The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

Garli I think most of the Duke of Zoltar's men are looking for my Lady Princess. What help would you or I be? We are not rangers or soldiers.

Garli, all we can do is wait. Strange things are brewing in the forests. Rumors of infidelity, murder, treason. I do not know what to make of it but I know one thing that is true. At this very hour, Carados and the Queen are meeting with Lady Montrose and Lord Strom. The result of this meeting will be of interest to us all.

Arabella, please give me a strong drink. Make it a double.

_________________
Esper Rakkaus
Spirit of the Trees

*She sits down and sighs*.

Oh I don't know, Grimney is such a troubled place. My wizard master sent me here for my own safety, and I don't think I'm safe at all. I will be very happy when Philomena comes home to us. I miss her.

*She shakes her head*.

And my nails need doing.

*Arabella looks close to tears but gives a brave smile*

I am sure Kalvos will bring her home. Nobody could keep those two apart for long.

*She sits down and opens Philomena's manicure box*

Let me do your nails for you.

Thank you Arabella, try not to cry.

*Garli holds out her hands, they are shaking*.

I'm sure Kalvos is safe and I really hope you are right Arabella.

Maybe they are together right now... just just enjoying some time alone together without Carados.

*Arabella sounds sounds doubtful*

I am sure nobody would hurt my mistress... anyone who meets her always falls half in love with her... even violent outlaws like Vance Scarab and Vortigern Jett... nobody ccould hurt her, nobody.

*She starts to cry*

*Garli stands up and hugs Arabella*.

Please don't cry. They'll both be fine, you'll see. Kalvos is a big, strong and brave warrior, and Philomena is so free spirited and determined. She's such a powerful force Arabella.

*She smiles*.

Perhaps we should ride out to Carados's castle? Yes, we might find her there.

*She slides out a handkerchief and dabs away Arabella's tears*.

We must be strong. Philomena would expect us to be brave.

Well I am sure she is very bored. She only has one comb with her and no make up.

*She frowns*

But what if she returns here and there are no friends to welcome her? I always promised to stay here... Poor Kalvos, he must be so worried.

Everyone is worried but prematurely. We will have word soon that will change everything. Philomena would not want us to fret. Instead, let's make this tavern look the best it has in weeks! And where are the patrons? The least we can do is run a successful business in her absence. When she returns, she will be proud and grateful!

*Esper grabs a wash cloth and starts scrubbing tables and chairs and anything that has dust or cobwebs. She looks at the startled girls.

Well?

_________________
Esper Rakkaus
Spirit of the Trees

*Nazik enters the tavern and sees the ladies cleaning. He looks for Meadow.

Arabella, have you seen Meadow? I am in need of her dragon.