables with a large buffet table along the back wall with various foods. Fish and Thomas soon find themselves in a group of six very attractive young single ladies in their late teenage years who apparently all have their eyes on the wealthy young doctor and academic who they assume Fish to be. They are introduced (clockwise from Fish) as Katherine Desjardins LeMont, Donna Young, Anne-Marie Newbury, Carolyn Leslie MacAdams, Candice Fairfield and Glenna Rose Ayers. Within the first few minutes of conversation it is apparent that all six are the children or grandchildren of the club members. </p><p></p><p>Fish leans on his rakish good looks and natural charisma to mack on the ladies -- in particular, his keen sense of Balance and acrobatic prowess should allow him to move close and spark standing-almost-too-close flirtation. He puts Diplomacy and Bluff to good use, playing with their assumptions. He fronts no outright pretense feigning the role of the good doctor, but neither does he go out of his way to disabuse them of the notion.</p><p></p><p>James, Mina, Alsoomse and Nanuet are approached by a tall man in a United States Navy uniform with the rank of Admiral (photo below). The man has a beard and mustache. The man has a number of medals pinned to his uniform. James had worn a pair of medals on his suit lapel, which is apparently what attracted the man's attention. The Admiral introduces himself as Christoper Matthew Perry Rogers. James smiles and says, "Admiral Rogers, it is an honor." He turns to Mina and says, "Admiral, this is my wife Willamina." He then turns back towards his elvan companions and says, "And these are Alsoomse da Rosa and Nanuet." Rogers bows towards each. Looking at his companions James continues, "Admiral Rogers is quite famous, he served in the Mexican-American war at the naval seige of Vera Cruz and during the Civil War his ship was instrumental in the Battle of Port Royal." </p><p></p><p>The admiral's body language had initially indicated some annoyance but James's recognition of him and knowledge of the man's background appears to help mollify the man. Rogers says, "I am honored that you know of me, but then, you are a historian. If you don't mind however, I wish to discuss something with you, perhaps in private..." as he jestures to one of James's medals. James says, "We can speak in front of my family and friends. What is it you wish to talk about?" Rogers says, "Well I hoped to avoid any embarrassment, but it is inappropriate for you to be wearing that. While I am sure you are proud of your ancestor's service in the War of 1812, a Naval service medal should only be worn by the recipient, not his descendents."</p><p></p><p>James smiles and says, "Ah, I understand now. Sir, I was the recipient, having served on the USS Constitution. I am older than I appear due to my being part-elvan." He gestures back towards Alsoomse and says, "Professor da Rosa is my grandmother." </p><p></p><p>From the moment of his introduction John Wesley Hardin had been swamped by people wishing to meet the celebrated outlaw. While he did his best to rid himself of the unwanted attention they persisted. Even a trip to the men's water closet failed to work, as they waited outside of the room for his return. He was on the verge of having to make threats when an illustration of how "fickle" celebrity seekers are manifested itself.</p><p></p><p>From the front door the arrival was announced of "Mr. Edwin F. Pierce and Miss. Fanny Davenport." Both in their early thirties and reknowned actors of the New York and European stage, she is considered one of the top actresses of this day. He too is considered a fine actor, although in truth he is best known for being her husband of three years. The two actors instantly became of the target of what had been the Hardin-fan-club. The crowd around John immediately disperses and flocks to see Fanny and Edwin without so much as even a 'goodbye' to Hardin. </p><p></p><p>Ruby states, "Oh Georgie! We have to make sure to go over and say hello! We should wait until they aren't swamped though. I hope they'll want to spend some time chatting."</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 4836398, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter Thirty-three, “Before the Ball", September 4th, 1882, 3:30 P.M.[/B] Alsoomse then leads Nanuet and Abigail through the 'Elvan' district of Jacksonville, where the Siminole fishermen live and work. They stop off at a building where three dozen elven men and women are working on rugs and tapestries, some using cotton thread, some using wool. She approaches an ancient man, probably at least six or seven centuries in age, and engages him in conversation in a language that neither Nanuet or Abigail recognize. She then turns to them and says, "This is Wahunsonatou of the Algonquin tribe. His nephew was King Powhatan, the chief who first encountered the English colonists at Jamestown 275 years ago. You may have heard the story of his Great-Neice Pocahontas." The older elf smiles and says in a thickly-accented deep voice "Hello friends and students of Alsoomse, I welcome you. I have always been a man of piece. I came here twenty-five years ago to help end the Siminole Wars against the United States, which lasted for four decades from your years 1818 until 1858, due to the tribe's refusal to be relocated." Alsoomse adds, "Yes, they became the only tribe not removed from this region by President Jackson. My friend here helped to negotiate the final truce between Chief Coacoochee and the Army's Colonel Harney. Those provisions allow the tribe to continue to reside throughout the State." Abigail comments, "I must admit, I'm always a bit astounded to hear someone talk firsthand of things that happened hundreds of years ago. Does the tribe still reside together on their ancestral lands, or have they spread out among the new inhabitants?" He says, "My own tribe was relocated to the mid-west and west. The Siminoles are actually an amalgam of various tribes, most of which occupied Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi but moved to Florida while it was still held by the Spanish to escape from persecution by the United States." Abigail says, "So they banded together to stay in their new home, and won. An unusual outcome here in the United States, and one at least I wish had been repeated more often. Did they share a great deal of cultural identity to keep them together? It always seems the choices are to keep the tribe and it's cultural identity together but be forced to go where the government says, or to allow the tribe to scatter and lose it." He says, "That depends upon who you ask. Many of the elders feel that each individual tribe has lost some of its culture, but I for one feel that by remaining in the same region of the country they have retained more than they would have lost if they remained pure but were forced to relocate to the plains states or western deserts as happened with the majority of the other tribes. And they have also gained by creating a unique Siminole culture that draws from the best of each previous tribe.' Abby says, "Yes, where a culture originates, the weather patterns, the landscape, all have profound effect on culture. For instance, most cultures in tropical climates don't value modest clothing much. It's just too hot to be burying yourself under clothes. I hope you'll forgive my manners, or lack thereof. I tend to get excited and ask questions before I think about whether they're appropriate." He replies, "Alsoomse has indicated that you students of the Timucuan Conservancy are here for a relatively short time. She has stated that during that time wish to learn as much as you can about Native American cultures." Alsoomse says, "Yes Wahunsonatou, but Miss Marters here is not one of the students. She has completed her graduate studies plans to stay on at the Conservancy in more of a faculty capacity." He smiles and says, "Then all the more reason for her to ask as many questions as she can, so that she will know the answers for the students." "I was always a questionsome girl, and I hardly feel any older now," she laughed. "It seems strange to hear Alsoomse say that I've completed my studies, the more I learn the more I realize I don't know. Now, what drew you to the plight of the Seminole's here in Florida? It's a long way from the original lands of the Algonquin, if I remember correctly." He replies, "Algonquin itself was the name of the common language spoken by a variety of tribes in the northeast, each tribe had its own name. My tribe was called the Virigina Algonquin or the Powhatten Algonquin. Comparatively speaking, we occupied a fairly small amount of land, mostly what is now the Virginia coast and rivers inland from it. To the north were the larger Nanticoke and Delaware tribes and to the south were the Iroquois. As the humans moved into our lands the majority of my tribe moved either south and intermixed with the Iroquois or north to Canada and became part of the Canadian Algonquin nation. Our own dialect of the language disappeared nearly a century ago." Alsoomse says, "Which is how Wahunsonatou first became acquainted. He assisted me with my linguistic studies at Dartmouth College. Even thought the Virigina Algonquin dialect is now for all practical purposes an extinct language, due to their having the initial contact with the English several of their unique words live on." He says, "Yes, the animal names muskrat, opposum, and raccoon are our words." She adds, "As well as the words moccasin and tomahawk." He says, "Professor Alsoomse was the one who suggested my name to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to act as facilitator and mediator to end the Siminole Wars. The Siminole were appreciative and invited me to remain here with them." Abby says, "All practical purposes? There are still other native speakers then. I would think one of the advantages of such a long life-span would be slowed loss of such things, and as such, more time to save them if you see what's happening." Nanuet had been quiet until this point and now steps forward "I am honored to meet you Wahunsonatou. It is a noble thing you have done, helping to make peace between elves and humans. I participated in similar activities with the Apache and the humans in the west. Any friend of Alsoomse shall be treated as a friend by me.” He replies, "Then I am honored to meet you as well. Things are currently tense between the humans and Apache, so whatever work you have done is helpful. You may have heard that a few months back a group of Western Apache attempted to kill the top Government official in charge of Indian Affairs. That incident has done great harm to our people, and had they been successful I hesitate to think of what the repercussions might have been." Nanuet says, "That is unsettling news, as things there are very tense. It is unfortunate that things drew me away from there before a lasting peace could be obtained. Hopefully peace is something that can be obtained and should I ever return there I will focus my attentions towards doing just that.” Wahunsonatou spends the next hour taking Alsoomse, Nanuet and Abby around the room. He introduces them to the various Siminole artisans in the room and each explains what they are working on. Some are simply artistic pieces, others are histories of their people, and a few are religious in nature. The trio next go to an outdoor market still in the Elvan area and Alsoomse purchases some snacks of local food for them to sample. They then take the ferry boat back across to the main city and return to the telegram office to wait for the others George and Ruby explored the city looking for unique items and anything else that caught Ruby's eye. She also searched for fabrics for the ladies to make sundresses out of, and bought a few bolts for them to be able to make sundresses for everyone. George orders orchid corsages for all the women from the Conservancy who will be attending the ball and arranges for them to be delivered to the ball and waiting when they arrive. Once the shopping was finished and the time drew near they began making their way back to the telegram office. Lawrence rubs his back. He says to the others, "And now our reward. It's been a while since I've been to a ball. I think I can remember how to dance." The seven meet the Sheriff back at the telegram office. Sol checks with the manager and there is indeed a reply from Governor Bloxham. Sol reads through it and says, "Very interesting. Governor Brown died fifteen years ago but his only son predeceased him, having died in the war at Gettysburg. The son's wife moved to Europe with their two children following the war. The children were educated there and then became professional dancers with the Paris Ballet. Their mother died a few years back and the children then returned to Florida. They still own the Brown estate in Tallahassee, but he says they reside primarily at a seaside property at Atlantic Beach." The Sheriff says, "That's on the coast due east of here, and only around six miles away from the Timucuan Conservancy. It's in the same county, so falls under our jurisdiction." Sol says, "Oh, one final comment. He says they are both now 24 years of age, twins, named Percival Brown and Penelopie Brown." The Sheriff departs and the group of Abby, Alsoomse, Fish, George, Nanuet, Ruby and Sol head back to the boat. The women spend time down in the boat's cabin preparing for the ball while Sol breaks out some cigars and whiskey for the men to partake of above deck while they wait. Ruby helped Abby in whatever ways she needed, fixing her hair and dressing her in her lovely lavender gown. She found it refreshing, she missed her best friend and while it was always fun with George she also enjoyed spending time in the company of girls her age. Once Abby was satisfied with Ruby's help she disappeared into her own room. George knew better than to disturb her when she was preparing to surprise him with a new gown. Abby let Ruby fuss with her until the younger woman was satisfied, as she seemed to greatly enjoy it. Once she had left to prepare herself Abby made her final preparations. At approximately 5:45 PM the carriage from the Timucuan Conservancy arrives near the boat slip. Lawrence and Luiz are driving the carriage while James, Mina, John and Thomas are inside. Luiz, dressed in the finest of clothing, then walks down to the boat to see if the others are ready to head to the ball. The coach arrived and Ruby was still missing, late as usual. Finally she emerged from her room and swept up onto the deck of the boat. Dressed in a stunning white gown that was covered in crystals, she sparkled as the remnants of the sun glittered off the gown. It was a big poufy confection of a dress, the delicate lace fabric sat low off her shoulders, the bodice cut low and snug against her chest highlighted with the tiniest of pearls and behind her trailed a train of satin and tulle. Her hair was pulled back and hung long down her back, accented by clips of shining diamond stars that matched the decoration on the gown. "I'm not late, am I?" she asked innocently with a grin as she reached the waiting group of men The woman who came onto the deck about five minutes after Ruby could not have been a greater contrast. Her warm, honey-colored hair was twisted neatly behind her head but soft in the front with a jeweled headband disappearing into the tresses at the sides. A wide choker set with the same clear stones as the headband circled her throat. The lavender gown was narrow through the skirt, with square bustled layers all the way down the back. It exposed her shoulders and most of her arms, leaving her long, silver gloves to take the place of sleeves. Abby stepped onto the deck of the boat, the picture of cultured elegance, only marred by her inability to quite manage her own mirthful expression. Once Lawrence sees the women, dressed in their finery, he climbs down from the carriage. He removes his hat in a sweep and bows. "Ladies, might I say you all look beautiful. Allow me to help you aboard." Upon entering the carriage the others see Mina Parker is attired in a long-sleaved plum-colored gown with gold embroidery that has a middle-eastern style to it. She smiles at Ruby and Abigail, complimenting their choices in gowns and saying that each favors the wearer. The carriage rides through the city into a neighborhood with a remarkable number of handsome residences. Nearly all of these are surrounded by ample grounds laid out in tasteful gardens and lawns. Many lawns and gardens are perfect little parks, and the fruits, flowers, and shrubs. The ride up the cobblestone path of a large driveway towards a large well-lit mansion. A dirt lot adjacent to the house is filled with parked carriages and horse teams. Several ogres dressed in tuxedos and tails are standing by the main doorway and opening carriage doors for the guests. As the carriage rides up one of the ogre servants approaches and offers to park it for Luiz and Lawrence. Luiz says, "I'll do so myself once my passengers disembark. But please good Sir, step up here and help direct me to its destination." Another ogres approaches the side coach and helps to open the door. Two more tuxedoed ogres are standing at the top of the stairs to open the doors to the mansion. Lawrence nods at the ogres working the door. He holds out his arm for Abigail. "My dear, we have arrived." "Why thank you, Mr. Cantrell. Such a gentleman." Abby placed her fingertips lightly on the offered arm. "We wouldn't want to keep our hosts waiting." "Certainly not, my dear. You'll be the belle of the ball." George offers his arm to Ruby as she exits the carriage and escorts her up the stairs. At the top George pauses "My good man, I arranged for a delivery of flowers for the ladies of our party to be delivered, would you be so kind as to see if they have arrived. The name is George Eastman." he says to one of the ogres at the door. The doors are opened to reveal a multi-room mansion interior, with four large rooms within sight of the doorway. Most of the furnishings appear to have been removed, with the only chairs along the outer walls of the building. The remainder appears to be available for dancing. A small wooden stage has been erected near a grand piano and a seven-piece orchestra is setting up. There are somewhere between eighty-and-one-hundred people in sight. One-third of them are elven females attired in similar waitress attire, long black dresses with white aprons and hats. They are carrying silver platters with either hors derves or beverages to the guests. The women in the room all where elaborate gowns of various styles while most of the men have on suits or tuxedoes, although several of the men are wearing military uniforms, both Union and Confederate, indicating former service in the war. A human male with white mutton-chops and wearing a tailed tuxedo similar to that of the ogres is standing just inside the doorway with a leather booklet in his hand inside which is a list of names. He asks those arriving who they are. After Lawrence and Abby identify themselves he checks the name off on his list, then loudly announces to the room "Mr. Lawrence Cantrell and Miss. Abigail Marsters". Nobody appears to pay any particular attention to them. George and Ruby next approach him. When checks their names and announces "George Eastman and finace Constance Grace West." That causes a flurry of activity, as several couples move in their direction. They are surprised to recognize one of the couples, Eric and Paula Wenzel, who they met the previous month at the marriage of Ruby's mother Alma. They are friends from Baltimore of Lucas Burnham, Ruby's new stepfather, and were among the two-dozen or so guests at the wedding. Nanuet disembarks the carriage and spends his time fidgeting with the suit and pulling at his collar. He sees George and Lawrence help Abigail and Ruby out of the carriage so he keeps an eye out for when Alsoomse is ready to get out of the carriage and he offers a hand to her to help her down. "Here, let me help you" he says in a meek voice. John Hardin twitches uncomfortably when his name is announced, still not used to the stiffness of the new suit. His left hand brushes against the concealed Lightenings - reassuringly - as he reaches up to doff his bowler. He glances around - a crooked smile on his face and takes in the room, noting the exits, the caliber of the crowd and any visible armaments. As per the previously discussed plans, Thomas and Fish enter together and are introduced as "Doctor Thomas S. Crane and his servant Benjaimin." James and Mina are introduced as "James and Wilamina Parker", with Nanuet and Alsoomse immediately following the Parkers in without introduction, giving the impression to the social elite that they are the pair's personal servants. Solomon Star enters afterwards and is likewise introduced. Luiz is detained with parking the carriage, although his primarily objective at the moment is to obtain information from conversation with the ogre parking attendant. Ruby takes George's arm and lets him lead her into the room. She smiles warmly as they approach the couple they know, "Mr and Mrs Wenzel," she curtsies, "How nice to see you. What are you doing here in sunny Florida?" Eric says, "I had to take care of some business down here with shipping contracts." Paula interjects, "My parents own a large house a few miles east of here, they use during in the winter months, so let us stay there whenever Eric has to travel down here for business. Father belongs to the Jacksonville Fraternal Order so we were invited to their ball. Now what are you two doing down here?" Ruby replies, "It's nice to have someplace homey to stay when you travel, isn't it? George and I are here by invitation of the Timucuan Conservancy. I believe we will be conducting some business with them in the future as members.” Paula says, "Oh, we have some elvan servants at the house who were saying something about that place. It's looking for history of old elvan homes isn't it?" "Yes, we are researching old tribes of elves from this area, actually. What were they saying about us?" she asked curiously. Paula says, "That you are a group of college history students looking into elvan history. What college is it that you attend Ruby?" “Oh, I don't attend college. My grandmother's husband is one of the men in charge so he invited us down. Probably to get his grips on George here," she laughed lightly. "He is a history buff." "Well, that and I have a little experience with a camera" says George with a smile. "But, yes we are helping establish the resources needed for the visiting students to gain some first hand archeology experience and to make sure the Conservancy is able to document and preserve what they find of the ancient way of life by the elves here. Ruby asks, “What kind of shipping business do you do, Eric?” Eric says, "I transport primarily agricultural products by barge, around here it is a combination of beans, rice and yams that I ship to northern ports. My connections in Washington D.C. help give me preference for some of the major contracts." Ruby replies, “Very interesting, I will have to file that away in important information." Fish turns his head to whisper directly into Thomas' ear, "Let's join Miss West. Call it a hunch..." A pianist takes to the piano and the orchestra begins to play. They begin with light background music for the opening reception. The waitresses continue to circulate offering snacks and beverages to the guests. Luiz finally arrives and is announced as "Doctor Pedro Luiz Napoleao Chernoviz". Luiz is approached by a distinquished looking gentleman who introduces himself as Doctor Richard Letourneau. He says that he is one considered to be Jacksonville's top surgeon and that he regularly uses Luiz's medical texts. As people circulate through the rooms they see that the large wooden deck on the back of the house has been set up with chairs and tables with a large buffet table along the back wall with various foods. Fish and Thomas soon find themselves in a group of six very attractive young single ladies in their late teenage years who apparently all have their eyes on the wealthy young doctor and academic who they assume Fish to be. They are introduced (clockwise from Fish) as Katherine Desjardins LeMont, Donna Young, Anne-Marie Newbury, Carolyn Leslie MacAdams, Candice Fairfield and Glenna Rose Ayers. Within the first few minutes of conversation it is apparent that all six are the children or grandchildren of the club members. Fish leans on his rakish good looks and natural charisma to mack on the ladies -- in particular, his keen sense of Balance and acrobatic prowess should allow him to move close and spark standing-almost-too-close flirtation. He puts Diplomacy and Bluff to good use, playing with their assumptions. He fronts no outright pretense feigning the role of the good doctor, but neither does he go out of his way to disabuse them of the notion. James, Mina, Alsoomse and Nanuet are approached by a tall man in a United States Navy uniform with the rank of Admiral (photo below). The man has a beard and mustache. The man has a number of medals pinned to his uniform. James had worn a pair of medals on his suit lapel, which is apparently what attracted the man's attention. The Admiral introduces himself as Christoper Matthew Perry Rogers. James smiles and says, "Admiral Rogers, it is an honor." He turns to Mina and says, "Admiral, this is my wife Willamina." He then turns back towards his elvan companions and says, "And these are Alsoomse da Rosa and Nanuet." Rogers bows towards each. Looking at his companions James continues, "Admiral Rogers is quite famous, he served in the Mexican-American war at the naval seige of Vera Cruz and during the Civil War his ship was instrumental in the Battle of Port Royal." The admiral's body language had initially indicated some annoyance but James's recognition of him and knowledge of the man's background appears to help mollify the man. Rogers says, "I am honored that you know of me, but then, you are a historian. If you don't mind however, I wish to discuss something with you, perhaps in private..." as he jestures to one of James's medals. James says, "We can speak in front of my family and friends. What is it you wish to talk about?" Rogers says, "Well I hoped to avoid any embarrassment, but it is inappropriate for you to be wearing that. While I am sure you are proud of your ancestor's service in the War of 1812, a Naval service medal should only be worn by the recipient, not his descendents." James smiles and says, "Ah, I understand now. Sir, I was the recipient, having served on the USS Constitution. I am older than I appear due to my being part-elvan." He gestures back towards Alsoomse and says, "Professor da Rosa is my grandmother." From the moment of his introduction John Wesley Hardin had been swamped by people wishing to meet the celebrated outlaw. While he did his best to rid himself of the unwanted attention they persisted. Even a trip to the men's water closet failed to work, as they waited outside of the room for his return. He was on the verge of having to make threats when an illustration of how "fickle" celebrity seekers are manifested itself. From the front door the arrival was announced of "Mr. Edwin F. Pierce and Miss. Fanny Davenport." Both in their early thirties and reknowned actors of the New York and European stage, she is considered one of the top actresses of this day. He too is considered a fine actor, although in truth he is best known for being her husband of three years. The two actors instantly became of the target of what had been the Hardin-fan-club. The crowd around John immediately disperses and flocks to see Fanny and Edwin without so much as even a 'goodbye' to Hardin. Ruby states, "Oh Georgie! We have to make sure to go over and say hello! We should wait until they aren't swamped though. I hope they'll want to spend some time chatting." [/QUOTE]
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