Nightshade and Orlander

[selena]

By way of the alley would be her usual approach, and to the back door of the tavern would be her entry point. Stepping into the midst of the crowded tap room, a pause on it's outer edge as the intense nature of those icy shards of crystalline blue that slowly swept over the room. The heavy cape like cloak created from the pelts of white fox, draped over shoulders offering tidbit glimpses of the crimson velvet gown worn beneath. Leather encased hand lifted to brush a flaxen tendril away that had drifted over that left eye. Near spun gold in coloration was that waist length heavy mane of waves. Only a moment longer to observe the room before turning to head in the bar's direction, seeking the least populated portion in which to approach.

She flashed that Cheshire grin to Thorn, one of the few females she had met and really like, before turning for the door. Coffee was cold, not to mention the mug was filled with the dregs of the days attempt at harmony by way of coffee. "Can I get you anything?" Called back to Thorn as she wrenched the door open.

"Coffee please, tell 'em 's f'r me an' they'll make it right." Which means enough sugar to stop a horse's heart.


She was chuckling at Thorn's request as she passed through the door. Her right hand was already delving into the pocket of her cloak to find that small journal. Alas, if there were feet sprawled or egos in abundance, it went unnoticed as she fumbled through the pages with her thumb to be sure she had noted that nights deliveries. Records strenuously kept, they were without name or indication of whom had received what. Rather a small sketch of the plant resided next to the amount. Drawing up to a vacant spot near the bar, she lifted her gaze to gather the bar matrons attention. She lifted her hand once those beady eyes were upon her, a smile brandished with two fingers flashed. "One for Thorn, with an obscene amount of sugar, love." Folding up the journal, it was shoved back into the cloak pocket, a turn of her gaze sweeping across those within.

Upon reaching the bar, coins were set upon it's surface. Enough to pay for an entire bottle of liquor, but what was placed before her was a steaming mug of coffee. Of course she won't have to pay for another through out the night, but neither was this just ordinary coffee. Having become addicted to a special brew Bess made, vanilla beans had been added to the brewing method. That very scent now assaulted her senses in the most pleasing matter. Pale pools of blue rose to rest upon the reflective surface behind the bar, watching all transpiring behind her. All the while indulging the slow inhalation of that light fragrance, which soothed in many ways.

She noted the one she'd come to think of as the Apothecary. Mattered not if the woman followed the trade or not, it was the fact the woman had the extended knowledge of items she used often enough. Mug now lifted to slowly sip of its contents. Upon it's lowering, Selena gained a slight up nod in return, having found the Dane was already looking in her direction, when she was spied in return. Mug on the rise again and more small sips to be taken.

"Evening, Sir Verik." A grazing grin crossed her mouth before her attention traveled onwards down the bar. Spotting Ekaternia, she stilled then dipped her head in greeting to the woman. Unfortunately, this would correspond with Bess delivering the rotgut coffee. Sooner or later, Selena would learn to ask for the special brew. With a dip of her head to Ekaternia, she gathered the mugs with a murmur of thanks to Bess along with a spill of coins to the bar. "Thank you, dove." Spinning on her heels, she headed back to the door. Though there was a vast amount of questions bouncing about her head when she spilled out on to the porch and headed to Thorn with the mug extended along with a smile, naturally. "One mug of coffee, with an obscene amount of sugar, insured to kill a horse."

"Thank y' hun." To Selena with a smile in exchange for the cup of coffee. " 'Ppreciate it." Apparently Thorn's stronger than a horse, the first sip was simply savored.

She stood there a moment, amazed apparently that the woman could consume that amount of…well...that stuff. "You are very welcome, doll. If you would excuse me, I saw someone I must speak with." Motioning back towards the door.

"N' problem hun. Thanks f'r the coffee." Easy smile, and light warmth. Thorn and sugar, they're old friends.

Mug lowered and there was the hint of an actual smile upon unpainted lips. Satisfaction gained from something as simple as a mug of coffee. Turning with a slight flourish of skirts twirl, she'd now head to her usual seat. A lone table that rested close to the back door, near the window that over looked the alley there. One she was always attentive to, either in being cautious, or seeking something that never appeared. Here she would settle, placing the mug upon the table before shrugging that cloak off over the back of her chair. Settling as that pool of crimson velvet was drawn closer about her. The slow process of stripping leather from its grip of hands would now ensue.

As she passed through the taproom, she shoved her own mug of coffee on to the bar as she passed, apparently done with her own poison for the night. It was only then that she realized the woman was no longer at the end of the bar

Gloves to lay across her lap prior to the mug being imprisoned between the capture of naked digits. Drawing it closer towards her in that uplift to slowly sip of it's contents. Pale crystalline pools of blue to now drift over those within once again, though would occasionally drift to that window at her side. Peering out into the darkness that veiled the alley and beyond.

She looked to Bess and waved away the offer of another beverage. The woman was spotted in the window seat. It was there she headed. "Ekaternia." Only her name offered as she approached. Her own fingers fussing over the gloves she found inferior against the cold before they were shoved back into a pocket and she motioned to a seat. "May I join you?"

The sound of her name would have attention to shift, as her gaze turned to rest upon Selena and her approach. Slight life of that left brow in silent question as the woman was now watched. "Guten nacht mein Dame Selena." Offered in polite, quiet tone. Hand to release its hold upon the mug captured between the two, motioning to the spare chairs about her table. "If it pleases you, Mein Dame." Features maintained their emotionless nature, as did those eyes, even when the invitation was offered.

There was a dip of her head in acknowledgement to the granted request. "I trust all is well?" Apparently the elf lord had fled. And her the whole of her attention laid now upon her. "You received the package?"

Slow nod of her head. "Yes, tonight. I was going to leave a form of payment, then find out if it was enough or not. What do I owe you for the privilege of the item?" Inquired as the mug lowered to settle atop one leg. A hand set free to reach for that pouch kept close to her side, attached by the braided cord about her waist.

Unaccustomed to the minority that actually offered to pay again, she glanced at Ekaternia with a shake of her head. "You did pay. More than enough, Miss."

Hand shifted back to join it's mate about the mug's warmth. "Just making sure. Some like to claim they need more due to the nature of the risk in gaining what I sought. At least you can't be accused of being a Highwayman." Just a glint in those otherwise icy depths, of a moment’s amusement to her words before that expressionless appearance returned. "I'm in need of a pound of nightshade. How soon can you see to its delivery?" Asked in the most casual tone, even if vocalization had been lowered, for the woman who sat near her ear's alone.

Her fingers had nothing to fold against but themselves. And so they did as her gaze traveled across the tavern occupants. There was a quiet study of fool and foe alike." A pound? Such a staggering amount, Miss"

"How soon?" To be inquired again. Even if the woman seemed to question the weight requested, no explanation would be forthcoming. A simple transaction, in her mind, be it from this woman or another, the Dane honestly didn't care. Her money would be spent one way or another. Attention turned back upon the room as that mug was lifted to sip from. A sign what was to be said had been.

She drew in a breath and drew back. Unaccustomed to such stark demands, she was at least learning this woman's wants. "Two weeks." After a moment’s consideration, she added as an after thought. "It will cost you more."

"Cost isn't my concern, quality is and swiftness of delivery. Make it a weeks time and I'll see you well compensated." A glance in Selena's direction. "A bonus for promptness." Touch of a smirk, it's appearance as cold as those eyes now trained upon her. "Unless you feel you're not up to the task." The proverbial gauntlet dropped at the woman's feet. Attention to return to the room and those within, the mug lifted to sip from, though in peripheral she'd be watching the Apothecary to see her reaction to such a demand.

She grimaced at the mention of the bonus and speed. "You are a harsh woman." The grimace forming further instantly upon the hint of a challenge. "Fine. It will be done." Her own eyes shot back with a of fire in her eyes. Challenge? Always up to meet it. She offered a wry smile. "A week."

"The same arrangement as with the Oleander. Leave word of your price and I'll add more to the worth of your troubles." Glance over at Selena and she couldn't help but to smirk just a bit in seeing the way the woman glanced her way. Attention turned back upon the crowded room, continuing that slow study of all within. Expressionless were features and eyes, nothing offered to be read by anyone, the Dane was a closed book with a binder that locked; she holding the only key to which access could be granted.

"Aye, the same arrangement." As her study traveled over the rest she found harmless in comparison, Kat could be proud of the scowl that Selena was sporting at that moment. "So shall it be done as requested." She swung her gaze back to Ekaterina with a ghost of a smile.

Words offered dictated not a response, so none was forthcoming. Mug remained on the rise to be slowly sipped from. A glance spared towards the window at her side, peering into the darkness beyond. For a long moment it rested there before the room would gain her focus once again.

Rising from her seat, she offered Ekaterina a bow of her head. "I shall meet with you again when this is accomplished."

Glance up and over to Selena, her rising taken as a show of the woman's impending departure. "Guten nacht mein Dame Selena." Slight tip of her head forward in that polite manner demanded by social standards. Mug then to rise again, and more of that lightly flavored brew to be slowly sipped and savored.

With the order heavy on her mind, she was on her way. Passing across the common room then out the door, she shot Thorn a fast smile before she was down the steps. She had a lot to think about.

[selena]

She had been settled before the frosted window for hours already. Her brow was creased in thought, as if mesmerized with the lazy drift of fat, fluffy snowflakes gliding downward to gather another inch deeper in the already frozen landscape of the acre of land they called home. She blew her warm breath against the fridge pane, creating a fog upon which she traced a flower. “Uncle James, how many different varieties of Nightshade do we have?” She smeared her fingers across the image then jumped down from the window bench to cross the room and join him beside the potting board, leaning forward to capture his eyes away from the intensity of his work.

How dark eyes could be so bright, she did not know, nor did she understand the thrill of excitement they communicated to her. The twinkle of roguish merriment lit up his whole face. It was a long face, with sharp, chiseled cheekbones and a wide, mobile mouth. His hair was a rich, dark brown with a hint of red in it, very thick and a bit too long for fashion. James Butler was the sort of man that immediately put women at ease. “You are a curious child, Selena. First the Oleander and Mistletoe, now Nightshade.” He paused a moment in his work and took to studying his niece with unabashed amusement.

There was the slightest of shrugs, causally making light of the subject matter as she moved around him and continued in her lazy stroll around the hot house. “I am curious. You have accused me of it enough.” Intentionally, her gaze lowered to study his hands as they gently separated the roots to be replanted. It was an utterly masculine hand, but long and slender-fingered, made for elegant, graceful gestures, yet without concealing inherent strength. Her fanciful imagination told her that this was a hand that was as at ease holding a weapon as it was being held out in a gesture of request for more information Tell me more, it beckoned. “I was thinking of experimenting with inbreeding of two species. So I should logically know about all of them, yes?”

His smile was mellow and warm, as was his voice when he answered. "Every action has a price, my little pretty. I didn't expect to dance for free around this obsession of yours."

Though she was slender, she hardly thought of herself as little, for she liked to believe she was rather tall for a woman. Willowy, was the term her mother had used; countering her father's contention that Selena's stature was regal. Her cousin Gregory called her a skinny roan colt, which she didn't mind hearing from him at all.

"I was not thinking about your price," she answered, trying to adopt his teasing tone while cursing her inability to hide her emotions. She had thought she was quite good at schooling her features to keep her thoughts to herself until this moment. Perhaps her partner was more discerning than most, or his charm made her guard slip. She'd have to be more careful. “So, you will tell me?” Gesturing to the variety of plants scattered in very organized chaos.” Start with this one, what makes it unique?”

Leaving his task, he moved to the plant indicated, eyes narrowed in deep thought as his fingers delicately brushed across a leaf. “Deadly nightshade has gone by many names, including belladonna, Devil's cherries, Naughty Man's cherries, Devil's Herb, Great Morel, and Dwayberry. It was once known as Dwale. The origin of the word is unknown; one scholar believes it is derived from the Scandinavian word dool, which means sleep.” Here he paused to cast a wink her way, drawing her into the story, “Others believe dwale is derived from the French word deuil, which means grief. The atropain name refers to one of the Greek Fates, Atropos, who held the shears, which cut the thread of human life. Belldonna is thought to refer to the practice of Italian ladies using the juice of the plant to dilate their pupils-this gave their eyes greater brilliancy.” Lifting his hands, he fluttered his fingers at his eye while batting his lashes.

In and of itself, Selena's bright laughter was an almost ordinary sound. Its timbre was neither shrill nor forced; a genuine, unaffected expression of amusement at some clever bit of conversation. It was pleasant, rather infectious. “Do continue, oh gracious one.”

With a bow at the waist, he nodded then tilted his head just so as the plant was examined further, “However, it could also refer to a superstition, which says that the plant can take on the form of an enchantress of great beauty. It is also thought that the priests of the goddess Bellona drank an infusion of the herb before invoking the aid of this goddess of war. Its poisonous nature is quite well known and has been used throughout the centuries. Poisoning by belladonna has the curious symptom of a complete loss of voice, along with continuous movements of the fingers and hands and bending of the trunk. It is supposedly this very plant, which poisoned Marcus Antonius' troops during the Parthian wars.” He paused here a moment, frowning as he plucked a dead leaf from the stem. It was carefully placed in a pocket to be disposed of in a manner that would bring none harm. Not even the rats, though there seemed to be a rare sighting of those lately. “In the History of Scotland, there is the tale that Macbeth poisoned an army of invading Danes using liquor infused with deadly nightshade. It was given to the Danes during a truce, so they did not suspect poison. When they fell into a deep sleep, the Scots fell upon them and murdered them easily.” If he had anything to say about the cowardice of such a move or the sheer brilliance of it, it was not voiced.

At times, her Uncle confused, amused and stimulated her. She had never been so drawn out of herself before. His bold statements was quite unlike anything she'd ever heard, it had led her toward an unexplored world. There was mystery here, and excitement. She wanted it to last.

Pointing to another plant, his arm encircled his niece’s waist, bringing her along for the ride on this tale. “Now this, this is Black nightshade, also known as Garden Nightshade or Petty Morel--to distinguish it from Deadly Nightshade, the Greater Morel. While it has a reputation as being exceedingly deadly, this is not the case. While it can be deadly, on the islands of Bourbon and Mauritius the leaves were once eaten like spinach. The berries of black nightshade are black like the berries of belladonna, but the flowers are white, unlike the dark purple flowers of belladonna.”

With her still at his side, he paused before yet a third plant. His voice lowered, drawing his arm away from Selena so he could kneel, turning the plant around and around so that she might admire it as much as he, “Woody nightshade is also known as bittersweet nightshade, dulcamara, felonwood, and felonwort. These days the name dulcamara is written more properly as Amaradulcis, and literally means "bittersweet". Felonwood and felonwort are not as sinister as they sound; felon is not referring to criminals, but rather to whitlow, which is inflammation of the toe or finger around the nail.” He plucked one of the plumb berries off and stood, holding it out to Selena enticingly, though there was a dark humor in his eyes as he now held a steady gaze on her, “The berries were used to cure this problem when other methods had failed. The plant was used for many medical conditions, including dissolving blood clots, for rheumatism, fever, and as a restorative. Farmers used it as a charm around the necks of animals they thought to be under an evil eye. Bittersweet berries are red rather than black like deadly nightshade.”

Taking up her considerably smaller hand, he placed the berry in the middle of her palm. “Careful which delectable looking berry calls to your temptations, my dearest Selena. For if you choose poorly, it shall not beckon you again.” He watched her a full minute in silence as her head was bent in study of the berry. He was glad she was a widow. It saved him the trouble of having to kill any man who dared touch her. The thought brought him up short, and back to sanity. Abruptly he turned and headed back to his work. "Go pester some poor sod and let a man work."

She was able to stop the heart-jolting response to her Uncle’s warning before it had a chance to disturb her hard-won poise. This wasn't the first time this foolish response had tried to overwhelm her. She merely had to get past surface similarities, be briefly polite to the warning and scolding Uncle, then make her escape with the excuse that Lord Summers had asked for his delivery to be a day early.

She supposed that after such a trying day she and Uncle James both needed rest, but she was so keyed up she didn't know how that was possible. Perhaps she should ask to join him in a drink, which would, of course, be no more ladylike than her swearing. Men got to have all the fun; women who joined them got called very ugly names. Some things she just had to keep to herself. For propriety’s sake, if not for her own peace of mind and sanity. Obediently, she slipped out the side oddr to go see about doing that very thing. Her Uncle missed that secretive smile she was sporting when she rounded the corner and headed for the stable.

[selena]

Having stolen away from her bed chamber early in the morn, much earlier than when her Uncle usually rose to see to the family business, Selena had already been busy preparing a package for delivery.

As she plucked the dull, darkish green leaves from the stems, each was placed on the scales carefully, almost reverently, she noticed an a disagreeable odor, forcing her to lean back as she worked. " Yet the flowers, so lovely.." The flowers were of a dark and dingy purplish color, tinged with green. Large pendent, bell-shaped, furrowed, the corolla with five large teeth or lobes, slightly reflexed. She was almost mesmerized with the berries, crushing one between her fingers experimentally. The five-cleft calyx spread round the base of the smooth berry, a shining black color, not unlike a small cherry. It proved to be full of a dark, inky juice, the aroma intensely sweet. To doubt their attraction to children on that account, had been attended with fatal results.

Pausing in her work, she glanced down at the mouse scampering from one shadowy corner to the next. On impulse, she dropped the crushed berry within a foot of the rodent, then drew very still, waiting to see what happened next as the vermin gobbled it up then had the audacity to look up at her as if asking for more. "Nothing. Hmm."

"So the root is the most poisonous, the leaves and flowers less so, and the berries, except to children, least of all. It is said that an adult may eat two or three berries without injury, but dangerous symptoms appear if more are taken, and it is wiser not to attempt the experiment." Carrying on the conversation apparently with the rodent, she smiled as she exchanged a multitude of the berries for the roots she had so carefully set aside. She cut a sidelong glance to the mouse as it set up on it's hindquarters and regarded her with a twitching nose. "Though so powerful in its action on the human body, the plant seems to affect some of the lower animals but little. And you, dear, are quite small. I find that extraordinary. Why, just yesterday Maxwell told me that eight pounds of the herb are said to have been eaten by a horse without causing any injury, and an ass swallowed a pound of the ripe berries without any bad results following."

Tipping her gaze toward the scales, she eyed the numbers skeptically, then added four more thick roots and a hand full of berries and petals each. The scale tipped over to near a pound and a quarter. Satisfied with that, she swiped her hands carefully in the water basin then dried them on the apron tied about her waste. "So, Sir Percival, shall I give up my secrets?" Having dubbed the vermin with a name, she deemed he might live a while longer to keep her company. "Or shall I mix you a most vile substance of mustard and water to drink. Your stomach will turn inside out, but you will live. If the berry does prove fatal."

Turning from the wee creature, she gathered up the foliage from the scales and gingerly placed it upon the prepared oilcloth. Folding the sides up with practiced ease, it was tied off firmly with a strip of leather next. It was when the whole of the process was completed she cleaned up the evidence of her mornings work then washed her hands vigorously. Wouldn't do at all to mix the berry juice of Deadly Nightshade with her morning jam.

[selena]

The day had dawned milder, and much earlier, than expected. Heavy cloak was exchanged for a lighter variety, still enough wool to keep her warm as the crisp wind of the night crept in off the sea and swept down off the mountain. That cloak, coupled with the layered wool skirt of hunter green and a bodice of gold brocade over the thicker peasant blouse sufficed in keeping her warm. Of course, that new scarf was wrapped about her throat, to avoid any sudden downward drafts.

Pausing on the edge of the cobbled road, she shifted from one fur line booted foot to the next, watching the inky black shadows hidden in the alleys passage. The road could do with more lanterns to fight back the night. Not that she was afraid of the dark but those without caution or fear, well they met an early death.

With that thick bundle of oilcloth clasped firmly beneath the curl of her arm, her right hand was free to gather the material of her skirt in her fingers and lift the hem clear of her boots, so she might not only cross the road safely but to aid in her upward ascent to the porch. She could at least hear the wind blowing this evening as it kicked up those unruly curls and danced them across her eyes, almost hindering her ascent to a tumble. Hearing herself think was not really a priority when she visited this tavern. Mainly because it often proved fruitless to even try. Sure footed though, she was up straight and crossing the porch without a hitch in her breath.

She shot off a smile for no one in particular yet anyone that happens to catch it. Well, Ben she knew at least by sight and a somewhat haphazard introduction.” Hello!" He got a full on grin as she grasped the door latch and swung it back to meet the gust of warm air and questionable aromas that poured out into the night from inside. Soon enough the door was closing behind her as she traveled across the room to find Bess and a steaming mug of coffee. "Evening, dear."

She had been lost to her thoughts, not a good thing to do in a place such as this, but it happens. Slow blink as attention would turn upon the room and those within. Still nestled in her little corner of the world, out of the way and of trouble. Mug on the rise to slowly sip from before attention turned back to that window at her side, taking another glance down the alley before focus was back upon the room, and those who chose to be within the tavern this

She was just in an exceptional mood this evening. Perhaps it had been a day full of hard work, but work well done just the same. She took pride in her work. And was not one to steal, not even time owed to another. Plus, no one had died! At least that she knew of. Well, no one she knew personally, anyway. "Coffee. Add just a wee dram of Irish whiskey, aye?"
Tipping her a grin, she maintained a firm grip on her package as she bowed her head forward with a slight turn, glancing about the common room under the fall of thick black lashes. Her quarry spotted, she turned back to Bess with a nod of thanks, dropped the coins into her hand and took up her drink.

It was while observing the room; the one she had been awaiting on was spotted. Soon enough she'd have what she came for. Turning to face the room a bit more, although the window was kept in sight. Focus would fix upon the woman to be bearing her gift; well not really a gift, because she had to pay for it. Mug on the rise to slowly sip more of the contents within.

Turning on her heels, she sidestepped around one that appeared transfixed with his image. A curious glance back was the totality of the inspection upon the oddity of it all before her attention shifted once more. Ekaternia received a warm smile as she approached her table, and as always, she would ask to be granted a chair in her company first. "Good evening, Miss Ekaternia. I trust all is well with you?" Motioning to the chair opposite the woman with a gesture of her hand.

Hand motioned towards the empty seats of her table. A whisper of a smile returned, there and gone with the intake of a single breath. "As well as to be expected Mein Dame Selena." Responded before that leather encased hand lower to join its twin about the mug. "I got your note from Bess on you being here with my order tonight." Cut to the chase and right to the point. It's not that she was anxious; she just wanted to get business over with so she could return to her moment of leisure.

She lowered into the chair with a grace that belied her stomp up the steps. Smoothing out her skirt, the mug of coffee was set to the table and promptly forgotten for the moment as the bundle of oilcloth was settled in the middle of the table, quite on purpose. "I am pleased to hear such. The woman does prove to be of use. Past that of pouring a drink" There was a slow smile began before it ended and she was settled in the middle of the table, quite on purpose, so she might pick it up at her leisure. There was a slow smile began before it ended and she was contemplating the tavern for a moment. They seriously needed to find another gin joint. "I think you will find this of a superior quality. I chose, from ...the most intriguing of the three variety we had in the hot house."

"How much?" Inquired, as the mug was set aside and the package to be drawn towards her. She'd not open it yet, not here anyways. It would be set upon the ground beside her for now, between her chair and the wall. "I appreciate you taking the time to ensure the Nightshade is of top quality." Added as her hand moved for the pouch at her side. She would keep her word on giving the woman a bonus for promptness.

"I enjoy my work" Added almost absently at her words of thanks. However, she had been considering the cost all day. Her Uncle only charged two silvers. Even for the most exquisite of his cross breed plants. Fingers tapped across the table as she debated inwardly then finally glanced back her way. "Six silvers." She had after all butchered three of her Uncles plants. She intended to pay him in return what she had 'sold'.

Slow nod, the pouch opened and two coins withdrawn. Sliding the glinting gold metal across to the woman. "Including the bonus, as promised." The coins released for the woman to collect, she'd reclose that pouch and secure it back on her side. "I'll be in touch with you if I require any more plants. Our business is concluded ... that is... unless you have access to venoms." Sidelong glance over at the woman.

She tempered her smile down to a nod of gratitude as her hand fell over the coins to draw them across the table. Eventually, they found way into a hidden pouch beneath the cloak. Her hand was soon there after upon the mug to have it lifted for a mild sip of the coffee. "What types hold your curiosity?" Shifting her gaze from the study of the room back to her.

"Black widow, Mojave Rattlesnake, cobra, and Funnel Spider, to be exact. An ounce of each, minimum." Offered as that mug was on the uptake, to finish off the brew it contained within. Pale pools of blue remained upon the woman as she announced her order in that usual undertone.

She grimaced outwardly, only a small bout of squeamish laughter escaping to shake off her own squirms to the mention of the wanted specimens. "No centipedes? Caterpillars? What say you to jellyfish? Many hold a deadly delivery of intimacy, though they look so warm and fussy." The casual teasing manner fell aside even as her gaze fell to the mug of coffee. "I have a very off..." She paused, smiling to herself at the description given of Jonas, "friend. I might be able to help. An ounce. I shall look in to it for you." She finally lifted her gaze to consider the woman further. "I can not quote a price, however, for I know not what he deems appropriate." She drew in a breath then turned to lean into the table, arms crossed before her. "Have you a limit on what you shall
pay, Miss Ekaternia?"

Brows furrowed slightly, those icy shards took on a hardened nature as they met the woman's gaze in full. She found no humor in the woman's words, and it showed. "I want to know by the marrow if you can or not. If not, I'll find it elsewhere." A bit curt were her words perhaps to the woman who was just trying to be friendly. "I have said before, payment is no option. I know their value and you will know if I think you're trying to rob me or not." Offered before looking away to motion towards Bess, then indicate her mug in need of a refill. Pale blue eyes were back upon Selena again with their intense study.

It was moments like this she wished she smoked; to hide behind the blue-gray veil of airless gauze. She offered a nod, all humor lost in an instant. "Of course. I would not deliver you a… product I did not consider superior. Or one I would not deem worthy of my own coin. I shall contact my friend. And if it is something I deem worthy, I shall let you know." With a final nod, her fingers drummed across her mug of tepid coffee before it was finally drawn up and nearly drained of the contents.

Seemingly appeased by the woman's promise, a nod offered and features soften a bit, more returned to that emotionless state that seemed natural. "Good." She found the woman to be worthy in her trade, not that she let the woman know verbally, she did so with the extra coin she managed to offer in those payments. "I have to have them no later than three days before Christmas." Someone's Yule was going to be anything but happy. An up nod to Bess when the refreshed mug was delivered. Yes, she could be considered the Grinch, except her heart wasn't one that would so easily melt. She cared little for the celebration and all the frills so many put out for it. In fact, she found it to be a waste of energy and time.

"Three days..." Her words trailed off as her head angled to the left, debating the chances of hunting down Jonas. The little freak was always out hunting for bugs and vile creatures. "I will let you know by the sunset on the morrow." She was already bracing herself to be squirming. A mental note to stash a dagger in her boot incase Jonas decided to pull pranks again. “I hate bugs." Murmured before she drained off her drink and handed it off to Bess when she returned. "Wee bit more of the Irish this time?"

"Good!" Sated by the woman's words, she'd now relax back upon that chair, all business concluded. It was time to return to that state of leisure, focus of those intense blues upon the room and the sparse patronage within. Even in the cold, most remained out of doors. It left little to watch within, but even the few gathered were better than nothing.

Selena was brooding for a moment over the prospect of seeing Jonas. He really was...weird! Near sliding down into her chair, she tried to rekindle her jubilant mood. Spiders and bugs were a hindrance to her good humor. As a way of changing the conversation and the course of her thoughts, she glanced to the timepiece hidden in her bodice. "Have you ever had tea with a Queen?" She was obviously worried about this!

Just a touch of a smirk and a glance over at Selena with that inquire. "I've had tea with several queens. God rest their lazy pathetic souls." Still in that undertone, a glint in baby blues. Was she joking? Hard to tell at the moment. "Don't eat the cakes served, people tend to choke on them."


She shot a quick glance her way, those eyebrows lifted in question, though never voiced. "Indeed. Hmm." She sat up straighter and thanked Bess when the refreshed mug arrived. "I have received a summons to see Queen LeFray of Orkney?" d**ned if she knew what to eat or drink. Half tempted to arrive with her drink in hand. Now, that would be crass! "I think I am supposed to make an appearance at the castle. d**nation. This is what comes of delivering flowers." She was accustomed to the Lion's Mane. This was a bit more involved. She glanced down at her attire, brushing off a stray piece of lint that was probably never there.

Having heard of those lands, but never personally visiting there, a glance cast back over to Selena as the mug slowly lowered to rest atop her lap. "Why you so worried about a meeting to sip tea?" Brow rose a bit and it was now she’d lean closer to the woman. "They are no better than you are, and in fact, if you were to ask me. Your worth is ten fold any of those who sit all high and mighty with a ton of gold to crown their head. They bleed just as red as anyone else. Don't let the peathingy worry you!" Curt nod and she was leaning back upon her seat. Yes, she had a problem with the blue bloods, the reasons were her own.

With the delivery of Ekaternia's words, she had grown still, and then started smiling, only to laugh. "You speak true." She drew in a deep breath, stilling her own apprehension. "I just wonder about being invited to tea and meeting...those...them." What on earth would they have in common or have to speak of? And it would be assured her past would never be uttered to a soul. "Just a tad bit of something to wonder about. But I thank you, for the reassurance."

"A bunch of whining, sniveling gossips are what they all are. You have something juicy to tell them by way of a story, you're in tight." Hand lifted, leather encased fingers would snap together. "Compliment them plenty, you’ll have them eating out of your hands. Laugh at their pitiful jokes, offer a compassionate look or touch if it seems they're upset in any way. They thrive on being the center of attention. Remember that, and you'll do fine, in fact, they may view you as their own, just to keep you around because you performed so well." Slowly nodding. How shallow she made royal bloods seem; perhaps because there was a lot of truth in those words, and she had the guts to voice them.

She considered her words as she sipped on the coffee, and then gulped the laced brew down. Was she helping, or making it worse? She visibly blanched at the mention of being the center of attention. "Cripes. I will end up insulting the lot of them!"

She couldn't help but to chuckle as she stood from her seat. "If you say it sweetly enough, they may view it as a compliment." Cloak snagged and placed about shoulders, that package snagged. "Guten Nacht Mein Dame Selena." Nod of her head and she was reroute towards the back door. Never one for prolonged good-byes.

Well, that was just perfect! Just as she was about to drag the woman with her, she departed! But the advice and laughter was greeted with her own as she rose from her own seat. Moving for the door, she was arranging the scarf as she slipped out the door via a shoulder. There was a smile for those about on the porch as she started down the steps.

[selena]

Selena caught the eye of the barmaid as she walked into The Coin Purse, a small hole-in-the-wall tavern that was different enough from The Drunken Rat that it managed to survive. The barmaid smiled warmly with recognition and disappeared into the kitchen, presumably to get Selena's usual - a cup of tea and some bread and cheese. Selena sighed with relief at being back in familiar territory and found a little out of the way table to set down her satchel and await the barmaid. Tonight would not be quite as lucrative since the Purse was not as popular. But Selena had not liked the way a particular Drunken Rat customer had leered at her last night, and she just didn't feel that she could face him again today. So she would put up with less income in return for feeling safer and seeing friendlier faces. Not that she would be tarrying long at the Coin Purse any longer than she had at The Drunken Rat. It was just the first stop on her way to another.

The barmaid brought out the tea, bread and cheese and plopped into the chair next to Selena. "You gonna linger some with us tonight, doll?" She asked with a grin. Selena smiled and shook her head as she took a sip of the warm sweet tea. "You know, we miss you here! I know you have more business dealings at the Rat, but its always a blessin' when you grace us with your presence, you know." The barmaid rambled pleasantly.

"I'm sorry I'm not here that often,Talia. But the Purse is still my favorite place to visit, mostly because of your lovely face." Selena said with a chuckle. Talia smiled ruefully and playfully punched Selena's shoulder at the compliment. Selena laughed at the good natured beating.

The bartender, Andreas, heard the laughter, looking up from his heated discussion with a bar patron over the latest scandal involving the Smithy and the Captain of the Guard's daughter. He smiled at the two at the table then went back to hearing about the saucy details that could, or would, only be passed between men discussing a woman's attributes and assets..

A warm smile was returned easily to the man. He was the other reason Selena came to the Purse. He was a friendly bartender, but he was also something more. Something dark and sinister rested behind those twinkling eyes. Selena could always count on being welcomed and protected when she came here. As well as gathering needed information on the whereabouts of one dubious character.

Talia, yelling some taunting remark to a departing patron gave Selena a moment to relax, letting the mood of the place flow through her in preparation for her up coming escapade. Her eyes drifted closed, not out of fatigue but a sort of spaced-out concentration, focusing her hearing and letting the combined sounds of the tavern make a kind of music to her ears. Her music was always best when she tried to compliment that communal sound, rather than play against it.

As she listened, though, a voice detached itself from the other sounds. "...in two nights...meeting...empty warehouse..... stashed..." She didn't hear every word, but the ones she did hear seemed unnaturally loud and clear to her, as though someone was speaking directly to her. It startled her and she opened her eyes, looking around to see who it might be. But the voice was suddenly part of the multitude again and she couldn't tell who it might have been. Certainly no one was speaking to her at all. "Talia, where might I find Jonas? Is he about on a wild hunt, or is he holed up in that terrifying place he calls home?" Attention was quickly back to the barmaid, wanting to get this unsavory business over with as soon as possible suddenly. Both women were leaning across the table next, their voices dropped low, noses nearly touching as the news was passed from one pair of lips to an eager ear.

It was only a matter of moments later that the tea had been consumed, the bread and cheese gathered in her hand to carry with her, that Selena was drifting out the back door with all the stealth of a mouse scampering behind tavern walls and Talia was retreating back to her serving station. Much to Selena's dismay, Jonas was indeed in town. "Blasted." Murmured as the cloak's hood was flicked up over her head and she was turning to cut through the shadowed alley to head for that dark path that lead toward the marsh area.