Thursday, June 2, 2011 ? Supervising

The booth had hardly been open for long and already the stall was doing a good business. The bonus to being at the docks is the ever changing inflow of sailors from various ports, ever eager to follow-up on leads on the Alpha spokesvixen that traveled from ship to ship almost as fast as word of mouth spread on land. Clover sat on the stall, legs crossed, in her little 'sailor' outfit. Talking to three sailors as a few others headed back to their ships before they shipped out.

It was no different than his trips to other booths, maintaining his distance to observe from a mostly concealed position. Though he wasn't there to supervise Clover for the same reasons as he did for the other workers, which was essentially to make certain they weren't cheating him, he was simply there to watch her work and gauge the flow of customers, allowing her to make sales without distracting her, at least for the time being.

The tallest of the three finished up a story that had the other two and Clover laughing. She tugged the big lug's cheek down to press a kiss to it, "Well told!" Further exchanges made in good humor until a fourth sailor called down to his mates. It seemed then that they remembered the reason for being there and bought their bottles of Alpha as well as some extras for friends, family or other shipmates. Each man was given a kiss of his cheek and a blessing for luck on their voyage. Clover waved to them as they made their way off.

He only moved to approach in the wake of departing customers, casually strolling up to the booth, hands in his pockets. Head tilted as he leaned forward slightly to peer at the booth, as though he were a prospective customer. Lips pursed thoughtfully as he straightened to consider Clover and that outfit for several long moments, grinning, ?Whatcha sellin'??

Her attention turned toward another customer to discover it to be Harris. Her greeting held as she watched his posture and mannerisms. Pressing lips together to keep her grin in check as he approached. The grin broke fully at his question, "Alpha men's cologne--the only scent worthy of real men." And much as she does with any potential client, her wording speaks of her interest in real men.

Short, bark of a laugh, arms moving to fold across his chest then, though his attention remains fixed on Clover as he plays his role, ?Dontcha know darlin'? I'm already a real man. Don't need no perfume to prove that.?

"Oh, I can easily see that, sir. But just because you don't need it, doesn't mean it's a purchase you should pass up." She lifted up a test strip, holding it out to him like Eve holding out the apple.

Nostrils flare and his features twist in a rather skeptical look, though he does accept the offered test strip. ?I dunno. Still seems like a waste of good coin on some fancy smellin' perfume...?

Clover slid off from her perch on the stall, approaching the 'customer' with a smile as she lifted and pulled her hair from her neck. "Fancy smelling perfume is the providence of Heart Notes Parfumerie, not Alpha. What we provide is a means to carry the essence of your manliness in a singular cologne." Leaning in to smell the man's neck with intimate closeness.

He can't help but snicker, finally breaking character once Clover approaches and takes a whiff of him. ?No wonder business is so good down here.?

"It's why I need more supply than the other stalls." Pulling back with a grin, she shifted back to the stall to take up her seat again, legs crossing.

?Well, obviously. You are the main draw. Especially in that get up.? A flick of his wrist, gesturing toward her attire, ?Only the main stall in the market comes close to drawing the same profits, and it's still a wide margin.?

"You like?" Turning her shoulders to show herself off, it wasn't the same as a photo. Clover could help but grin at that, not only that the praise for herself but for the stall she'd been given pointers to and clothing. Julie worked a different angle than Clover, as coy innocence suited the girl better.

?I think they like it, which is much more important.? Another gesture, toward the docks in general and the potential customers that seemed unable to pass by the stall without giving it a glance, sometimes a second look, thanks to Clover.

"Mm." Clover turned her attention toward the passer bys, giving one a wink. She eyed him over while asking Harris, "What brings you out today boss? Little early for collection."

?Supervising. I like to keep an eye on the stalls, see what's going on.? Shoulder shrug, then a deep inhale, ?Plus, I don't mind it down here. My last, ahh, project spent a lot of time down at the docks too. It's how I know it's a great place to make sales.?

"Your last project?" She tilted her head toward him, but based off his wording it seemed like something he was brushing over. The one she'd winked at lingered at a distance and she crooked her finger to him to call him over. This one had heard of the product and the sales woman. His bashfulness pegged him as either a new sailor or one well out of his way for a bottle as he pausingly inquired after a kiss with a purchase. Clover told him it was not always the case, but for him... if he bought two bottles... she would sweeten the deal. Looking him over, Clover managed to guess a price that he'd pay. The usual exchange and bonus kiss given with the line, "Alpha appreciates your business." She watched him go on his way with his two bottles, looking back with a grin. She put the money in the box then glanced back to Harris.

Tight-lipped when Clover goes into her sales pitch, having no intention of interfering as she does the work he's paying her to do. Allowing himself to at most afford the customer an amiable grin as he made his purchase. Only upon his departure did he continue his conversation. ?She was a rather... well endowed, but unemployed woman the Nexus dropped off. She was fortunate to run into me first. Gave her the idea to come down here and play music part time, on her harp. Drunken sailors love a good tune, especially if it's coming from a buxom, scantily clad musician.? Lots of snickering then

Clover grinned at the truth in that statement, pointing toward a tavern down by the docks. "The boys there know me well. We exchange tales and songs during card games."

?I'm not surprised. She made an absolute killing during All Hallows Eve, all dolled up as an angel. They couldn't stop throwing money at her. I usually spend time down at Captain Hammer's.? He's pointing in another direction.

"What became of her?" Looking in the direction of the Captain Hammer's.
?Couldn't tell you. Maybe the Nexus gobbled her back up. Sometimes people only breeze through here.? Another shrug of his shoulders.

She pondered that, then nodded. "I think that's what makes living here easy for me. It's temporary in its own way."

?It's temporary for a lot of people, yeah.? Scratches at his cheek somewhat thoughtfully.

"Yet some manage to linger." Small grin at Harris, she wasn't sure which type she'd end up being. Lifting finger tips to her hair, "How went your errands last night?"

?Probably not as interesting as your time with Kalamere.? He's snickering again, rolling his attention across the docks momentarily.

"We spoke for a while and he left." Little smile, she didn't jump everyone... at least... not right away. Turning her attention from Harris toward the docks he watched for a moment.

?Well, you're gonna be on your own for his challenge tomorrow, most likely.? Hands clasped, then came to rest atop his head.

"You won't be coming to watch? I'll be wearing blue. Kalamere is also found of the shade." Her attention moved up toward his blue hair.

?I don't know if I'll have time. Going to the theater that night. Haven't settled yet on dinner before or afterward.? Harris gave something of a helpless shrug.

"Ahh. Then your absence is completely understood." Easily grin, it heartened her to think of Harris out with his wife.

?I'll swing by if there's time. I'm sure there'll be enough to keep you occupied.? He chuckles.

"If I'm lucky." And she usual was, "Do you know the format of the challenge?"

?Up to Kalamere's discretion. It's not usually announced until just before the match commences.? Clucks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.

"And the challenger is Matt Simon?"

?Correct.?

"Who do you think will take it?"

?Kalamere.?

"Would you wager on it?" Said with a playful smile, perhaps she just enjoyed hearing his usual line.

?With you? Not a rube.? Thumb to chest, lips curling into a smirk.

As Harris came through on his line she smiled with a silent chuckle.

?Bout time for your lunch break, isn't it?? It's a mystery how he's ever aware of the time, as the wrist he glances toward is sans a watch.

"Are you buying?" Moving off the stall once more, she went about sealing it up for her time away.

?When am I not buying? Have you been to the Teas'n Tomes?? Hands in his pockets again as he steps away from the stall.

"You could always have a sudden change of heart." Perhaps it was not likely, but it was not impossible. "I have. On a number of occasions. It's a quaint little place." Moving from the stall toward Harris.

?I'm not surprised. Considering your affinity for... sweets.? He can't help but snicker, even as he offers an arm.

Taking up the offered arm, after moving to poke him lightly in the side. "I also enjoy reading."

?Does Teas'n Tomes have a copy of the Kama Sutra?? Laughing heartily then as he begins to move in the direction of the place, toward the market.

Thursday, June 2, 2011 ? Tailored Xavier?s

Unsure of where they were headed it was no surprise he was lagging behind as they breezed through the marketplace, in no hurry to arrive at their destination, even as he reiterated his previous statement from when they exited Teas'n Tomes,

?Seriously. Three is my limit. I don't like to spend all day in stores.?

"Have I struck you as being insensitive to the needs of men, Harris?"

A smirk there in her features, she came up to an upscale shop, the exterior a dark wood with wide windows. Through the windows, a few of the latest men's fashion could be seen on display. Clover opened the door, which ushered a soft chime from the bell above. A clerk, about to offer assistance, froze when Clover was spotted and quickly excused himself to fetch Xavier. It seemed not only was Clover known, but known well enough to get preferential treatment.

?Just making sure I get my point across.?

A grin blooms, then he affords the exterior of the establishment a critical look before moving to follow Clover inside, letting loose a shrill whistle as his gaze sweeps about the place.

She gave a nod, smiling as he took in the place. Xavier came out, arms spread and eager greetings for 'his darling' Clover. Xavier was a tall slender man, with soft brown hair mostly turned white swept back from his face. Blue eyes sat behind elegant glasses. The two exchanged kisses and greetings before Xavier asked who it was she'd brought for him. He appeared doubly impressed to learn it was her boss?the infamous Harris! Xavier had bought a bottle of Alpha, not for himself?but for a close and personal friend.

Clover's feminine charms were completely wasted on him, but he joked that if any woman could do it, it would be her! Clover broke in,

"Harris is in need of a new jacket. Charcoal. He is taking his wife to dinner and a play tomorrow and wants to look better than his best."

As Xavier turned to his assistant, Clover continued, "Now Xavier, Harris has made it clear that he'll try on no more than three items on." A smile for Harris, see, she listened.

Xavier held up a finger to the one that lingered behind him and stood with his other hand to his mouth as he thought. Hand flitting like a moth, Xavier declared he could find it in one! Snapping his fingers, he announced he'd take Harris' measurements and then started toward the small raised circle that faced a mirror in the back.

Clucks his tongue against the roof of his mouth as he smoothes out that plain black t-shirt he's sporting, plucking out a wrinkle, suddenly feeling underdressed. Though he still manages to plaster a grin across his lips as Clover and Xavier exchange pleasantries whilst he remains in muted observation mode, his piping up not required as Clover makes his desires known. His lips twisted briefly in a frown at the declaration of his measurements needing to be taken, obviously a necessary step, but one that he'd still prefer to skip. Even so, he wandered behind Xavier and eventually assumes the position... for proper measurements, which he knew always consisted of holding his arms out to his sides as he faced the mirror.

?If he can find something in one try I won't even demand a discount.? his announcement for Clover.

The assistant moved as fluidly as Xavier. Once Harris was on the stand, a tape measurer went from one and to the other. Numbers repeated to the second and written down. Xavier assured Harris they would save his information as he was sure the service today would guarantee his future business... and could they interest him in any refreshments? Then he was off the stand and taking the numbers with him into the back, leaving his smaller and quieter attendant to tend to the pair. Clover's charms not wasted on him. Clover smirked at Harris' comment while watching the measurements get taken.

?I forgot to mention that it should be something snappy.? Harris commented for both Clover and the attendant left behind as he removes himself from the stand once his measurements have been taken and Xavier retreats into the back.

"Faith boss." Her smiling knowing. Much like calling the quarters in the air, Clover didn't have a doubt that Xavier would return with something Harris would like.

The attendant was looking over Clover's attire, asking her as though he had no interest... if that was what she wore for work. Clover detected he'd visit the stall the first day he wasn't scheduled to work, or maybe on his lunch break, once she confirmed that it was. She gave him a turn for the full view, smiling over to Harris as she did so. Then Xavier returned with a garment bag?newly arrived, hadn't even been put out yet--he informed them as he hung it up and opened the bag to reveal the jacket. Clover impressed with the quality, nodded. Xavier took the jacket off the hanger and brought it over to Harris to try it on.

Even when she wasn't working Clover was shrewd enough to manipulate the attention she drew into making a sale, which he most certainly appreciated, having realized weeks ago she probably deserved more than a mere ten or fifteen percent of the profits. But he had no intention of informing her of such or offering her more than they had already agreed upon. He flashed the woman a grin that remained fixed upon his lips until Xavier returned and he finally piped up upon viewing the jacket, holding up a slender finger, making no motion toward it just yet.

?How much??

Harris was a stickler for the sticker price. Clover watched as Xavier halted at the question, then followed with an answer surely to suit Harris' way of thinking.

"For you? If you like the jacket I will give you the Clover discount, as it is Clover who brought you in today. You pay nothing." The jacket held out in wait. Clover waited to see Harris in it.

?I'm gonna start taking you everywhere if it gets me free stuff.? Harris spoke over to Clover.

A face-splitting grin forming as the offered jacket was finally plucked from Xavier's grasp. One arm sliding into the sleeve, followed by the other and he allows the new piece of attire to settle on his shoulders momentarily, allowing himself to get a feel for it before cinching a button at his abdomen and allowing a flattened palm to smooth the fabric.

?Buttoned, or unbuttoned?? Plucking that button free in order to present himself in both styles.

"One of many perks for knowing me."

Amusement showed in her smile as she watched Harris slip the jacket on. Clover gave her own whistle. Xavier settled for saying 'exquisite' while his attendant nodded his agreement. The pair of men looked to Clover on her weigh-in.

"I like it unbuttoned."

?Unbuttoned then. I'll take it.?

Brushing off the shoulders, he doesn't even bother to take a look at himself in one of the various mirrors, obviously confident in his purchase for whatever reason, be it Clover's judgment or simply his own self-image. He slides the jacket off carefully and dangles it before Xavier's attendant, fully expecting him to return it to the garment bag.

?Well, that certainly was easy.?

The attendant moved to do so, getting the jacket into the bag and sealing it safely inside. Xavier nodded to himself, moving to speak with the attendant to take note of the sale. Clover grinned to Harris,

"I should have tried to get you to promise to try on three items. Then Xavier and I could continue dressing you up."

?No thanks. The less clothes I have to try on the happier I am. By leaps and bounds.? Fingers wiggle as he reaches out to clasp the garment bag once the jacket has been returned.

"I'd keep Xavier in mind then, he is a genius in his art."

A smile offered to Xavier as he brought the garment bag and surrendered it over to Harris. The man told Harris how delighted he was to assist him in the selection and that he hoped it pleased his wife on their night together. And do feel free to visit the shop again in the future, even if it is without Clover. Then turning his goodbyes to Clover, he tossed out words like ?darling? and ?angel? and such as kisses to the cheeks were exchanged. Clover shot a wink to the assistant, a little reminder for him to visit the stall. Xavier knew he'd see Clover again in the future.

?Good lookin' out.?

His parting comment for Xavier, a snicker and grin for the attendant, then he's maneuvering himself toward the exit with purchase in hand, swinging the door open wide to allow Clover the opportunity to exit before him.

?Appreciate the assist, darlin'.?

Slipping through the door and out into the market place, "And I had to be so forceful to get you to agree." She teased.

?Seems like you always get your way, eh?? Snickering again once they're outside, head on a swivel for a moment.

"Not always." Easy little smile, she leaned in to kiss Harris' cheek. "I'm going to go home to change."

?Into something less scandalous or more scandalous?? A waggle of his brows in response to the peck on the cheek.

"That I have yet to decide." Stepping away, "See you at the Inn? Or the Arena?"

?One of the two, yeah.? Flash of a grin and a wave, then he's moving in the opposite direction.

Friday, June 3, 2011 ? Continued

"Fishing." Clover grinned widely.

?I was just about to do that. I don't have time to sit in a boat all day hoping to catch something. If I had to choose between that and just purchasing some fresh salmon, I'd rather spend the money.? Features contort in an ugly face.

"No faith. It won't be all day." Clover took the net with her as she headed off the dock, "Put away that stick of dynamite, you'll make Caddis nervous."

?Didn't I just let you ruin one of my favorite past times, and I have no faith?? He scoffs, moving to follow, but he makes no effort to conceal the stick of dynamite that protrudes from his back pocket, tackle box in one hand.

"Maybe you have faith, but it doesn't last very long." A smirk over her shoulder, she made her way further from the Alpha stall, stopping a time or two to look around and continuing on. Eventually she came to an area near the docks and she moved toward the buildings that stood nearest to the shore, "A moment, I'll return." A smile, she headed up a flight of stairs on the side of the building and knocked on the door. Knocking again and then waiting. Eventually the door was opened by a man a few inches shorter and several inches wider. He looked like a man accustomed to eating. He also looked like a man just woken up from a nap. His Hawaiian print shirt and beach shorts wrinkled from laying down in them. But spotting Clover at his door?who wouldn't wake up enough to enjoy the sight of that? He grinned widely and accepted her hug.

?That's not a lack of faith you're hearing, it's disappointment that I don't get to make anything explode.? An offhand comment as they're on the move, already out longer than he had anticipated, he glances at his watchless wrist as if checking the time once they reach their destination, still lugging that tackle box full of dynamite around.

Little sympathy there, the barest.. since it was Harris. But no response came as she'd gone off. From the door of Caddis' place Clover pointed down to Harris. The man nodded, waved down and gave a thumbs up, if anyone wanted to know where Clover picked that up from. He shuffled inside a moment to grab a hat to cover his tanned face and then headed back toward the water with Clover following. He didn't still for introductions but let them be given as he moved down to his smaller ship and readied it to go out.

"Harris, this is Caddis. Caddis, my boss Harris."

"Harris, nice t'meecha." Caddis gave another thumbs up. "Hear you need fishies for grillin with the wife? Caddis got you covered. Whacha thinkin? Swordfish? Snapper? Monk? Tile?" For a round man, Caddis moved with ease in his profession. A hand held out to help Clover on board.

On the move again, still clutching that tackle box as he hops on board, raising a thumbs up during the introductions before responding to the man's query. ?Halibut.?

"You got it my man!" Onto the ship he went, pushing it off the docks before he headed toward the steering and started it up. "Luck for our venture!" Patting his cheek with a finger and leaning into the kiss when Clover pressed her lips there. Then he patted her rear and told her to sit at the bow to give him something to look at while he got them out into the water. Clover chuckled with amusement and nodded, moving over to the bow of the ship. It was about time her little sailor outfit was worn out on the water!

Half tempted to light that stick of dynamite in his back pocket and lob it into the water once the boat gets going, which is probably why he lingers at the stern, turning that stick over and over in his palms thoughtfully after removing it from that pocket, obviously desiring to see something explode before the day is out, having been somewhat anticipating it ever since he planned to grill. ?Hrrm...?

"You look like a friend of mine. Dangerous guy left to his own devices." Caddis spoke with humor over his shoulder to Harris. Clover watched the ocean from her spot at the bow, took up a bit of sun bathing.

?Sounds like a fun guy.? A smirk for Caddis, gaze flicking about to rest on the tackle box situated on the floor, and the tiny compartment that housed his Zippo, which he began to edge toward, sparing Clover a glance to see if her sixth sense started to kick in.

Her nose wrinkled, and relaxed closed eyes peeked open. A brow lifted at Harris, silently.

"John Peg tells some of the best stories." Caddis? own way of agreeing. He pressed buttons now and then that seemed to take them further away or into entirely different parts of the water once they were out. "Here we are." Bringing the ship to a pause. The air had gotten colder. He moved portward, setting up poles with the appropriate bait that were well secured to the edge of the boat. Then he took out a long pole with a curved stick on the edge. Whistling a little tune, it was only seconds until one large halibut--easily fifty pounded--came to the bait. Caddis hooked the fish and drew it into the boat, putting it in a small cut off area for fish. The movement of the haul showing there was muscle under that fat.

The delightful little boat Harris, Clover and Caddis were all in tugged right along and saw some of the not-so oftenly seen harbor's mere side. Several boats were out, but one in particular before they came to a stop: a riverboat, remained stationary as they had passed on by. Its canopied rear exposed to them and the two fishermen upon it, both seated, both with poles, both with sun visors, both with two day beards; one of them sleeping with his sandaled feet up on the back. The man narrowed his already narrowed eyes due to the heat and sun over to the boat to make sure it was indeed an attractive woman and a blue-haired man sailing along with a plump little man. He nudged the Palliator on his greasy trawler's t-shirt and tried to get his attention to look at the unique sighting, but a swat from him showed he had no interest in waking up for anything other than a tugged line.

"Suit yourself." He told him.

?Bait. Meh.? Distastefully spoken even as that large halibut is hauled in, still fidgeting with that stick of dynamite as he observes passively, even though he is impressed with the size of the catch, enough so that it distracts him from his machinations in regard to blowing things up.

"Like Alpha, just a sniff to get them close. What you do from there." Caddis grinned widely and held out the pole to Harris. "Give it a try. How many you think you need? Been warned of your stomach."

Clover moved over to watch Caddis catch the first fish, giving a clap to see him fight it in on the pole. She looked to see if Harris would give it a go.

?One. That one.? Indicating the fish just caught with a point of his finger, obviously having no intention of taking up the pole, as hauling in another large fish would be too much like work, especially considering he had intended for Clover to scoop the fish he stunned via dynamite as opposed to doing it himself. ?Unless we can shove this in its mouth and send it back out.? He waggles the stick of dynamite at Caddis, grinning wide at the new idea that blooms.

Dyarhk awakens to smack a bug on his sweat-glossed arm before he's lulling back into a complacent imaginary scenario of eye-closedness.

Caddis shook his head, putting the hook and poles back.

Clover moved over to Harris to snag that stick of dynamite.

?What?? He's sans one stick of dynamite and holds his hands out at his sides innocently for both Clover and Caddis.

"Bad for the fish. Bad for fishing." With the gear put away, Caddis moved back to the steering.

Clover moved to put the stick into the tackle box with the rest and then sat on the box.

?Good for Harris, which more or less trumps everything else in the grand scheme of things.? His reply for Caddis, then he squinted at Clover, more specifically the tackle box she had decided to use as a seat, which only caused his lips to spread in a grin. ?Worried darlin'??

Course, Caddis' first concern would be himself, but he settled into steering the boat back.

"If I wasn't, I'd let you have a field day blowing things up, boss." Crossing her ankles as the boat took off and headed back to RhyDin docks.

Buttons pressed as they sailed and jumped along.

?Somebody better be delivering that catch to the dojo by the way, because I'm sure as hell not carrying it all the way back home.? Hands in his pockets and a glance spared across the water before shifting back to Clover, ?You can take the rest of the day again, against my better judgment since you did spoil my fishing excursion. But I figure you can use the extra time to make sure you look stunning for Kalamere's challenge.?

"I'm telling you. Hottest dame I've ever seen in Dockside." Gregory said, watching the boat on its return trip.

Dyarhk kept to his impressive slouch and state of half-consciousness that he had so professionally tapped into some odd hours ago. "I'm sure." :An opportune time for him to smack his chops and reposition himself with a few long stretches that would just set him up for a few more hours just like that.

"Also meeting with Tarl tonight, at least he asked if I would be there and I said I would." Looking over to the massive fish. "I can arrange for a carrier."

?Uhh, I think those two things are gonna overlap if he's not at the challenge, darlin'. Gimme a pen so I can write down the address for the dojo.? Index and thumb pinch together as he makes the universal sign for writing utensil.

Lips pressed, she had been thinking about that. Well it wasn't like -she- scheduled two dates in the same night, she had no control over challenges. "With luck Tarl will show up early and I can take him to the challenge." Easy smile, she pulled out a bit of paper and a pen for Harris and handed them over.

?Well, if luck is involved then I already know how that's gonna turn out.? He snickers, reaching for the pen and paper, though the handoff goes less than smoothly with the winds whipping out across the water and that piece of paper flutters away, lost forever more, and he sucks his teeth, improvising by allowing slender digits to delicately encircle Clover's wrist and he proceeds to write the address on her upturned palm. ?Does that outfit even have pockets?? He had taken a long look at the outfit initially, or so he thought, only now realizing he had probably been eyeballing the flesh that it exposed as opposed to the fabric she was clad in.

Ink was at least better than spit. "No real pockets. Why they made purses." Giving Harris a wink, "Clothing with pockets can be so covering." There was a small bag, enough to hold pen, paper, money and a deck of cards, sitting in her lap. Likely he missed it, with all the flesh.

Caddis chimed in on Clover's last comment, "And no one would like that!" Waving to a nearby vessel as they passed.

Gregory waved to Caddis.

?Huh.? That's all he had to say about that, surprisingly, and once he was done scribbling he twirling the pen once in his grasp before returning it to its owner.

She looked over the address with a little secret smile before tucking the pen back into her bag. Then Caddis had them pulling up to shore, moving to get the boat secured against the dock. Clover let Harris have his tackle box of dangerous things back when she stood up to let Caddis help her back onto the wood of the dock.

No chance he's going to leave his explosives behind, and once Clover rises he lifts the tackle box full of dynamite from the boat's floor and follows her off, offering Caddis another thumbs up as he does so. ?Good man.?

Caddis nodded his agreement to that with a grin and returned thumbs up. Clover moved over to kiss Harris' cheek. "Have a good night with Stick, boss."

?Have a good night with Tarl. And Kalamere. And whoever else you end up with.? He couldn't help but snicker at that and wink.

She chuckled at the comment, how could she not? She was guilty! Stepping back over to talk to Caddis about finding someone to deliver the halibut to Harris' place, though it was likely the two of them would end up playing the part of carrier.

Harris meandered off, having at least one more errand to run before he could head back home.

((Taken from live RP with Harris and Dyarhk))

Friday, June 9, 2011

The inn had been a busy place that night, offering Clover many distractions. Leda, Jochin, Natasha and Teagan. There was no lack of potential suitors to occupy her time with. And though she lingered at the inn in the company of her boss, Harris.

?Seems like it's about that time.? As he pushed away from the bar, just enough to allow himself to reach toward the rafters in a stretch.

Turning herself to sit behind Harris on the bar, careful of the bottles there. "That time?"

?Yup.? Rotating his hips to loosen stiff muscles. ?Everybody seems to be calling it a night.?

"Ah." She sipped her beer further and looked around. Noting the others that were still about: Gideon and True, Toby with reddened ears... curious... Rae, Lrissa and others. To Harris, "I'm not."

?I'm sure you're probably up all night, every night.? Chuckling lightly, then he plucks that bottle of Badsider from the bartop and eases away from the bar.

"Depends on what you mean by up." Little grin, she watched Harris move away from the bar, "Are you calling it a night, boss?"

?I'm goin' for some fresh air, at the very least.? Over his shoulder for Clover as he headed for the front door at a leisurely gait, in no hurry as he slurped at his Badsider on the short trip.

"Mind company?" Staying on the bar while she asked.

?Depends on the company.? He snickered, still weaving his way around furniture as he ambled toward the exit.

A cut off chuckle, she shook her head and eased off the bar in a graceful movement. A little wave of hand to the others that she knew, she moved off after Harris.

A deep inhale, nostrils flaring as he stepped outside, sucking in the cool, crisp night air for several long moments, simply lingering there.

Slipping outside with her beer in hand, she moves over to lean against a railing.

A moment of hesitation as he decided where to situate himself, eventually deciding the most comfortable position would be a sprawl on the swing, and that's where he moved to, stretching himself out to monopolize it at a slight angle, feet lifted and set on the arm rest as one arm dangled lazily over the edge, loosely clutching that Badsider whose bottom rested on the porch.

Were he someone else Clover might have made herself comfortable on him. Actually, being him didn't entirely save him, but she stayed where she was and let him get settled, "Comfy?"

?I could use a pillow, actually.? Lifting his bottle enough so that he could suck the beer out of it through the side of his mouth.

"Would my lap suffice, or shall I fetch you something from inside?" A mixture between sincerity and teasing, Clover was good at catering to the needs of others.

?Which is more comfortable?? Rolling his head on the seat of the swing to peer toward Clover, grinning, and the bench creaks as he shifts his weight subtly to force it into swaying gently.

It would be silly to tuck back into the inn for a pillow, especially when she had no qualms against being a pillow. With Harris leaving it open, Clover moved from the railing and over to the swing to situate herself under his head.

He seemed reluctant to move, though he did move to right himself when Clover positioned herself on the swing, simply reversing himself around to the point where it was his feet instead of his head that rested in her lap. ?Can't have the tabloids reporting that my head was in your lap. Sounds terrible out of context.? His explanation for the shift in positioning before taking another swig of his Badsider and resuming his languid lounge.

The way she was sitting allowed her to move the swing with a gentle press of her feet, she started it on slow passes back and forth. "Doesn't do much for your head however."

?We've all gotta make sacrifices. My head will understand.? He snickered, nursing that beer.

She sipped her beer and smirked over toward him, "You could have chosen the pillow."

?You made the choice for me.? Lifting his head enough so that she could see his grin.

"Mhm. Almost makes you innocent." Looking back to him from the corner of her eye with a smile. Had there been any question which she would have chosen?

?It's called plausible deniability.? Allowing his arm to swing freely after settling his bottle down on the porch.

"Yet that doesn't extend to having your head in my lap?" Leaning enough to set her beer on the railing beyond.

?See, you have to understand how I think. If my wife walked up the stairs to the inn right now, this would be easy to explain. ?Well, at least it's my feet and not my head in her lap, dear.? I have no outs if my head is in your lap and you're playing with my hair. That just looks bad.? Nodding his head after explaining.

It made sense, true. Clover's smile still turned in amusement. "And if she were to drop by Twilight Island while you're... showing Leda the ropes?"

?Well, I have my doubts that's a thing that's going to happen, personally. I didn't see her on Tuesday and I don't really swing by the Isle that much anymore. In all likelihood she'll end up visiting with some classmates of hers.? Managing a shrug from his position.

"That would certainly cause you less trouble with the Mrs." One of her arms rested on the arm rest, the other over his legs.

Snorts, ? I wouldn't be in trouble otherwise. It's not difficult to find that woman another distraction, especially on an island full of mages.?

"I did managed to find her a new friend." Looking off into the night as though she could spy Jo and Leda from there.

?Precisely my point. It's more likely she'd find someone more interesting to toy with and abandon me entirely.? A snicker. ?Especially when she caught wind of some the blue magic that gets tossed around the Isle.? A grin splits his face.

"Blue magic?" canting her head in question.

?It's a more...? Lengthy pause, searching for the best term for it, ?...tantric sort of magic, I suppose.?

Toby let himself out onto the porch, blinking over at the swing when he heard voices. His throat lurched on a swallow as he pulled the door closed, cutting off the band of light from inside.

?As if you could harness desire and more forcefully direct it.? Harris continued.

Understanding lit up her expression. The hand on his leg lifted to wiggle fingers at him. "I have gifts like that." Little smirk. Looking toward Toby as he came out on the porch and smiling to him. "Come out for some air?"

?Seems like some of the furries specialize in it, from what I've seen and heard.? Tilting his head back, gaze moving to rest upon Toby, peering at him upside down.

She poked at Harris' leg with a delicate finger. "Mine's better."

?I wouldn't know. I've never been exposed to either, really.? For Clover, though he's still peering at Toby.

"Nah..Raelyn did whatever always happens to her." He stopped at the top stair of the porch, looking back at the swing, the water still in his hand.

Harris greedily gulped the last of his Badsider.

Nodding her understanding. She watched Toby stand at the top stair. "How have you been?" Delicately asked, she still recalled him snapping at her for goosing him. Her fingers resting on Harris' leg, she pondered giving him a taste of her gift. But it was a toy she dangled and likely wouldn't actually bat at. Clover offered her own bottle from the railing and over to Harris, it still had a good amount left.

Harris tips his empty bottle over and rolls it across the porch, toward the staircase, watching it disappear, ears perking as he listens to it thump down each individual stair until it reaches the bottom, then he lifts a hand to deny Clover's offer.
"I've been okay." He gave her a quick smile. He'd talked about what had happened at the fountain at least six times in the past two days..and he really didn't want to again. "Just..mostly working. What about you..?" He looked between the two of them, the right half of his mouth twitching.

Harris sniffled, otherwise remaining still, to the point that eventually he simply allowed his eyes to close.

"Working." Said with a smile, she pulled her beer back and rest it in a hand. "Enjoying life." There is really no other way for her to exist. Catching his look between herself and her boss, "You're welcome to join us," a gesture toward the railing as the swing was full, "Harris refuses all of my advances so there's no need to leave us alone." A little smirk. "I read an article about you in The Post."

?Less of a refusal, more of a deflection, really.? Clarifying, though his eyes remained closed as he clasped his hands on his stomach.

"Ah, that's--you.." he blinked, simply staring. Her words had gotten lost somewhere in the distance between them. He turned to face the swing, the tethered horse nearby turned its head, its ears flicking. "What?"

"Watch Foils Marketplace Monster Attack." Her hands lifted to gesture at the title of the article. "More about the attack than you." she sipped her beer, then set it back on the railing. "But you were mentioned." Looking to Harris, but she didn't ask him if he read it as he was 'resting.?

"Wh--ah.. Why? I was in something? People *know* about that?" He squinted. "Whatever Watch is, it didn't really do much.."

He appeared quite restful indeed, barely a twitch from the man with his feet on Clover's lap.

"Anyone who reads The Post." She agreed looking him over, "You look well for having a monster confrontation..." Continuing in a gentle sway of the swing.

Maybe it was better that the paper was wrong. He hadn't even known why he'd tried to say something in the first place. He scratched at the side of his neck with his free hand, grunting uncomfortably. "I didn't get hurt."

Knowing details tended to get blurred between events and printing about events, Clover asked. "What happened?"

He squinted even further like he was staring straight into the sun, his eyes sliding away from them, the scratching at his neck rougher. "This..thing came out of the fountain. It grabbed me and a few other people, it puked goopy stuff on us. One of them did something with white light that hurt it and distracted it..I was able to stab it." He shrugged.

"You are the unsung hero of the night, then?" Rocking slowly, she rested her hands on Harris' legs. Comfort radiating from her.

"Ah..no." He shuddered. "I didn't really do anything, I just..did what I knew I could, I guess. It wasn't just me..the thing was distracted and being shot or something when I did that."

She considered that then nodded, "And... the goop?"

"It came off after a while. I had to take about four showers, though. It did something weird to my head, I couldn't walk straight afterward." His heart soared at the memory. He gulped water until the bottle was empty.

She canted her head, considering Toby quietly as he gulped water. "... Couldn't walk straight?" The edges of her smile pulled, she knew what left her like that.

It's highly likely Harris is sleeping at this point.

"Yeah..it got on me, and everything started going numb. ...I almost couldn't move at all. I was covered in the stuff." He fiddled with the empty bottle. "May was there too, she helped try to wash it off right away."

"You showered with May?" Blinking in surprise. Perhaps her brain was putting that together wrong.

"A-ah.." His hand closed into the bottle, he looked slowly up at Clover, his eyes wide. "*What?* *No!!* She..showed me this building that had a..a h-hose and we used that." He faceplanted into his free hand, the heat of his face searing his palm.

If he'd been facing the other way she could be rubbing his awesome blue hair while making Toby's face turn red. "Ah... " Clover grinned, she couldn't help it, at the shade he turned. "But the hose thing didn't work... ?"

(s)"No, not completely.." He felt like he wanted to hide. He hadn't been planning on explaining all of this stuff, again, and now his head was stuffed full of memories. He sighed, dragging his hand down his face.

Clover watched him with blue-grey eyes, a gaze that sought to understand the thoughts behind his expressions though she remained mute on asking further questions.

"I should go," he muttered, setting his empty water bottle with a deceptively gentle hand onto the railing. His steps led him to the horse's side, who swung his head around to look at him while he untangled the reins. "It wasn't really that big a deal, Clover. No one got hurt..it was just..really gross." He tugged at Comet's halter, turning away from the inn. The sound of clopping hooves echoed in his wake until he disappeared.

"Night..." Called softly after the fleeing Toby. If it had been nothing... she turned her attention back to her possibly dozing boss.

Sleeping soundly, as evidenced by the easy rise and fall of his chest, the only movement his body is guilty of at this point.

Harris seemed to inspire wickedness in her as several thoughts crossed her mind, still she decided to not take on Leda's form and see how he would react to waking. Clover could change more than her hair, but she rarely had any desire to do so. Her feet stilled the rocking of the swing.

It seemed likely that he could probably sleep there all night if he wasn't roused.

Lightly, Clover squeezed Harris' leg a couple of times to see if that would rouse him.

He simply twists his torso so that he rests on his side instead of on his back, continues to snooze.

A light smile watching him sleep?his closed eyes and resting state leaving the play of emotions invisible from his view. Curiosity, shame, sorrow, amusement. She reached a hand up to place it lightly on his arm, "Harris."

That elicits a groan, but not much else.

This was all fairly new. Clover rarely had to worry about waking people up, either because she was leaving without waking them... or she had better means of waking at her hands. She sighed. After a moment of consideration, Clover's gifted touched Harris through her fingertips. Tendrils of lust licking out, eager and ready, heat that inspired racing hearts.

That certainly seems to have a positive impact on him, which is probably why he's grinning, having quite the wonderful dream all of a sudden, toes curling inside his shoes on Clover's lap as he smacks his lips, mumbling. ?Mmm...?

Leaning over as much as she could with his feet on her lap, still touching him with her gift "Harris...."

Heavy lids lift suddenly, and he's positively beaming, stupid smile smeared across his face as he rubs at his eyes, pleasantly confused for several long moments before he regains his focus and realizes where he is and who he's with, and he grunts.

The moment he started to wake she pulled away, looking innocent as ever. Which isn't exactly innocent to begin with, but her smile was sweet. "Sleep well?"

He struggles to sit up then, swiveling his hips so his feet fall to the porch floor and he sucks his teeth, casting a suspicious glance toward Clover, which leads to a knowing nod, lips pursed in a thin line. ?Whatever it is you did, don't do it again.? It wasn't the first time someone had penetrated his dreams the same way Clover had just done, and frankly he had never comes to grips with how exactly he felt about it, other than the fact he didn't want it done to him unawares.

The rebuke wasn't unexpected, she nodded. Considering to show him what she did now that he was awake... but not doing it again likely meant not doing it again awake or not.

?Considering the stories you've told I'm sure you can understand why I'd prefer you didn't direct your powers toward me. At all.? He bristled, suddenly mildly uncomfortable at being in such close proximity to Clover, which is why he moved from the swing to put a shade more distance between them, mentally tsking himself for leaving himself vulnerable.

"You made light of it when I told you." She recalled it well, when she shared something she felt guilty about to them. It never changed how she felt about it. She sensed his discomfort, watching him move away. Perhaps someone else would have been hurt or slighted, Clover only sensed that it was right.

?Like I make light of everything. What, was that to prove a point or something?? His gaze narrowed then.

She shook her head, "No point to prove." Remaining in the swing, leaving him the space he claimed and not attempting to move into it. "A side effect... I am granted the knowledge that you actually understand my feelings towards possessing another." she looked down at her hands, "That wasn't even possession, it was a brush of emotion... like the comfort I touched you with after your duel." A short pause, then she looked to him, "I will respect your boundaries." Sensing they'd be likely to be wider and higher now. "I'm sorry."

His lips parted to respond, hammer his point home, but she seemed contrite so his jaws clamped shut and he allowed his hands to slide into his pockets as he leaned against the porch railing. ?That's all I ask. If they're unclear at any point I'd be more than happy to clarify them for you.?

A short nod given to his words. Her head remained slightly bowed, her posture quietly submissive. Silent for a while before offering, "For my transgression I will return to you your right to ask two questions. At your leisure." Not at all expecting him to have questions for her now.

?What *exactly* are you capable of? And don't worry, if it's a long list I can stand here all night.? At this point he felt slightly uncomfortable not knowing the extent of her powers, so it seemed natural for him to inquire as to precisely what they were, for future reference.

She pressed her lips together. "I can offer comfort. I can relieve pain or anxiety. I can give pleasure with the slightest touch of my hand." She paused, "I can take possession of someone's heart... from a small manipulation of emotions to claiming them entirely. Such a person wouldn't breathe if they thought it would displease me." Her gaze lowered and her voice carried a weight there. There were many of her kind that would think nothing of it, one of many reasons she didn't fit in. "I can sometimes sense the emotions in others. I can grant blessings of luck." A hand lifted up to free her hair from the tail and run her hand through it to spread it out, eyes focused back on Harris. "Along with changing my hair I can change my entire appearance." Still another pause... then she added, "I can tolerate a lot of pain."

A mental note accompanied every revelation, realizing he needed the occasional reminder in regard to the nature of the beings he interacted with and they powers they possessed. ?Good to know.? An up and down nod as he processed that information and stored it away.

It was like being back at Delaney's. Clover waited to hear what would come next--be it another question, her dismissal or him taking his leave. The key difference being that there she would be kneeling while awaiting word or standing with head bowed. Here, she sat on a swing.

?You really are slumming it down here with us mortals.? A shake of his head, unable to contain his chuckle. ?I should be thankful you're mostly benevolent, eh?? Aasy grin in an effort to lighten the mood. ?There's a lot worse you could've done to me if you wanted.?

Her smile was unable to reach full potential though it tried. She didn't agree against the truth of what she was capable of, though it was written across her face that she loathed it. "I only do worse to people who threaten my freedom."

?Fair enough. Interrogation over.? He waves his hand to signal he has no more questions to ask.

Some silent part was grateful he didn't delve further there. Her softened smile closer to being as it should, though still faint. "I will remember you have two more coming."

?It's not every day I have a goddess that owes me something. Most of them are after my head, actually.? His tone indicates there's a story to be told there and he chuckles, shaking his head.

"More than one?" Head canted curiously to the indication. "What did you do to upset them?"

?Eh. One seemed to think I was irresponsible a few times with the powers I was granted as a Keeper on the Isle.? He chortles.

"Were you?" Keeping in mind that this is the man that goes fishing with dynamite.

?Matter of opinion.? Clears his throat.

"And the opinion that matters is your own?" Light smirk. She glanced to her beer and decided to leave it on the railing, standing up.

?Smart woman.? Tapping his nose, to indicate she's correct. ?Though Gaia seemed to disagree.? A snicker.

"Goddesses are like that."Said with the light smile. She looked toward the sky, thinking about her invitation from Teagan to stop in. Turning attention back to him then, "I believe I will head out now. Good night, Harris." Not moving to kiss his cheek as she usually did.

And much like he had done all that evening, his fingers wiggled in a wave for the soon to depart Clover, ?Enjoy.?

It seemed he was less worried, at least, about her being mugged. A short nod, she headed toward the steps and off to the manor. She could use the distraction.

He didn't watch her leave, instead he pushed away from the railing and headed back into the Red Dragon Inn, disappearing through the door.

July 21, 2011

Hot! It was hot outside! And Clover shed the layers to help keep cool. Not that she started with a lot of layers, mind you. She made her way into the inn wearing short-shorts over a blue and black two piece. A white blouse tie up to leave her midriff bare. Her hair was moist from the dip she'd taken in the lake. Despite the heat she was in a very good mood as she entered.

Frowning she tilted her head and started her way to the kitchen. A brief smile was sent to Clover before she disappeared into the kitchen for one reason or another.

A wave of fingers sent to chase after Katt on her way into the kitchen. Clover went through the break and behind the bar, going not for the kitchen but for a bottled water.

::ambles in via the back alleyway entrance, sporting a sleeveless black shirt, the slight adjustment having been made to his attire thanks to the weather::

Having settled into a lean against the back counter of the bar, Clover sets her water down and moved to fetch Harris a cold one. Badsider, that is. The beer opened and set on the bar top for him with an easy smile and she leans forward on the bar. "Hey Boss."

::shrill wolf whistle for Clover as he eases his way over to the bar, hands in his pockets, affording her the usual up and down glance:: Lookin' sharp there, darlin'.

Pushed the beer forward as her smile spread further. Her hair was wet from swimming, but her suit wasn't. "Thank you." A hand reaching out to tweak the edge of his sleeve. "You don't look bad yourself." Then reigning herself in, she stepped back to her water, "How's the Mrs?"

::reaches across the bar, lifting the beer from the countertop by the neck between thumb and forefinger, pausing long enough to answer the question offered:: She's actually been under the weather for a couple days. Had to teach her class at the dojo earlier today, much to her chagrin. ::flashes Clover a grin, which is then doused by a sip of beer::

Water in hand, she leaned against the back counter once more, lingering and happy to play bar maid to any that would require her services. She sipped her water as he spoke then followed with, "Sorry to hear, should I make her soup? Or does she have enough energy to throw the offering at you?" Soft little grin.

That's what children are for. Heating soup. ::he snickers, pressing his hip against the bar to assume his usual lean there::

"Nhh.." The door went open and she slipped out of the kitchen with a dull look. Sighing she rubbed her face and shoved back her hair. Who knows what had went on in there.

"Is that what they're for?" Smirking. Clover's spirits had been much improved since Harris had taken care of the booth situation. Looking at Katt, "Did you play with the stew?"

She waved a finger at the kitchen with a scowl. "That thing keeps trying to eat me! I am not sure why." She pouted and moved to the bar. Since Clover was back there she didn't try to crowd it. "I think it is out for me."

::a slight turn, eyes on Katt, bottle to lips::

"Maybe you smell yummy?" Leaning to sniff the air she had gone through, "Side effect from working a bakery."

Ginger. She smelled like ginger and cinnamon. A polite smile was offered to Harris as she curled up on a stool. "Hm. Maybe." She seemed to give Clover's comment some thought.

::he snickers and drinks more::

"Get you anything?" Vanna White with the bottles behind her. A wink to Harris.

She blinked when she heard Harris snicker then looked between him and Clover. Did she miss something. "Me? Uhm..Surprise me?"

::MEEALLLAAA! In the door!::

Famous last words. ::for Katt, grinning::

"I'll make you a me." Grins. Spotting Mealla, she gave the girl a wave. "I'm making drinks. Do you want one?"

Yes! ::wandered over!:: Clover, I have not seen you in twelve hundred years. Where have you been? ::waves for Katt!::

Her nose wrinkled at Harris and she looked over to Clover. "A..clover?" Spying Mealla she waved back. "Mealla!"

::another slight turn, eyes on Maella, sips::

"I've been keeping myself well distracted." Which means she's been occupying a few or more beds. "Harris, have you tried me yet?" The water had been set aside and she started getting glasses down along with what she'd need: vodka, berry puree and grenadine. Nodding to Katt's question. "Daigh's concoction."

::she wandered over and huuugged Katt, and smiled:: You are Harris! ::to Harris, of course. She is multi-tasking:: Daigh! ::why not yell her brother's name?::

"Daigh named a drink after you?" She snickered and blinked when hugged. Stiffening a bit she tried to shake it off and hugged back softly. "Ack! Mealla my ear." Eye crossing.

::reaches up to scratch at his neck, grinning again at Clover:: I haven't tried you, but I've heard about you from a *number* of people that have.

No. Me Tarzan. You Jane. ::thumb to chest to indicate himself before pointing toward Maella::

::she giggled at Harris and then looked to Katt:: I'm sorry! I forget ::she untangled herself and surveyed everyone::

"Makes it all the more tempting." A wink, she'd make him up a glass as well as he could take it or leave it. Half of each glass filled with vodka, then the puree was added. She used a spoon to gentle add the grenadine to the top and then looked around for the matches.

Daigh would be happy you like the drink named after you!

She squinted once around Mealla to Harris then looked. Vodka. Oh dear. She sighed quietly and looked to Mealla. "How are you, Mealla?"

"I adore it." Said as she found the matches and set the top of each of the four glasses aflame. Red hot, just like her. "Bottoms up!"

Huh. ::there's fire, so he watches that as he sips at his Badsider::

Good! ::smiling to Clover, then looking to Katt:: I'm ok. I met a nice lady the other day who told me I shouldn't tell everyone my secret ::she took one of the glasses, blew it out, and then downed it like a champ::

Slid glasses closer to Harris and Katt.

"Sometimes you tell people other peoples secrets too, Mealla." She stared at the drink without touching it yet. She wasn't quite so sure she should. "Thank you, Miss Clover."

Grabbing up the forth and likewise downing it like a pro! "Mm!" After blowing out the fire, of course.

So tasty! ::she smiled and then looked to Katt, blinking:: I do?

It's probably wrong that I'm watching you enjoy yourself. ::quipped for Clover:: So to speak. ::snicker::

"Like almost telling people about the Bon Bon. I don't want people to know that, Mealla.." Dipping her head she blew the fire out and downed the drink. Well..Alien baby best be prepared! Her face twisted momentarily and she settled the glass down with a huff.

"I don't know what could be wrong about it." But her wicked smile said differently. "Try me." A finger nudged the glass still closer.

Oh ::she frowned a bit:: I'm sorry, Katt. I don't notice...

::he waggles his bottle of Badsider at Clover, his way of passing on the drink offer::

It had been a while since she had something heavy. Last thing ..maybe a few months ago and that was just a simple apple tini. Rocking her head she peered at Mealla. "D-Don't frown!"

Why not? I almost gave away your secret ::still frowning:: And I didn't even notice. I'll try and be more careful.

"You just want to watch me enjoy myself further...." She picked up the glass, "Hate to disappoint." Another fire blown out and she downed the second glass.

You know me so well. ::he's snickering again::

"Because frowns don't suit you, Mealla. Smile..Or I am going to be sad." And she pouted, shoulders dipping down a little.

Oh, not! ::she smiled then:: Don't be sad!

::she opened the door and stepped back inside, wondering if anyone would be left at this late hour::

"Not nearly well enough." She mused, watching Mealla and Katt but opting to not interrupt them. she checked the level of Harris' beer and smiled to the new comer. "Evening! Let me know if you need anything."

"Or if you ladies would like another or something else." Said aside to Katt and Mealla.

Sayuriiii! ::she whirled around and fled toward the Japanese woman, coming in for a hug!::

She smiled to Mealla when she smiled. "Good! Better." She nodded and she blinked. Looking over to Clover she gave a weak chuckle. "Uh..I think I should go for a bottled water. I normally don't drink." Which..well..we are going to see what happens after what she just had.

::she smiled at Clover's call and opened her mouth to reply, but then she was being honed in on. She allowed the hug, still smiling:: Good evening, Mealla!

"One water." Quick nod and a grin, Clover turned to fetch up a bottle of water for Katt and broke the seal before setting it in front of her. "There you go!"

::squeeeeeezed her, and then took her hand and pulled her toward the others at the bar:: Come over! We're drinking! Where is your booooyfriend? Where's Jochin? ::rapid fire!::

::another twist, this time so he can peer toward Sayuri::

While Harris looked elsewhere, another Badsider would not so magically appear on the bar for him.

::she laughed a little and allowed herself to be pulled:: He is working ::a smile to those gathered:: Hello, good evening.

Her attention perking at the mention of Jochin.

Oh Clover knew her so well breaking the seal for her. Should of asked for juice! "Thank you!" She looked to Sayuri and Mealla then over to Clover. "Miss Clover?"

"Hm? Yes?" Turning to look to Katt, lashes fluttering. She had, it seemed, been lost in a pleasant thought.

"Oh..Sorry. Didn't mean to disturb you." She offered a smile and slipped off her stool. She shook her head to show Clover to forget about it.

Everyone, this is Sayuri! She is Japanese and neat and she used to be a geisha but now sometimes she duels and she dates Jochin!

"Tsk! No disturbance." She grinned and truly looked to mean it. "What was it?"

::rather passively maintaining his vigil at the bar, and with a fresh Badsider set out he finishes off the one in his hand and promptly trades the empty bottle for the fresh one::

Hush ::she chided ever so gently:: You do not have to introduce me ::but she still smiled at her, as she was rather fond. But, likewise, she did not wish to interrupt the current conversations::

A smile to Sayuri, she gave her a bow of her head.

She looked over to Mealla and looks between Sayuri and Mealla. She smiled a bit. "It is to know that Jochin found himself a good woman." She paused and looked back to Clover. "I ..uh..I'm sorry I haven't been over yet for your commission. Are you still wanting it?"

::she returned the bow to Clover and then a small smile for Katt's words::

Nodding eagerly as she picked up the empty bottle Harris left on the bar and put it in the bin. "I am. Yes!"

I like introductions! ::looked to Harris:: You are quiet!

Thumbing the bottle she nodded. "Do you want me to still stop by or do you have time to discuss it right now?"

::a tilt of his head, amusement flickering across his features for Mealla::

Are you thinking dire thoughts? Or plotting to overthrow the government. OR ::leaning in:: taking over the WORLD?

"We can discuss it now." She moved clover and started doing just that, "It's a little project I was thinking I would enjoy... if you could do images of the local color. A day in the market, the inn, people by the lake. Nothing posed..." Her eyes carrying a hopeful tinge to them.

It's best for everyone if you don't know what I'm thinking. You apparently can't keep a secret. ::sharp grin for Mealla::

::GASPED. But then she laughed:: I can't read MINDS, Mr. Harris!

How long had it been since she had been to the lake? Her eyes lowered and she nodded. "I do something like that already..I guess. How do you want it? Paintings? Sketches?"

And we're all thankful for that.

I paint! ::to Katt and Clover in general, then looked back to Sayuri:: Do you think it's good I can't read minds?

"Whichever you please. Catch the moment as you best see it being captured."

::she couldn't completely hide the smile:: I think it would be... stressful ::for who? Well, that wasn't specified::

Free spirited Clover, she'd made an excellent hippy art teacher.

A laugh escaped her and she tried to keep it silent by pressing her knuckles to her lips. "Miss Clover..Okay if that is what you want. It would be my pleasure."

She looked over to Mealla and tilted her head. Smiling she nodded. "I do too.. But probably not as much as you do!"

OMIGOSH, realllly? ::she grinned:: That's what I do back home! Art!

::bottle to his lips, slurp::

"It is." A soft smile. She might not say it, but she wanted little reminders for herself for when she eventually moved on. She didn't have plans to do so any time soon... but eventually. That smile turned from Katt to Harris. Leaning on the bar, "Anything interesting happen while you were covering for Stick at the dojo?"

::she glanced over at the mention of a dojo, then turned eyes toward Katt and Mealla:: Katt, I had a request for you, as well.

It seemed like a big project. "Um..Miss Clover. If I might ask..how many do you want? Just..every area?" She blinked a bit. She swept around to Mealla, now remembering she had a present for her. Before she could say something she blinked at Sayuri. "Yes, Miss Sayuri?"

Interesting? Not really. She teaches kids. ::hunches his shoulders in a shrug::

Oh ::she rose a hand, then gestured:: No, please. I did not realize you were not finished with Clover. Afterward is fine.

::wandered over and climbed up onto the bar. She looked behind herself and toward the floor. Frowned at it, shook her head. Then ascended! On the bar!:

Half-way smirking at Harris, Clover looked to Katt, considering. Leaning over and patting her hand. A gift a luck in creativity blessed there. "I think you'll know when you've done enough." Calm and peace.

It was a little strange for someone to want commission and just tell her..draw. She wasn't quite sure how to deal with it. Was she asking too many questions? She smiled a little at the pat and she nodded softly. Poor Clover is going to end up with so much stuff she won't know what to do with it. She accepted that easily enough. "Okie." She didn't even bother bringing up payment arrangements. Instead she moved to Mealla and settled the bottle on the bar. Peeking to Sayuri she shook her head. "No no. It's okay. Feel free."

::swinging her legs, watching everyone::

::she nodded and smiled:: I own a tea house, and I was wondering if you might be interested in doing some desserts for me? I do not have the time to devote to them, while running the house and making other food.

Leaving the ladies to their business, Clover turned back to Harris--canting her head, the hair of which was now mostly dry. "Do you feel like a walk Boss?"

Pulling her bag onto a stool she opened it up and started digging around in it. Funny enough that bag..oh so bottomless. Her arms went much further into it then they should! Biting her tongue she dug around. It was in there somewhere! "Mrmm? You mean make daily deliveries of desserts?"

Yes ::she nodded:: I have a few recipes that I would like, specifically. You would be able to do custom such as that, yes?

::he just kind of squints, a slow sip of his beer taken:: Walk? Where?

::she was staring at the floor now, humming what seemed like a lullaby, legs swinging slowly::

"Oh of course. I would have to try and make them and have you approve them first of course. You would also ha-ow!" She scowled at the bag. "Uh..well you would have to tell me what days and what time you would like them delivered." Ah ha! Pulling out a wooden roll she checked the ends, pulling one side open to draw out a carefully rolled up piece of paper. Nodding to herself she offered it over to Mealla. "Don't look at it till you get home."

::she blinked at the 'ow', and waited, eyes on Mealla::

Her smile quirked at that, "I hadn't thought of a destination. Sometimes I just.. walk and let my feet carry me where they may." She bit her lower lip, knowing how that must sound. Following up to reassure him, " Luck guides my path."

Why not until I get home? ::reaching out to take the paper::

"It's a surprise.." And she was embarrassed. Sue her. She offered over the container too. "Do you want this to keep it safe?"

Uh huh. That sounds like an excellent way to wander the streets at night. ::he snickers and drinks more::

"I hear that from time to time... yet I remain well and whole." Poses, see. Very whole.

Yes, please! ::she slid off the bar and went to get the container:: I have to go home before it's too late. I promise I'll wait till then!

She smiled and nodded. She didn't like promises. She hated them..couldn't trust them. Skewered by a single person to where she couldn't believe them. But she smiled all the same. "I hope you like it."

I bet I will! ::she hugged her, then went and hugged Sayuri, then waved to Clover and Harris:: Bye, everyone! Be careful when you walk! Murder walks the streets! ::said cheerfully. Then she was going for the door!::

She giggled, unable to give Mealla a hug before she was out the door. "And she thinks I am quick leaving?"

::offers the departing Mealla a two-fingered salute::

A wave after Maelle, calling after her to tell her brother she said hello.

If you wanna walk, we can walk. You gotta bring the beer though. ::for Clover::

::she chuckled a bit and watched her depart after the hug:: See certainly has interesting mannerisms ::she turned back to Katt:: I am not open on Sundays, so perhaps Mondays and Thursdays to start?

"I'm insulted you think you even had to say that." Smiling, she finished off her water and put the empty bottle aside. Then bending to fetches more Badsiders for Harris from the cooler. Three. She held them up in silent question to see if three would suit him.

"I'm not open on Sundays either so that works out." She nodded and swayed a little. Hi, clover drink effects! Shouldering her bag she leaned into the stool a bit. "Mmm..okie. I can have my delivery boy bring them. If you want ..er...you don't have your recipes with you I am guessing?"

The amount of beer you bring determines how far I walk with you before I abandon you to whatever is in the shadows. ::grinning cheerfully at Clover before finishing off the beer in his hand::

No, but if you have a piece of paper and a pen, I can write them down for you quickly, or I can give them to you whenever is most convenient?

She blinked slowly and reopened her bag to pull out one of her sketchbooks and a orange color pencil. She had grabbed blindly so didn't know the color. Flipping through the book for a free page the sketchbook was offered over.

Thank you ::she smiled:: Would you like full recipes, or just the name of what I would like?

Silent laughter in her smile, "Mm. There's always more beer at my place." She moved through the break in the bar, nodding to the two ladies. "Have a lovely night." Managing a little wave of her fingers even with the beers as she headed for the front door.

You as well! ::called after Clover with a smile as she departed::

Lazy wave was given back. She was going to need to leave soon or risk sleeping in the inn. Clover's drink was working far too fast!

::lifts a hand in what could be considered a parting gesture, empty bottle left on the bartop before he moves to trail behind Clover toward the exit::

Using a hip to open the door for them, she leaned against it to open it for both of them.

::and just like that he's out the door::

((Taken from RDI RP with Clover, Katt, Harris, Mealla & Sayuri!))

July 23, 2011 ? After Midnight

Just another usual late night excursion to the Inn, nothing particularly special as Harris breezes in through the back alleyway door.

Another hot day, another swim in the lake. Clover entered the inn once again with damp hair. Her two-piece, short-shorts, loosely tied shirt and heels were all dry but for whatever moisture they might have picked up from her air dried skin. A hand was lifted, checking the wet of those electric red strands as she made her way through the front entrance.

?Well, it must be my lucky day.? Never difficult to spot Clover in a crowd, but with no crowd this evening it was even easier to notice her entrance and he crooked a grin thataway as he stepped in the direction of the bar.

A glance and warm smile for those on the porch as she passed, her smile widened all the more for her boss. "That so?" Making her way toward the bar.

Up and down look for Clover as his feet shuffle to move him behind the bar, toward the cooler specifically. ?Lookin' sharp, darlin'.?

"Thanks, Boss." Harris beat her to the bar, so she leaned against the counter as she reached it. "How is the Mrs? Feeling better?"

?She's back on her feet. Fought off whatever it was. One of the benefits of being in great shape.? He couldn't help but grin at that, hand disappearing into the cooler to snag himself a Badsider.

"Mm. Great shape?" Wickedness in her smile. "Fetch me one too, please?"

The Badsider in his grasp is juggled from one hand to the other before being slid across the counter toward Clover, then he moves to grab another one that he fully intends to keep for himself. ?Yup. Nothing wrong with a woman with a little muscle tone in my book.?

"Thank you, Harris." Picking up the beer. Offhandedly as she opened her drink, "I was thinking 'strong' more toward having the stamina to keep up with you." Looking up to give Harris a wink.

?No woman has enough stamina for that. Not even Stick.? He snickers and wrenches the cap off his beer with his teeth, spitting it to the floor before taking a long swig.

"Perhaps the fault lies in that you haven't given every woman the chance to keep up with you." Her smile teasing, "You spoiled the sport by falling in love and getting married." Beer lifted to her lips for a shorter sip.

?She comes closer than anyone else, so I figured she was worth keeping.? Flash of a grin, followed by more drinking.

A twitch of her smile. For as lecherous as her boss could be, she knew his selection of his wife ran deeper than that and it was something she reminded herself of. Her smile soft and warm. "Mhm." Turning away to look around the inn, her expression lost to the empty interior.

?You just get out of the shower?? A hand reaches across the counter to pluck at a damp strand of that electric red hair.

That touch recalled her attention to him. Shaking her head but not enough to disturb his plucking hand. "Swimming. At the Glen."

?Skinny dipping?? His grin returns just that easily, hand withdrawn.

"A possibility." Knowing smile, the beer lifted to her lips for another short sip.

?Probability in your case.? He snickers, switching sides, his lower body phasing through the bar to allow him to return the patron side. ?Though it's much better to take a dip in the Glen than finding a public pool around here. Kids use them as their bathroom.? Serious nod before assuming his usual lean at the bar.

"Never even considered a pool. I enjoy being out in nature." Leda would have been proud, the way the second sentence carried so much more with it than the basic meaning the words held. Like the half-demon, Clover was a being born into enjoyment. Not that she needed to confess to Harris, but she did... back in her usual tone. "Yes, I was skinny dipping."

?Well, I guess I'll have to make the Glen a normal destination for awhile.? Chortles, drinks.

"I wouldn't mind the company, though I do not think Stick would appreciate it." Slight tilt of her head, blue-greys looking her boss over.

?Not if you wore some form of clothing.? A short, deep laugh.

"I suppose you could not be held at fault if something was removed when you were unaware of it." Obviously that would be the route she'd have to take. Swimming in a suit? Unheard of!

A rather droll look was turned toward a man peering through the window, followed by a swig of Badsider and a squint.

A glance that way as well, a brow lifted in question but settled as she looked back to Harris.

He continues to peer through the window outside at the slaver for a moment before turning his attention back to Clover, ?Nah. After what I've told her about you swimming is probably a bad idea.? He shakes his head and chuckles some.

"What have you told her?" Curious! Though, if Stick had seen the pictures... entirely work related... that'd likely be enough.

?I tell her everything.? A shrug. ? I don't keep her in the dark. I mean, it's obvious why I hired you. And I showed her a photo or two. I may have mentioned you're making your way around the block too.? A snicker. ?No stone left unturned. It's the basis for any good relationship. Trust.? Slurps at his Badsider.

"Only a block?" Her smile holding a chuckle, she nodded for relationship pointers. Something she wouldn't be making use of. At odds again, she buried the feeling in another drink.

?I gotta snuff things out before they get to her. I don't want her waving the gossip rag at me asking me why it's claiming I'm hooking up with whatever woman I happen to be keeping company with. So I tell her what's going on so she doesn't read it or hear about it elsewhere.? Explaining the method to his madness for Clover. ?Otherwise, how would it look if I'm hanging out with a stunning redhead I've never mentioned that happens to be very friendly with a lot of other people? Easy to jump to conclusions.? Burp.

"The one you chose should know better than that." Small quirk to her smile. She didn't really know how it went, she only assumed how she thought it might be. Clover didn't know jealously. Well, she knew it from others but had never experienced herself, much like with those things that went along with it. She waved her hand, with a little smiling sigh. "Relationship matters. They are beyond me."

?Nah, it's something we all have to learn, slowly but surely.? A shrug of his shoulders before finishing off his Badsider and leaving the empty bottle on the counter. ?Did you go to Teagan's challenge?? A shift in topics.

The expression of a smile. She wore it well. Putting on a happy face when thoughts or conversation turned toward serious romantic entanglement. Toby was of mind she hadn't found the right person. Slowly but surely. It was a night Clover didn't have any faith to spare in the idea of that ever being a reality for her. The false smile was able to turn to something genuine at his question. She nodded, "I did. It was close, but she did not win." A short sip of her water. "I was her lady of honor...." She smirked into her beer, eyes lower beneath lashes. Honor. Amusing. Clover also wore the smile, considering the comfort she offered the other after the loss.

?I'm sure you made for an excellent consolation prize.? Chuckles, an easy roll of his shoulders backward. ?I managed to squeeze in a match tonight, but my time lately seems to be less and less.?

Oh she did. Though there were a few unhappy shop keepers from their little shopping spree and fun in the dressing rooms that followed. She grinned at the memory of it. "What sport did you fight in and how did you fare?"

?Swords. Won. Outside of the occasional dip what have you been doing to keep yourself busy, hmm? Anything of note?? Arms fold across his chest and he leans deeper against the bar.

"Course you won, silly of me to ask." Setting the beer on the bar, most of it still left from her slow nursing. "I work, I play. Nothing I do is terribly note worthy except to maybe gossip columns, and even then not recently."

?Need another hobby. Gardening?? He's grinning again, mostly because he can't help himself.

"I have better things to do on my hands and knees than till soil." Her matter-o-fact tone back, beer returned to her lips.

And that elicits a laugh from Harris.

?Have I mentioned recently that I like you?? His laughter ebbs slowly.

"Recently? No. But it's understandable, a statement like that could easily be twisted askew by the ever present ears of the media." Chuckling softly, she smiled and shook the teasing aside. "I am fond of you too."

?Good. Then you'll happily accept my invitation to the race track.? Sharp grin.

One brow lifted. It was almost as if she momentarily forgot she was luck in heels. "Race track?"

Up and down nod. ?It's just a matter of if you'd rather bet on the ponies or the dogs.?

"Ever looking for a bit of extra cash?" Her beer was set on the bar as she rested an arm there. Blue-grey eyes considering, "Ponies."

?Nah. Just a more viable option for an activity that involves you keeping most of your clothes on, since swimming is out. I mean, unless you decide to literally bet the shirt off your back.? He snickered. ?And it's not that I'm looking for extra cash, I have extra to throw around these days. As long as the bills are paid and the savings isn't touched Stick lets me do what I want with extra income. So why not spend the day with my favorite employee at the track, eh?? Broad grin.

"Favorite employee." She mused. What with the recent cut backs. Though the woman hired to guard her could be considered an employee in a manner. Then nodded with a smile that matched his, "I'd like that." Gambling, what wasn't to like? It might also have something to do with the company. She said nothing against betting the shirt off her back.

?We could even spring for club seats as opposed to the grandstand. Better view, better service.? His grin manages to widen somehow.

"When are we going?" She was sold on the idea, the pot hardly needed to be sweetened--though it was with his idea of getting club seats.

?Up to you. I planned on swinging by the track later today.? A squint,? Tomorrow?? Pause, ? Saturday. But whenever you're free is fine. They've got a dress code though, if we're gonna get those club seats.? He's eyeballing Clover's current attire.

"Not many men trying to get me in to more clothing than I'm already wearing." A soft chuckle, "I am free for when you go... though I will have to go home and change."

?It's a fair trade off though. You have to wear more clothes, but money will be made.? This is the point where he'd have those cartoon dollar signs in his eyes, but instead he simply has a stupid grin on his face. ?I'll just swing by your place and pick you up. I'll have to change too. Thankfully that sport coat I've got I haven't worn since the theater.?

"Mm. If you say so boss." She could almost see those dollar signs.

?I do say so.? His head bobs up and down at a rapid pace.

Soft chuckle, she slid the rest of her beer over to him. "If we're to make a day of it I should get some rest. Beauty sleep."

?Fair enough. I'll swing by noonish.? More than happy to finish off Clover's beer for her.

Leaning over to kiss Harris' cheek. "I'll see you then."

?Looking forward to it, darlin'.? A wiggle of his fingers in a wave for Clover, followed by a wink.

"Night boss." Little smile over her shoulder as she headed for the door and then slipped out into the night.

He lingers just long enough to drain Clover's beer, then he exits the same way he came, through the back alleyway door.

July 23, 2011 - At the Races Pt2


?Well, that's a tidy sum you've earned, darlin'.?

"Woohoo!"

A celebratory squeeze given to Harris' arm as her cries mixed with those that surrounded them. Her voice carried down toward the track,

"Way to go Rude Awakening!"

Her celebration abated and she grinned at Harris.

"Aye, it is."

She handed him the ticket, having gone off script and bet a smidgeon more.

"You can collect the winnings, I'm going to fetch us drinks."

True to her word, she moved off with the crowd back inside and returned to the balcony only when she had a full glass of champagne and another cold Badsider.

In the short time span it took for her to fetch drinks he finished his first and left the empty bottle on a nearby vacant tabletop for a waiter to collect at a later time, then he unfolded the program beneath his arm to check the time for the next race, but at no point did he move to collect the winnings after being handed Clover's ticket, instead once she returned he made a declaration,

?We'll go together. There's a bit before the next race. We should grab a table.?

"If that is your wish, we'll go together."

A silent chuckle showed in her smile as she handed over the cold Badsider to him.

"How much time do we have until the next race?"

?Enough to relax, for sure.?

He stakes his claim on a table in passing on their way to redeem Clover's betting slip by setting his nearly full beer down and dropping the program beside it, and with his hands free he offers Clover his arm as they wade through the still bustling crowd toward the cashier, where a small line of other bettors has already formed.

?They've got a restaurant here too. I think we passed it on our way up.?

Following Harris' movements, she set her glass down on the table alongside his beer. Accepting the offered arm, Clover kept close as they moved through the crowd.

"Winning does build up an appetite. We could check it out after the next race."

Stepping into the line and waiting until it was their turn to collect, looking to Harris as she'd given him the ticket.

And just like that he trades the ticket for coin, a tidy sum at that, which he hands off to Clover as they return to the table they claimed, allowing their interlocked arms to uncoil before taking a seat, whereupon he immediately slouches, getting nice and comfortable, beer in hand.

?Maybe. Or on another trip here, if you like betting on the ponies. I wonder how much it costs to buy a horse.?

A thoughtful purse of his lips.

Coins secured away, her winnings amounting to one-seventy-five. She gave her thanks to the cashier. Back at the table she picked up her glass as she eased into her seat, one leg lifted and crossing over the other. Nodding toward the suggestion of checking out the restaurant next time if not this time around, another smile given to her boss at his mention of wondering over the cost of a horse.

"All depends on the horse. Losers come cheap. Winners, not so much."

Gaze directed toward the stables, noting any jockeys or horses she could see.

"How seriously are you wondering?"

?About as seriously as I wonder about anything.?

He can't stop the grin that forms, only a sip a beer manages to douse it.

?That seems like something more up your alley though, probably.?

"Buying a horse is more up my alley?"

Chuckling, "How do you figure that? Sure I like to gamble, but owning a horse... that requires more responsibility than I think I am accustomed to."

?Nah, it's just an investment in a hobby. It's like being a fighter and owning a dojo.? Thumb to chest, ?It's an extension of something you already like to do.?

Upends his bottle for a long swig.


"Investments are only good so long as you know you'll be around to see them through."

Drink paused near her lips as she watched one Jockey lead his horse. Ties that bind. She could only disappoint something that was dependant on her, lesson learned.

"It better suits Kalamere than myself. He is a member of the community. I... I'm just lingering for a time."

?Is that so? Plan on leaving us soon then, eh?? A slight tilt of his head to one side, ?You know, an investment works both ways. It can be enough of a reason to keep you from wanting to leave.?

"I don't plan on leaving, I just know I will not stay." Blue-greys left the visage of man and horse to settle on Harris. "Eventually. Though it is easier to live in this land than others, for the time."

?I've seen plenty of people think they were just passing through. You never know, you might find you'd prefer not to leave the longer you're here. For some people it gets harder to go.?

A pause, then he waves a hand dismissively,

?But, you're here now and that's what's important.?

And with that he angled the neck of his bottle toward Clover's glass for a toast, grinning once again.

Truth was it got harder to stay, got harder to ignore the way she was. Having Tim around as a cruel reminder never helped. She smiled softly at his words, while internally distancing herself from the thought of it. More than happy then to focus on the here and now, she lifted her glass in response to his toast. Her smile resurfaced again in full.

Glass met glass in a pleasant clink, then he downed the remainder of his beer greedily, empty bottle set aside and his focus shifted to the next race on the program, and he nudged it across the table toward Clover, around the small monitor there.

?So, we're gonna try something a bit more difficult. The trifecta. You have to pick the first three finishers in the exact order. Small bet, big payout. ?

The small list didn't appear terribly impressive, consisting of: Devil's Roar, My Fair Nellie, Gypsy Rose, Silver Streak, Mr. Buckets, and Bandito Slim.

Took a slow sip of her champagne and then set the drink aside. Delicate fingers drawing the program closer to her, her eyes danced over the listed names.

"When you go for it, you really go all the way."

Smirking at the list. Up and down the list her eyes danced, her tongue touching her lip in thought. As her eyes moved, so did her finger?tapping against each name. Looking up under her lashes,

"I think it's going to be a close race."

She moved her chair closer and turned the program for him to look at the names she pointed to. Mr. Buckets.

"Third."

Then her finger moved between Devil's Roar and Gypsy Rose.

"I'd pick those two for leading place... but I've nothing more in my gut to say which will be which."

He's marking a betting slip as she speaks, leaning forward just a bit as he attempts to read the program upside down.

?Alright. Who has inside position between the two? There's a number there that'll tell you which gate they'll start out of.?

She looked over the numbers and going from what she knew of the track's set up now, "Rose is inside." Eyes flicking toward the slip he was filling out.

?Always helps to start on the inside. A slight edge is still an edge. So, Gypsy Rose, Devil's Roar, Mr. Buckets. One, two, three.?

He waggles the completed slip toward Clover with a grin and pushes to stand, having not been kidding about the small bet, as he fishes a single silver out of his pocket for her to view which he takes with him to the betting window.

He wasn't kidding at all. It would be just like Harris to try to get a lot from as little of his own coin as possible. She grinned after him and enjoyed her beverage while she waited.

His time away was brief as there only seemed to be a small pool of bettors on this particular race, at least in the Turf Club, and when he returned he angled the television monitor in a direction most optimal for both of them to view the race that was scheduled to start shortly.

?If you did have your own horse though, what would you name it??

Shifted in her seat to watch the monitor in comfort. Her fingers held the stem of her champagne glass.

"Archer."

She didn't even think about it, really. Though there was a pause as her mind tackled the idea of owning a living thing. When she committed to answering, the name just came to her lips. Turning to face Harris with a smile.

?Archer.?

Repeated, as if tasting the name on his tongue, then he nodded once in approval of her choice, just in time for the gates to open and begin the race, elbow propped atop the table as he watched in silence, the cheers and bellows of those out on the balcony still managing to reach his ears as he let loose an idle comment.

?Silver Streak's fast out the gate. Guess that's how the name was earned.?

"He is..." It would have been reason enough to think he would have ended up closer to the top three but he hadn't even registered in her mind. She frowned a little at that, watching the race without cheering.

Three horses to keep track of for this race, and as the group reached the initial turn it was Silver Streak that moved to the rear of the pack, obviously a fast starter but that appeared to be it, and as they all continued down the stretch it was nearly impossible to discern who might pull out as the other five horses in the race appeared to be neck in neck.

?Well, you were right about it being close. Let's hope that's not all you were right about.?

A good natured grin in response to Clover's frown, reaching out to pat her on a bare shoulder.

As Silver Streak dropped to the back her frown eased, her concern being what might have kept him from winning when he started out so quickly. It was good that it was something so simple as falling behind. Still, her expression was focused as she tried to pick out their horses in the group. Harris' pat drew her eyes and a smile.

"If not, you will not be out much."

?There is that.?

A wider grin formed then as his attention flickered between Clover and the monitor at their table, neck craning as the horses headed toward the finish line with no clear leader and that didn't change when they crossed it, leading to a five horse photo finish, with Silver Streak having apparently run out of gas after an impressive opening and he sucked his teeth.

?Well, now we've gotta wait for the official results.?

It seemed as though the entire place was waiting with baited breath, Clover wasn't the only one. It wasn't her coin, but they were her picks and she wanted to see how it would come out.

He tapped a foot, waiting patiently for the powers that be to review the tape, and after several minutes the official results flashed on the screen, listing the horses in order of finish... Gypsy Rose, Devil's Roar, Mr. Buckets, Bandito Slim, My Fair Nellie, Silver Streak

?Heh. Well look at that.?

He appeared impressed, for some reason he still doubted the woman's luck, either that or he simply enjoyed testing its limits, but whatever the reason when things turned out like she claimed they would he couldn't help but smile appreciatively at her.

?Think we should quit while we're ahead? Because I think so.?

Her smile lit with triumph--toward her correct call and the appreciation she caught in his gaze. She nodded in response to his question,

"After a win like that? We either have to quit or give up a few coins in a loss."

Likely giving the impression that she'd dealt with a number of gambling venues. Winning was good, but winning too much made people cranky.

?Time to collect some more sweet, sweet coin then.?

And just like that he was up, once more offering her his arm as he looked to be the first in line at the cashier to redeem his ticket, which he waggled around in the air proudly.

Taking his arm once more, she must have looked like a bit of arm candy moving with him to the cashier. A mute giggle at his waggling of the ticket. While the shocked man saw to getting the payout, Clover asked,

"Are you hungry?"

?Hungry? You know I can always eat, darlin'.?

A waggle of his brows as he plucked that floppy sun hat off of Clover's head and offered it toward the cashier, who was busy converting the large amount of silver won into gold, and he indicated that the man should deposit the payout into Clover's head wear.

?You have something in mind??

Losing her hat for a coin pouch, she chuckled. Shaking her head to his question.

"Not really. But I know your stomach and I know I have a number of things to fix in my fridge." Tilting her head. "Unless you want to treat?"

Pausing as she thought, then added, "I'm in a mood for burgers."

?I'll choose your food over restaurant food any day of the week. Here. Carry the money.?

And Clover's floppy sun hat was returned to her, though now it was filled, no, overfilled with gold coins and he snickered, already moving to exit the Turf Club, because when there was food involved he was doubly motivated.

"I'll take that as a compliment."

Grinning at his comment.

"Whatever happened to your endless pockets?"

She recalled suspecting they were as deep as his stomach. Still, she took the cap in hand with the gold and managed to follow him without spilling. Her mind drifting to fries and shakes.

?I just like seeing my two favorite things together. Beautiful women and money.?

Cheeky grin, followed by a wink as he shuffled out, holding the door open for Clover.

"A view that surely gets better with a full stomach."

Winking over her shoulder, she headed out.