Tarot Readings

Mikhail was relaxed out in front of the hearth. Glass of potcheen on the side table near where his hand rested. The deck of Tarot cards there as well wrapped up in the black silk. Thoughts were far away as he watched the flames dance over the logs in a hypnotic way. A patchwork leather vest in dark shades was worn over a powder blue shirt, black pants and boots.

She considered more and more each day the act of slipping away from her guard. Just once, just once. Mostly to see if she could be as sneaky as some of the others. She was wrapped up in white, layers of it, trimmed in gold. Abe was at her heels, even after he let her in through the doorway. Her head bowed and her eyes sent a brooding glance along the floor. A quick one. She removed one layer, her cloak, and passed it off to Abe before walking away. She tipped her head forward, a nod, when she caught sight of Mikhail. "Good eve."

Pyper came in, bundled up tightly against the cold, her cheeks rosy from the chill in the air, but a smile on her face. She pulled down the hood to her coat, and unwound her scarf as she came in, and ordered a warmed peach brandy.

He'd been sitting far too long and so gaining his feet was a welcome feat. Smile swept easily with the show of white to be there and gone. "Good evening Banafrit," barely welcomed as Pyper was coming in her wake. "Pyper. Is it still snowing outside?"

"Good evening, Pyper." Accented greeting through a hinted smile. She glanced aside to Mikhail, then to Abe. Her head scarf was completely removed, for once as she settled down into a chair near the hearth. "Will the snowing ever stop?" Somewhat of an answer and a complaint, too!

"Good evening Mikhail," she said with a smile. "Aye, it is, but it has let up a bit." As she came in, and collected her drink. "Evening Banafrit."

Kaylea knew her brother was close. Of course, she had been cheating but only he would know that. She peeked through the window in a way that would have made Maddie and Pearl proud. She ducked back down and sneaked in through the back door, putting a finger up to her lips. Lucky for her the guards knew her! She removed her outer wear before she reached the door. And then sent a snowball flying toward her big brother. She'd clean it up for Alex in a bit.

"It probably wont until spring or least slow down. We've had snow accumulations of a few feet in April still but at least it doesn't last for the majority of warmer days." He was aware of his sister though she was being elusive until in completely and the reflective action as a hand was up to catch that snowball as quick as it had been sent and sent right back her way with a grin.

With the sudden snowball fight, she had a flashback of the lake. She ducked, even though nothing had been aimed her way.

Pyper was about to say something to him, hearing someone sneaking around had put a smile on her face, but seeing him catch the snowball had her jaw drop just a bit.

Which she noted a little late. Her brow arched and she glanced aside to Pyper.

That was why her brothers weren't any fun. They cheated! She had already moved so the snowball splatted against the wall but it still sent a shower of snow over her. She squeaked then laughed. "Bah. I should have known I wouldn't get the better of you." She would keep trying though. Just needed him distracted enough. Brushing the snow from her hair and shoulders, she smiled at the two women. "Evening, ladies." Mikhail was going to get a big ol' hug, with no tricks attached.

She closed her mouth and giggled a bit. "Evening Kaylea. I hope you are having a good evening."

"Good evening, Kaylea." She smiled. And with the head scarf off, it could be easily seen. She had her hair down tonight and she combed her fingers through it.

"Now, if my drink hadn't been in my right hand..." he had caught it with his left and prominently right handed. The slide of his hand went against the side of his pants, setting his glass down as well before he caught his sister up into his arms. "You need to remember why I am one of the best warriors," which was low near her ear during that swing about before she was set to her feet. He'd not say it loud for he was not really bragging, it was a fact. "Now, maybe I should read your card for it's been a while?"

"Anhur asked if I wished to marry. I told him of my reading." She mentioned to Mikhail when he asked Kaylea if he could read her card. She placed her hands in her lap and tipped a small smile over towards Pyper.

She hugged him tightly then gave him an impish look when he whispered. "It has been a while. Aye, if you would like." She blinked and looked at Banafrit. "What did you tell him?"

She smiled back and gave a nod to Banafrit. She was a bit surprised at the Egyptians next statement. "What was your answer?" almost mimicking Kaylea.

"Ah, it was something.. like.. yes, then that I was not sure. I think.. it depends on finding a man that would accept our custom. I do not know. It may happen. It may not." Something else was said, but she didn't open up on that bit.

He wasn't quite sure what Banafrit was meaning. About to ask her the same as his sister but then didn't need to as he listened for the answer. "What of your customs do you think would be hard for a man that was drawn to you in that way would have trouble with?" He was curious as to her view on the matter. He motioned for Kaylea to take a seat near with the table between as he shuffled the cards. She knew the procedure as they were then passed to her.

"It may be arranged. The marriage. That may be one .." She struggled for the right word. "..issue." She glanced over to Abe that stood near the hearth. He wore a devil's grin.

Which he caught that exchanged between Banafrit and her guard. "If it were arranged then it would be with another that holds your traditions. I know such was arranged for Desh and Isaac by their parents when they came of age. In the meantime, events had the two families moving here," which she was of one of those families. "They were unsure to hold to the tradition as such is not held here and so it was left up to Desh and Isaac to decide. I believe they are drawn to each other no matter the arrangement."

She was over to the table as soon as Mikhail motioned and sat with one leg tucked beneath her. She shuffled the cards, cut them into three, put them together again and handed them back. "An issue that is personal?" She was nosey and Mikhail could smack her one for it if he wanted, but not hard.

The Elf listened, learning about Banafrit's culture a bit in the process, perched on her stool, her hands wrapped around the warmed glass of brandy.

"Perhaps they are arranging a marriage with your guard Abe here," certainly that would account for his wicked grin.

"No, most here do not follow the custom-- that custom, of arranged marriages." Answering Kaylea first. She was thinking over Mikhail's words. Though his last had her eyes widening. And had her blurting out what Abe was grinning over. "No! Anhur asked if I had interest in you.. " That trailed off very slowly and because this was somehow Abe's fault, somehow, she fixed him with a brooding stare.

He was teasing her, "then again Anhur could be arranging that you become his wife. Or..." except her last had him looking up as he was about to turn over the card. Dark brows lifting. "If he asked if you had interest in me, then I doubt he is trying to arrange any marriage for you. That would indicate freedom of choice and acknowledging it." Dark eyes held to hers as there was an shielded intensity there, he didn't ask if she had an interest in him, would not put her on the spot. The card that was finally turned over was the Five of Wands. It portrays Jason's battle with the dragon which guards the Golden Fleece. The dragon, huge and covered in greenish scales, belches fire from its mouth while it clutches the precious Fleece in its claws.

Jason battles it with two flaming wands. Besides him stands his lover and helper, the sorceress Medea, daughter of King Aeetes of Colcis in whose possession the Fleece has lain. She is beautiful and black haired, garbed in a flame colored gown and carries three flaming wands. Focus switching to Kaylea with some concern. "The five of wands augurs a time of struggle where the individual must battle with the dragon of material reality to achieve the goal. Mundane matters may begin to go wrong and more attention must be paid to the demands and limits of concrete reality; or the individual falls into the grip of a depressive or apathetic mood. Compromises must be made while still retaining the integrity of the original vision." Which had him pause in consideration. "Have you a particular goal of late?"

She listened quietly, pursing her lips slightly in thought. When Mikhail spoke, she looked from the card to him. "I've been thinking about going to find the wild horses. Also, to plan on animals that I'd like to see in the zoo. Beyond that ... no." Her family was here except for their sister, and she wanted them all happy.

She continued to listen, curious as to the description of the card for Kaylea, and both their reactions to it. It all fascinated her.

She was silent, her attention on the card reading. Listening, yes, and a glance briefly ticked away to the flames in the hearth, then back again to Mikhail and Kaylea.

"You usually don't overly struggle but certainly you've had to fight." Which reflected back on what plagued their family even if they were presently safe. "Time will tell but I feel whatever it is, you will triumph even if the going will be rough."

Abe reminded her of something. And Banafrit winced openly in reply. She rose up smoothly. "I am sorry, I was not aware of the hour. Have a pleasant eve," she murmured on her way to the door. She had her head scarf on in the matter of seconds. One day soon, she'll plan a visit where she can actually stay longer.

She noticed Banafrit taking her leave. "Good night to you Banafrit. Safe may your travels be wherever they take you." she said with a smile.

"Good night, Banafrit. It was good to see you again." Mikhail had received a smile for his words though she couldn't imagine what the problem might be.

She wasn't sure what sort of look she was trying to achieve tonight. With her hair, at least. It was all in.. tiny little braids that swung along her spine, the ends of them decorated with small, wooden beads of varying colors. She removed her cloak as she swept in, humming a cheerful song. Warm in dove grey pants and a darker sweater, she hung her cloak then plucked at her sleeves as she headed for the bar. "Good evening, everyone."

They spent the whole day up until now in their leather shop and time to get out for a bit before they slept. So Trevet and Kynan headed up to the Thistle in the hope of some company, food and drink.

Banafrit was quick to take her leave as dark eyes trailed her rushed departure. Almost in her wake, there was Gaelle as a smile surfaced with his greeting. "Evening Gaelle. It's been some time, how are you doing?"

It was all coming along nicely though and his expression showed how pleased he was. "I'm surprised at how nice the flat is." He looked toward the Thistle and grinned. "Family's here." There was a whisper of something near his ear and he patted his shoulder but didn't say a word. Up the steps and he held the door this time for Treve.

She turned to ask Alex to refill her drink, just as Gaelle came in. "Evening to you Gaelle. I hope you are well this night," almost echoing Mikhail this time.

"It has been quite a while. I'm doing fine, just fine. Staying busy. How are you? And you, Pyper?" She turned up a dazzling smile as she settled down on one of the barstools. She wasn't sure what she wanted to order, just yet.

"Aye," grinning for he heard the same whisper although maybe not the same familiar. He had yet to meet the one that came and went around him and more around him of late. He had a feeling it was a different one, one from the Hollow Hills. Time would tell. The old wise Druid there had said something about protection when it came time for him to leave. He was up the steps and soon within. "Evening," greeting all present as he divested of the long woolen hooded cloak, as well scarf and gloves. Hanging his cloak before giving the snow a dusting off.

She nodded to Gaelle, "I'm well, thank you." as she turned to see who else was entering, smiling as she saw the two brothers entering, curious as to how their shop was going. "Evening sirs."

"I am doing well, pleased in fact. Have you met my brothers who have returned?" Ruarc and Aedan were also home but hadn't come out socially yet for all they needed to see to. There were stirrings still. He tapped the cards, "anyone wish their card read?" He would definitely get to Trevet and Kynan as it was overdue. Time just didn't lend to reading their cards yet.

She turned her attention to the door, which required a bit of a twist on her barstool. She watched briefly, then shook her head. "I have not met them." Answering Mikhail's first, then for his second. "I would, but someone else can go first, if they wish." She turned to order punch from Alex.

"My brothers, Trevet and Kynan. Please to meet Gaelle. Have you met Pyper yet?"

"Evening everyone." He was over to hug Kaylea and whispered something to her then he turned after picking up the glass of ale placed on the bar for him. He'd order the Irish stew after meeting everyone.

He was over to claim a glass of potcheen and some stew with brown bread on the side. "Aye, I've met Pyper. Nice to see you again. A pleasure to meet you Gaelle." Which he made due note of both in a quick efficient way without overly looking per say.

She nodded, "Aye, we have, just the other night. They were kind enough to help fix something for me." She turned to Trevet. "Aye, it is a pleasure.... except you are not wearing your....." she had to think of the word." ... costume." Hoping that was the right word for it. "The hat and such..." she was teasing him a bit, though it had looked good on him.

Kaylea got a hug from him following Kynan. "I can have mine read once I eat." Maybe it would turn up better on a full stomach.

"Nice to meet you Gaelle. We met Pyper at the shop the first night we were there. Aye, Gaelle can go first. I'm starving!"

"Nice to meet you, Trevet, Kynan." Easy grin cast to them.

About to claim a stool as the stew was set out but ended up staring at Pyper a moment, blank lost expression until it hit. "Ah, no. It wasn't a costume anyway." Remembering she had thought it that.

"Treve likes to dress up." Snickering, he tried to duck out of hitting range.

He was wearing a vest of dark green over a cream poet's shirt, black pants and boots. Boots that still showed some crusted snow. "What is sold there is regular clothing, I just tried on a Stetson and one of the long coats to see how they looked." And yes, Kynan got a swat to his shoulder.

"Oh...." now it was her turn for a blank look, just not quite understand it all. But gave a smile as the brother commented. "Well I thought it looked nice on him." She chuckled then as Kynan got swatted.

He was chuckling under his breath as he watched the antics between them. It was good to see and so was thoroughly enjoying it. He was seated again and would wait. Anyone that wanted to have their card read would be over.

Oh, the brothers were going to eat first, right. She finally got up, with her drink, to ease towards Mikhail. She sat across from him and set her glass down.

"Thank you Pyper. I thought they looked good as well. Enough that I have set them aside to pay for once I've the coins." It wouldn't hurt to wear some of what they sold, walking advertisement.

-c-

He took up the cards, folding the last one into the deck before shuffling them. Once done he set them over in reach of Gaelle. "Shuffle, cut three times then back to one." She would remember the procedure.

"Owwww." He used a whining voice then grinned at Treve. He had enough for what he was wearing. Black leather vest over a blue shirt. Of course, his pants were just plain black cotton and his boots his old comfortable ones. As soon as the food was placed before him, he was scarfing it down.

She gave Trevet a tilted nod of her head, that she thought it a good idea too, a smile on her face as she then stayed quiet to hear what card Gaelle chose and what it might mean.

"Yes, Sir." Teasing. She took the cards gently and shuffled them up. Then cut them into three, small stacks. Once she had them all together again, she passed them back to Mikhail.

Kaylea had happily hugged both of her 'little' brothers, who just happened to be taller then her. She sat at the table again, drinking her tea and watching Mikhail and Gaelle.

He turned over the card, showing Temperance. It portrays a beautiful black haired young woman garbed in rainbow colored robes and bearing wings of many hues. She stands with one foot in a clear stream and one foot on dry land. Along the sides of the stream-bed grow purple irises. Behind her in the sky stretches a rainbow. In her hands she holds two cups, one of gold and one of silver, and pours water from one to the other.

"The appearance of Temperance implies the need for a flow of feeling in a relationship. Iris, the guardian of the rainbow, suggest the potential for harmony and cooperation resulting in a good relationship or a happy marriage. We are all challenged with the issue of learning to develop a balanced heart, while also being gently reminded that the Fool cannot remain forever even with the beautiful Iris and must pass on to the next Moral Lesson. Only you will know how this fits within your life presently or soon to come." The readings of one card were for the present and near future, within a couple of months.

He was listening while devouring the stew and bread. He realized he'd not eaten since earlier in the afternoon and was starving. The stew filling along with the bread. He glanced to Kynan with a slight snicker under his breath. "Someone falling in love or hope to?"

He looked up when he heard Trevet and gave a quick nod. Couldn't really answer with his mouth full but it sounded like it to him!

He heard his brother as dark eyes skipped there a moment then back to Gaelle. He really hoped a good one came up for Trevet along the same lines, just because!

She furrowed her brows as she stared at the card, then up at Mikhail, then down at the card again. Up, down, and if she had heard Trevet, she would have turned every shade of red possible!

Pyper couldn't help smiling a bit at hearing that, but as Mikhail said, only Gaelle would know for sure.

"Trevet, get your arse over here." He was getting too curious as what would come up for that particular brother after his comment. He knew he was near done with his food too. "Kynan, your next then Pyper if she would like a card read." It had been a while for her as well.

She nodded her head, game to try it again. She found this all very interesting.

Gaelle let out a little giggle. And she stood up to even give her chair to one of the brothers. She was giggling again. And sent a look over to Pyper with a wide smile.

He was done with his meal, eyeing Kynan before grinning as he was up and over to take up a seat near his brother Mikhail. "I'm ready."

Kaylea smiled at Gaelle but didn't say anything. She watched as Treve approached, winking at him.

Gaelle was giggling! Brows lifted, not just once but twice. Was giggling good? "I trust you like the card that turned up for you Gaelle?" He couldn't resist as the card was folded back into the deck then shuffled. Once done he handed it over to Trevet to do the same. His brother was well acquainted with card reading.

Kaylea got a wink as he took up the cards, shuffling them, cutting three times and putting back in the opposite order before placing it in front of his brother again.

Kaylea was too quiet. Gaelle sent her a smile, too. And by now, she was a little red in the cheeks. "Yes. I do." She answered Mikhail.

He turned over Trevet's card to expose The Chariot. It portrayed a handsome, virile man with curling auburn hair, blue eyes and ruddy complexion, driving a bronze war-chariot. He is dressed in bronze amour, bronze helmet and a blood-red tunic. At his hip is a bronze shield and at his side is balanced a large spear. He grips the reins of two horses, one black and one white, which pull in opposite directions before him. The dusty road on which he travels winds into a reddish, desert-like landscape, while the sky lowers with an impending storm.

"We have the Chariot which augurs conflict and struggle which can result in a stronger personality. One may come face to face not only with aggression in others, but with one's own competitive and aggressive drives. This conflict cannot be avoided, but needs to be faced with strength and containment. Thus the Fool comes to harmony through learning to handle his own contradictions and passes from the world of adolescence to the next stage of his journey."

He listened carefully, hard to read dark eyes most like his brother Mikhail's. "I am ready. Have been ready." He was use to facing contradictions and the like, knowing well it made him stronger. He didn't take it as some kind of doom to befall but a new challenge to rise up to meet head on. Relying on his strength of character and morals in an ultimate victory no matter how hard it was getting there. "Thank you brother," life was not going to be mundane! He was up to let his brother take up the hot seat.

He had finished eating and pushed the plate away before wandering over to the table. Leaning against, Kaylea's chair, he watched his two brothers a moment. Once Treve was out of the chair, he sat and placed the tankard on the table.

She sat perched on her stool, slowly sipping her brandy, listening and watching, interested in how each reacted to their card.

He slipped the card back into the deck before shuffling it good. Once done he set it within reach of Kynan to do the same, cut and put back to one pile.

He took his time shuffling, then cut the deck and placed the cards back together. They were handed back to Mikhail.

She was still watching, but she moved around the table to come up to Pyper's side for a quiet lean against the bar.

She was considering both her and Treve's reading. Similar yet not. Still, she had no doubt they would both overcome any obstacles.

He turned over the top card to expose the Two of Cups. He was not overly surprised. Trevet the warrior and Kynan more the poet. The card portrays the initial meeting between Eros and Psyche. Psyche, dressed in white to proclaim her virginity, is bound by the order of Aphrodite on a high rock surrounded by sea. At her feet stands a golden cup. She looks away into the distance, awaiting her certain death in the jaws of the monster who lurks beneath the sea. Behind her, Eros hovers in the sky, shimmering with his golden hair and golden wings. In his right hand he holds a golden cup. In his left hand he carries the arrow with which he has just accidentally pricked himself, thereby inadvertently falling in love with the woman he has been ordered to kill.

"The Two of Cups augurs the beginning of a relationship. I can also suggest a reconciliation where an already existing relationship has undergone difficulty or separation. It can even imply the meeting and contractual arrangements of business partners, for here too the element of relationship is invoked." Which had a slow grin rising as dark eyes lifted to his brother. "Which do you prefer?" Certainly the last would fit perfectly for the business they just took over.

Which had him glancing from Kynan to Gaelle. Grin was insufferable in a way but teasing as well. Both got romance to come up or at least could go that way. "How about you my brother Mikhail, when is the last you pulled a card for your own reading?"

Had he been drinking, he might have choked with the first suggestion but then he laughed. "Business, definitely." Oh, he liked the lasses well enough, but a serious relationship? Not for him.  He hadn't seen the grin or he might have slugged Treve one.

It had been a while as he usually read for others. Dark gaze turning on Trevet in consideration. "I will draw one on myself but will do it last. After any others," which had that dark gaze turn on Pyper. "Pyper, would you like your card read again?"

He was up quick so Pyper had a place to sit. Back he went into his lean against Kay's chair.

She gave a nod and hopped down off the stool and went to sit in the chair.

Well, that answered that quick enough! He slipped the card back into the pile and shuffled before handing them to her do to the same, as well cut them three times then back to one pile.

She noticed Trevet's glance and his grin. She suddenly laughed!

She nodded and took the deck shuffling them slowly, then cutting the deck as the others had done, handing it back to him when it was once again one pile.

She was curious about Pyper's reading and stepped closer to the table to get a better look.

Which he set on the table, no more shuffling as he turned over the top card. The Hierophant. It portrays a strange figure, a Centaur, with the torso, arms and head of a man and the body of a horse. His long brown hair and beard and his benign, mature face suggests a priest or teacher. In his left hand he holds a scroll containing written wisdom. His right hand is held up in an ancient sign of blessing. To either side of him is a stone pillar. Behind him can be seen the rough rock of the cave which is both his home and his temple. Light streams down upon his crowned head from a circular opening in the roof of the cave. "Chiron, the Hierophant, implies when he appears that the individual will begin to actively seek answers of a philosophical kind. This may emerge as the study of a particular philosophy or system of belief or as a deep commitment to a quest for the meaning of life.

The Hierophant may appear in the form of an analyst, psychotherapist, priest or spiritual mentor in outside life to whom we turn for comfort and help. The fool thus emerges from his discovery of the underworld and the hidden powers of the unconscious seeking answers to the enigma of himself and the meaning of his life. When he meets the Hierophant he encounters that part of himself which can begin to formulate and express a personal philosophy, an individual vision of the spirit, which guides him as he leaves his childhood behind and ventures out into life's challenges." Dark eyes kept upon Pyper as he told of the card's meaning. In a way she had been as a child learning and now it seemed she would be taking a bigger step, no matter what her Elf age was. "Only you will know how this fits but I do wonder if there is such a catalyst in your life presently that you turn to?" If not then she would probably meet such a person.

She looked at the card for several quiet moments, then looked up at Mikhail with a smile. "Thank you saeo dhean." she then shook her head. "No.... there is not.... but ... maybe soon...." she then dipped her head a bit at him in respect and thanks, as an Elf would.

She was met with a smile and respectful dip of his head in return. "All will be as it should, Pyper. I feel that you knew, even expected this to come eventually and looked forward to it."

She nodded. "Aye, you are right... at least I had hoped it would come to pass at some point." And she would still wait, patiently, as it seemed that person was not a part of her life yet, or not as she knew them as such.

For the request of his brother, he slipped the card back into the pile before shuffling them again. Cut into three and stacked back as one in a different pattern before turning over the top card. The card was The World. It portrays a golden serpent coiled in the shape of an egg, eating its own tail. Within its circumference a strange figure dances, half male and half female, winged, crowned with laurel leaves and holding in each hand a golden staff. Around the egg-shape of the serpent can be seen, rising from the clouds, a cup, sword and flaming wand and a golden pentacle.

"My card is The World," glance lifting mostly to his brother Trevet for the request. "It is a card that augurs a time of achievement and integration. This is a period of triumph at the successful conclusion of a matter, or the reaching of a goal which has been worked hard for. But this peak is merely a glimpse of something mysterious and elusive, and the dancing Hermaphroditus becomes the foetus who eventually emerges from the cave as the Fool. Thus the great cycle of the Major Arcana ends where it begins, for we might start with Hermaphroditus as the unborn potential of the personality which ultimately leads to the birth of the Fool. And so the circle, like the World Snake, is complete."

He leaned forward slightly as Mikhail picked his own card, his hand coming to rest on his sister's shoulder. He knew she was feeling some worry and offered the touch as a gesture.

He watched from the distance giving a thoughtful nod. He felt the card fitted his brother well. Six read and all seemed to fit, wait. "Kaylea, did you have your card read?"

"Yes. It seems I have some goal I wish to achieve but it may take some doing to do so." And she would have to watch that she didn't fall into the black mood that seemed to plague their clan at times.

"Seems perhaps then we might be meeting the same challenge?" A lot of their challenges up until coming to these lands were faced as a whole or a few of them.

Which had her smiling at Treve. "It could very well be. Time will show us if that's so, aye?" She was glad to have her brothers here, and even more so now.

"Aye," leaving it go there. Time would tell but he would lend her his strength in any challenge if so it transpired he could. He was tired at this point. "I think I'm going to head back and get some sleep. It was a pleasure meeting you Gaelle, seeing you again Pyper and always good being with any and all members of my family."

She was thoughtful over the readings, all of them. And, she was growing tired. She slanted her gaze over to Trevet, smiling. "It was very nice to meet you. Rest well, Trevet."

She finished off her brandy and took the glass to the bar, then getting her own coat. "It was a pleasure as well Trevet." putting hers on, she then turned to the others. "I am off for the night as well. Pleasant dreams to you all, and safe may your travels be, wherever they take you." she gave another nod to Mikhail, "Thank you again Mikhail, for the reading."

"I'll join you." He smiled at the others. "Nice to meet you, Gaelle and good to see you, Pyper." He gave his sister a kiss to the cheek then. "We'll be coming to the manor for dinner tomorrow. Will you be cooking ?"

"I should be on my way, too." She set her glass to the bar. "Nice meeting you, Kynan. Good to see you again, Pyper, Kaylea, Mikhail. And thank you, very much, for the reading."

"Either myself or Adara." She laughed and poked his side then stood, yawing a bit herself and stretching. "Good night, ladies." She'd join her brothers in walking out. "Are you heading for the manor, Mikhail?"

He too rose from his seat, the cards carefully tucked away into the pouch on his belt. "A good night to you all, I enjoyed the time spent and hope the cards bring good things for each of you respectfully." Then to Kaylea, "aye, I will see you back of course." He was over to get his cloak with the others before heading out, group exit!

Cloak snagged, she went out with everyone else!

Winter gear donned as he was out with the rest leaving Alex to close up for the night.

-e-

Tarot Card Readings

Broch had come earlier as he'd been out riding, boots caked with snow were rid of the debris before entering. Marks still showed on the leather. Fur cloak hung on a peg just inside the door. He wore a brown tunic over a pristine shirt, tan pants and boots of a darker leather. The ancient runic sword hung from the wide belt at is left hip, sheathed and tie off in a peace knot. The bastard sword he left at home, favoring this new one given him by a special person in his life. One he was presently thinking on as he nursed a drink of potcheen.

She'd been busy for most of the day, but now that evening rolled around, she had a chance to break free. She'd been riding for a while now, and decided that stopping by the familiar tavern sounded like a pretty good idea. She left Buttercup to the hands of a stable boy before she turned for the door. Not often that she would be seen in leather.. anything, but there was a pair of pants that she had found that Charlie had given her. They fit quite nicely. She paired them up with a layering of tops, a ruffled blouse worn beneath an ivy green sweater. Bouncing up the steps, she palmed open the door and swished her way inside, brushing her long hair away from her shoulders. She blinked twice, seeing Broch at the bar and she grinned, slinking right up behind him to trap him in a hug. He didn't have to move, really.

Mikhail headed for the Thistle for a good late meal. Knowing well it would be good! Hazel was the finest and if he found a woman one day, he hoped she could cook and bake as good. There was the start of snow drifting. He also stopped by to check out Rick's snow castle. The lad needed to keep busy even in play. He was still chuckling knowing well those groups of teens didn't know what they were in for dealing with a McAndrews. Not far behind Gaelle as the door opened and closed once again, barely in and shrugging out of the heavier cloak. Leather tunic in a patchwork was worn over woolen pants of black and boots lacing up of the same hue. Eyeing the two as he saw to the task but would give them a few more minutes of privacy, seeing Gaelle was hugging Broch. Oh yes, he noticed! Set an amused glint in dark eyes.

He had seen her come in once the draft of air was felt, the mirror worked well to see without being noticed. He knew she liked to sneak up on him and there was a wicked smile to surface, still with his face away from her. "I bae a taken mon, lass. S'e bae catch'in yea like t'is s'e mig't claw out yea eyes o' break yea arms." She might notice he was looking right at her by way of the mirror, once eyes met there, he gave a wink. Quick he could be as he was around to bring her up into a bear hug. That's when he noticed Mikhail, "Guid eve'in tae yea Mik'ail." Greeting him in turn.

"Broch Ian Touchable Cunningham!" ..The touchable was in there for a reason--something said on a night out. He may remember. "I would do no such thing. I'd break her teeth instead and stick them up her a--hi, Mikhail." She cut her babbling in half, just in time to offer Mikhail a friendly greeting, while being all wrapped up in Broch's arms. She did not mind, so said the cheeky way Gaelle smiled. She reached up to fluff Broch's hair for no reason,  really, then planted a kiss to his cheek before weaseling around him to lean against the bar. She placed an order with Alex. Potcheen punch, tonight.

Laura had in the back hall where she had been given a small office. Paperwork finished, she blew out the oil lamp and made her way down the hall. Hearing a nickname for her brother, she paused a moment before continuing. Wouldn't do for her to be laughing.

Which had one of the warrior braids left sticking out at an angle. He was laughing as he hugged her up good, feisty she was and he loved it. Releasing her then that she might order a drink. "I bae well protected from all souch women," which there were some, but not of the lands. More the ones that came here to 'visit' but really looking for a man. He knew. Ran into a few. "Laura, come join us in a drink." She might notice how happy he was, something different about him in that way. It was a few things that had caused it.

"Good evening Broch, Gaelle," pausing as another came in from the back hall as he neared the bar. "Laura, good evening as well." Smile touched as once their drinks were delivered, potcheen was set out for him.

She slanted a look towards the back hallway when Broch said his sister's name. Gaelle, still holding onto that cheeky grin, lifted her hand to wiggle her fingers in a hello. "How is everyone tonight?" Friendly and far too cheerful for her own good. She straightened the braid that stuck out from Broch's head, biting a laugh off. She had the idea to mess up every braid, make them stick out in all directions. But she didn't. She was a good girl, for tonight, at least.

"Good evening, everyone." She chuckled as she headed out and for the bar, pausing to place a kiss to her brother's cheek. "Yes, how are you all? I'm fine."

"S'e bae fond'lin mae braids.." sounding a touch dirty when far from it. He was waiting to see if she blushed! Incorrigible he was. Sweeping an arm around Laura as she drew close and into a hug. Good one before easing from the embrace. "Sae, 'ow was everyone's day?"

He could probably just say the word 'fondling' without anything else, and she'd blush. He certainly got what he had been waiting for. Gaelle's cheeks turned a nice shade of red. "I am good, great, wonderful. My day has been quite well." She grinned off-side to Mikhail then slanted that grin towards Laura.

"I'll drink to that," comment Broch made in teasing Gaelle. Lifting his glass like it was something serious before kicking back a good swallow of the pure. He set the glass to the bar top as he topped it off being Alex left the bottle. "A good day, wandering, checking out the area." He was fine with an ordinary day, in fact relished them for all he and his family had been through.

She chuckled as she stepped back from her brother, eyeing him. Now what was he up to? "I had a busy day as usual, but all in all, it was a good one." She accepted a glass of brandy from Alex. "I'll be traveling to Ballicastle tomorrow, Broch."

He didn't say anything but one might tell he was enjoying the apples on Gaelle's cheeks. That's when he decided to let Laura know, first of his siblings. "Gaelle and I bae see'in eac' ot'er." Would she blush more? Then back to his sister, "will yea bae gone long?" Knowing well it might be a day trip or more, so was curious. Also worried on her naturally, in traveling the distance.

She did, indeed. She even went quiet when Broch broke the news. She watched Laura, perhaps waiting for a reaction and no doubt, hoping for the best. She even snuck a glance towards Mikhail, and there was a smile. She wondered if he was thinking of a particular reading he'd done for Gaelle not so long ago.

"Congratulations, both of you. You got yourself a fine woman, Broch." He was trying to recall the last reading he did for Gaelle if it had any indication in it she would be seeing someone.

"A couple days at most." She tipped her head slightly. "Seeing one another?" She was trying to clarify what he had said though Mikhail did. Her eyes went wide briefly. "Well... yes, congratulations." She held up her glass in a toast to them both and drank quite a bit of it down.

She was still blushing though she was curious to Laura's wide eyed stare. "Thank you both, very much." She lifted her glass, smiling over the rim of it before she took a drink.

"It bae recent," wasn't like he was hiding it. Not at all. "Din bae surprised iffin Mic'ael bae announc'in t'e same. T'ough," sliding a glance to Gaelle as she would find his arm sliding around her shoulders possessively, "no wit' Gaelle." Like he really needed to state the obvious but it went along with the lighter teasing.

"Michael? I didn't know either one of you had even been dating." She was wondering if he had told her what he had his siblings.

"I'd certainly hope not!" On the tail end of Broch's last. Her eyes were wide now, but she laughed quietly and leaned against him. She rested her cheek, briefly, against his shoulder. "Well, if I am not there when or if Michael makes his announcements, tell him well wishes for me?" For both Laura and Broch.

"If any of you would like a card read, possibly glimpse of the future..." while untying the pouch that contained his Tarot cards. A dark eyed look Laura's way in a slight curiosity of her reaction.

"It nae 'as been official dat'in like yea call it. Not until recently it bae becom'in t'at way." If that explained it. He reached over to run a thumb against Laura's cheek. "Yea bae next. 'ave yea card read." There was that ongoing teasing. Logan wasn't seeing anyone that he knew of, more like that would come as a surprise.

"It's hard to be next when I'm not seeing anyone." She chuckled then looked at Mikhail. Curiosity overcame any hesitation she might have felt. "All right, I will." She carried her glass over with her to the table, placing it aside where it wouldn't be bumped.

She turned slightly, enough to see Laura and Mikhail. She was curious, of course.

He indicated the table Laura had picked with a slight gesture of hand, "you're all welcome to join us of course." They could sit and relax, proceeding over as he drew out a chair for Laura to take then took up the one off to her right. Once seated, he shuffled the cards up good before placing them in front of her. "Shuffle them up then divide the stack into three, putting them back in whatever order before placing them back in front of me."

"I think I can do that." She gave him an impish look before picking up the cards and shuffling them quickly. Three piles were made before she had them back together and placed them in front of Mikhail. She apparently had learned to shuffle cards well in her youth.

Gaelle picked up her glass from the bartop, then glanced up towards Broch with a tip of her head, towards the table. She turned towards it, sweeping around to claim one of the chairs. She set her glass down first.

With his drink in hand, and making sure Gaelle had hers, he escorted her over to the table. Setting his glass before drawing out a chair for her next to Laura, then seating himself.

She had been patient! She didn't sit, yet. After Broch pulled out the chair, she settled down, murmuring a thank you to him.

Being Broch had teased his sister, he was going to give it more fodder. He turned over the card, showing Strength. "You will be meeting a man, muscular in build who will sweep you off his feet and take you to his cave for his own in claim." Dark eyes lifting but there was a glint of humor there, hopefully she felt the same. Prepared to be swatted before he would get serious. The card portrays a muscular, powerfully built man with curling chestnut hair, wearing only a red loincloth. He is engaged in a savage struggle with a lion, and has managed to wrap his strong hands around the beast's throat; at the critical moment he is winning the fight. Around man and lion loom the rocky walls of a dark cave. Through the mouth of the cave can be seen a barren landscape of brown hills.

"'e bae look'in a bit like Maurice McDonoug', sae iffin yea catch him in a red loinclot', Laura, yea bae 'n trouble." Teasing her as well with a wink.

"Now don't you start!" She did reach over to swat his arm. Had it been Broch, she would have punched him instead. "Teachers don't live in caves." She sniffed then felt her cheeks grow hot. "Not like I haven't seen a man running around in hardly anything. I live with the three of you." And they never knew when Laura would be home.

-c-

She leaned slightly, getting a peek of the card. Gaelle's mouth bloomed into a smile and she let out a quiet laugh for the teasing from the men. Laura's retort was even better. Gaelle pressed her hand over her mouth, trying to muffle her laughter, at least some!

"Yea got one ov'r Gaelle t'en. I din t'ink s'e bae see'in a mon 'n near not'in at all?" It started out as a statement only to turn into a question her way.

Which he let out the chuckle then turning to a laugh with more teasing to follow. Once done he started in on the meaning of the card. "This card implies a situation where a collision with the lion within is inevitable, and where a creative handling of one's own rage and senseless pride is desirable. Courage. Strength and self discipline are necessary to battle with the situation. Through such an experience we can come in contact with the beast, but also with that part of us which is Heracles, the hero who can subdue it. Thus the Fool, having developed the faculties of mind and feeling, now learns to deal with his own ferocious egotism, emerging from this contest with trust in himself and integrity toward others." He paused here while slipping the card back into the deck. "Only you will know how this fits, something already or something to come within the next six months." That was the usual duration of a one card reading.

"Uhm..No. I have seen them without shirts, which.. is that close enough?" It was to her! She glanced over the three. Now, she was the one blushing! She fell quiet as Mikhail explained the card.

"Yea bae becom'in feisty, mae ferocious sister," though there was pride in his words that he was stating, least to him, that Laura had fire in her soul. Something good, when kept in control but she had not shown such so far, least he saw.

She listened quietly, her brow furrowing in thought though she looked at Broch and chuckled. "I'm glad you see it. I'm not certain how it applies at this point." Maybe more brandy was in order. And that's what she had. And yes, she said at this point. Who knew what the future could bring?

"Some times yea need tae let gae, let t'e beast surface, grasp life and liv'in like Heracles is 'ere." He much desired for his sister to find what he found but knew she needed to become a little more ferocious, get others, men included, to stand up and notice. To take more than one glance, but three or four.

She listened to Broch speaking with his sister. She smiled to both of them, her eyes holding a tiny gleam. She picked up her glass then, for a sip.

"I see it as a good thing, if it comes about. Nothing is ever written in stone but more than likely the opportunity will arise to be allowed." One always had a choice, sometimes it was better to know what to avoid and what to embrace in life's challenges. He shuffled the cards as he placed them in front of Gaelle with a slight reach. Ladies first if she wanted a reading, "would you like a card read or you, Broch?" If she didn't she could pass them to him.

She was somewhat excited. Broch had never been present when she had her card read. And every single one she'd had read this far had been.. quite interesting, to say the least. She beamed at Mikhail and took the cards into her hand. She knew well the routine by now. And after cutting them into three stacks, she placed them back together and slid them towards Mikhail.

"If it does, then I'll be certain to let you know." Her smile was warm as she spoke. "Thank you, Mikhail." Green eyes shifted from him to Gaelle as she lifted her glass for another sip. She'd have to get a refill soon.

Once they were placed in front of him, he turned the top card over. Three of Wands. It portrays Jason newly arrived at the city of Iolkos. He wears only one sandal, having lost the other in crossing the river, thereby confirming the oracle which has prophesied his advent. He stands triumphantly, holding in his right hand three flaming wands. At his feet kneels the usurper, King Peilas, black haired and black bearded, dressed in royal purple, and offering with apparent humility the golden crown which he has unlawfully stolen.

She squinted at the card, brows furrowing. Naturally, she had no idea what the card meant. Expectantly, she lifted her eyes to study Mikhail.

The card placed so all could see the fine artwork, "the three of Wands implies a stage of initial completion of a creative idea or project. Good foundations have been laid, enthusiasm is high and there is a feeling of satisfaction and optimism about the future potential of the project. But there is also hard work ahead, and new plans which must be put into action before the full promise can be realized."

He was listening intently, after all this dealt with Gaelle. A glint brightened in burnished green eyes with a look her way, "I bae yea project?"

She canted her head to the side, pursing her lips. Then dark eyes slanted to stare at Broch. She grinned. "Indeed. If that's the case, then the reading definitely fits, no?" She chuckled quietly and lifted her glass again for a drink. When she set it down, she watched Mikhail again. "Thank you."

"Aye.. t'en it bae yea need tae work 'arder on mae to reap t'e full reward.." she walked right into that one as he added a suggestive waggle of brows.

She watched Broch.. again. "Hmm. I'm pretty sure that can be done." Her brows waggled and her grin was nothing short of wicked.

He slipped the card back into the deck and shuffled them as he watched the two, a chuckle under is breath before dark eyes were upon the quiet Laura. Perhaps there was more buried in the more demure woman? He was curious but then pulled back to the project at hand, passing the cards down to Broch. He knew what to do with them by now.

He only smiled more, held her eyes then finally tore his away as he took the cards. Shuffling them, parting them into three, putting them back before handing them back to Mikhail.

Her eyes lifted from her drink to Mikhail when he looked her way, a hint of an impish smile appearing. Her expression changed slightly when she turned her attention to her brother.

Her cheeks heated, turned a nice shade of red. No telling what she had been thinking when she was caught in that eye contact with Broch. When he repeated the card ritual and handed them back to Mikhail, her attention turned that way. She watched silently, curious to what the cards would reveal.

He turned over the card, Judgement. It portrays a young man with curling black hair, dressed in a white tunic and a blood red traveling cloak. On his head is a winged helmet, and his feet are shod in winged sandals. In his right hand he holds the caduceus, the staff of magic entwined with two snakes. On either side of him, dimly visible, are two columns, one black and one white. The stairs on which he stands ascend to a doorway through which can be glimpsed a rich green landscape over which the sun is just rising. Before him, several carved coffins lie and from these sarcophagi the dead are rising, reaching out to him as they shrug off their burial shrouds. "This card augurs a time when the rewards of  past efforts appear. This is a period of summing up, of a realization of what we have been doing and where we ourselves have created the future which now awaits us. It is an ambiguous card, for it can also imply a disturbing confrontation with all our evasions and self betrayals. The reward is not always a pleasant one. The Fool must now answer for his journey, for the time of gathered together to form the future. Whatever occurs to the individual in terms of experiences, the card of Judgement heralds the end of a chapter in life. But unlike the card of Death, it does not imply mourning. Rather, it is a clear perception of the extent to which we have been able to be true to ourselves."

He was listening with glances between Laura and Gaelle before a serious look captured his features. One not seen often but certainly was there beneath the surface. "I most o' done somet'in rig't t'en," not saying more but the look leveled on Gaelle. He knew well about judgements and how they all caught up with one, no evading death nor the summary of deeds at the end of it. Like this card implied, no mourning, a second chance and the fact a lady could love him, meant he had accomplished the difference from where he had been to where he was now.

She didn't know what to make of that card. It had not been something she expected. She furrowed her brows and watched Mikhail first, but then her attention slanted--first to Laura then to settle onto Broch to see his reaction. She smiled for his response, a warm thing and reached out to squeeze his hand.

She watched Broch a moment, her expression softening briefly. "It seems you have, Broch."

It appeared to him the card fitted, something presently in Broch's life. A smile touched but focus shifted back to Laura. He wondered if she was still trying to figure out the card she had drawn.

Laura nearly had her blushing. She smiled over to her then lifted her attention to Broch. "I am getting exhausted. I think I may grab a key and sleep here tonight, travel back early in the morning."

"I t'ink I bae spend'in t'e nig't as well, see yea back 'n t'e morn'in." He was up and around to give Laura a kiss to the cheek, "din stay up tae late." Teasing her before he offered his arm to Gaelle as he'd escort her upstairs to her room, then his he got a key for as well.

No, she wasn't really thinking about the card. She looked at him and smiled then looked up at Broch. "I'll be retuning to the manor directly, Broch. Good night to you both. Rest well."

"I'd like that, Broch." She enjoyed the company, especially his. She rose up with Broch's help, leaning to kiss his cheek before she stopped off to snag a key from Alex. "Thank you, Laura. Thank you, Mikhail. Have a good night, the both of you." Then she turned to head upstairs to find her room. With Broch.

He rose from his seat as they prepared to turn in for the night. "A good night, I'm please to have seen you both again."

"Guid nig't, Mik'ail an t'ank yea," giving a last wave before disappearing down the hall leading to the stairwell.

He remained standing, the deck of Tarot cards slipped into the pouch he had for them "I would be honored to escort you back. The moon is high this night rending it unusual for the snow." One could see near as day.

She stood just as he started to speak and smiled warmly again for his offer. "Thank you. I would really appreciate your company." She carried her glass to the bar and turned after biding Alex good night. "I love the way the moon makes a snowy landscape look so bright, and how it causes everything to sparkle. Like everything is sprinkled with diamonds." Which had her laughing. "Not too creative since it's the way everyone thinks of it."

He was at a pace by her side, leaving his empty glass on the bar as well in easy reach for Alex. "Tonight we shall have another to enjoy it with then." Something that didn't often happen for him even with a friend. "Aye, but they are accurate." Giving a quick wink as he'd help her with her cloak then don his before getting the door. Once out they could talk while enjoying the sight in a leisurely walk. It was not so bitter cold this night, having warmed some, or so felt compared to the near zero temperature over the past couple weeks off and on.

-e-

New Readings

Mikhail was seated in a wingback, enjoying the heat from the hearth as well a glass of the potcheen. Warming his insides while the fire warmed the outside. He was comfortably attired in a multi leather tunic over a poets shirt. Pants of black wool and leather boots. The pouch with his Tarot cards attached to the wide belt as surely as the hunting knife sheathed there as well. Another small pouch contained healing herbs for emergencies.

There was a whisper of song carried by the evening breeze. Wordless with the notes trembling from the cold that wrapped up the singer in constant shivers. She was walking, her gloved hand delicately holding onto the reins of the white mare that held a lazy stride at the woman's side. The mare's head bobbed, up and down, slowly as they crept closer to the tavern. And Luna's ears were tipped lightly to the back, listening to the song that haunted the night, haunted the wind. It faded to nothing when she drew near, a stable boy out to greet her and he took the mare from Nora to place her in the stables.

Sariyelle, Constance and the children had arrived earlier in the day. Now though, with the twins asleep and settled with Constance, Lily and Sari came from the room they currently occupied together. Sariyelle's steps quiet while Lily rushed ahead to the counter to bother Alex for a cookie and some juice, after making the strenuous climb up onto a stool proper. Sariyelle soon to follow with a light smile. Gowned in a shade of lilac and warm enough to ward off the chill of winter.

He picked up more than a song on the wind, that held something very ancient to it. The hand holding his glass that started to lift had paused for that suspended moment as he listened. There and gone like most in that moment he was startled from such thoughts as a child rushed in. One he recognized. "Lily," smile held warmth that spread as the glass was lowered and set aside than taking the drink that was initially intended. Of course Lily would not be here by herself as he gained his feet in wait and only a few seconds later. "Sari, how are you?" The warmth of his smile remained with only a dark eyed glance to the window then back. Another was arriving.

She did not rush indoors. Even in the cold, she seemed content to stand there and sing to the moon. She started again, briefly, her chin tipped up and her gaze scanning the night sky. When her mouth opened, it was more than wordless notes. Her lyrics came through foggy breaths that lifted to the sky in ghosted clouds of white. "If life were merchandise, that gold could buy..." Something had her trail off. She considered the next line, her brows furrowed and her chin lowered. Rolling her shoulders beneath the layers of a pale yellow dress, topped with a heather grey cloak, Nora finally approached the door. It was opened with a gust of icy wind chasing her inside, nipping at her heels. She shut the door quickly, pausing to cast a glance around.

Hearing her name, Lily turned to the source with a big smile and waggle of pudgy fingers. "'lo!"

The voice was easily recognized and brightened her smile. "Mikhail. I am well. How are you?" One hand reached for the nearest stool, where she stopped and turned to Mikhail's direction, sightless gaze shifted towards him but likely missed him all together. A pleasant surprise to have the company of her friend.

He recognized the lass coming in. "Nora, good to see you this cold evening. Come get warm." Although tendrils were attached on another level he had not seen about her before. Intriguing ones. Then back to Sari, "Sari, this is Nora. I am doing very well, my family also." Things had been laid back for him over the past couple months and he was enjoying that very fact. Two of his brothers that had been missing were found as well his two older brothers back. Only one sister remained missing and her whereabouts unknown presently. Though she was not in Ireland so was safe.

"Good evening," she greeted the both of them, but for the lady, Nora eased into a slow curtsey. "A pleasure to meet you." It was as if she had totally changed from the moment she was outside to the moment she was in; now all smiles and giving the indication that nothing was wrong. "It is quite chilly tonight. I wonder if it will snow again.." She was in the process of removing her cloak, but at her words, she paused with a blue-green glance tipping to one of the windows.

A nod given to the introduction. "A pleasure to meet you, Nora." Audible attention returned to Mikhail. "That's wonderful. It must be heart warming to have them all so close."

Juice and cookie were given, Lily thanked the man and settled back in her seat to nibble on the cookie and look around to those gathered. Waggle of pudgy fingers to Nora too.

Which he noticed the change but knew it was not a fluke either. It would ride for now but certainly piqued his curiosity. Mikhail possessed a bit in that area especially on certain things. "I'm sure it will snow again, possible a few good storms before we are graced with spring." Winter going out by tantrums he use to refer to it as. "Aye, I've known some peace I've not had in a long time since Trevet and Kynan returned. They are in the Moor's jousting and have done well." The two younger ones bounced back pretty well which was good in his view. "How are things going for you? It has been a while, Sari." Indicating a few of the seats near the hearth, but more the audible for Sari, "please come join me at the hearth where it is comfortable and warm." Wingback were more comfortable than table chairs or the stools at the bar.

More snow. Yay! Seemed the trend these days. "That's wonderful." In regards to his family. "It has been quite a while. I've been well. Busy though. No longer in Eldyn. The children and I have spent some time traveling. Looking for a life that will offer them comfort." The invitation was accepted. "Thank you." Hopefully Alex hadn't rearranged since her last visit so she'd know where the chairs were and claim her seat near the hearth.

Twice in one month had to be a record for Alyse to have an evening out, or else Fate was conspiring to have her spend a little time with adults. Either way, she was content to head for the Thistle to seek out company and a convivial glass. Reaching the steps, she quickly hurried up them and in, welcoming the embracing warmth of the hearth as a smile hovered on her face. "Good evening, everyone!"

She'd drifted off into a daze, apparently. She still hadn't removed her cloak and the cheerful greeting from the entering woman quickly brought her back into the present. She smiled to her, finally hanging her cloak before she turned to step off for.. oh, hearth or bar? She couldn't decide. "Good evening," she returned the greeting to the woman, tipping her head into a polite nod.

"No longer in Eldyn," that took him by surprise. Greatly. Took a moment to sink in. "What happened if you don't mind my asking?" Certainly she could put it in a nutshell without going into any details that might cause her pain. Alex pretty much left the chairs were they were although those visiting sometimes moved some closer together as suited the night. "Good evening," addressing Alyse as she joined them. "You're welcome to join us as well at the hearth."

"Thank you. Let me get a drink from Alex, and I believe I will accept your kind invitation, sir." The smile warmed brown eyes as she hung up her cloak, nodding politely to the ladies seated at the hearth with him.

She cleared her throat softly. "The Deities of Eldyn found a ruler to take the place of the previous king. I was released of my duties there." Happy for that, at least on some level. Eldyn had been home for a long time, but she was happy. A nod to the woman invited to join with a light smile.

Brows knitted in a natural concern. Sometimes what seemed a bad turn of events was a new path for better things. "I am sorry things went as they did and hope the best for you and the children." Last he knew of her husband, he was missing and the statement now, he suspected the man was never found nor returned. He would not go there, though they had talked on it before. There was something he would say, "when the heart of a land is no longer there, it is rarely successfully replaced." Something he'd seen over many years as a warrior, kingdoms changing hands from original families.

She finally moved for the hearth. Quietly, Nora chose one of the chairs and sunk down into it. Her hands smoothed over the fabric of her dress, then settled against her lap.

It was a good thing that it was so late. Kynan wasn't in the mood for a snowball fight tonight. It wasn't so much that he was in a bad mood, he was just tired. Too restless to sleep, he made his way to the Thistle after having walked the pup. Walked until she decided she was too cold and she had sat and refused to move, whining until he picked her up. Now she was hidden under his coat, nice and warm. He tripped up the top step, snickered to himself and continued on inside.

"I'm sure they will." Spoken with a light-hearted tone. "I have Constance to help me with the children." A nod of agreement to what was later said. "It is true, but it is not by the choice of the people who rules Eldyn. It is by the lands and Deities that a ruler is chosen. I hope it does well, but it is too much life for me." Not a proper upbringing for her children. Shaking her head a bit, she smiled again. "It's good to see you again."

Thanking Alex for her mug, Alyse absently smoothed down the rose wool of her skirt, a recent gift sent from Kintail, and went to take one of the fire-warmed chairs. Looking up as the door opened, she offered a smile to the man. "Good evening."

He nodded thoughtfully to himself more than anyone present. He wasn't sure of the setup of Eldyn but from the sound of it, it was not by the people's choice or hers but she seemed relieved. The responsibility of such a position usually weighed heavily. "Time to relax." As he'd not talk further on it. "It is good to see you again. I see Lily remains healthy especially for Hazel's cookies. Alyse, this is Sari and Lily," indicating the woman's daughter, "as well Nora." In case they hadn't met. "Alyse is in charge of our orphanage."

Nora's attention swept to the door and she seemed to perk up a bit when she spotted Kynan. She didn't speak to him, but she did lift one hand to wiggle fingers towards him in a quiet hello. She watched him for a moment, then her attention swept to Mikhail when he made the introductions. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Alyse." She smiled to her, then her gaze tipped to the child. Nora watched her quietly.

Which a heads up as another came in only to realize it was his brother. "My brother Kynan," which had him looking beyond to see if possibly Trevet was on his heels. Usually where one was so was the other found.

He grinned at Nora then turned to nod at the others. "It's a pleasure to meet you all." The pup was placed on the floor where she yawned and sat, looking somewhat confused. Once Kynan hung up his cloak and started for the bar, she was fast on his heels.

Lily climbed down from her stool at the bar after setting everything down on the counter. Grunt and grumble, she finally landed on the floor then reached up for her cup and cookie and made her way over to where Sari was sitting.

"A pleasure to meet you, Sari, Lily, and Nora." She nodded to each in turn, committing names and faces to memories. "You've been well, Mikhail? It's been a while since I've seen you. And Kynan, how do you do?"

Sariyelle smirked. "She's always healthy for Hazel's cookies." A nod given to those who were introduce and keen smile to Alyse. "A pleasure to meet you." One arm wrapped around Lily to pull her up onto her lap while Lily caught Nora's gaze and waved her cookie at the woman.

"Would anyone like their card read?" It would seem the card he read for Sari last time came to pass. Most of the cards read were accurate he was finding as well the ones he did a one card reading for. He forgot to tell one, when it was not quite clear, another card could be drawn to help clarify it in certain circumstances.

Nora wiggled her fingers to Lily, smiling to her. She didn't quite jump at the offer from Mikhail, not yet. She might have been too nervous. She watched Kynan quietly.

Once he had a drink in hand, he was over to join everyone. "I named her Sheba," he said quietly to Nora. The pup didn't quite realize that Kynan had stopped and ran into him. Sitting again, she let out a yap as if she were scolding him.

Clearing his throat with a light chuckle as he didn't mean to not answer Alyse's question. "Yes, I've been very well. Nothing too out of the ordinary and enjoying calm in my life."

"That is a pretty name, Kynan." She leaned forward in her chair, bending over far enough that her fingertips could tap at the floor. She was trying to steal the puppy's attention.

He was laughing as the pup scolded, turning slightly to look at her. Hearing the tapping, Sheba ran to pounce Nora's hand. While her master might be sleepy, she was now wide awake.

She hid her chuckle at the puppy's yap in her mug. It did sound like a scold. At Mikhail's words, she nodded to indicate she'd heard. "Calm can be a wonderful thing." It wasn't something she had a great deal of in her life, but mothering thirty children did not make for a placid, tame life.

She let out a quiet, delighted laugh. Before the puppy knew it, Sheba was scooped up and Nora leaned back, allowing the pup to sit on her lap. Nora occupied her with ear scritches and belly rubs.

Sariyelle was content to sit and listen with a smile.

The puppy had Lily's full attention, but there were too many people to venture over, so she watched and nibbled her cookie.

"Alyse, I don't believe I've ever read your card. Would you like to give it a try?" Settling in his seat where there was a table within reach. He would make use of it.

-c-

"Oh, why not?" Trading one chair for another, she went to sit opposite him. Alyse was not necessarily a believer in the power of the cards, but who turned down a peek at their future?

He took the cards out from the pouch that kept them protected as well the black silk they were wrapped up in. He shuffled them before setting them on the table within her reach. "Shuffle them, divide in three piles then put back in whatever order you want to make one again. Know that nothing is ever written in stone and cards do not make one's future but it can give a glimpse of something worth knowing."

Picking Lily up, she smiled. "It was nice to meet you all. It's time for this little one to be asleep though." And quietly excused herself.

He grinned as he watched then looked at Mikhail, grinning slightly. While Alyse went to have her cards read, he found a seat. He wiggled his fingers at the wee girl as she was taken off. "Good night, m'Lady."

A nod acknowledged Sari's departure with her daughter as she obeyed Mikhail's instructions, shuffling carefully, then making the piles as indicated. Glancing up, she smiled at him. "A single choice can alter everything, I know.  There." satisfied that the pile was complete, she left it for him to pick up.

She leaned down, to the puppy. And it was Nora that made the little growly noise that sounded nothing like one that belonged to a dog. All in a playful way, of course. She straightened up with a smile, her attention turning to Mikhail and Alyse.

He also gave Sari a nod, as she was quick to depart in seeing Lily getting to  bed. Concern there but back to the cards as he turned over the top one. The Star. It portrays a beautiful young woman with long, fair hair, kneeling before an open chest. From the chest a noxious swarm of flying creatures rises, filling the air with darkness. But the young woman's eyes are fixed on a bright star which hovers above her, within which can be seen a female figure in glowing white robes.

"The meaning of this card portends the experience of hope, meaning and faith in the midst of difficulties. Although the Star too can be ambivalent, and can warn against blind hope without the necessary action to build upon it, the card of the Star is a augury of promise, an altogether welcome experience for the Fool who has passed through the collapse of everything which he believed to be of value in his life. Only you will know if this card fits in things present or to come." It wasn't a bad card at all for what it ultimately signified.

Had they stayed, he would have shown the little girl a magic trick but since they were off so quickly, he sat back to watch. He chuckled when he glanced over at Nora with Sheba, then his attention was back to Mikhail and Alyse.

She smiled as she listened to the card's meaning and a glance tipped back to Kynan. Maybe she was giving him a break by.. puppy sitting? It was hard to say, really.

If she was, he appreciated it. He was drinking coffee but wasn't sure it would help for long. Green eyes tinted with brown moved from his brother to Alyse to see her reaction.

Attentive to his words, she studied the card quietly, uncertain of what it might portend for her life. She was not certain what constituted difficulties in this instance.

"Would you like me to draw another card to see if it can clarify the significance of this first one?" It would be the next card and why he would need to do it now.

"Yes, please." She nodded encouragingly.

He could tell by the look upon her features it didn't really make a whole lot of sense. As she agreed, he turned over the next card, showing the ten of Pentacles. It portrays Daedalus as an old man, his brown hair now liberally streaked with grey. He is comfortably seated with his children and grandchildren around him, the patriarch and founder of a line. On either side of him, mounted on vine draped columns, hang ten golden pentacles, five to his left and five to his right. In his lap nestles an infant playing with a golden rattle. To his left stands a woman of around thirty, clothed in green and wearing a beautiful golden necklace. At his feet, a boy of ten plays with a toy golden horse. In the distance can be seen a landscape of rich green mountains and calm blue sea.

"This card suggests a period of ongoing contentment and security, and a sense of something permanent having been established which can be handed on to others. This may be a material inheritance of wealth or property, or it may be an artistic achievement such as a book or painting which one knows will live on and offer its value independent of one's own span of life." The card was fairly different than the first that he was not sure how they would interrelate, unless this was after the first to happen. "I am not sure if this clarifies the first, it may be one that is hidden until it happens or not come about at all." It wasn't his own insight so he was blind at times as well in how they would fit or not.

Nora stood quietly, but it wasn't to leave. No, she inched over to Kynan to return the puppy. At least Nora had calmed her down some?

"It helps clarify a little, yes." To Alyse's way of thinking, it spoke of the time spent in re-organizing the Orphanage and establishing herself at the head of it, the trouble times of adjustment were almost over, blessedly.

"Thank you, Nora." He smiled up at her as he took the sleepy puppy. She had calmed her down quite a bit though she wanted to gnaw at his fingers. That was when he pulled out a bit of rawhide for her to chew on until she fell asleep again.

"You're welcome, Kynan." She smiled right back, then returned to her chair, nearly curling up in it.

"They say three is a charm," turning over a third for this situation, partially for his curiosity. He would not go beyond three cards. The six of cups showed. It portrays the Psyche seated on a rock, behind which a calm sea can be seen. In her left hand she holds a golden cup into which she pensively stares. In her right hand she holds the rather bedraggled remains of her bridal bouquet of white lilies. Around her on the rocky ledges stand five more golden cups.

"This card augurs a time of serenity, much like the second, which grows out of the testing of the dreams of the past. Sometimes an old love from the past returns, or a cherished dream which one has held in the past seems possible of fruition in the near future. The blind in love state has solidified and although the past may seem beautiful and irrevocably lost, something of its promise emerges, tempered and strengthened, into the present. The card implies nostalgia about the past but with a difference: the past can lead to the future, and the dream is experienced as still possible, even near achievement." After this card he took the moment to slide all three back into the deck.

"Hmm. Interesting." Leaning on an elbow, she watched him slide the cards back into place.

"I can say this much, all three cards are very positive. How, why, when and where, still remain to be seen." Or be seen at all but he rather hoped the cards were fulfilled. "Nora.." dark eyes turning her way, "come have a card drawn." Curiosity driven for something picked up on earlier.

At first, she simply blinked and there was a tiny bit of hesitation on her part. However, the positive reading for Alyse had her thinking that maybe she'd get the same. She nodded and unfurled from her chair, moving to sit across from him.

"Thank you." Rising to make way for Nora, Alyse had plenty to think on.

She smiled at Alyse, sitting quietly once the chair was vacated. She leaned forward, propping one elbow on the table.

"You are welcome Alyse, I would be curious if such comes to pass where the cards are clarified." He shuffled the deck as he spoke. Deftly. Then set them in reach of Nora for her to shuffle, cut in three, put back as one then set before him.

She took them up and shuffled them.. for.. quite a bit! One had to wonder if she was ever going to stop. She cut them then, into three stacks before piling them all together. Then, she handed them to Mikhail, her eyes lifting to his.

He well picked up on that anxious quality of one almost fearing what card might enlighten things hidden she was becoming aware of possibly. Once set he turned over the top card. The Hermit. It portrays an old man with a grey beard, shrouded in grey robes with his face half hidden by a cowl. In his right hand he carries a lamp which burns with a bright golden light. In his left hand he wields a scythe. A crow perches on his shoulder. Behind him a cold, misty landscape of grey mountains bleeds into an oppressive grey sky.

He watched her initial reaction as one might expect of another seeing what appeared to be gloom just by the drawing. "This card augurs a time of aloneness or withdrawal from the extraverted activities of life, so that the wisdom of patience may be acquired. There is an opportunity to build solid foundations if one is willing to wait. Thus the Fool at last arrives at maturity, having developed a mind and a heart, a firm sense of identity and finally a deep respect for his own limitations in the great passage of the round of time. Only you will know how this card fits or if unclear I can draw another."

She stared at the card as she listened. It sort of made sense. She nodded slowly though... "One more?" She furrowed her brows, lifting her eyes.

"If a card is not clear in it's meaning, too diverse, another card can be drawn, up to three as I had for Alyse."

"Draw one more, then.." She couldn't believe she'd said that. She should've just went with what she had!

"Aye, they are fitted together then to clarify the first, or in such hope." He turned over the next card which showed the Emperor, two cards of the higher Arcana in a row. It portrays a mature man with broad and muscular shoulders and chest. His rich, flowing hair and beard are a vivid auburn, and his eyes are a clear sky blue. He cleared his throat as it looked like someone he knew. He faces us seated on a golden throne at the top of a mountain. His robe is purple bordered with gold and on his head is a golden crown. In his right hand he holds three lightning bolts; in his left rests the globe of the world.  An eagle perches on his shoulder. Behind him stretches a backdrop of snowcapped peaks. "Zeus, the Emperor, augurs a confrontation with the issue of the father principle in both its positive and negative forms. We are challenged to make something manifest, to concretize a creative idea, to build something in the world, to found a business perhaps or to establish the structure of a home and family.

We are asked to take a standpoint, to become effective and powerful, to formulate our ideas and ethics. We are also asked to consider where the creative young king has become the rigid, oppressive tyrant and where our ideologies are interfering with life and growth. When the Fool meets the Emperor after his sojourn in the instinctual world, he learns to confront worldly life with his own resources, alone, according to ethics which he must develop for himself. Then he can progress on his journey with the certainty that he can be effective in life because there is something higher in which he believes, and whose authority he himself now embodies." Both cards seem to be saying the same, a definite stance in self reflection and setting about resolutions in ones beliefs. Both told how this was a self thing, alone, only something one could do within themselves.

The second card, oddly, did help her understand the first. She was quiet for a long moment before she nodded. "Thank you," she murmured to him, leaning back.

"You are welcome, I hope this soul search ends up profitable to your development." It was getting late but if Kynan was interested he would read his cards. "Kynan?"

"Hmmm." It seemed he had been drowsing and now opened his eyes to peer at his brother. "What did I miss?" Sheba was curled contentedly on his lap.

"Thank you, I hope so, too." She smiled a bit, just a bit as she stood, to leave the chair for Kynan. Who, had been sleeping.

"Another time then Kynan," chuckling as his brother had dozed off. "I'm surprised Treve isn't with you tonight." Bringing up something he had noticed as he carefully wrapped up the cards in the black silk before tucking them away into his pouch.

"I'm not sure where he is. I went to bed early. Couldn't sleep anyway." And didn't see if Treve was in his own bed or not. He smiled sheepishly at Nora. "I hope your reading was a good one."

She passed by Kynan's chair to give the puppy a scratch on the head. "I believe I should get back to the castle.  It was... interesting." She nodded.

Knowing Mikhail would be heading back to the castle as well, he stood, holding Sheba in his arms. "They usually are. If Mikhail is going to escort you back, I'll join you part way." He would be sleeping at the flat over the shop of course.

"Aye, best you have an escort this late, Nora." He was up, finishing off his drink as he stood before moving to the bar to deposit it there. His cloak snatched up and donned before over to collect Nora's cloak to help her with. Alyse had already taken a quiet leave while he was reading Nora's cards.

"Thank you. I would not mind the company, of course." She was already moving for the door, nearly forgetting her cloak until Mikhail had it in his hands. She must have been rather exhausted herself. She smiled sheepishly up to him. "Thank you, Mikhail."

Which had him chuckle with a slight nod as he helped her with getting it one, then the door to open as he stepped ahead, holding it for them both to pass. Once through so was he to close it behind him then flank Nora to one side leaving his brother to take up the other. A comfortable pace set that would not have her running either.

He managed to get his cloak on without putting the pup down. And then joined his brother and Nora heading outside.

-e-