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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: 4842696" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter Thirty-four, “The Jacksonville Fraternal Order’s Ball", September 4th, 1882, 8:30 P.M.</strong></p><p></p><p>Ruby and George had been chatting with the Wenzels for fifteen minutes when the doorman announces "Mr. Henry Morrision Flagler and Guest". The entire room becomes immediatley silent and many people assume body languages communicating great tension. George recognizes Flagler's name, as he and his business partners John D. Rockefeller and Samuel Andrews founded Standard Oil, one of the nation's most successful businesses. Next to the announcer are an older man standing beside a well-dressed young lady. The older man's face has turned beet red as he glares around the room. The silence continues for a solid minute and there are a few snickers in the back of the room, from a group of middle-aged to older women.</p><p></p><p>A distinguished man hurries up to the doorway and says, "Henry, I apoligize, this will be dealt with." That man then takes the leather list from the one by the door, stating "You are dismissed. Leave my home NOW!" He then turns to the hall stating loudly "Mr. Henry Morrison and Mrs. Ida Alice Flagler." Conversations in the room resume although people still keep their voices low as the upper-class drama continues to unfold at the doorway. </p><p></p><p>Ruby's hand flew to her mouth and she giggled. "Oh, that is embarrassing for them," she commented. "Well, you know, it shouldn't matter that much, all this silly class drama. I wonder if that was purposeful. Anyway, it's really great that you don't care about that stuff George. I can't stand it." </p><p></p><p>Eric and Paula are still standing nearby and Eric says, "Oh, it was totally purposeful. Those society women absolutely hate Mr. Flagler's new wife. He moved here to Jacksonville six years ago, as the warmer climate was thought to help his sickly first wife. He was very devoted to her; she finally passed away last year. Not long after that Mr. Flagler married young Ida Alice, who had been his wife's nurse." Ruby replies, "Oh that's not very nice. He was probably very lonely. George, we should make sure to go over and speak to them. That'll make people talk."</p><p></p><p>Abigail and Lawrence had circulated around the room, meeting the various people present and engaging in superficial small talk. They find themselves in the company of a trio of Europeans who had recently moved to the Jacksonville area. The three are from Belgium, the patriarch being a widower of Lawrence's generation by the name of Jean-Francois Jacques de Lambert and his children closer to Abigail in age, a daughter Rouyn Elise de Montgomerie and son Garread Lucius de Lambert. They have recently purchased a cotton plantation west of the city. </p><p></p><p>Lawrence says, "Monsieur de Lambert, Mademoiselle de Montgomerie, Monsieur de Lambert. How nice to meet you. You seem to be doing well here. How do you like the weather? It's much warmer than in France, right?" Jean-Francois replies, "Oui, France and Belgium are much cooler. But here in the Jacksonville area we at least get the cool ocean breeze."</p><p></p><p>Abigail asks, "If I may ask, what brought you from Belgium to Florida? Such a radical change for all of you. Did you desire adventure, or was there a definite plan behind your decision?" Gerread says, "He left to provide me and my sister with a better life, our opportunities in Belgium became limited." Jean-Francois says, "Yes, I had a very successful business with what I thought were hundreds of happy customers. What I didn't realize was that their patronage was linked to their assumptions of future opportunities with King Leopold, as Gerread here was formally courting his daughter Princess Stephanie." </p><p></p><p>Gerread says, with some bitterness in his voice, "But Leopold chose to marry her off last year instead to Archduke Rudoff, the Crown Prince of Austria, Hungary and Bohemia." Jean-Francois says, "Yes, an arranged marriage to increase Belgium's power in Europe. Once it was clear that I was not going to have any royal connections my customers abruptly left me, forcing me to close the business for good. We sold the family estate and came here to America, where we are now successful again." </p><p></p><p>Abby says, "I'm sorry to hear that. It's unfortunate the things that people will do when they think there is money or power to be gained. And unfortunate for the Princess that her father favored a match made for his power rather than her happiness with a young man who obviously loved her. But you're in the United States now and doing well. I wish I could promise that no one here is a power-seeker, but we all know better. But still, America is different, and hard work rarely goes unrewarded." </p><p></p><p>Gerrard smiles at Abby and says, "Oui, and one reward is that there are no shortages of beautiful women here in America. Please save me a dance for later Abigail, I would be very appreciative." A warm smile crossed Abby's face, her chin tilted down just slightly so she could look up from under her eyelashes. "As I appreciate the invitation. How could I refuse such a charming gentleman." She lifted her head a bit and asked, "How did you settle on a cotton plantation? Is it your new business, or just a place you wanted to live that would garner some additional income for the family?" </p><p></p><p>Jean-Francois replies, "It was serendipity. We initially went to Savannah, Georgia, for no other reason than that was the ship's destination. Not long thereafter I happened to meet an old widow whose husband and heirs had not survived the war. She was looking to sell her family property here in the Jacksonville area. I knew nothing about cotton farming, but am a quick study, and truly enjoy owning one-thousand acres of land rather than only five as was the case in Belgium."</p><p></p><p>Abigail notices that Rouyn Elise has remained quiet during the entire conversation. In a rather thick French accent she excuses herself and heads over to get a drink from one of the waitresses. Jean-Francois says, "The change has been hard on her, she misses both French culture and her husband. He is a sailor, and was seldom home back in Belgium, but since moving to the United States he has chosen to spend more time out at sea than ever before." </p><p></p><p>"He didn't... marry her with the same thought your disloyal customers had, did he? I hope you'll forgive me, I know it's none of my business. To be pulled away from home to a place so different must be very difficult." Jean Francois says, "Oh no, but Marcel was my employee, the Engineering Officer of my freighter fleet. When the business went under I had to sell the ships and he had no job. When we were in Savannah he was hired as Chief Engineer on a rather large freighter that makes runs up and down the Atlantic coast, from Canada to Latin America, with only occasional leave. So he's now out at sea two-thirds to three-quarters of the time." </p><p></p><p>Abby looked relieved and nodded. "It must be very hard for her. Although I love my home of New Orleans, I've always been so curious about the world that I was eager to travel it. But I find every now and then I need to return and remember who I am in the place where I was born." Gerread lights up and exclaims, "You're from New Orleans! Does that mean that you speak the French language?" </p><p></p><p>She replies, "Oui Monsieur, but not as beautifully as you might hope. The French spoken by the people of New Orleans is not quite the same as that spoken in Europe. It's been influenced by the many other races and nationalities that live in the city. My accent would probably sound just awful to you, never mind the slang I'd be sure to use." He says, "Oui, I understand. But you are fluent in the language, non? You can read and understand French. That is magnificent, we have that in common." </p><p></p><p>She asks, "Oh yes, certainly. What else do you think we might have in common?" Taking her hand in his he states, "Ah, those of us of French background have much in common, the world is our playground, and it is just a matter of choosing what to explore first." His sister returns and comments to Gerrard in French "Brother dear, please stop pawing at that poor woman! Why must you attempt to enrapture every female that you meet." Lawrence gets the gist of what she says. He laughs while trying to hide it with his hand. "Ahem, sorry about that. New Orleans is a wonderful city. So full of life. It must be the French influence."</p><p></p><p>Abigail laughed lightly and smiled at the woman. In French she answered, "Have no fear for me, Madame. It's been a while since I was outrageously flattered and I'm certainly enjoying it. I hope I'll see both of you again after this lovely evening is over, I think we could be great friends, and we can all use friends." Rouyn Elise gives Abby a genuine smile and says, "Yes, I would like that, I have no friends here at all. You don't have to worry about Gerread either, he'll happily become your friend."</p><p></p><p>Abby switched back to English and said, "See, my accent IS atrocious. I have to admit the French in my background is quite small. My father was an Englishman, but my mother is New Orleans born and raised. She has a lot of different nationalities in her background, French being only one of them." Jean-Francois says, "I've heard worse, and we Belgium’s are not as critical of pronunciation as the French, they even criticize our use of the language.” Abby laughed lightly at Rouyn Elise's comment. "Oh, I'm sure he will. I will just have to watch for what else he might try to become," she said, teasing. "It might even be fun. But with you on my side I will have the inside story on him.</p><p></p><p>I have never been to France, I was in England but I was working and didn't leave England for pleasure trips. But from what I've heard, the French can be rather particular." </p><p></p><p>Gerrard ignores his sister's comment and pays little to no attention to Lawrence's as well, focusing entirely upon Abigail. Jean-Francois replies to Lawrence with "I for one welcome the American ways over the French, there is something to be said for being a young, new and interesting place. Now that your nation has settled it's internal differences I find it's potential to be near-infinite."</p><p></p><p>Across the room, the last of the guests continue to arrive and be announced, including the Sheriff and wife Gerta. Nanuet wanders around almost as if he is lost. He finds himself drawn to the other elves and strikes up conversations with the servers when they are idle. </p><p></p><p>Mina Parker soon comes to his rescue saying, "There you are! Let's stick together for a while please. Apparently the Admiral was also the Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, so he is now lost in conversation with James and Alsoomse about college academia. I found it interesting for the first fifteen minutes but then tired of it. They'll be at it for another hour or so. Let's get something to eat dear friend." "Well now you are certainly speaking my language!" Nanuet says cracking a wide smile. "I'd be glad to accompany you!" Nanuet offers his arm to Mina and the two go off in search of food and drink. </p><p></p><p>Near the stage, the women all compete for Fish’s attentions, each trying to outdo the next with flattery, flirtations, compliments, and/or talk of their own family wealth. Fish is greatly enjoying their company when another young lady who has just entered the room suddenly distracts him. Standing at the doorway, dressed in an elegant blue gown, is the women he met on the train. Beside her is a man in a three-piece suit with an almost identical face as the woman. The replacement doorman checks the list and announces "Mr. Percival T. Brown and Miss. Penelope J. Brown." </p><p></p><p>Fish attempts to catch Hardin's eye. When he does, he nods meaningfully toward the couple. The Brown twins engage in conversation not far from the door with Mr. and Mrs. Flagler, who are still speaking with the party's host and two other gentlemen who had joined him. Luiz breaks off from his conversation with the Doctor and makes his way over towards Fish and Thomas and gesturing to the Browns comments "My, look who has arrived. Well, they do say that you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer." </p><p></p><p>Ruby waited some time until the actors seemed to have less people surrounding them. She took George and waited for the right moment to introduce themselves. She gave them a little curtsy. "Good evening Mr. Pierce and Miss Davenport. My name is Ruby West and this is my fiancée George Eastman. I'd love to have a bit of a chat with you if you have the time. I'm an entertainer myself and have been considering becoming an actress." </p><p></p><p>"Eastman, the photographer?" Pierce exclaims. He warmly welcomes the two of them and asks if they live in the area. While he speaks with George Fanny steps slightly away, greeting the other fans who flocked to them. "Yes, that's my George," Ruby smiled. Though it was odd to have someone more interested in him than in her. Still, he should have some attention sometime too. "Actually George lives in Rochester, where my family is originally from. Right now we're living here. I don't know where we will live after we get married. What are you doing here in Florida?" </p><p></p><p>Edwin says, "Trying to keep up with my bride." Hearing herself mentioned, Fanny pivots back and introduces herself to Ruby and George. She says that she will be performing in Tallahassee the upcoming weekend and arrived early in the State to look around." Ruby shook the woman's hand. "Pleasure to meet you Miss Davenport. Or is it Mrs. Pierce? I'd love to see you perform in your upcoming show. Perhaps we could enjoy a meal together at some point, if you'll be down here for some time. I'd love to hear about your experiences." </p><p></p><p>Fannie says, "We're staying in Jacksonville until Wednesday. Why don't we get together for dinner and a show tomorrow night? We're staying at the Astor Hotel." "That sounds wonderful! Is that alright George? I believe we are free tomorrow evening. That way we can leave you to your other adoring fans tonight," Ruby teased. "We'll meet you at the Astor Hotel, what time would be convenient for the two of you?" "None too early," Fanny States, "We theater people do not even begin our days until noon. How does 7:00 PM sound?" </p><p></p><p>Ruby laughs heartily. "Yes, this I know, trust me. Many a friend and acquaintance know I won't be available until a little later in the day. 7:00 sounds perfect. Until tomorrow then." Ruby gave them a little nod then took George's hand and tugged him away. "That's so exciting! Tomorrow night that is. Now, would you like to have a little appetizer, dance or perhaps go cause trouble with Mr. Flagler and young Ida Alice?" </p><p></p><p>Nanuet and Mina find their way out to the back deck of the mansion, a large wooden railed platform overlooking a river tributary that flows into the main river a half-mile away. Various tables and chairs have been set out of the deck and tables with food and beverages are along the wall beside the building. The variety of foods is varied, with nearly every type of meat, fish, fruit and vegetable one could expect as well as no shortage of cheeses and breads. A half-ogre bartenders is standing next to a beverage cart, getting guests whatever they wish. </p><p></p><p>Gas lanterns illuminate the deck, although there is still residual light to the west from where the sun has recently set. A tall woman in a maroon gown approaches the pair and says "Hello, Once you have your food Count Ladislas would appreciate it if you could join him." She gestures to a table where a distinguished looking clean-shaven gentleman with dark hair is seated. He appears to be around forty years of age and is attired in a dark suit, white shirt, with a dark cloak over his shoulders. His appearance is also that of a half-elf, with an angular face and points to his ears. </p><p></p><p>"Oh, ummm... certainly" Nanuet says with uncertainty as he looks to Mina who nods. "We'd be honored to join Count Ladislas." Nanuet puts together a plate of food that is inappropriately stacked with food, skipping nothing from what is offered. He brings his plate to the table where the count is seated before offering to help Mina with hers. Before sitting down Nanuet offers his hand to the Count and says "Hello Mister Count, I am Nanuet, and this is Miss Mina." </p><p></p><p>The man stands and bows to Mina. He shakes Nanuet's hand and says with a Slavic accent, "Thank you for joining me. I gather from your bearing Mr. Nanuet that you are not familiar with who I am, that answers the primary question that I had for you. Please, have a seat, I believe that we have much to discuss." Nanuet says, "As long as you don't mind if I talk and eat, I will gladly have a seat.”</p><p></p><p>George and Ruby are then approached by an older gentleman who is bald and with a white beard and mustache (photo below). He introduces himself as General Francis Elias Spinner, the current President of the Jacksonville Fraternal Order. George recognizes the name of Lincoln's Treasurer of the United States. Ruby recognizes from the man's accent that he is also a New Yorker. He warmly welcomes the two of them and enthusiastically states how much he wishes for George to become a member of their group. </p><p></p><p>"General Spinner," Ruby gives him a curtsy, "Pleasure to meet you." She grins, "Do I detect a New York accent General? What are you down here if I might be so nosy?" He smiles and says, "Miss West, I am please to meet you. Any relative of James Parker's is top notch in my book. And yes, I am from upstate New York, the community of Mohawk to be exact, although I have also lived in Utica and New York City. What I am doing here is retiring after a long career of dedicated service, although I still own land back in Mohawk as well as a plot in the cemetery there for my final internment." </p><p></p><p>"A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well General Spinner." replies George. "You have found Jackson an amenable place to retire then?" Spinner smiles and says, "I think that we New Yorkers will find the winters here much easier, I know that my bones and muscles do. As for the rest of the place, it's changed dramatically since I first arrived two years ago, largely due to the arrival of the railroads. The year-round population of the city has doubled in just that short time, and the wintertime population mushrooms to five-times that of the current year-round. </p><p></p><p>And with the tourist trade rapidly becoming the primary employment for the region, those with deep-rooted 'Southern' ideas are learning to adapt and be tolerant of us 'Yankees' who think otherwise. I suspect that is also partially due to the fact that the Spanish only left sixty-years back, with most Americans arriving after that, so there hasn't been as much time for long-held traditions to set it. This Jacksonville Fraternal Order is one of the last institutions to consider undergoing such changes, having been chartered fifty-years back based upon a similar organization from Virginia, but with me as its new President that will happen in short order." </p><p></p><p>"Well, that is welcome news, both of the city and the Order. I think the country needs a bit of homogenization to ensure we never attempt to divide this country again. And I am very pleased to hear you are bringing changes to the Fraternal Order. You know I am considered a progressive, even back in New York General Spinner and would not abandon those ideals because of a warmer latitude." says George. </p><p></p><p>He replies, "I am pleased to hear that, I have always been considered progressive myself. Back during the war I was Treasurer of the United States, which meant that most hiring for Government jobs went through me. I saw no reason why able-bodied soldiers needed to be kept behind for clerical and secretary work and went about hiring women for the first time into Government positions. Doing so put me in opposition with all of the other Cabinet members, but President Lincoln agreed with my logic and backed my efforts." </p><p></p><p>Ruby exclaims, "Treasurer of the United States? My goodness, that is really important! And you got to meet the President and everything! I'm glad you are all about letting the lesser sex help out too. Sounds like you'll be a little less busy with this Fraternal organization thing. What do they do?" Spinner replies, "They've had a number of different objectives over the years, but currently the main task is to help make Governor Bloxham's vision a reality. He anticipates turning Florida into a haven for northerners to spend the winter months, as well as a place for people to permanently retire to. So our goal is to promote businesses into establishing the infrastructure for such a vision, as well as making the visitors to our State feel welcome." </p><p></p><p>She says, "I can see how that would be appealing, if you didn't mind the traveling. While it's hot now, it is probably much nicer here in the winter than up in the bitter Rochester snow. So may I be nosy General Spinner, are you here with a date?" He smiles and says, "No, I am currently unattached. Please be sure to save me a dance for later, that is, if Mr. Eastman does not mind." "Lucky for us Mr. Eastman is not the jealous sort. I look forward to that dance General." </p><p></p><p>Ruby grinned at the memory, actually memories, of a jealous George. She thought that just proved how much he loved her. "I wonder when the music will start, I am itching to dance. I haven't been to a real ball in forever! I think I've forgotten the proper protocol." Spinner says, "Well then, I think that the dancing should begin soon then, I will go speak to this ball's host William Ledwith about starting the music."</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 4842696, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter Thirty-four, “The Jacksonville Fraternal Order’s Ball", September 4th, 1882, 8:30 P.M.[/B] Ruby and George had been chatting with the Wenzels for fifteen minutes when the doorman announces "Mr. Henry Morrision Flagler and Guest". The entire room becomes immediatley silent and many people assume body languages communicating great tension. George recognizes Flagler's name, as he and his business partners John D. Rockefeller and Samuel Andrews founded Standard Oil, one of the nation's most successful businesses. Next to the announcer are an older man standing beside a well-dressed young lady. The older man's face has turned beet red as he glares around the room. The silence continues for a solid minute and there are a few snickers in the back of the room, from a group of middle-aged to older women. A distinguished man hurries up to the doorway and says, "Henry, I apoligize, this will be dealt with." That man then takes the leather list from the one by the door, stating "You are dismissed. Leave my home NOW!" He then turns to the hall stating loudly "Mr. Henry Morrison and Mrs. Ida Alice Flagler." Conversations in the room resume although people still keep their voices low as the upper-class drama continues to unfold at the doorway. Ruby's hand flew to her mouth and she giggled. "Oh, that is embarrassing for them," she commented. "Well, you know, it shouldn't matter that much, all this silly class drama. I wonder if that was purposeful. Anyway, it's really great that you don't care about that stuff George. I can't stand it." Eric and Paula are still standing nearby and Eric says, "Oh, it was totally purposeful. Those society women absolutely hate Mr. Flagler's new wife. He moved here to Jacksonville six years ago, as the warmer climate was thought to help his sickly first wife. He was very devoted to her; she finally passed away last year. Not long after that Mr. Flagler married young Ida Alice, who had been his wife's nurse." Ruby replies, "Oh that's not very nice. He was probably very lonely. George, we should make sure to go over and speak to them. That'll make people talk." Abigail and Lawrence had circulated around the room, meeting the various people present and engaging in superficial small talk. They find themselves in the company of a trio of Europeans who had recently moved to the Jacksonville area. The three are from Belgium, the patriarch being a widower of Lawrence's generation by the name of Jean-Francois Jacques de Lambert and his children closer to Abigail in age, a daughter Rouyn Elise de Montgomerie and son Garread Lucius de Lambert. They have recently purchased a cotton plantation west of the city. Lawrence says, "Monsieur de Lambert, Mademoiselle de Montgomerie, Monsieur de Lambert. How nice to meet you. You seem to be doing well here. How do you like the weather? It's much warmer than in France, right?" Jean-Francois replies, "Oui, France and Belgium are much cooler. But here in the Jacksonville area we at least get the cool ocean breeze." Abigail asks, "If I may ask, what brought you from Belgium to Florida? Such a radical change for all of you. Did you desire adventure, or was there a definite plan behind your decision?" Gerread says, "He left to provide me and my sister with a better life, our opportunities in Belgium became limited." Jean-Francois says, "Yes, I had a very successful business with what I thought were hundreds of happy customers. What I didn't realize was that their patronage was linked to their assumptions of future opportunities with King Leopold, as Gerread here was formally courting his daughter Princess Stephanie." Gerread says, with some bitterness in his voice, "But Leopold chose to marry her off last year instead to Archduke Rudoff, the Crown Prince of Austria, Hungary and Bohemia." Jean-Francois says, "Yes, an arranged marriage to increase Belgium's power in Europe. Once it was clear that I was not going to have any royal connections my customers abruptly left me, forcing me to close the business for good. We sold the family estate and came here to America, where we are now successful again." Abby says, "I'm sorry to hear that. It's unfortunate the things that people will do when they think there is money or power to be gained. And unfortunate for the Princess that her father favored a match made for his power rather than her happiness with a young man who obviously loved her. But you're in the United States now and doing well. I wish I could promise that no one here is a power-seeker, but we all know better. But still, America is different, and hard work rarely goes unrewarded." Gerrard smiles at Abby and says, "Oui, and one reward is that there are no shortages of beautiful women here in America. Please save me a dance for later Abigail, I would be very appreciative." A warm smile crossed Abby's face, her chin tilted down just slightly so she could look up from under her eyelashes. "As I appreciate the invitation. How could I refuse such a charming gentleman." She lifted her head a bit and asked, "How did you settle on a cotton plantation? Is it your new business, or just a place you wanted to live that would garner some additional income for the family?" Jean-Francois replies, "It was serendipity. We initially went to Savannah, Georgia, for no other reason than that was the ship's destination. Not long thereafter I happened to meet an old widow whose husband and heirs had not survived the war. She was looking to sell her family property here in the Jacksonville area. I knew nothing about cotton farming, but am a quick study, and truly enjoy owning one-thousand acres of land rather than only five as was the case in Belgium." Abigail notices that Rouyn Elise has remained quiet during the entire conversation. In a rather thick French accent she excuses herself and heads over to get a drink from one of the waitresses. Jean-Francois says, "The change has been hard on her, she misses both French culture and her husband. He is a sailor, and was seldom home back in Belgium, but since moving to the United States he has chosen to spend more time out at sea than ever before." "He didn't... marry her with the same thought your disloyal customers had, did he? I hope you'll forgive me, I know it's none of my business. To be pulled away from home to a place so different must be very difficult." Jean Francois says, "Oh no, but Marcel was my employee, the Engineering Officer of my freighter fleet. When the business went under I had to sell the ships and he had no job. When we were in Savannah he was hired as Chief Engineer on a rather large freighter that makes runs up and down the Atlantic coast, from Canada to Latin America, with only occasional leave. So he's now out at sea two-thirds to three-quarters of the time." Abby looked relieved and nodded. "It must be very hard for her. Although I love my home of New Orleans, I've always been so curious about the world that I was eager to travel it. But I find every now and then I need to return and remember who I am in the place where I was born." Gerread lights up and exclaims, "You're from New Orleans! Does that mean that you speak the French language?" She replies, "Oui Monsieur, but not as beautifully as you might hope. The French spoken by the people of New Orleans is not quite the same as that spoken in Europe. It's been influenced by the many other races and nationalities that live in the city. My accent would probably sound just awful to you, never mind the slang I'd be sure to use." He says, "Oui, I understand. But you are fluent in the language, non? You can read and understand French. That is magnificent, we have that in common." She asks, "Oh yes, certainly. What else do you think we might have in common?" Taking her hand in his he states, "Ah, those of us of French background have much in common, the world is our playground, and it is just a matter of choosing what to explore first." His sister returns and comments to Gerrard in French "Brother dear, please stop pawing at that poor woman! Why must you attempt to enrapture every female that you meet." Lawrence gets the gist of what she says. He laughs while trying to hide it with his hand. "Ahem, sorry about that. New Orleans is a wonderful city. So full of life. It must be the French influence." Abigail laughed lightly and smiled at the woman. In French she answered, "Have no fear for me, Madame. It's been a while since I was outrageously flattered and I'm certainly enjoying it. I hope I'll see both of you again after this lovely evening is over, I think we could be great friends, and we can all use friends." Rouyn Elise gives Abby a genuine smile and says, "Yes, I would like that, I have no friends here at all. You don't have to worry about Gerread either, he'll happily become your friend." Abby switched back to English and said, "See, my accent IS atrocious. I have to admit the French in my background is quite small. My father was an Englishman, but my mother is New Orleans born and raised. She has a lot of different nationalities in her background, French being only one of them." Jean-Francois says, "I've heard worse, and we Belgium’s are not as critical of pronunciation as the French, they even criticize our use of the language.” Abby laughed lightly at Rouyn Elise's comment. "Oh, I'm sure he will. I will just have to watch for what else he might try to become," she said, teasing. "It might even be fun. But with you on my side I will have the inside story on him. I have never been to France, I was in England but I was working and didn't leave England for pleasure trips. But from what I've heard, the French can be rather particular." Gerrard ignores his sister's comment and pays little to no attention to Lawrence's as well, focusing entirely upon Abigail. Jean-Francois replies to Lawrence with "I for one welcome the American ways over the French, there is something to be said for being a young, new and interesting place. Now that your nation has settled it's internal differences I find it's potential to be near-infinite." Across the room, the last of the guests continue to arrive and be announced, including the Sheriff and wife Gerta. Nanuet wanders around almost as if he is lost. He finds himself drawn to the other elves and strikes up conversations with the servers when they are idle. Mina Parker soon comes to his rescue saying, "There you are! Let's stick together for a while please. Apparently the Admiral was also the Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, so he is now lost in conversation with James and Alsoomse about college academia. I found it interesting for the first fifteen minutes but then tired of it. They'll be at it for another hour or so. Let's get something to eat dear friend." "Well now you are certainly speaking my language!" Nanuet says cracking a wide smile. "I'd be glad to accompany you!" Nanuet offers his arm to Mina and the two go off in search of food and drink. Near the stage, the women all compete for Fish’s attentions, each trying to outdo the next with flattery, flirtations, compliments, and/or talk of their own family wealth. Fish is greatly enjoying their company when another young lady who has just entered the room suddenly distracts him. Standing at the doorway, dressed in an elegant blue gown, is the women he met on the train. Beside her is a man in a three-piece suit with an almost identical face as the woman. The replacement doorman checks the list and announces "Mr. Percival T. Brown and Miss. Penelope J. Brown." Fish attempts to catch Hardin's eye. When he does, he nods meaningfully toward the couple. The Brown twins engage in conversation not far from the door with Mr. and Mrs. Flagler, who are still speaking with the party's host and two other gentlemen who had joined him. Luiz breaks off from his conversation with the Doctor and makes his way over towards Fish and Thomas and gesturing to the Browns comments "My, look who has arrived. Well, they do say that you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer." Ruby waited some time until the actors seemed to have less people surrounding them. She took George and waited for the right moment to introduce themselves. She gave them a little curtsy. "Good evening Mr. Pierce and Miss Davenport. My name is Ruby West and this is my fiancée George Eastman. I'd love to have a bit of a chat with you if you have the time. I'm an entertainer myself and have been considering becoming an actress." "Eastman, the photographer?" Pierce exclaims. He warmly welcomes the two of them and asks if they live in the area. While he speaks with George Fanny steps slightly away, greeting the other fans who flocked to them. "Yes, that's my George," Ruby smiled. Though it was odd to have someone more interested in him than in her. Still, he should have some attention sometime too. "Actually George lives in Rochester, where my family is originally from. Right now we're living here. I don't know where we will live after we get married. What are you doing here in Florida?" Edwin says, "Trying to keep up with my bride." Hearing herself mentioned, Fanny pivots back and introduces herself to Ruby and George. She says that she will be performing in Tallahassee the upcoming weekend and arrived early in the State to look around." Ruby shook the woman's hand. "Pleasure to meet you Miss Davenport. Or is it Mrs. Pierce? I'd love to see you perform in your upcoming show. Perhaps we could enjoy a meal together at some point, if you'll be down here for some time. I'd love to hear about your experiences." Fannie says, "We're staying in Jacksonville until Wednesday. Why don't we get together for dinner and a show tomorrow night? We're staying at the Astor Hotel." "That sounds wonderful! Is that alright George? I believe we are free tomorrow evening. That way we can leave you to your other adoring fans tonight," Ruby teased. "We'll meet you at the Astor Hotel, what time would be convenient for the two of you?" "None too early," Fanny States, "We theater people do not even begin our days until noon. How does 7:00 PM sound?" Ruby laughs heartily. "Yes, this I know, trust me. Many a friend and acquaintance know I won't be available until a little later in the day. 7:00 sounds perfect. Until tomorrow then." Ruby gave them a little nod then took George's hand and tugged him away. "That's so exciting! Tomorrow night that is. Now, would you like to have a little appetizer, dance or perhaps go cause trouble with Mr. Flagler and young Ida Alice?" Nanuet and Mina find their way out to the back deck of the mansion, a large wooden railed platform overlooking a river tributary that flows into the main river a half-mile away. Various tables and chairs have been set out of the deck and tables with food and beverages are along the wall beside the building. The variety of foods is varied, with nearly every type of meat, fish, fruit and vegetable one could expect as well as no shortage of cheeses and breads. A half-ogre bartenders is standing next to a beverage cart, getting guests whatever they wish. Gas lanterns illuminate the deck, although there is still residual light to the west from where the sun has recently set. A tall woman in a maroon gown approaches the pair and says "Hello, Once you have your food Count Ladislas would appreciate it if you could join him." She gestures to a table where a distinguished looking clean-shaven gentleman with dark hair is seated. He appears to be around forty years of age and is attired in a dark suit, white shirt, with a dark cloak over his shoulders. His appearance is also that of a half-elf, with an angular face and points to his ears. "Oh, ummm... certainly" Nanuet says with uncertainty as he looks to Mina who nods. "We'd be honored to join Count Ladislas." Nanuet puts together a plate of food that is inappropriately stacked with food, skipping nothing from what is offered. He brings his plate to the table where the count is seated before offering to help Mina with hers. Before sitting down Nanuet offers his hand to the Count and says "Hello Mister Count, I am Nanuet, and this is Miss Mina." The man stands and bows to Mina. He shakes Nanuet's hand and says with a Slavic accent, "Thank you for joining me. I gather from your bearing Mr. Nanuet that you are not familiar with who I am, that answers the primary question that I had for you. Please, have a seat, I believe that we have much to discuss." Nanuet says, "As long as you don't mind if I talk and eat, I will gladly have a seat.” George and Ruby are then approached by an older gentleman who is bald and with a white beard and mustache (photo below). He introduces himself as General Francis Elias Spinner, the current President of the Jacksonville Fraternal Order. George recognizes the name of Lincoln's Treasurer of the United States. Ruby recognizes from the man's accent that he is also a New Yorker. He warmly welcomes the two of them and enthusiastically states how much he wishes for George to become a member of their group. "General Spinner," Ruby gives him a curtsy, "Pleasure to meet you." She grins, "Do I detect a New York accent General? What are you down here if I might be so nosy?" He smiles and says, "Miss West, I am please to meet you. Any relative of James Parker's is top notch in my book. And yes, I am from upstate New York, the community of Mohawk to be exact, although I have also lived in Utica and New York City. What I am doing here is retiring after a long career of dedicated service, although I still own land back in Mohawk as well as a plot in the cemetery there for my final internment." "A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well General Spinner." replies George. "You have found Jackson an amenable place to retire then?" Spinner smiles and says, "I think that we New Yorkers will find the winters here much easier, I know that my bones and muscles do. As for the rest of the place, it's changed dramatically since I first arrived two years ago, largely due to the arrival of the railroads. The year-round population of the city has doubled in just that short time, and the wintertime population mushrooms to five-times that of the current year-round. And with the tourist trade rapidly becoming the primary employment for the region, those with deep-rooted 'Southern' ideas are learning to adapt and be tolerant of us 'Yankees' who think otherwise. I suspect that is also partially due to the fact that the Spanish only left sixty-years back, with most Americans arriving after that, so there hasn't been as much time for long-held traditions to set it. This Jacksonville Fraternal Order is one of the last institutions to consider undergoing such changes, having been chartered fifty-years back based upon a similar organization from Virginia, but with me as its new President that will happen in short order." "Well, that is welcome news, both of the city and the Order. I think the country needs a bit of homogenization to ensure we never attempt to divide this country again. And I am very pleased to hear you are bringing changes to the Fraternal Order. You know I am considered a progressive, even back in New York General Spinner and would not abandon those ideals because of a warmer latitude." says George. He replies, "I am pleased to hear that, I have always been considered progressive myself. Back during the war I was Treasurer of the United States, which meant that most hiring for Government jobs went through me. I saw no reason why able-bodied soldiers needed to be kept behind for clerical and secretary work and went about hiring women for the first time into Government positions. Doing so put me in opposition with all of the other Cabinet members, but President Lincoln agreed with my logic and backed my efforts." Ruby exclaims, "Treasurer of the United States? My goodness, that is really important! And you got to meet the President and everything! I'm glad you are all about letting the lesser sex help out too. Sounds like you'll be a little less busy with this Fraternal organization thing. What do they do?" Spinner replies, "They've had a number of different objectives over the years, but currently the main task is to help make Governor Bloxham's vision a reality. He anticipates turning Florida into a haven for northerners to spend the winter months, as well as a place for people to permanently retire to. So our goal is to promote businesses into establishing the infrastructure for such a vision, as well as making the visitors to our State feel welcome." She says, "I can see how that would be appealing, if you didn't mind the traveling. While it's hot now, it is probably much nicer here in the winter than up in the bitter Rochester snow. So may I be nosy General Spinner, are you here with a date?" He smiles and says, "No, I am currently unattached. Please be sure to save me a dance for later, that is, if Mr. Eastman does not mind." "Lucky for us Mr. Eastman is not the jealous sort. I look forward to that dance General." Ruby grinned at the memory, actually memories, of a jealous George. She thought that just proved how much he loved her. "I wonder when the music will start, I am itching to dance. I haven't been to a real ball in forever! I think I've forgotten the proper protocol." Spinner says, "Well then, I think that the dancing should begin soon then, I will go speak to this ball's host William Ledwith about starting the music." [/QUOTE]
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