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Story Hour
Wizards, Whiskey and Wonderful Things - Concluded
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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 2339552" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 42, “Girls Night Out”, Tuesday, March 14th, 1882:</strong></p><p></p><p>Katherine closed her eyes for a moment. "More than one war would be caused I think. With the knowledge they could gain in Britain, the Clerical countries might decide to reopen hostilities with those who still follow arcane magic. And if they don't, wizards seeking to keep the knowledge from them might." </p><p></p><p>When Kate opened her eyes, they looked tired. "The sooner something is done, the better. And the quieter the better as well. When you say disastrous, what exactly do you mean? Beside all out war, could they learn to just look at someone and detect if they use the arcane arts? Could they poison the lines somehow so we are harmed when we use our skills? Or is it all this and more?"</p><p></p><p>Guillieaut says, "That's the problem, we don't know! We only have one Atlantian volume, the secret third book that Homer wrote. Homer's other writings all burned with the Library of Alexandria. I'm letting my imagination run wild I know, but worst case scenarios are what we are dealing with here. Another problem is that so many people in this city have ties to European nations. This information may have already been communicated. When I said that this could be disastrous in the wrong hands I was including both France and Spain in that assessment. The French government is now in anarchy, after the fall of Prime Minister Gambetta in a coup two months back. Spain's present government is not much better."</p><p></p><p>Gonzales asks when the ship is scheduled to set sail. The Frenchman replies, "At dawn this Saturday, March 18th." Gonzales says, "There is time then, I believe I have a solution. Were you able to locate the sign of good faith that I spoke of yesterday." Guillieaut says, "Yes." He reaches into a pocket and removes a small pouch made of black velvet which he hands to Manual. Manuel in turn passes it over to Kate and says, "Hang on to this, you may want to use it later."</p><p></p><p>She asks, "What is this, Professeur aimé?" He says, "Something I thought that you could use. It is called Dust of Forgetfulness. You sprinkle it onto a person and they have no memory of what transpired in the previous hour. It might help you to get those ten minutes you were looking for."</p><p></p><p>"Why, I.... Thank you. We will have to discuss your thoughts on that later. Thank you." Kate took a deep breath. "So we really can't trust anyone in Europe with this knowledge, and we certainly can't trust it in the United States. I hate the idea of destroying a possible source of new learning, but this it seems is too dangerous to be let out. Such a shame. You had an idea, Professeur aimé?"</p><p></p><p>"I have several. Sonoma, we need you to talk to speak to your other teacher, Mother Jiminez. I suspect that the sudden appearance volcano may be related to the Atlantic Ocean earth spirit having moved to the southern hemisphere to help keep watch over South America. As for the ship, we obviously have to make sure that those items never make it back to England. I wouldn't want to destroy any of them, just keep them hidden from those who would seek them out. </p><p></p><p>Marc, if I were to get an experienced group of adventurers here within the next day or two would you be able to help give them assistance in extracting these artifacts from the vessel?" He replies, "Oui, who do you have in mind?" Gonzales replies, "I'm thinking of a group known as Arcade's Gang. I've worked with them before. They recently returned to the United States and are in this region at the moment. They had had experience with assignments such as this. And right now they owe me a favor or two."</p><p></p><p>Ruby comments, "You know where they are? We've been hearing a lot of rumors about them since we've come to Promise City. I didn't think they would ever head back there. Are you in contact with them?" He replies, "Yes, I met with them yesterday. <em>(In the Arcade’s Gang Story Hour, Chapters 81 & 82, “The Man from Atlantis”) </em> </p><p></p><p>He then says, “That reminds me...." He fishes into his pocket and takes out a ring, which the women recognize as being the magical device that creates "Tex". He hands the ring over to the French Wizard and says, "If you have the time I would appreciate it if you could recharge this Polymorph Item device. The persona that is currently in it would be too dangerous to ever use again." Kate shook her head. "Not Tex. Poor Madeline has lost her escort. I'm sure you'll tell us later how he met his demise." </p><p></p><p>Guillieaut asks, "Do you want me to imprint a new image?" Gonzales replies, "No thank you, I know how to do that myself. You can give the ring to an Arcade's Gang member named Morgana to return to me. She is another of my apprentices." Ruby turns and looks at Mr. Gonzales curiously. "How many apprentices do you have anyway?" "Well, it seems like you have a plan then and you won't be needing us?" Ruby almost breathed a sigh of relief thinking about the danger they would be avoiding, but held it until Mr. Gonzales confirmed her answer. He smiles at her and says, "We can talk about that later. I have a hunch that I might be needing help from all four of my current apprentices by the time we are finished."</p><p></p><p>Kate nodded at Mr. Gonzales with a half-smile, then looked down at her hands folded in her lap. In the last few quiet weeks, she had realized just how reckless she had been with her life. Helping the Cartwrights, going into the mountains to protect the earth spirit, running off to Tombstone to look for Morgan Earp. She didn't regret any of it. She had helped people, made a difference, but she had not been responsible for anyone else then. Now there was Ginnie to think of. And her life was no longer burdensome; there were things to live for. It was a new life, and she wanted to see where it would lead. But her new studies were part of that life, perhaps these dangers and responsibilities came with that. She sighed softy and met Ruby's eyes. "I will do what I can, of course."</p><p></p><p>Ruby let her breath out but it wasn't a relief like she thought it would be. "Whatever you need, Mr. Gonzales, you know we'll help you." "So...what now?" Gonzales replies, "Now we thank Mr. Guillieaut for being a wonderful host and inviting us all to this fabulous meal. Marc, that you so very much. While there clearly was a greater purpose for this meeting you could not have found a finer place to hold it. Your family's wines were wonderful and you should take great pride in them. My apprentices and I will be going now, but I'm sure that our paths will cross again. </p><p></p><p>You should be meeting my other associates either tomorrow or Thursday. While Morgana is an apprentice and would see this mission as being a greater good I am afraid that her partners have less of an altruistic perspective. I would suggest that you find each of them an appropriate magical item as further incentive to assist in this venture. I will see what I can do in regards to both the Island and finding a safe location for us to store the artifacts. Good day kind sir." </p><p></p><p>Kate tells Marc "Merci du dîner, monsieur. C'était un plaisir de vous rencontrer, ont une soirée plaisante." <<translation: Thank you for dinner, Sir. It was a pleasure to meet you, have a pleasant evening.>> Kate smiled and took her teacher's arm. Sonoma states, “I would also like to thank you for your hospitality. I will do what I can to find what druid magics may be effected by this new occurrence and assist in whatever way my mentors deem appropriate.” Ruby states, "And I thank you too, as it has been my pleasure to meet such an interesting and powerful man." She offers her hand again. "Maybe we'll meet again someday?"</p><p></p><p>The four leave the restaurant. Gonzales leads them in the direction of the French Quarter of the city. He says "And now Katherine and Ruby, you're going to learn one of the main differences between the perspective of the humans and the elves. As you've just heard following that excellent meal, a potential crisis exists, one that could lead to war between nations and possibly jeopardize all that use wizard magics. I'm sure that Guillieut is assuming that I will do what he would in my situation and make this my only priority, spending every waking moment for the next several days searching for solutions. </p><p></p><p>But my little birds, the solution is already in place. I have already spoken to Arcade's Gang about this and they are on their way here, I put that in place yesterday. And the trip to Los Angeles will have to wait until tomorrow if we wish to return to Promise City tonight, as I can use only two transportation spells a day. So we've done what we can for right now. I propose that we now head over to Bourbon Street and find some of the most exciting nightspots that New Orleans has to offer for some good music, lively dancing and just plain fun."</p><p>Kate says, "I believe Guillieut assumes many things. I'm sorry, Professeur aimé, I do not like that man. Arrogant is putting it mildly. I hope I was not rude. As you say, there is nothing more to do tonight. I would enjoy some music, although I can't say I've ever been to a 'night spot.' I'm not certain those are places for me," she finished a bit primly. He replies, "If you are uncomfortable with the place that Madge Duprey has recommended to me then we can go elsewhere, I also know a quieter place run by some old Creole friends of mine where you will also hear fine music. In fact, why don't we plan on visiting both places, the night is young."</p><p></p><p>"I'm not uncomfortable. Please, I'm sure whatever you have planned is fine. Ruby and Sonoma would enjoy lively dancing and 'plain fun.' Just promise me, Ruby, that you won't invite all the men to buy me drinks," she said with a little smile. "Don't worry Kate, I won't make that mistake twice." Ruby flipped her hair over her shoulder. "No, I'll ask all the men to buy ME drinks," she laughed. </p><p></p><p>Gonzales replies, "Actually I would suggest that we all go light on the drinking. Of those four wine bottles I estimate the Guillieaut consumed around two himself but the four of us managed to empty the other two. We may want to stick to lemonade or good old fashioned southern iced tea for the remainder of the night." Kate exclaims, "The three of you actually. I didn't have more than half a glass." "Oh, that's no fun. But dancing and excitement does sound fun and I think we can all use some... fun that is." Ruby smiles and looks genuinely happy to be having a fun night out. "Let's go!" Ruby adjusts her dress strategically, fluffs her hair, then waits for Mr. Gonzales to show them the way.</p><p></p><p>It was hard not to smile. Ruby's excitement was infectious, and Katherine didn't want to dampen it. And there really was no reason to. There was nothing more to do tonight, and it would be a shame to have come all the way to this beautiful city and not enjoy it. She looked at Mr. Gonzales and Sonoma. Neither of them would chide her for enjoying herself. She shook her head. She was the only one who still worried about what was proper for a widow. Tonight she would worry about what was proper for Katherine, and that just might mean allowing herself to have a little fun. "Alright Ruby. But you might have to show me how," she said and smiled.</p><p></p><p>Gonzales says "When Louis XV transferred Louisiana to his cousin Charles III of Spain they renamed this boulevard Bourbon Street, not for the liquor but because Charles was from the Royal House of Bourbon, the Spanish royal family. This was originally the Spanish Quarter of the city. Many buildings on this street still show the Spanish influence from the four-decades of their rule. Notice the wrought iron fences and balconies, as well as some of the older houses, which hint of Spanish architecture. It was during the Neopleonic wars and the revolution in Haiti that tens of thousands of French refugees flooded the city and took over this section, making it the French Quarter." </p><p></p><p>They continue their walk and he points out several other buildings "This is still called the French Quarter, but after the Civil War most French and Creole moved on to the better parts of the city. During the last few years the famine on the Island of Sicily has brought in over five thousand Italian immigrants who have moved into this section, just as thousands of Irish did during the start of their famine in the generation before that. Kate, I believe that your husband's family was of Irish descent. </p><p></p><p>Ruby kept quiet as they walked through the city. The buildings were impressive looking enough, but she didn't really care about any of the history, of the city or the houses or any of it. She was ready to dance and have a bit of fun, hopefully she could get Kate to join her. If Madge had recommended the place they were going, Ruby was sure to love it and she looked forward to arriving.</p><p></p><p>The hear the sounds of lively music coming from a building at the corner of Bourbon and Toulouse Streets. The sign on the building reads "Madame Antoinette's". Gonzales says "This is the place that Miss. Dupre worked at before. Let's head in." </p><p></p><p>The building is 100 by 120 feet in size. It has a high ceiling, 30 feet up. Fancy chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Eighty tables of different sizes fill the room where close to 200 patrons are, a quarter of which are along the bar running the full eastern wall. A large stage, running the full 100-foot width and 20 feet deep is on the far end. A pair of grand pianos is on the stage, one at each end, and a twelve-man orchestra is set up on chairs just before the stage. Three dozen beautiful French dancing girls wearing low cut black dresses, multiple petticoats, black fishnet stockings and black shoes are dancing together on stage to the lively and festive music.</p><p></p><p>Ruby stands silently taking in the sight as her smile grows larger and larger. Finally she takes Kate hand, “Let’s go get a table.” They squeeze through the crowd, keeping their eyes open, until they spot a small table near the stage. They make their way to it and sit. “This place is amazing,” Ruby says loudly. She watches the girls dance for a while before announcing, “I’m going to the bar to get a drink. Anyone want anything?” She gets their orders and heads to the bar. </p><p></p><p>She crams her way up to the bar and orders two whiskeys and three sweet teas. She bobs her head to the music waiting for the drinks. She gets bumped into a few times so she keeps her eyes open but remains calm and relaxed. The drinks show up and she quickly drinks one of the whiskeys before returning to the table. “So who wants to dance with me?” Ruby stands at the table with a cocked head and grins.</p><p></p><p>The dancing girls finish their routine and exit the stage. The orchestra continues and several couples head out to dance. Manuel is thrilled with the prospect of dancing and heads with Ruby out to the dance floor in front of the stage. The orchestra begins with several fast dances for the first fifteen minutes. A pair of pianists take their places at the grand pianos and the orchestra then switches over to the waltz and other slower more formal dances. Ruby discovers that despite his age Manuel is very spry and a good dancer. Once the orchestra switched to the slower classical pieces Kate began to relax. She and Sonoma sit together and chat while the others dance.</p><p></p><p>Ruby enjoyed Manuel's company on the dance floor, she could just relax and enjoy herself with him, and she felt safe. After monopolizing him for a good long time Ruby pulled him off the dance floor. "I don't want to keep you to myself all night, maybe Sonoma or Kate would like to dance?" </p><p>Kate says, "I should take my chance while they're still playing my music. Do you need to rest first, Professeur aimé?" "Nonsense my dear, right this way." He pulls Kate out onto the dance floor just as another waltz is beginning. The familiar steps came back easily, and Kate and her teacher sailed gracefully through the dance. As they stepped into the next dance Kate said, "I'm sorry if I haven't been much fun tonight. Sometimes my upbringing still gets the better of me, and I start to think I shouldn't be traveling and enjoying myself."</p><p></p><p>Ruby glanced around the crowded saloon. "I'm going to look for the owner and introduce myself. But save a few more dances for me please!" She gives him a wink and heads over to the bar. After squeezing in again, she gets the bartenders attention. "Is the owner of this impressive establishment around?" "Oui, Jacques DuMont is the man standing near the stage" he gestures to a man forty feet away in a silk three-piece blue suit with a white silk ascot that has a diamond pin in the middle of it. A beautiful well-dressed young lady is standing to either side of him.</p><p></p><p>"Thank you sir," Ruby nods and leaves a dollar on the bar. She approaches the well-dressed man with a warm smile. "Mr. DuMont? My name is Ruby, Ruby West." She extends her hand to him. "I'm a friend of Ms. Duprey's." Dumont replies, "Bonjour jeune dame, vous connaissez mon cher ami Madge ? Comment est elle faisant, j'ai entendu qu'elle est sortie à l'ouest. Queest-ce que je peux faire pour aider une belle femme de yung telle que vous-même ? Est-vous un chanteur ou le danseur peut-être ?"</p><p></p><p>Ruby laughs and shakes her head. "I don't speak French, the language of love...." Ain't that the truth, she laughs to herself. "Do you speak English?" He shakes his head and says "Je ne parle pas anglais." "Hold on one moment," Ruby holds up her hand in a 'stay right here' motion. </p><p></p><p>She approaches Kate and Mr. Gonzales on the dance floor. "Oh, I am sorry to interrupt you... when you are finished Kate, could you come with me? I want to speak to the owner but he only speaks French." "It's alright Ruby, I'll come now." Kate let go of Mr. Gonzales' hands and made a graceful if a bit grandiose curtsey. "I am sure you will save another dance for me as well, Monsieur. But there is another partner for you, yes?" she said looking over to Sonoma. She took Ruby's arm in hers. "Lead on, dear."</p><p></p><p>"Thank you Kate, you are a sweetheart." Ruby leads Kate back over to Mr. Dumont. "I tried to introduce myself and tell him I am a friend of Ms. Duprey, Madge that is. Can you tell him that?" "Of course Ruby." Kate turned and smiled to the owner and began to explain quickly in French that Miss West is a friend of Miss Duprey. He tells Kate that Madge's name was all he could tell that Ruby was saying before. He repeats what he had said to Ruby "You know my dear friend Madge? How is she doing, I heard that she went out west. What can I do to help a beautiful young woman such as yourself? Are you a singer or dancer perhaps?" He also asks the same of Kate.</p><p></p><p>Kate translates for Ruby and then tells the gentleman in French “No, I'm not a singer or a dancer. I do play the piano, although nothing like the fine musicians you have here.” Ruby has Kate translate her saying, "Oh, Madge is very happy at her new Saloon, but it's nothing like this. This place is incredible!" Ruby continues on without stopping explaining about Madge and what she is up to. Both Kate and Mr. DuMont look at Ruby with exasperated looks, for she isn't leaving much time for translation. Finally she finishes up, "And thank you for the compliment. Yes, I can sing and dance, I sing with Madge sometimes, she has been, um, tutoring me."</p><p></p><p>Katherine does the best she can trying to keep up with Ruby and not laugh. They chat for another ten minutes and then DuMont excuses himself. He heads up on stage to introduce the next act. The orchestra takes a break and head away from their instruments while the two pianists stay. He introduces his top singer, Jacqueline Lashane Tollier. She comes out in a low-cut red dress that Ruby is immediately envious of. She has a soft sultry voice that has a mesmerizing tone to it. They sit in awe and near silence for the next half hour while she sings her heart out, alternating lyrics between English, French and Italian. </p><p></p><p>Afterwards Gonzales comments to the three woman "Of course, you realize that if I do teach you mental magical resistance techniques you won't have quite the same appreciation for magically enhanced performances like the one you just witnessed." Ruby glances at Gonzales with wide eyes. "Oh is that what that feels like? Madge started to teach me how to do that but I've been holding back on trying it. I guess in a big place like this you would need some help." </p><p></p><p>She puts her hand on Mr. Gonzales. "Thank you so much for bringing me here, I love it and I'm having so much fun! I could live here, maybe someday..." She retreats into her thoughts for a moment then shakes her daydream off.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 2339552, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 42, “Girls Night Out”, Tuesday, March 14th, 1882:[/B] Katherine closed her eyes for a moment. "More than one war would be caused I think. With the knowledge they could gain in Britain, the Clerical countries might decide to reopen hostilities with those who still follow arcane magic. And if they don't, wizards seeking to keep the knowledge from them might." When Kate opened her eyes, they looked tired. "The sooner something is done, the better. And the quieter the better as well. When you say disastrous, what exactly do you mean? Beside all out war, could they learn to just look at someone and detect if they use the arcane arts? Could they poison the lines somehow so we are harmed when we use our skills? Or is it all this and more?" Guillieaut says, "That's the problem, we don't know! We only have one Atlantian volume, the secret third book that Homer wrote. Homer's other writings all burned with the Library of Alexandria. I'm letting my imagination run wild I know, but worst case scenarios are what we are dealing with here. Another problem is that so many people in this city have ties to European nations. This information may have already been communicated. When I said that this could be disastrous in the wrong hands I was including both France and Spain in that assessment. The French government is now in anarchy, after the fall of Prime Minister Gambetta in a coup two months back. Spain's present government is not much better." Gonzales asks when the ship is scheduled to set sail. The Frenchman replies, "At dawn this Saturday, March 18th." Gonzales says, "There is time then, I believe I have a solution. Were you able to locate the sign of good faith that I spoke of yesterday." Guillieaut says, "Yes." He reaches into a pocket and removes a small pouch made of black velvet which he hands to Manual. Manuel in turn passes it over to Kate and says, "Hang on to this, you may want to use it later." She asks, "What is this, Professeur aimé?" He says, "Something I thought that you could use. It is called Dust of Forgetfulness. You sprinkle it onto a person and they have no memory of what transpired in the previous hour. It might help you to get those ten minutes you were looking for." "Why, I.... Thank you. We will have to discuss your thoughts on that later. Thank you." Kate took a deep breath. "So we really can't trust anyone in Europe with this knowledge, and we certainly can't trust it in the United States. I hate the idea of destroying a possible source of new learning, but this it seems is too dangerous to be let out. Such a shame. You had an idea, Professeur aimé?" "I have several. Sonoma, we need you to talk to speak to your other teacher, Mother Jiminez. I suspect that the sudden appearance volcano may be related to the Atlantic Ocean earth spirit having moved to the southern hemisphere to help keep watch over South America. As for the ship, we obviously have to make sure that those items never make it back to England. I wouldn't want to destroy any of them, just keep them hidden from those who would seek them out. Marc, if I were to get an experienced group of adventurers here within the next day or two would you be able to help give them assistance in extracting these artifacts from the vessel?" He replies, "Oui, who do you have in mind?" Gonzales replies, "I'm thinking of a group known as Arcade's Gang. I've worked with them before. They recently returned to the United States and are in this region at the moment. They had had experience with assignments such as this. And right now they owe me a favor or two." Ruby comments, "You know where they are? We've been hearing a lot of rumors about them since we've come to Promise City. I didn't think they would ever head back there. Are you in contact with them?" He replies, "Yes, I met with them yesterday. [I](In the Arcade’s Gang Story Hour, Chapters 81 & 82, “The Man from Atlantis”) [/I] He then says, “That reminds me...." He fishes into his pocket and takes out a ring, which the women recognize as being the magical device that creates "Tex". He hands the ring over to the French Wizard and says, "If you have the time I would appreciate it if you could recharge this Polymorph Item device. The persona that is currently in it would be too dangerous to ever use again." Kate shook her head. "Not Tex. Poor Madeline has lost her escort. I'm sure you'll tell us later how he met his demise." Guillieaut asks, "Do you want me to imprint a new image?" Gonzales replies, "No thank you, I know how to do that myself. You can give the ring to an Arcade's Gang member named Morgana to return to me. She is another of my apprentices." Ruby turns and looks at Mr. Gonzales curiously. "How many apprentices do you have anyway?" "Well, it seems like you have a plan then and you won't be needing us?" Ruby almost breathed a sigh of relief thinking about the danger they would be avoiding, but held it until Mr. Gonzales confirmed her answer. He smiles at her and says, "We can talk about that later. I have a hunch that I might be needing help from all four of my current apprentices by the time we are finished." Kate nodded at Mr. Gonzales with a half-smile, then looked down at her hands folded in her lap. In the last few quiet weeks, she had realized just how reckless she had been with her life. Helping the Cartwrights, going into the mountains to protect the earth spirit, running off to Tombstone to look for Morgan Earp. She didn't regret any of it. She had helped people, made a difference, but she had not been responsible for anyone else then. Now there was Ginnie to think of. And her life was no longer burdensome; there were things to live for. It was a new life, and she wanted to see where it would lead. But her new studies were part of that life, perhaps these dangers and responsibilities came with that. She sighed softy and met Ruby's eyes. "I will do what I can, of course." Ruby let her breath out but it wasn't a relief like she thought it would be. "Whatever you need, Mr. Gonzales, you know we'll help you." "So...what now?" Gonzales replies, "Now we thank Mr. Guillieaut for being a wonderful host and inviting us all to this fabulous meal. Marc, that you so very much. While there clearly was a greater purpose for this meeting you could not have found a finer place to hold it. Your family's wines were wonderful and you should take great pride in them. My apprentices and I will be going now, but I'm sure that our paths will cross again. You should be meeting my other associates either tomorrow or Thursday. While Morgana is an apprentice and would see this mission as being a greater good I am afraid that her partners have less of an altruistic perspective. I would suggest that you find each of them an appropriate magical item as further incentive to assist in this venture. I will see what I can do in regards to both the Island and finding a safe location for us to store the artifacts. Good day kind sir." Kate tells Marc "Merci du dîner, monsieur. C'était un plaisir de vous rencontrer, ont une soirée plaisante." <<translation: Thank you for dinner, Sir. It was a pleasure to meet you, have a pleasant evening.>> Kate smiled and took her teacher's arm. Sonoma states, “I would also like to thank you for your hospitality. I will do what I can to find what druid magics may be effected by this new occurrence and assist in whatever way my mentors deem appropriate.” Ruby states, "And I thank you too, as it has been my pleasure to meet such an interesting and powerful man." She offers her hand again. "Maybe we'll meet again someday?" The four leave the restaurant. Gonzales leads them in the direction of the French Quarter of the city. He says "And now Katherine and Ruby, you're going to learn one of the main differences between the perspective of the humans and the elves. As you've just heard following that excellent meal, a potential crisis exists, one that could lead to war between nations and possibly jeopardize all that use wizard magics. I'm sure that Guillieut is assuming that I will do what he would in my situation and make this my only priority, spending every waking moment for the next several days searching for solutions. But my little birds, the solution is already in place. I have already spoken to Arcade's Gang about this and they are on their way here, I put that in place yesterday. And the trip to Los Angeles will have to wait until tomorrow if we wish to return to Promise City tonight, as I can use only two transportation spells a day. So we've done what we can for right now. I propose that we now head over to Bourbon Street and find some of the most exciting nightspots that New Orleans has to offer for some good music, lively dancing and just plain fun." Kate says, "I believe Guillieut assumes many things. I'm sorry, Professeur aimé, I do not like that man. Arrogant is putting it mildly. I hope I was not rude. As you say, there is nothing more to do tonight. I would enjoy some music, although I can't say I've ever been to a 'night spot.' I'm not certain those are places for me," she finished a bit primly. He replies, "If you are uncomfortable with the place that Madge Duprey has recommended to me then we can go elsewhere, I also know a quieter place run by some old Creole friends of mine where you will also hear fine music. In fact, why don't we plan on visiting both places, the night is young." "I'm not uncomfortable. Please, I'm sure whatever you have planned is fine. Ruby and Sonoma would enjoy lively dancing and 'plain fun.' Just promise me, Ruby, that you won't invite all the men to buy me drinks," she said with a little smile. "Don't worry Kate, I won't make that mistake twice." Ruby flipped her hair over her shoulder. "No, I'll ask all the men to buy ME drinks," she laughed. Gonzales replies, "Actually I would suggest that we all go light on the drinking. Of those four wine bottles I estimate the Guillieaut consumed around two himself but the four of us managed to empty the other two. We may want to stick to lemonade or good old fashioned southern iced tea for the remainder of the night." Kate exclaims, "The three of you actually. I didn't have more than half a glass." "Oh, that's no fun. But dancing and excitement does sound fun and I think we can all use some... fun that is." Ruby smiles and looks genuinely happy to be having a fun night out. "Let's go!" Ruby adjusts her dress strategically, fluffs her hair, then waits for Mr. Gonzales to show them the way. It was hard not to smile. Ruby's excitement was infectious, and Katherine didn't want to dampen it. And there really was no reason to. There was nothing more to do tonight, and it would be a shame to have come all the way to this beautiful city and not enjoy it. She looked at Mr. Gonzales and Sonoma. Neither of them would chide her for enjoying herself. She shook her head. She was the only one who still worried about what was proper for a widow. Tonight she would worry about what was proper for Katherine, and that just might mean allowing herself to have a little fun. "Alright Ruby. But you might have to show me how," she said and smiled. Gonzales says "When Louis XV transferred Louisiana to his cousin Charles III of Spain they renamed this boulevard Bourbon Street, not for the liquor but because Charles was from the Royal House of Bourbon, the Spanish royal family. This was originally the Spanish Quarter of the city. Many buildings on this street still show the Spanish influence from the four-decades of their rule. Notice the wrought iron fences and balconies, as well as some of the older houses, which hint of Spanish architecture. It was during the Neopleonic wars and the revolution in Haiti that tens of thousands of French refugees flooded the city and took over this section, making it the French Quarter." They continue their walk and he points out several other buildings "This is still called the French Quarter, but after the Civil War most French and Creole moved on to the better parts of the city. During the last few years the famine on the Island of Sicily has brought in over five thousand Italian immigrants who have moved into this section, just as thousands of Irish did during the start of their famine in the generation before that. Kate, I believe that your husband's family was of Irish descent. Ruby kept quiet as they walked through the city. The buildings were impressive looking enough, but she didn't really care about any of the history, of the city or the houses or any of it. She was ready to dance and have a bit of fun, hopefully she could get Kate to join her. If Madge had recommended the place they were going, Ruby was sure to love it and she looked forward to arriving. The hear the sounds of lively music coming from a building at the corner of Bourbon and Toulouse Streets. The sign on the building reads "Madame Antoinette's". Gonzales says "This is the place that Miss. Dupre worked at before. Let's head in." The building is 100 by 120 feet in size. It has a high ceiling, 30 feet up. Fancy chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Eighty tables of different sizes fill the room where close to 200 patrons are, a quarter of which are along the bar running the full eastern wall. A large stage, running the full 100-foot width and 20 feet deep is on the far end. A pair of grand pianos is on the stage, one at each end, and a twelve-man orchestra is set up on chairs just before the stage. Three dozen beautiful French dancing girls wearing low cut black dresses, multiple petticoats, black fishnet stockings and black shoes are dancing together on stage to the lively and festive music. Ruby stands silently taking in the sight as her smile grows larger and larger. Finally she takes Kate hand, “Let’s go get a table.” They squeeze through the crowd, keeping their eyes open, until they spot a small table near the stage. They make their way to it and sit. “This place is amazing,” Ruby says loudly. She watches the girls dance for a while before announcing, “I’m going to the bar to get a drink. Anyone want anything?” She gets their orders and heads to the bar. She crams her way up to the bar and orders two whiskeys and three sweet teas. She bobs her head to the music waiting for the drinks. She gets bumped into a few times so she keeps her eyes open but remains calm and relaxed. The drinks show up and she quickly drinks one of the whiskeys before returning to the table. “So who wants to dance with me?” Ruby stands at the table with a cocked head and grins. The dancing girls finish their routine and exit the stage. The orchestra continues and several couples head out to dance. Manuel is thrilled with the prospect of dancing and heads with Ruby out to the dance floor in front of the stage. The orchestra begins with several fast dances for the first fifteen minutes. A pair of pianists take their places at the grand pianos and the orchestra then switches over to the waltz and other slower more formal dances. Ruby discovers that despite his age Manuel is very spry and a good dancer. Once the orchestra switched to the slower classical pieces Kate began to relax. She and Sonoma sit together and chat while the others dance. Ruby enjoyed Manuel's company on the dance floor, she could just relax and enjoy herself with him, and she felt safe. After monopolizing him for a good long time Ruby pulled him off the dance floor. "I don't want to keep you to myself all night, maybe Sonoma or Kate would like to dance?" Kate says, "I should take my chance while they're still playing my music. Do you need to rest first, Professeur aimé?" "Nonsense my dear, right this way." He pulls Kate out onto the dance floor just as another waltz is beginning. The familiar steps came back easily, and Kate and her teacher sailed gracefully through the dance. As they stepped into the next dance Kate said, "I'm sorry if I haven't been much fun tonight. Sometimes my upbringing still gets the better of me, and I start to think I shouldn't be traveling and enjoying myself." Ruby glanced around the crowded saloon. "I'm going to look for the owner and introduce myself. But save a few more dances for me please!" She gives him a wink and heads over to the bar. After squeezing in again, she gets the bartenders attention. "Is the owner of this impressive establishment around?" "Oui, Jacques DuMont is the man standing near the stage" he gestures to a man forty feet away in a silk three-piece blue suit with a white silk ascot that has a diamond pin in the middle of it. A beautiful well-dressed young lady is standing to either side of him. "Thank you sir," Ruby nods and leaves a dollar on the bar. She approaches the well-dressed man with a warm smile. "Mr. DuMont? My name is Ruby, Ruby West." She extends her hand to him. "I'm a friend of Ms. Duprey's." Dumont replies, "Bonjour jeune dame, vous connaissez mon cher ami Madge ? Comment est elle faisant, j'ai entendu qu'elle est sortie à l'ouest. Queest-ce que je peux faire pour aider une belle femme de yung telle que vous-même ? Est-vous un chanteur ou le danseur peut-être ?" Ruby laughs and shakes her head. "I don't speak French, the language of love...." Ain't that the truth, she laughs to herself. "Do you speak English?" He shakes his head and says "Je ne parle pas anglais." "Hold on one moment," Ruby holds up her hand in a 'stay right here' motion. She approaches Kate and Mr. Gonzales on the dance floor. "Oh, I am sorry to interrupt you... when you are finished Kate, could you come with me? I want to speak to the owner but he only speaks French." "It's alright Ruby, I'll come now." Kate let go of Mr. Gonzales' hands and made a graceful if a bit grandiose curtsey. "I am sure you will save another dance for me as well, Monsieur. But there is another partner for you, yes?" she said looking over to Sonoma. She took Ruby's arm in hers. "Lead on, dear." "Thank you Kate, you are a sweetheart." Ruby leads Kate back over to Mr. Dumont. "I tried to introduce myself and tell him I am a friend of Ms. Duprey, Madge that is. Can you tell him that?" "Of course Ruby." Kate turned and smiled to the owner and began to explain quickly in French that Miss West is a friend of Miss Duprey. He tells Kate that Madge's name was all he could tell that Ruby was saying before. He repeats what he had said to Ruby "You know my dear friend Madge? How is she doing, I heard that she went out west. What can I do to help a beautiful young woman such as yourself? Are you a singer or dancer perhaps?" He also asks the same of Kate. Kate translates for Ruby and then tells the gentleman in French “No, I'm not a singer or a dancer. I do play the piano, although nothing like the fine musicians you have here.” Ruby has Kate translate her saying, "Oh, Madge is very happy at her new Saloon, but it's nothing like this. This place is incredible!" Ruby continues on without stopping explaining about Madge and what she is up to. Both Kate and Mr. DuMont look at Ruby with exasperated looks, for she isn't leaving much time for translation. Finally she finishes up, "And thank you for the compliment. Yes, I can sing and dance, I sing with Madge sometimes, she has been, um, tutoring me." Katherine does the best she can trying to keep up with Ruby and not laugh. They chat for another ten minutes and then DuMont excuses himself. He heads up on stage to introduce the next act. The orchestra takes a break and head away from their instruments while the two pianists stay. He introduces his top singer, Jacqueline Lashane Tollier. She comes out in a low-cut red dress that Ruby is immediately envious of. She has a soft sultry voice that has a mesmerizing tone to it. They sit in awe and near silence for the next half hour while she sings her heart out, alternating lyrics between English, French and Italian. Afterwards Gonzales comments to the three woman "Of course, you realize that if I do teach you mental magical resistance techniques you won't have quite the same appreciation for magically enhanced performances like the one you just witnessed." Ruby glances at Gonzales with wide eyes. "Oh is that what that feels like? Madge started to teach me how to do that but I've been holding back on trying it. I guess in a big place like this you would need some help." She puts her hand on Mr. Gonzales. "Thank you so much for bringing me here, I love it and I'm having so much fun! I could live here, maybe someday..." She retreats into her thoughts for a moment then shakes her daydream off. [/QUOTE]
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