Paradise sat on her bunk, next to a bag she had packed after the Fur'za had landed back in Rhy'din, preparing for a walk. In Motuv'Utaw, Misty's homeworld, she had been spent quite a bit of time with a Kirn shaman, learning new meditation techniques and a better appreciation for nature. Kalinda had been a welcome addition there, and her company - and many talents - had kept Paradise occupied as well.

Though Kalinda was a wonderful lover, being with her was not quite as fulfilling as being with the current Archmage. Though he had been absent for some time, Paradise still had fond feelings for him - feelings she would enjoy exploring in depth, should he be interested when he returned. Paradise had been told to use his penthouse as she saw fit.

Making sure she had a couple of the new novels she bought earlier that week, she slipped on her ankle length duster jacket, and threw her bag over her shoulder. She left a note in the ship's computer to alert the captain as to her whereabouts, and left quietly.

A deep breath of brisk air fortified her for the quick walk to the hotel.

She slipped into Hotel Ritz quietly. The staff knew her, and knew she didn't like to be fussed over when she visited. The bellhops had learned not to ask to help her carry her things, so she made her way to the elevator, without breaking stride.

As the doors were closing, she did notice a little more bustle than usual. Maids were cleaning fixtures, changing curtains, all while the manager stood ringing his hands. As with any high class hotel, certainly they had their share of important guests. She watched the numbers tick by, tapping her foot to the elegant Musak playing.

Once she let herself into the penthouse, she went straight to the small kitchen, starting a pot of fresh coffee, before carrying her bag into the bedroom to change. She liked to be comfortable when she was relaxing, so she removed all of her clothing, tying a simple bronze sarong around her waist.

She moved through the penthouse, bare feet padding, a book tucked under her arm, and reading glasses in her hand. With a mug of steaming coffee in hand, she moved to the couch, getting comfortably stretched out. She ran her fingers through her braid, loosening red waves to fall around her waist.

After a while, she dozed, stretched languidly over the length of the couch. As such, she thought that the door opening was a figment of her imagination. That was, until she heard a low chuckling.

Vinny was back.

"Times like these, I'm glad I was given the anatomy and hormones to enjoy a view like that."

Paradise didn't answer. She simply stretched, letting her body be the talking.

Special Thanks to Vincent!