Gypsy Camp
Just across the Milk Run Bridge from Stonebarrow, this flat, clear area has been set aside for travelers and merchants. Two freshwater wells are on site, along with a large map of the area and some bathroom facilities next to the swamp (where nobody will notice the smell). Currently, the area is temporary home to the Shadows Walk gypsy tribe. There colorful wagons are more or less centered on a central bonfire pit, and various lines run between the tops of the wagons to dry clothes or hang blankets to create larger private areas. The smell of various types of cooking keeps the odor of the swamp at bay.

In a surprisingly short amount of time, Olivia Weaver and her various helpers have transformed the gypsy camp into something that resembles a cross between a carnival and a garden party. A makeshift dance floor has been set up near to where Emmett and his band will be playing, and a canopied area has been erected in one corner of the camp where the drinks and the snacks will be served. Thanks to the insistence of Emmett and some of the other otters attending, Olivia grudgingly gave in an allowed them to set up areas for some of their "tamer" party games that anyone could enjoy, especially the children. As for the decorations, quickly-stitched cloth banners with frilly and lacy trims swing from tree branches and the gypsy's clotheslines, while crepe ribbons in bright colors wind around tree trunks and float from the ends of canopy-poles. The scents of cooked foods fill the air, the central firepit is alight and blazing, and everything looks bright and cheerful.

True to form, Djivan has been helping by 'supervising' the work of getting the ribbons in place. This has often taken the form of him lounging on a crate while pointing to where things go and critiquing how well things are hanging. When the final touches are in place, the Skreek declares, "Vell, I'm tired!"

Natasha and Inaya still haven't shown up. In fact, no one has really seen either of them since they went into seclusion to discuss a few things. Still, the camp doesn't seem too concerned about it. Or maybe they're just too wary to pry too much. Either way, no one is complaining yet. Off to the side Liliana is instructing her dance troupe a bit. "Now, remember vhat I tol' you. No nudity dis time an no throwing vour frillies at people," she explains. When the troupe grumbles about it, she adds, "Hey, it vas either dis or vou vear a petticoat." The troupe immediately go quiet and salute at that little threat.

At the bandstand, Emmett and the Oggtones warm up. The band leader himself is decked out in Oggton wedding finery: a powder blue vest and matching shorts, and a bright orange cummerbund wrapping his midsection. "One more time, lads," he says. "And kick the bubble-maker, this is s'posed to be a waltz." Various 'instruments' do their best to match their timing. It sounds recognizable, but somehow… rude.

Olivia emerges from Djivan's wagon, where she has been getting herself ready for this event. She is in her best party dress (the deep red one with the gold geometric patterns on it) and her hair has been done up in a crown braid by Liliana herself. Her fur has all been freshly-scrubbed, too, so she looks rather nice, if a bit tired. She glances around at all the preparations and murmurs, "Looks good, looks good… now all we need are the guests of honor. Where is Natasha, anyway?"

"I kin believe you invited de jug band," Liliana complains from somewhere behind Olivia, "Dey sound like de flatulent rumblings of a bean party." Apparently, that comment seems to get Djivan's attention, who declares, "Oh, hey, dat my cue t' play a serenade on me armpit?"

"No!" declares Liliana, who also promptly chucks a pile of laundry at the Skreek. "Vou as bad as me no-good cousin. He no show up yet, either! Pah."

Olivia turns around and gives the Eee a smile. "Well, it was either have Emmett perform at the party or have him and his happy band of miscreants crash the party. Which one would you prefer? Anyway, you can have your own musicians play when your troupe dances – it would give the Oggtones a nice break for a bit."

For a brief moment, all of the Oggtones synchronize and actually produce music. This, of course, leads to the tub-cello losing a string.

Liliana just groans. Djivan cracks up in laughter as he points at the band. The laughter then quickly converts into a yelp of surprise as something seems to grab the rat from behind and tank him backwards off his crate. "Death to invaders!" Gunther declares as he pops into view from behind the crate right as he's pouncing down onto of the unfortunate Skreek.

Olivia throws her hands up into the air, then walks over to where the Kadie is tussling with her boyfriend and collars him. "Gunther, will you give it a rest, just for one day?? This is a party, not an invasion, sheesh!" She shakes him a few good times for emphasis.

Gunther is caught mid-tussle; the Skreek's tail still hanging from his mouth. Djivan, well, he just looks annoyed. "Ith mighpth be invashion," the Kadie insists as he tries to hang onto the Skreek … who is now actively trying to shove him off.

Olivia hauls Gunther to his feet, then points out all of the decorations and the bandstand and the dance floor to him. "No invasion. Just a party. Got it?"

Gunther spits out the tail while he's being hauled up. "Well, it might just be a distraction," he reasons. Then spotting Emmett, he asks, "Wait, of the Oggtones are here, does that mean the twins are helping?"

Olivia just shakes her head at him. "Nope, sorry. They're not in the band."

"Eh?" Emmett says to Gunther, while he and Loomis try to attach a new string to the tub-cello without losing any eyes. "Dis isn't their sort of party. Prolly out goofin' off."

"Then that means they're off skulking somewhere! Hah! I'll catch them in the act; this distraction won't fool me!" Gunther declares. As quickly as he appeared, he disappears, darting off to who knows where.

"Somet'ing is wrong wit dat one," Djivan grumbles as he pulls himself back up onto his crate.

Olivia rolls her eyes heavenward. "The number of things that are wrong with him would take too long to explain, trust me! At least we were able to get him out of here quickly enough!"

The band tries tuning up again. This involves a good deal of alcohol to 'lubricate' the instruments.

It's probably a good thing that he's gone as two distinctively Khatta shapes can be seen heading up the path towards the camp. When the light shines right, it's obvious that Inaya and Natasha are finally heading to the camp. They're still talking, but there doesn't appear to be any animosity between the two at least.

Olivia takes a second to look to the path when she sees movement flicker at the corner of her eye. "I think they're coming!" she says to the others, pointing out the Khattas' approach.

Emmett switches the current piece to one that is sort of a march. Not quite a bridal march and not quite a military parade march and quite a bit like a Rughrat trapped in a tar pit.

The unusual choice of music certainly gets a reaction. Namely it looks like Inaya wants to run screaming. The only thing that currently keeps her from doing so is Natasha's firm grip on her arm. When they get close enough, Olivia can hear Natasha saying, "Calm yourself. They are strange, yes, but harmless. They're also trying to be proper and impressive, so … please allow them some leeway."

"A little more tonality would be nice!" Olivia calls to the band. "I think you're scaring the guest of honor!" However, she can't help grinning as she says this.

Emmett shrugs at the suggestion, and tells his band to play with their toenails. This at least reduces the overall volume if not the quality.

Olivia covers her face with both hands for a moment, then just laughs and shrugs, too. "Oh well, we just have to work with what we've got!" she says to Djivan, then goes over to greet the Khattas.

"Good evening, Olivia," Natasha calls out as she approaches, her grip still rather firm on Inaya's arm. Inaya looks, well, terrified. "Ah, yes, good evening, Olivia," Inaya says a bit shakily as she eyes the rather tone-deaf otters. In the background, Djivan is laughing so hard he's practically snorting and about to fall off his crate again. Liliana looks like she's stuffed pillows in her ears.

Olivia draws near to the two Khattas, then gives them a curtsy. "Hello Natasha, Lady Inaya. I hope you won't be put off by some of our music. We do have other entertainments planned, as well. Just bear in mind that they will not be quite as lavish or elegant as some of the parties you've been to at home. Or as melodic, I'm afraid," she adds with a smile.

After the Khattas arrive, another couple approaches. Two Eeees, the male dressed in 'classic' Sylvanian vampire fashion with a heavy cloak and a dark tuxedo, complete with ruffled shirt and fancy looking medallion. The woman, obviously Dr. Pike, wears a formal gown that hangs a bit loose on her frame, and still smells of mothballs. Behind them comes Igor, carrying a large case in one hand and an oversized bottle of pre-flood wine with the Stonebarrow label.

Natasha waves her hand slightly. "I wanted my sister to see the charm of the people of these lands and their earnest efforts for others," she explains, "So it is fine." Inaya, however, doesn't look so convinced. "Why are they playing with their toes?" she asks while staring at the band.

"Dagh, Rey, is dat vou?" Liliana says, looking a bit dumbfounded at the approach of Pike, her escort, and Igor. She even leaves her dance troupe to go over and inspect the two Eees. After a bit more peering, Liliana starts giggling, saying, "She turn vou into a fop!"

"I think to lower the volume of the music," Olivia explains… although she doesn't look too sure about this. "Would you like to come and see what else we have prepared?" she asks, waving a hand in the direction of the camp so the Khattas can move on ahead.

"I think he looks quite dashing this way," Pike mutters and adjusts her glasses. Spotting Olivia, she says, "Ah, Miss Weaver! I've brought a gift." She motions to Igor, who waddles up and presents the bottle of wine.

"Please," Natasha says and walks towards the center of the camp. Inaya continues on in a halting fashion. Well, until she spots Pike and Rey. "At least they know how to dress properly," she comments.

Olivia starts at the mention of a gift from Dr. Pike and takes the bottle carefully from Igor. "Oh, thank you very much," she says, peering at the label on the bottle. "Wait, this label looks very old. Where did you get this, Dr. Pike?"

"From my wine cellar of course," Pike explains. "It has the same vintage as the one I gave to Lord Erik, so I'm sure it will be good."

Igor sidles up to Olivia and whispers to her, "I altho brought my harmodicon along, in cathe your band needth a break." The patchwork Skreek manages to not get any spittle in the Skeek's ear, thankfully.

Rey makes a half-hearted swat towards Liliana, who dances away, still giggling. "Yeah, laugh it up. Vou jus' jealous!" he grumbles at his cousin.

Olivia now vaguely remembers seeing a wine cellar in the castle on her visits there. "Oh, right. I just didn't know that Stonebarrow ever made wine from grapes – just plums and peaches and other fruits. I can't seem to recall why at the moment, though," she muses, scratching the side of her nose idly. Then she listens to what Igor is whispering to her. "I didn't know you played music," she whispers back, surprised. "And what is a harmodicon, anyway?"

"Of vhat, dat vou prolly are vearing more frilly undies den I ever have?" Liliana says gleefully. She also takes off running back towards her troupe, just in case Rey decides to try to do anything to her.

"A very difficult inthtrument to mathter," Igor explains. "But I've done my betht over the yearth. It ith a hobby of mine."

Spotting his one-time rival, Djivan hops off his crate and makes his way over to Olivia and Igor. "Dis one botherin' vou?" he asks Olivia and thumbs towards Igor.

Olivia ahs and looks a bit worried at the phrasing of Igor's last words. Still, she manages to reply, "Well, I'm sure we could work you in if you'd like to play. The Oggtones have to take breaks to enjoy the party, too!" Then she turns at Djivan's approach. "Oh no – he's actually offering to help with the entertainments."

"Dat so?" Djivan says, still eying Igor.

"Altho, if you'd like any improvements made to your boyfriend, jutht let me know," Igor whispers to Olivia once more, while smiling at Djivan.

In the background, Natasha has finally managed to get Inaya to walk over to a place somewhat near the bandstand and sit down. Natasha appears to be gesturing towards various people, the band included, and whispering things to her sister. Inaya, well, just has a very puzzled look on her face.

"Errr… thanks," Olivia says simply. Then in a louder voice, she adds, "Well, uh, I should put this wine with the rest of the drinks. If you'll excuse me?" With that, she grabs Djivan by the hand and forces him to accompany her to the food and drinks tables.

Djivan follows dutifully along. It doesn't stop him from looking over his shoulder and glaring at Igor, though.

Igor can't help but stick out his tongue at Djivan. It's forked.

Inaya breaks away from her sister for a moment and tries to wave Doctor Pike over to them. Apparently the Khatta seems to think Pike and her entourage is closer to what she might be used to, culture-wise. Well, she'll probably learn differently soon enough.

The pale Eeee comes over and bows her head, elbowing Rey to do the same. "Ah, hello there," she says, and extends her hand to Inaya. "I don't think we've been introduced. I am Dr. Floribunda Pike and this is my experi… this is Rey."

Rey bows his head as well. "'ey," goes Rey, which doesn't really fit with how he's dressed, but well. You can dress up a gypsy, but it doesn't stop them from being one.

After depositing the wine at the table, with careful instructions to the Lapi gypsy girl serving the drinks to keep that particular bottle for later, Olivia sidles back over to Liliana. "When do you and your troupe want to perform?" she asks. "And what in the world has Dr. Pike been doing to your cousin??"

Inaya takes the offered hand from Doctor Pike. "Ah, a true, educated, Doctor in these parts? Why, I had expected only, well … simple folk. I am Inaya al Nadia, from the lands of the Emirate," she answers with a formal bow of her head, "I came here in search of remnants of my sister and instead found her alive. It has been most trying. What do you do in these lands?"

"Oh, well congratulations on exceeding your expectations!" Dr. Pike says, smiling. "As for myself, I pursue my experiments in the field of bio-alchemy. I mostly work with vegetables right now."

"Probably after de stuffy cat-cat calms down a bit," Liliana notes as she watches the two felines from where she leans on a wagon. "As for what she be doing, vell. Ever look in her library? She gots lots of silly romance novels and books on de arts of Eeee … exploration. I let vou figure de rest out. Vell, unless vou'll let me demonstrate on vou sometime," Liliana says with a wink to Olivia.

"Oh, you're a farmer, then?" Inaya says, sounding rather disappointed.

"No, dear Inaya," Natasha says and reaches over to pat her sister's hand. "It means she researches the use of alchemy to alter the properties of plants for various purposes. It is merely an unorthodox application of the magical arts."

Olivia tugs uncomfortably on a lock of her hair that has not been wound into her braid. "Uh, no thanks. I can figure out what's happening between them on my own!" Then she makes a face. "Ugh, romance novels. I could never get into them, myself. I prefer a good mystery."

"Well, not quite," Pike says. "I mean, I wouldn't dare try to grow my special crops in an open field. I mostly work on hybridizing normal vegetables to serve… special needs. I almost solved the grapevine issue, but unfortunately had to abandon it due to… domestication issues."

"Blow out de candles an doin' stuff in de dark kin be quite an exciting mystery," Liliana points out in between her attempts to not laugh.

"If that's your attempt to lure me into bed with you – it's not working," Olivia replies, making a face at her friend.

"I jus wait until vou had a few t' drink, then," Liliana counters with a grin, then makes a playful swat at Olivia.

"That's quite enough out o' vou," Djivan says with a snort to Liliana, "Stoppit."

"Oh piffle, I jus' be teasin," Liliana asserts.

Olivia just shakes her head and grins at the Eee. "Sorry, no hard liquor for me tonight. I'm the party planner, so I have to stay sharp!"

"Domestication issues? Vegetables do not require domestication," Inaya says slowly as she watches the peculiar Eee worriedly now. Changing topics to something hopefully less weird, she asks, "Where did you attend school?"

"She grows attack 'taters," Rey notes in his attempt to explain Doctor Pike's work.

"The Collegia Unnaturalis in Justininople, of course," Dr. Pike says. "And really, all farmed crops are domesticated, Lady Inaya. I just wasn't quite able to break my vines of their penchant for trying to strangle people."

"Yeah, dey really made people vine," Rey says with a very large grin.

Giving a sidelong glance to her companion, Pike warns, "The tomatoes are nearly ripe you know, Rey."

"Really, den perhaps I should stay in de camp now?" Rey counters and waggles his eyebrows.

Inaya looks ever increasingly disappointed by her choice of conversation companions. Trying to salvage something, though, she asks, "Have either of you ever been to the Emirate, such as the beautiful city of Abu Dhabi?"

"So, how many songs vas vour otter friend gon' play before releasing the stage?" Liliana asks Olivia.

"Ha-he-he," Dr. Pike titters. "Don't be silly Rey. You know how important your input is to my research." To Inaya, she says, "I did travel there once to meet with… with someone who had something rare to sell me, yes. It was quite… sunny."

Rey leans over and noses Pike's neck a bit. "Ah, of course. De research is why I stay," he says, not quite sounding like that's the reason.

The Eeee woman cranks up her smile a few notches in an attempt to stave off a blush. It makes her look like she's smuggling donuts in her cheeks.

"As many as he can before your troupe takes the stage," the Skeek replies. "That will be the band's first break. You can just go up to the bandstand and let him know when you want to go on. Think you're about ready now?"

"Really, which merchant, if I may ask?" Inaya asks, feeling a bit more in her territory. "I have many contacts in the merchant quarter; I may know them. And if you can give me a list of other things you are interested in, I may be able to help. Of course I would require a small finders fee."

Meanwhile, Natasha gives Rey a look. This causes the male Eee to sit up straight abruptly and start behaving himself. To that, Natasha smiles slightly to herself.

"Oh, he wasn't a merchant, but a physician that used to work with a traveling circus," Pike explains. "I collect unusual animal specimens, you see, and this one had some bearing on certain avenues of research I and some fellow alchemists have been pursuing."

"Oh, of course, the importers emporium," Inaya says with a small nod, "Where all forms of exotics are brought to port for the enjoyment of the higher classes. Which specimen did you buy? I understand it that Hooka's are quite popular lately."

"Err, this was… fairly unique," Pike says, a bit reluctantly. "I was hoping to ask Mage Qing to take a look at it, actually. It has some unusual qualities."

"Vell, I let dem finish dis last song, den I throw em off de stage," Liliana says. She might actually mean she will literally throw them off the stage, too.

Olivia sees the dangerous look in Liliana's eye and grins, patting the Eee on the shoulder. "Just be gentle with him, then," she replies.

"Why not ask my sister to examine it? She is quite skilled in the magical arts," Inaya asks and motions towards Natasha. To that, Natasha says, "It would depend on what it is; if it is something deep in the necromantic arts, then Mage Qing would be the better choice. I am skilled in destroying such, but not as much on the creation of such."

"Pah, boys like that enjoy it rough," Liliana says, grinning evilly.

Olivia now does her best imitation of the hand-waving motion against her forehead, as Liliana likes to do. "Suit yourself – just be prepared for a, er, riled-up otter to chase you afterwards," she teases.

"Well, it's not exactly magical, but Mage Qing is uniquely qualified to verify its authenticity," Pike says, sounding a bit nervous.

"Countin' on it," Liliana replies with a smirk.

"Really," Natasha says, sounding even more curious now. "And why is that?"

"It may… that is… " Pike waffles. Finally, she takes a deep breath, wipes the condensation from her glasses, and says, "It's a secret."

Alrigh' dats it. I kin take de butcherin' anymore," Liliana declares. She and her troupe march on the stage. Waving her hands at the otters, she says, "Time t'give up the stage! Shoo, go!"

"Tsk. Do not think you can easily hide a secret from me," Natasha warns the Eee, "Especially if it will prove a threat to my tribe or this town." She then sits back and smiles, "But I am certain Rey would inform me if you were a true threat to the town. It is not as if you keep him locked up, of course. If you need any help outside of Mage Qing, do feel welcome to ask me."

"But we're just gettin' warmed… " Emmett starts to say, until he's run over by the Oggtones as they race for the bar.

"Actually, she does occasion… " Rey starts to say and then is immediately silenced by a hard elbow from Doctor Pike. "I mean, she does keep me informed of stuff."

"Oh, it's no threat, I assure you," Pike says. "Just a bizarre little… thing."

Liliana helps Emmett back to his feet after getting trampled. She hooks her hand under his jaw and actually kisses the otter briefly, saying, "Dere, now was dat so bad?" She lets go and waves her troupe up onto the stage. They all take up positions.

Noticing the otter stampede, Olivia nudges Djivan with her elbow and says, "I think your friend at the bar might need a little help serving the drinks. Want to come with me?"

The otter wags his tail and licks Lili's nose. "Oh, no' bad at all!" He then spies the Khatta ladies, and smooths down the rumples of his clothes. He even straightens his bow-tie.

"Perhaps you would like to meet me for tea before I returned home?" Inaya offers to Doctor Pike. "I am certain you must get tired of not having someone educated to speak with. If nothing else, we may be able to reach some business arrangements."

Djivan looks sorely put upon. "Dat sounds suspiciously like work, Olivia. Vou know I have a terrible allergy t' vork. Everytime I do it, I gets so tired," the Skreek complains. Still, he does actually go with her over to the bar anyway.

"Business?" Pike asks. "Well, it certainly sounds like a fine way to spend some time, so I accept."

"Yes, surely you need supplies now and then. I can arrange contracts for supplies that would be mutually beneficial," Inaya says, then stops when Natasha nudges her. "We are here to experience the life of the tribe and town, Inaya. Business can wait," the elder Khatta says.

Olivia entwines her hand with the Skreek's and replies, "Well, once we're finished serving drinks to the band, what's the harm in rewarding yourself with one, afterwards? To make the work a little more tolerable?"

Emmett vanishes for a few moments, only to return holding two… bouquets, of sorts. They are apparently made of colorful fish, but at least he's managed to stuff a flower into each one's mouth. He begins to saunter towards Natasha and Inaya.

"Vell, I suppose dat might make it more tolerable," Djivan grudgingly admits.

Olivia laughs a little and says, "I thought it might!" Then she leads him over to the drinks table and they both take up stations on either side of the Lapi girl, pouring out drinks for the otters as fast as they are able.

Up on the stage, Liliana's musicians take over. And these musicians can actually hold a tune. The troupe begins their choreographed routine. Aspects of their usual performance are certainly apparent, but they have definitely tamed it down considerably for those present.

The dancing actually catches Inaya's attention and she doesn't seem to notice the approaching otter. "It is like watching performances by a noble's harem," she says, tone not exactly disapproving. "They have some skill of movement and music."

"Yes, they do," Pike says, sounding envious.

Natasha, however, spots Emmett approaching. Her brow arches up slightly at the strange and rather garish sight. Still, she doesn't exactly do anything to stop him quite yet. With the way her ears twitch, perhaps she finds this mildly amusing.

"I coul' teach vou t' dance like dat," Rey whispers in Pike's ear.

While Djivan is helping Olivia serve drinks, he spots the otter on the hunt. Elbowing Olivia, he whispers, "Vell, dis ought to be good fer a laugh. Yer otter is makin' a move on Natasha."

Using the moment of distraction, Emmett slips into the company of the Khattas, and bows to Natasha. "Salutations, oh desert blooms," he recites. "Please accept these humble offerin's from the bounty of the marshlands." He offers one of the piscine bouquets to the older woman, smiling brightly.

Emmett's unusual performance – and even more unusual bouquets – actually cause Olivia to drop the drink she was in the act of handing to the tub-cellist. At his startled, "Oy!" Olivia quickly apologizes and pours him a fresh one.

Natasha does her best to not start laughing at the presentation; the otter is at least trying to be proper afterall. It's also a good thing that Khatta do not dislike fish. So, she actually accepts the bouquet, but not without giving it a bit of an odd look. "And what, if I may ask, is the cause for these gifts for my sister and I? And for that matter, … the, forgive me, unusual dye job on your face?" she asks, then actually motions for Emmett to sit beside her.

Coming out of her trance from watching the dancer s on stage, Inaya looks over to Natasha and spots the otter with her. "Forgive me, but what is going on?" she asks the elder Khatta.

The otter hops onto the bench, and then holds out the second bouquet to Inaya. "Sisters, aye? I loves sisters! Are you twins?" he asks.

Thinking of something … Djivan starts a betting pool with those at the bar on how far Emmett will get before Natasha blows him up, or perhaps something worse.

"Ah, thank you?" Inaya says uncertainly as she accepts the odd bouquet. She can't help but stare at it, looking very puzzled.

"It's okay if you eat it," Emmett says. "I gots some dippin' sauce if you want."

"I'm ten years older than Inaya and we are not even the same coloration," Natasha points out to Emmett, but not in an unkind way.

"Really?" Emmett asks, and looks at Inaya. "She shore looks mature for her age then."

Inaya looks even more confused, but at least not grossed out by the offer. "Ah, perhaps later. It may make a good evening snack," she says politely as she sets the fish flowers aside on the bench.

That gets Natasha to laugh and shake her head. "I'm well over forty, Mr. Oggton," she says when she gathers herself and explains, "My sister has a daughter. But, I appreciate the flattery, nonetheless."

"Ah, a fine vintage then," Emmett remarks. "But even the finest wine shouldn't be kept on the shelf forever, eh? Gotta pop the cork sometime!"

The scent of fresh fish contrasts with another that creeps to the edge of the camp, that somewhat biting chemical smell that the locals have come to recognize as the strange Rokuga from out of town. Mage Qing winds his way along the edge of the camp, tongue darting every so often, arms folded under his mantle. His customary wisps trail after him, a blue pair that hover after his black lacquered bowl-hat.

"Pardon?" Natasha asks, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"I mean, I'm not no corny-sewer of such things," Emmett says, thumbing the lapels of his vest, "but I'm willing to learn to be one! An' experience and wisdom and whatnot is right attractive, it is." He winks to Natasha after that.

Olivia starts at seeing Mage Qing approach the camp. Turning to Djivan, she says quickly, "I'll be back in a minute – an unexpected guest just showed up." The Skreek barely hears her over the whispered bets being placed by both himself and the otters, so she slips off the greet the Rokuga. Dipping a curtsy to him, she says politely, "Master Qing, this is a surprise. Did Natasha invite you to the party and I just wasn't aware of it?"

Djivan waves as Olivia dashes off and then returns to the most important matter at hand. "Now, five shekels says Natasha makes his cummerbund explode," he whispers conspiratorially to those at the bar.

Qing stops dead in his slithery tracks, lifting his head up to peer out from under the brim of his hat as if only just now noticing what's going on. "I did not know of any party," he hisses. "I had been on my way to speak with Madame Natasha, as I understood she has been reunited with her sister. There was some business involving the Guild there, but… it can wait if this is an intrusion."

The corners of Natasha's mouth twitch amusedly. "Is there something I may assist you with, Mr. Oggton?" she asks him. Inaya, on the other hand, is watching curiously. She leans over and whispers to her sister, "I think this … otter… is trying to court you."

Dr. Pike just hides her face behind a hand, already familiar with Emmett's attempts at flirtation.

"S'not like you ain't got all your teeth, right?" Emmett asks Natasha… and then actually pats her on the backside.

Olivia smiles faintly and shakes her head. "Not to worry, Mage Qing – our celebrations always have room for one more. Besides, I know that Natasha would welcome your presence. Also… I couldn't help overhearing a bit of her conversation, but I think Dr. Pike might have something to ask you. She's the Eee standing over there," the Skeek points out. Then she waves her hand forward, inviting Qing to join the rest.

The snake hesitates. There's a certain awkwardness about it, seeming out of place, but he merely bobs his head once and slithers along with Olivia. "Thank you," he murmurs, gliding along toward the assembled group. "I must admit, I've been surprised at how busy I've stayed here in Stonebarrow."

"Mr. Oggton," Natasha says in a much more icy tone as she reaches back and grips his wrist firmly. She pulls it around and drops it back into his lap. "While I appreciate the attempt, I do not appreciate violation of my personal space. The proper method would have been to ask me to dance or perhaps to dinner."

Olivia just walks beside the Rokuga and does not stare at him, thinking this might make him feel a bit more comfortable. "And I think we might become even busier still," she replies conversationally. "Do you still wish for me to help you return those remains from Valicross' staff to their families?"

"Oy, you wanna dance?" the smaller otter asks the Khatta, and hops to his feet. "You kin lead if ya like, being senior and all."

"Yes," murmurs the witchdoctor. "I've nearly finished identifying and cataloging the remains and the spirits contained. It will soon be time to evoke them, and your assistance will be required. There were many pieces, many people involved. It will be a significant undertaking."

Natasha looks over to Inaya. Inaya tries to look horrified, she really does. Unfortunately, she doesn't quite manage to push away the fact that the Khatta wants to laugh. And in a typical sisterly way, she says, "Dear sister, with such a charming intelligent offer, how could you possibly refuse."

"Oh, of course I could not refuse, Inaya. But I could not possibly occupy all his time. You get the second dance," Natasha says, ears twitching. She then extends her hand to Emmett and says, "I accept."

"Great!" Emmett says, taking Natasha's hand and escorting her to the dance floor. "What kinder dancin' do you like? I can ask Miranda to play something nice and slow."

Olivia simply nods and says, "It may take a while to complete the work, but I'm willing to help you until it's done. I think this may even help to put the necromancer's appearance in my life behind me, finally." Then she abruptly rubs at one ear and lightens her tone, fearing that she may have said too much. "At any rate, just send a message to the Weavers' compound when you're ready to start."

There's much cursing from over by the bar as Djivan has to start paying out on the bet. Apparently there were pretty huge odds against Natasha actually dancing with Emmett.

"Oh, I couldn't possibly, I mean … oh," Inaya says quickly, trying to back out of her suddenly being expected to dance with the otter. Too late, though. So, she ends up pulling her tail around into her lap and fidgeting with the tip nervously.

"Something slow, gentle, and friendly would be preferred, yes," Natasha tells Emmett, "And your hands will remain on my back, above my tail. Or else."

"I shall," hisses Qing. "If there's anything I've come to understand in my time as an undertaker, it's the need for closure." He lifts his head up a little more to peer at the celebration. Though his face doesn't show it, he notes with some surprise Natasha moving out to the dance with Emmett. "This reminds me, did the Madame receive the book we thought might be hers?"

"I know how to ballroom dance all proper like," Emmett claims. "Dontcha worry a bit, I promise this'll be a dance to remember."

"Oh, I have no fear that it will be memorable," Natasha agrees.

Olivia slaps herself on the forehead. "Arrgh, I knew there was something I forgot to do that day! No, Mage Qing, I haven't given it to her yet, but I do have it in my possession. I will be sure to bring it to her tomorrow."

Rey, meanwhile, is snickering loudly beside Doctor Pike. "Good thin' I no that bad, eh?" he whispers to his companion and playfully elbows her.

"Lore often keeps well," Qing murmurs, glancing down at the Skeek beside him. "There seems to be no rush."

Hanging around the bandstand while the gypsy troupe finishes up their first dance, Miranda appears to be staring off into space with the look of someone determinedly trying not to think about anything in particular, while fidgeting. After several prods from one of the gypsy musicians the gray Lapi jumps and looks about nervously for direction.

Olivia looks relieved. "Thanks – but I'll still bring it to her tomorrow. Now, since Natasha seems to be dancing with Emmett – a sight I never thought I'd see in my entire life – would you like me to introduce you to Dr. Pike? So she can ask you her questions?"

"Mind if I accompany you, mith?" Igor whispers to Miranda from the side of the stage. The odd Skreek is holding an instrument that must have been built by a Wingnut: half accordion, with bellows, keyboard and valve buttons, and half bagpipe sporting various woodwind instruments with their valves connected to mechanical actuators.

The reptile skirts the dance floor so his long body doesn't get underfoot, accompanying Olivia. "Yes. The doctor and I have met, but I would see what it is she wants. Did she make any indication to you?"

"Oy, Miranda!" Emmett calls from the dance floor. "Can you give us something slow and gentle-like?"

Miranda's jaw drops when she sees the crazy contraption that she can only assume must be an instrument… "Um… thure… that lookth… complicated," she squeaks to Igor timidly, while fumbling to ready her own instrument. Glancing over at the Akwavi on the dance floor she nods. "Okay, Emmett." Once holding her instrument in the proper grip she visibly stops fidgeting and starts to strike up a gentle, lulling tune.

Leading the way towards the Eee couple now, Olivia replies, "I think it has something to do with an animal specimen she bought in Abu Dhabi. She wants you to look at it… she said it has 'unusual qualities'… whatever that means."

Igor joins in once he has the tune figured out, adding a soft background of flute and clarinet. Emmett leads Natasha into the dance with surprising grace, although he seems to be giving some sort of hand signal behind her back.

Out by the bar, one of the Oggtones catches the gesture, and starts looking for someone…

Natasha actually lets the otter lead the dance as she glides along without making nary a sound. In fact, Natasha looks a bit surprised by the fact Emmett can actually dance.

The snake's eyeridges wrinkle together. "Animal specimen?" He bears a dubious look, but doesn't say more, simply winding his way along and content enough to wait and see.

Not finding his quarry in those milling around, the otter instead heads for a wagon at the edge of the party zone, and taps lightly on the door.

By this time, Olivia and Qing have reached the spot where Dr. Pike and Rey are standing. "Hello again, Dr. Pike," the Skeek says cheerfully. "Mage Qing has decided to join our party, so I thought I'd bring him over to talk to you. Is that all right?"

The knocking elicits a grunt from somewhere inside the wagon. The door creaks open and a large Jupani head sticks out. "What?" he grunts to the small otter.

Dr. Pike looks a bit tempted to take Rey onto the dance floor, but some innate shyness (and the fact that she's a terrible dancer) holds her back. She nearly jumps when Olivia and Qing show up, then recovers and bows to the Mage. "Master Qing!" she says, glad for an excuse not to dance. "How fortuitous, as I was hoping to bump into you today."

"Eh, more business," Rey grouses when Qing arrives. Looking to Olivia, he asks, "Ey there short and mousy, wanna dance?"

Qing inclines his head wordlessly, and his coils pool beneath him as he comes to a stop, looking expectant.

The otter leans back a bit, then says, "Uh, Mister Bravil right? You're needed at the party, like, or Emmett's plan is gonna flop. You's supposed to cut-in before the dance ends."

"Well," Pike says, adjusting her glasses. "I have this artifact that I was hoping you could help me authenticate. That is, when you have some free time… "

Olivia glances briefly back at the bar where Djivan is still paying out his lost bets, then grins. "Sure, tall and batlike. Just make sure that you behave yourself! I know you're a cousin of Liliana's and all… "

Bravil's eyes narrow. "What plan is this?" he asks as he steps out of his wagon. Behind him the wagon goes up several inches once its free of the large Jupani's weight.

"Umm, the plan to get Lady Natasha dancing, see," the otter explains. "So… well, so you could cut-in. That's what he told me. You hafta dance with Natasha."

"Behave? Pah, vere is de fun in dat?" Rey asks, grinning as he takes Olivia's hand and leads her towards the dance floor. "It no like I kin do much in dis outfit anyway, no vithout messin' it up."

Miranda plays the slow song out, relaxing as she focuses on the music, and adding small embellishments here and there. Out of the corner of her mouth she whispers to the odd Skreek accompanying her, "Wow, you really play that thing well, what ith it?"

"Describe it," hisses Qing impassively. He nudges his spectacles down his nose a little. "I have time." Indeed, while the snake probably couldn't be described as brimming with vitality and vigor, he does look considerably less drawn than he did in days past, perhaps finally caught up on sleep.

"A harmodicon," Igor whispers back. "Or more likely the harmodicon. Took yearth to figure it out."

"Why?" Bravil asks as he follows the otter back towards the main part of the party. At seeing Emmett and Natasha dancing, though, his lips pull back a bit in annoyance.

"Describe… well, it would be much easier for you to see it for yourself," the bat says. "It's… a bit of a secret, but I'm sure you could tell me if it's what I was told it is."

"And that suits me just fine," Olivia teases, letting the Eee pull her into his arms in a waltzer's pose and sweep her out onto the floor.

"Why? So you could dance with Natasha, right?" the otter explains. "On account you wouldn't ask her yerself, Emmett said."

Spotting the oversized Jupani now, Emmett steers Natasha so that she won't see him herself. He does give a thumbs-up sign behind her back though.

The reptile seems to consider this, black forked tongue wiggling contemplatively. "Mm. Very well. I must admit a professional curiosity."

The gray Lapi's violin crescendos into a new octave of the slow song, and when she has a moment, under her breath she continues questioning Igor, "Where did you find it? I've never heard of anything like that before."

"Hmph," Bravil grunts, "Tell Emmett thank you." The Jupani leaves the otter behind as he approaches the dance floor occupied by Olivia, Rey, Emmett and Natasha. When he's close enough, he he says, "Excuse me, but may I cut in?"

"One of the Wingnuts made it a generation or so ago," Igor whispers, while he pumps the bellows in his arms and his fingers fly across keys and buttons. "Couldn't play it, was gonna toss it out. I rescued it."

"Sure thing, mate!" Emmett says, turning Natasha to face Bravil. "She's a fine stepper, she is!"

Dr. Pike looks relieved. "Oh, thank you, Master Qing! I feared that I'd never be able to be certain about its origins. I'm sure you can tell me at a glance."

Almost laughing at the mention of where Igor got the instrument, Miranda manages to keep it down to a muffled giggle, easily covered by the music… "Well, that doethn't come ath too much of a thurprithe," the gray Lapi admits.

"Didn't help that I had a tin ear back then either," Igor whispers. "But I kept getting thtruck by lightning, tho I replathed it."

For the first time tonight, Natasha looks surprised. "Viktor," she starts to say, right before the wolf takes up the dance with her. "You deserve better," the wolf starts to say before being cut off by Natasha. "Hush. Just dance, Viktor. I will decide on what I deserve," she tells him. The dancing resumes and in stark contrast to his size, the Jupani moves amazingly fluidly on the dance floor.

Qing nods silently at Dr. Pike. Without business to attend to, he simply sits coiled there like an ornament, or perhaps a potted plant. He watches the dancing pair with a thoughtful expression on his face now.

Emmett is soon bowing in front of Inaya, and holding out his paw. "If I might have the honor of a dance, Lady Inaya?" he asks with a sparkle in his eye.

"A tin… ear? Wathn't that terribly uncomfortable?" Miranda whispers and gives the Skreek an odd sideways look, as though shes not sure she can believe that anyone, even Igor, would literally have a tin ear…

"Well, you make do with what you have," Igor explains.

This version of 'Bravil' is a stark contrast to the one Qing met in the 'dream'. For one, this Jupani is significantly taller and broader; easily clearing seven feet tall. For two, the flow and movement of his pelt betrays what are likely numerous scars that criss-cross underneath. If he had to be described in one word, it would be haggard.

"I, er, well," Inaya says, looking absolutely terrified by the redneck otter. Still, Natasha had told her she was next and with Natasha being the elder… "As you wish," she says meekly and offers her gray hand to the otter.

Taking Inaya to the dance floor, Emmett leads her into the dance. "No need to be shy, my lady," Emmett tells her. "Sorry if it's a bit like dancing with a child though, not much I kin do about that."

"Oh, your height doesn't bother me, Mr. Oggton," Inaya tells the otter, actually looking visibly relaxed by the sudden and frank honesty. "It makes you … cute."

"Oy, I can live with cute," Emmett says, grinning.

As Olivia twirls across the floor with Rey, she takes a look around the party grounds and smiles. Natasha and Bravil are dancing wonderfully together, Emmett is actually behaving himself with Lady Inaya, and even Miranda and Igor are making beautiful music together. Not a bad day's work after all, she muses, then goes back to enjoying the dance.