RP:A Sweet Surprise

Summary: Thalra is bored out of her mind and looking for a distraction when her favorite witch, Lanara, happens into her shop. After giving the woman a brief tour of the newly constructed tincture shop, and her spacious suite, the pair chat about their animal companions and love lives. Lunch follows, at the Whaler's, and the two women make plans to exercise together every Sunday morning. The drow catches the eye of a man at the bar, and Lana takes that as her cue to leave.

Thalra closed her eyes as she listened to the interior decorator drone on and on in regards to the furnishings and choice fabrics to be used on the ground floor decorum of her store. Construction had begun only a few months prior in advance to making her stay in these lands. With the building built and the elevator doors being put in as she was listening to the interior decorator who was soon to be having conflict with the arrival of exterior decorator who had just come in from outside, probably to yap about some worker who spilled paint on a white wall. Opening her eyes to the deciding to settle the matter, she said, “Jacque use the purple and gold where you can and use the red sparingly preferably where we will be adding the love related elixirs and potions, I prefer silk not cotton, and Huan, If someone spilled paint on the white wall, I am sure that an artist of your talents has the capacity to take an accident and make it look intentional.” Hearing no further complaints she nodded to each of them to continue where they are needed. Moving to the window that was still being put in place Thalra cast her eyes above the walled in courtyard to the setting sun. “I desperately need an outing,” She told herself, “Any more of this for a week and surely I will be driven mad, surely there must be someone I could meet or hang with.” She felt a nudge at her knee and glanced down to see Shiloh nudging her as if to say “You have me.” Kneeling down to give her frost drake a hug, she smiled as she held her. “Oh Shiloh of course I have you, and Sherman too, but I need people company too, not…” She cast a glance around the workmen and artists, “Not employed staff.” She whispered, planting a kiss on her snout. Rising from her kneel she removed an orange from the bowl of fruit that one of the artists had been modeling earlier, and peeled it and placed the peeled fruit in a funnel shaped metal pipe at the base of the wall. Shiloh who reached to get it casually blew her chilled breath into the pipe and all across the room, the air chilled down a considerable bit against the heat of afternoon. It was a simple invention, but not hers, something from her homeland, and so long as she was here and not there, she might as well take credit for it, if anything frost drakes might become a common household pet, which meant her friend Lanara would have her work cut out for her, at the animal sanctuary. “Ah Lanara, I could use a friend right now, if only you were close by, I could use an outing right about now.”

Lanara just happens to be in the area, wearing an orange bikini, a flower print silk sarong, sandals, and a straw bag hangs over a slender shoulder. An oversized white hat is atop her head, and her long locks flow freely, as she pauses to clean her sunglasses, before reapplying them to her face. The sun was a monster today, and the heat was in the upper nineties, so her attire is fitting, especially as she had spent the morning working on her tan. Tiber had been kind enough to give her a permission slip so she could peruse the wares at the market, get in some relaxation at the beach, and be home before dark. So far, she’d had a peaceful day, and no drug-induced thugs were trailing her, at least none that she had noticed. The elf looks to be in her element, and it’s no wonder she was once a swimsuit model, as she has the most flawless figure, slender and toned, though not buff in the slightest. Glancing at her heels, one would see that she’s not alone, and that an animal companion is along for the days adventures. Aspen, a polar bear cub, walks bipedal and holds onto Lana’s hand, looking up at her every so often with those big brown eyes. “I know, I know… It’s very hot outside. But, I told you stay at the sanctuary, love!” Lana pauses, her lips curving into a grin, “I missed you, too. In a few weeks I’ll be home before you know it… And maybe I’ll bring you to Tiber’s, but only if you promise to be a very, very, good cub!” As if the adorable cub could be anything but obedient, he solemnly nods his head, though the scent of an orange being squeezed nearby has his black nose twitching. “Ooh…” Lana is literally drug by the small cub towards the construction zone, and she stands at the threshold, speaking in a whisper and trying to divert the cub in the opposite direction. She heard that someone was renovating the place into a potion palace, of sorts, and she’s pleased. Cenril could use some good influence, as it was running rampant with drugs, gangs, and all sorts of ill-mannered criminals. Little does she know, but her acquaintance Thalra was the owner!

Thalra herself wore her bikini beneath her red single piece silk gown which had a purple cloth wrapped around her waist to hold it in place. Her loose garments normally hid most of her athletic, slender, figure, but it was considerably more difficult to hide her more generous bosom. She had intended to go about the day maybe even try the beach but now with the sun going down, it only meant more dangerous life would be out and about on the beach, she wasn't worried about the sun, it was practically impossible for her to tan. She was about to raise her large red hat from the table when she heard a faint growl or whine. "Too big to be a dog, must be a..." She turned towards the sound noticing a polar bear and soon the woman behind it. "By Drex, Lanara." She chuckled making a smile as she invited her in, "Come in, it’s a lot cooler in here, I apologize for the state of things, construction is killer these days." The room was significantly cooler but it was ever so slightly warming up hardly noticeable though namely because Shiloh was no doubt making her way over to her former owner to give the warmest welcome a frost drake hatchling could give. "You look like you just enjoyed a hot day in the sun." She smiled at Lanara and then at the polar bear as she removed the basket of fruit from the counter and set it down on the floor for the polar bear to enjoy. "Damn girl, did you model or something? You look like you’re the next Miss Lithrydel! So this is my place, yes, shop at ground floor, offices for health to rent on second, 3rd, 4th, and 5th, to make the wares, and by golly a sixth floor residence to boot. Would you like a tour, or would you rather like to see it when its complete? Have you eaten yet? I am in desperate need of an outing."

Lanara pauses as Aspen gives her hand a firm jerk over the threshold, and she looks around their new surroundings, her dark gaze taking in all that’s going on around them. Construction workers are measuring in one corner, while a team of handymen are nailing wooden beams into place, and further into the room she spies a few enchanters, likely working on installing the magical lighting and electrical work. “We shouldn’t be in here…” She whispers to the cub, giving him a gentle tug towards the exit, when the sound of her name draws her attention to the left. “Thalra? Is that you?” Blinking, Lana approaches the drow and leans in for the customary kiss to ones cheek, as Shiloh eagerly awaits a greeting of her own. Bending, Lana pats the frost drake on the head, giving her snout a peck, as the little drake nuzzles against her side, in return. Shiloh’s piercing blue gaze narrow on Aspen, and as the cub drops Lana’s hand and plucks an orange from the offered fruit bowl, he rolls it towards Shiloh. The two women stand side by side, as they watch the drake’s reaction, and she gives in, as the two roll the orange back and forth, as though it were a ball. Aspen is delighted to have found a playmate, and the cooler climate suits him well, so he firmly plants his furry butt to the floor and the two make nice over a bowl of fruit. The witch giggles as the precious cub finds friends everywhere he goes, and she looks around the building, nodding and imagining all that Thalra is describing. “It’s going to be wonderful! And it’s not too far from the sanctuary. I will be a regular customer, and I wish you the best of luck in your new business!” She gives the drow a warm smile, though her cheeks flood with color at the swimsuit model compliment. “Actually… I modeled a few years ago for Kreekitaka. He used me most for the swimsuit collection, though the ball gowns were my favorite collection. Every girl loves to feel like a princess!” She chuckles, and if Thalra did her research she’d know that Kree was a legendary fashion designer, and that his least expensive garments were still well over ten thousand gold coins. There’s an awkward pause, before Lana points to Shiloh, “How is she adjusting to life outside of the sanctuary? I see that you two seemed to have bonded quite well. That makes me so happy!” Lana would wait for a reply, before nodding, “A tour would be wonderful, and why don’t we grab a bite to eat? I owe you lunch, if I’m not mistaken.” She wasn’t in any real rush to get back to Tiber’s place, anyway, as he had his own work to focus on, and she was a bit of a distraction.

Thalra smiled broadly and applies the customary tradition. Watching with some enjoyment as Aspen and Shiloh get acquainted, Thalra motions Shiloh to take the orange and Aspen into the back room, to get Sherman included. “They should be fine,” as she watched them wander off. “Especially while I give a tour and we get some food.” She leads her to the grand staircase, and motions to follow. “So the second floor, is going to be occupied with possibly healers, physical trainers, dance instructors , and just about any soul seeking a place to call their own office, each room for rent is over 2000 square feet. If you’re looking for some extra space, you can definitely choose from over 30 rooms. The rooms of course were empty but spacious no doubt waiting to be fitted. Returning to second floor main entrance, she motions to the elevator. From here this is the only access to the floors above, its a way to keep customers from going where they should not be going. Entering the elevator which showed signs of construction and lack of polish, and smelled of newly crafted metal. As the elevator began to rise she returned to a previous question, “Yes Shiloh is adjusting quite well, she has fallen in love with another of my pets, well brother sisterly speaking, I shudder at what offspring they would have if it really was the other thing.” If Lanara asked what her other pet was she would reply with, “I’ll tell you later.” As the elevator doors opened to a massive room. Massive metal containers with what could be assumed trailed from 50’ from the elevator off and continued in two rows each row with a total of ten massive 500 gallon mixers. Above were catwalks where cranes held up vast containers of what could later hold powders and liquids, and lots of additional potion making supplies, the containers seemed to be on a rail of sorts and large harness for what were likely to be drakes of some sort would be used to pull the containers along the rail to and from a large section beyond the mixers. Above the catwalks a network of offices seemed exist connected by additional catwalks No doubt to allow overseers to give instructions to each mixing team. “I plan on exporting what I can’t sell here, just the same some of my ingredients will have to be imported. At least until some farmers and gather’s catch on that I will pay for ingredients.” She pulled out a key from between her bosom, and stuck it in the elevator, and turned it. As the elevator rose. She said, “I have heard of Kree, he owns a shop in Larket doesn’t he? Yeah maybe sometime I will buy a dress from him, until then, I just buy foreign imports, well except for this bright green bikini I picked up, I wanted to go to the beach today but, work.” As the doors opened the suite Thalra had came into view. Stepping out of the elevator the lights magically came on, revealing the living room, and then the dining room, and the west hall leading to the master bath and bedroom, while the east hall led to the guest bedrooms and guest bathrooms as well as a door which opened to the roof of the store/factory. It afforded a great view of Cenril sure the cathedral and town hall blocked some of the view, but in the end it still captured a great view over the city and the seaside. “I really want to have a party here when everything is done, a grand opening for the customers and a night with some friends.” She listened to any comments and questions Lanara might ask. Afterward she would ask, “Do you know of some good places to eat at here?”

Lanara is so happy to see the two unlikely animals making friends, as Aspen lifts a banana and throws it at one of the construction workers. The cub, thinking it was a boomerang, realizes his mishap and claps his paws, as though amused. Shiloh snorts, and leads the cub behind a desk, where they both peer at the man who drops his hammer and looks around, trying to find the source of the one that assaulted him with fruit. “They are already partners in crime!” Lana giggles and follows Thalra through the area, being careful where she steps, and she forgets to ask ‘who’ or ‘what’ Sherman is, as she’s busy making certain not to step on a nail. The offer of renting a room there is mentally noted, as the bardic academy in Schezerade was under severe construction since the downfall with Kahran. The headmistress was still missing, and as far as Lana knew, only a handful of her associates remained. Being a dance instructor, she considers this, as she’d been giving private classes in the holding room of the animal sanctuary, and that wasn’t the ideal location. Approaching the elevator, Lana is hesitant, as she’s never been inside a box that went up and down, and she eyes the pulleys with caution. Heights didn’t scare her, however the feeling of being trapped, even if only for a few moments, didn’t sit well. She swallows, hoping she doesn’t have a panic attack as the doors close, and thankfully her slight claustrophobia keeps quiet. The bell chimes and the two women exit the sliding doors, as Lana’s eyes take in the luxurious penthouse that Thalra had built to reside. “Wow! This is fancy!” Running her palm along the leather sofa, she walks to the edge of the living room and peers out at the picturesque view of the city of Cenril. She spots a few of the landmarks, and she smiles, before her eyes gaze upon the corner view of the spacious sand, and the waves crashing against the shore. This was literally a beach house, a business district, and a tincture shop, all in one! She takes a quick tour, eyeing the master bedroom, the dining room, and she opens the door that leads to the balcony, her dark eyes widening in slight jealousy. She wanted a balcony. “Oh my gosh! This is just the most breathtaking home. I’m so proud of you, Thalra, for all of your accomplishments. And I wish you the best of luck with your business venture.” Closing the door, the witch turns to smile at her friend, nodding in agreement. “Let me know when you are having the housewarming party, and the grand opening of your shop. I would love to attend both, if I’m able.” There’s a pause, “I also have some connections. My friend Khitti, she owns the Ginger Snapped Bakery on the outskirts of town. And I’m also in touch with The Sound of Sirens, and The Backstreet Bards, depending on what sort of music you’re into…” Everyone knew that the witch threw the most lavish parties, and every event had a huge turn-out, so she’s happy to help the drow plan a dope affair. A glance down at her bikini clad body shows that they aren’t able to go anywhere formal for lunch, so she purses her full lips, and shrugs. “There’s the Whaler’s… But I know a good food vendor over near the market district. He makes the best kebobs and there are benches on the beach that we can sit at and enjoy our meal. Does that work?”

Thalra smiled, "Your gracious with your compliments. You will be the first to know the date, and I may take advantage of your friend and your connections, it will be less the music I like, and what will draw the biggest crowd. Besides no in Lithrydel I bet knows how to play an ivory air harp. Which reminds I’m going to have to request an import of those." She pulls a note pad out of her shirt and writes that down. "I have some clothes you could borrow, if you wish, I think they might fit, but if we are going to the beach, I think I might want to be dressed as such." She smiled mischievously. She went behind a curtain if Lanara decided to check out her closet, whatever Lana did she was out quickly. "So where is this kebob?" She said motioning to the elevator. For the first time Lanara might get a better look at Thalra since the woman always wore loose clothes to hide her form. She was scarless, her body was shapely yet well defined, she had a desire, but it wasn't more than a twice glance ass. Her bosom was another matter, it was large, attractive and little more generous than what might be considered perfect. Her form was like a gymnast, slender yet athletic, like a runner. "Do you want to bring the pets with us? I can leave Sherman at home, he'll mind himself."

Lanara doesn’t feel entirely comfortable borrowing clothes from the woman, at least not this soon in their budding friendship. She merely nods and smiles, while walking over to a mirror and fixing her hair and untying the sarong from around her waist. Folding it in half, she fits it over her lower half, where it hugs her legendary derriere, and mimics a skirt. The bikini top is much harder to work with, and so she tugs a white cardigan from a hanger and fits it over her form. Thalra is a few inches taller and has a slightly larger frame, so it’s loose on Lana, though it manages to cover her arms and torso, so they could actually go to the Whaler’s and not draw too much attention. “Alright. This will work. And I can hand you the sweater back before we leave… Why don’t we bring our pets along? I know Aspen would love to grab some grub. The Whaler’s has these amazing cod sandwiches that are a polar bear’s dream!” Giggling, she gives the drow a once over as she reappears and her gaze lingers on the skin tight dress. “You look lovely. Do you work out often, Thalra? I am constantly dancing and chasing after my fur babies. I also jog two miles every morning, at dawn.” The duo steps into the elevator and Lana is babbling about the kebobs that are dipped in this cucumber sauce, akin to a modern day version of Greek food. “We’ll do that another day though, when we don’t have the animals. Let’s try the Whalers. Plus, you’ll get to know the regulars and can post about your shop opening on the tavern board!” There’s a pause, as she quirks a perfectly plucked brow, “Who is Sherman? Is that a pet sitter? Or a co-worker?” The elf didn’t feel comfortable leaving the bear cub out of her sight, let alone in a dangerous construction zone.

Thalra chuckled in response to the question about working out. "I do actually, at dawn I run about twelve miles, and I spend an hour doing a gymnastic sport from my homeland, very grueling workout, and then I hit the baths of Cenril by 8 am. Of course I also cheat a little bit, there are several potions that can speed up your metabolism, and help build muscle quicker, course it was a lot easier when I was a C, made the mistake of using a potion to help feed my newborns, and it did a permanent number on me, thus the DD, so I use a workouts to strengthen the back muscles." She chuckles, thinking about it. "My husband at the time couldn't have been happier though so it wasn't a total loss." She nodded in motion for the decision to go to the whalers. "I will definitely put up notice to tavern board." The doors opened to the lobby as Shiloh was being chased by Aspen, thankfully Sherman wasn't in the group. "Sherman is a pet I imported from home, very unique, omnivorous, very well the only omnviorous snake in these lands. He's likely in the back room, so you don't have to see him," She was understanding if Lana freaked for a second at the thought of it. "Lemme go check up on him before we leave and then let’s go take the animals to the whalers." As she entered the back room a voice was distinct with a lisp, "Leaving me ssssso ssssssoooon?" She closed the door, "Yes Sherman, unless you want to....." The door shut the conversation unheard, Thalra emerges a bit later wearing a short gown over her bright green bikini. "Okay let’s go." On the way she would ask, "You ever want to walk in the mornings before dawn, I would love to have a walking partner, or we could just meet up at the baths, if you get there at 8:15 there is this forty five minute lull until the place begins to fill up."

Lanara nods as Thalra mentions breastfeeding and her workout routine, the witch somewhat surprised at how open the drow is with her, a woman she barely knows. This was their third meeting, and they were quickly becoming friends, and it’s almost refreshing that the drow is so honest. It was a rarity these days, as more often than not, one harbored deep, dark, secrets. She smiles, not quite able to relate to motherhood, though she does quirk a brow at the thought of running twelve miles every morning. “It shows that you keep in shape. I do aerial yoga, and I do offer private dance lessons, aside from my morning jogs, that I told you about. Twelve miles a day would be a bit of a stretch for me, though.” She laughs, knowing that her tiny body would call it overkill and give out on her after the fifth mile or so. As the door opens, Aspen comes barreling around the corner and launches himself into Lana’s arms, only to stick his tongue out at Shiloh, in a playful manner. Apparently they were playing tag, and the cub had just won this round! Offering the witch a handful of mushed banana, she wrinkles her nose and shakes her head, “No, that’s all yours, Sweetie.” She’s focusing on avoiding getting goo in her hair as Thalra explains who Sherman is, and she only half-hears Thalra, until the word ‘snake’ is uttered. “WHAT?! You have a snake in this place?!” It was too close for comfort, even if it was kept locked behind a strong door. It breathed, and therefore it was a horrifying concept to the woman. Hugging Aspen closer in her arms, she drops her hand to rest upon Shiloh’s snout, and she pales, as she meets Thalra’s gaze. “Um. We-we-We’ll just wait outside, okay?” They part ways as the drow visits with the serpent and slips into a dress and Lana escorts the frost drake and bear cub through the construction and onto the beach of Cenril. They’d wait a few moments, before Thalra emerges and they make their way towards the Whalers Bar. “I would love to have a walking partner! Maybe on Sunday mornings? We could meet at the tavern in Kelay, and make our way to the bath house… That’s nearly a four mile stretch. After our baths, we can grab a quick lunch at the market and I can get you into the kebobs!”

Thalra smiled walking alongside Lana. "Sorry about Sherman, I might take you up on those dance lessons though, I am not exactly known for my skill in dancing and I desire to improve it .If you end up using the place here, rest assured I'll make sure Sherman isn't present." She stroked Shiloh who followed by her side as they walked down Merchant Street. "I think Sunday morning would definitely work, I usually reduce my workouts at least one day a week, so I guess I can make that day Sunday. I think that will definitely work out, I do take Sundays off from work, anyway back home at least it was a considered a day of rest so, I think I could definitely fit that in." As they turned toward the intersection Thalra added. "Any particular warnings you want to give me about the Whalers before we enter?" She asked as she approached the door.

Lanara lowers Aspen to the ground so that he can walk bipedal at her side, and as predicted, the cub insists on holding her hand. She walks hand-in-paw with her fur child, with Thalra and Shiloh at her side, and though they all are an odd spectacle walking through the center of town, several stop and stare and wear smiles. It was refreshing to see a smiling drow, two rare species of animals, and a pretty brunette, all enjoying the company of one another. Cenril was notorious for being overridden with gang activity, drugs, and brawling drunkards, which is the exact opposite of the quartet. The door to the Whaler’s is opened and Lana replies to Thalra’s inquiry about taking dance classes, her expression relieved to hear that Sherman wouldn’t be present. “Sure, I can give you some pointers. What styles of dance are you more interested in learning? If it’s ballroom, I would advise you to find a male partner. Since the school closed in Schezerade… Finding a male dancer has been hard, as they are so scarce.” Still, she could teach the woman ballet, tap, jazz, or a variety of other styles. However, if she wanted ballroom, it would be difficult for Lana to play the part of the male, the lead, as she was much smaller in frame than Thalra. Lifts would be impossible. “Great, we’ll meet on Sunday mornings, then!” Her lips curve up into a breathtaking smile, and a male in the corner catcalls as the two beauties enter the Whalers. It’s uncertain which woman he’s whistling at, and Lanara chooses to ignore it, as she winks at Thalra over her shoulder. “Whalers is known for misbehaving men, overpriced drinks, decent food, and drunken fun. We should feel right at home!” She laughs, as they choose a table on the left side of the room, and Lana gently puts Aspen in a high chair before they eye the menu.

Thalra shrugged as she sat down at the table. "Well when it comes to dancing what would be the best kind of dancing to draw in a males attention, or something one could do at a night club, if there is one in this city?" Thalra knew a bit about ballroom dancing, not a lot but some. "So which of us do you think he whistled at?" She chuckled as Shiloh leapt on to the chair and curled up. She picked up a menu, "Wow lot of seafood, I might need my elixir for this." She said pulling out a vial from the neck of her dress. "Or maybe not, just to be on the safe side, how safe is the seafood typically here in Cenril?" She asked. Before a man came up behind her. He had the eyes of a wolf, but the face of human. He was shorter than Thalra but taller than Lana. "Hey there, My name is Chad, and I will be your server today, and the bouncer, should things get rough, can I start you two hot doves with something to drink?" Thalra chuckled, "Well I wouldn't say I am dove, but I think I would definitely enjoy some spiced flaming bourbon on the rocks, still good on you for trying a new name." She laughed a very infectious laugh. As soon as Lana called her order, and Chad left, she said, "You know he reminds me of my late husband trying to come up with some pick up line but missing it ever so slightly. Course, I'll never forget his face, when I sat down on his lap deliberately in a tavern once, caught all the men in the tavern off guard some of them still talked about even five years after the incident." She giggled to herself as if remembering it well. "Don't ever sit in a man's lap unless its someone you really trust, in front of other men, that is one of the greatest ways to get a man recognized by other men as a leadership figure. At least when it’s in someplace, and if you’re known for smacking most men upside the head when they try to pull you in." She chuckled. "I also did that for his brother one time, man went from a zero to popularity overnight, he was wed and bed within the fortnight, he thanked me for years on helping him get a wife." "What shenanigans have you pulled in taverns? I want to hear them."

Lanara leans in conspiratorially to Thalra, smirking, “Oh, I think he whistled at you! You’re the new girl on the block, and you’re all long legs, and you have an infectious giggle. You are definitely making an impression, Thalra!” The catcall could have been for the witch, but being that it was the Whalers, it likely was meant for the drow. Lana had a bit of a reputation in these parts, and a penchant for attracting trouble, along with her little sister. The men knew better than to play with her, especially when she was out to lunch with a friend, and it was still daylight. Come evening, when the sailors docked and came for a drink, that would be another story! After placing an order for a fish and chips platter, a cod sandwich for Aspen, and a pitcher of sangria, she crosses her legs and listens to Thalra’s survey of the waiter. “He has nice eyes… But I’ve –never- been called a bird before! A fox? Many times. A she-wolf? A handful. A filly? Here and there. But never, in her twenty-six human equivalent years, had she been referred to as a brown pigeon. Lana looks as though she’s mildly offended, so she nods in agreement to Thalra, that Chad desperately needs to work on his lines. The wannabe smooth talker returns with their drinks and food a short while later, as Lana is listening intently to Thalra, the pair of them a fit of giggles. Aspen reaches forward and eats his sandwich like a little gentleman, holding it between his massive paws, and taking dainty bites. He purrs contently as he tastes the fresh caught cod, and Lana sips at her sangria, both of them humming in appreciation of the fine food. “Cenril is the BEST place to get seafood. Trust me. It’s so close to the ocean, so the fish is caught fresh daily. Rynvale has the best liquor around, but sometimes they’ll give you a few days old catch, so be leery of their fish. If you want the best beef or turkey around, you must venture to Venturil. And Frostmaw has the –finest- ale and rabbit stew, I’ve ever had!” There’s a pause as they both munch on their food, “I can’t picture any man being ‘dominant’ around you, Thalra. You evoke this feeling of power, poise, and you sure know how to turn heads. It’s admirable. Your last husband and his brother were very lucky!” Dark eyes widen as she’s asked to share her own tales, “Well… There have been a bunch. I enjoy throwing darts and knives, and this one time this jerk decided to spank my bottom, and I obviously reacted by using him for target practice. It didn’t end well, as all his buddies joined in. I left about six of them dead at my feet, I finished my game of darts and left.” A pause. “I’ve allowed several men to take body shots off of my collarbone or stomach, and in turn, I’ve robbed them blind. The club to the south, the Lazy Eel Lounge, is the perfect place to pick up men. But none of them will be Mister Right, only Mister Right Now, if you catch my drift?” She winks, and thinks back to the last time she was at the Whalers, “Oh there are –tons- of things I’ve gotten into! My favorite memory was when I had lunch with my brother, Scandal, and my sister, Talyara, right here! Some jerk forced me onto his lap, so I slapped him. He then stepped outside with my brother, who, um, killed him. While that happened, -another- sailor came in and got into an argument with my sister! All hell sort of broke loose, as one thing after another, like dominos, fell into place. Taly body slammed the barmaid’s cousin through a table, I beat the owner until she was unconscious with a fish sandwich, and we hightailed it to the construction site where Scandal was having a bank built. Well! A few minutes later, they all followed us, and my brother had to hire Trinity, a trio of assassins, to take out the trash. Heads –literally- rolled!!!” Lana giggles and takes another sip of her sangria, giddy from the memory. “So… I take it that you enjoy causing trouble? Or are you hoping to catch the eye of a potential suitor?” She sobers some, as she returns to her meal, the conversation taking a turn towards their love lives.

Thalra chuckled, and added to the order when Chad came back with the drinks, that she would have the stuffed salmon sandwich and for Shiloh a plate of snapper. Leaning her arms against the table she crossed her hands as she listened to Lana talk about other places in Lithrydel and Rynvale when it came to food and drinks. "Back where I hail from, just about anything that came from the sea had to be examined, we knew of city that while a long ways from our shores would bring sickness wherever the tides took their runoff or where the winds would blow. One time I gutted a fish and quicksilver seemed to drain from it the same way when one squeezed a wet cloth. I’m happy to know that seafood is a great deal safer. I haven't yet been to Frostmaw, nor to Venturil, Rynvale I have been to but that was solely for trying to apply as a bar tender way back then." She laughed when the food came in and saw Aspen trying to eat his sandwich like civilized being. Shiloh seemed to almost slurp her fish like she was eating noodles. Though the frost drake seemed to leave one fish alone, "That for Sherman?" She asked and rubbed the flesh on the frost drakes head the little one purring. Taking a bite of her food she found it to be rather dry and overly seasoned. "Fresher but not better," She said softly, before taking another bite, and reaching for the butter to apply to salmon. She smiled as Lana talked about how she couldn't see any man being dominant around her. "Depends on where that dominance lies, in life I'd be happy to live at home and practice my potion crafting as a hobby, and let hubby earn the living. But then I like to think it’s not about dominance, it’s about complimentary. When I was married the first time, I was a matron's daughter, my husband at the time was Patrons son, I will be honest pushing dominance in drow society is like giving two alpha wolves a single closet to call their turf, they are always fighting for control. When I married the second time, following my loss of memories as a drow, I married a man who I had known on the battlefield, he was a blacksmith turned soldier, and while I ambitiously moved up in the ranks he was content to be where he was placed. When we started seeing each other, I used to encourage him to look for opportunities to apply is skills, and when he was at a loss for skill he didn't know he had, I told him what they were and where to exploit them. As his wife when he was a Baron, helped moved opportunities into his path so that he could advance. I encouraged him to be ambitious. And he encouraged me, when to be content with what I was. In my experience the wife should assist in the ambitions of her husband, and encourage him to become more than what he is, you push a little, encourage, and reward, and occasionally..." Her smile broadened, "You make a mountain out of his mole hole sized lack of ambition, but do so sparingly." She finished what she could of her salmon, but felt the meal wasn't nearly as good as she had hoped. "Oh the lounge, yes I have been there, I do enjoy going there from time to time, though less so, than more so, I definitely get you on the men of right now, not my preferred choice but certainly not something I couldn't enjoy. Though it’s really the place to go if you don't like seeing the common human, or elf, or even dragon. I will say though I wish I knew the secrets those dancers have for catching some of their eyes." She paused handing Shiloh her plate who started eating what remained. "You beat the owner over the head with a sandwich until she was unconscious." From her mouth came an unquenchable laughter, she was almost close to tears and out a breath when she could speak. "Oh Gods I wish I could have seen that, never once did I ever try something like that, what was it three month old bread, or was the fish a real tough shark." She giggled. "What can I say, I do enjoy a little bit of mischief, almost half of my potions I make could be used to some mischievous ends, my shrink potion being my favorite, never gets old when you shrink of bunch of people down and have your pets chase them about. Especially if you don't like them. Though I will say I am looking for a potential suitor, I doubt I will find some of the caliber I had with my second husband Banner, but after spending a hundred years with someone getting to know them, becoming one with them." She swallowed, her smile vanishing replaced with a similar sobriety and bit of sadness. "I can't honestly imagine going through life without someone there, I guess that’s the sad truth about it, when I was a Barons wife, we had a old couple that lived near us, human both of them, and they had been married for almost 70 years, and then her husband passed away, within a week she passed away too, as if she couldn't live without him, and simply gave up her spirit. I didn't think too much about it at the time, but when Baron died, I felt the same way, I wished I could have died as well and rejoined him, But when I didn't I knew I had to move on. Now every memory I hold fast to, I have found myself saying, "Oh I am married, or I should introduce you to my husband, only to realize..." she went silent."I don't believe what Larket propaganda speaks of their new Death god, but I will say immortality can be a bitch when you can't follow your husband into the grave especially after spending a life time with them. I would enjoy the chance to have children again, with a man I would want to know as long as I knew Banner, if not more so if I can, it will have to depend upon whom I managed to steal away." She looked up at Lana with those eyes of hers despite how drow they were they were filled with so many emotions that one would not expect to see from a drow, but each one so deeply meaningful. "Sometimes, when it comes to men, I have learned that those who put the effort into being attractive to your tastes, but are not what matches your tastes, are sometimes far better life long partners than ones to which it comes with ease, for they exploit and prove to be better for one night stands."

Lanara drizzles some lemon onto her breaded fish, before taking a bite, and nodding in response to what Thalra was saying. Being the mischief maker that she was, she’s eager to hear about the pranks of the others and before long the duo is in another fit of giggles. Several look their way, and the man that whistled earlier has a round of drinks brought over to their table, in an effort to woo the ladies. The witch lifts her glass, smiles, and acknowledges the male that sent the ale, though she’s more than content with her fruit infused wine, so she slides the glass nearer to Thalra, should she wish to have more than one drink. It’s still unknown just what woman the male was trying to impress, though Lana is hopeful that he has eyes for the drow, as the conversation is steered towards matters of the heart. Compassion is evident in her hypnotic hues, as she swallows the last of her fish, and gently slides the plate to the left, so Aspen can nibble on the fried potato slices. The cub is being such a gentleman, and he even offers a piece to Shiloh, who eagerly gobbles up the fry. “I’m so sorry that you lost your husband and that you miss him so much… I know that my history of romance can’t compare to spending a hundred years with someone, but I know what it’s like to give your heart away, and to lose someone before their time is due. I miss Largakh, so much, and I’ve been hesitant to date again, even though he’s been gone almost seven months. We were only an item for a short while, but the feelings were so intense. I loved him. And… I know it’s not realistic for one to spend their lives alone. I would love someone to come home to every night, to tell about my day, share laughter and tears, and wake up to the next morning. I want to bicker over finances, raise a bunch of animals, maybe adopt a kid or two, and grow old with someone I trust, who is faithful…” Shaking her head, Lana glances over at the redhead male, his green eyes glued to Thalra, and the freckles on his face somewhat pronounced, though it oddly added to his masculinity. “I think he’s smitten with you already!” She grins, pleased at the distraction, as she didn’t have –any- luck when it came to love. The witch couldn’t give the greatest of advice on how to keep a man, though attracting one came easily enough. There’s a lull in the conversation as Lana dabs Aspen’s muzzle, ridding it of any debris and stains, and she sees the male approaching their table, likely intent on asking out the drow. “I think you should say yes, at least to one date! And in the future, we should go out and scope out the scene. I wouldn’t mind picking up a handsome lycan. Bad boys are my preference, as they are better equipped to deal with my many mood swings.”

Thalra nodded, "Take it slow, it took me almost two years to come to terms with Banner's death, though I will say unlike Largakh though Banner was one wrinkled old prune by the time death took him," She giggled, "He used to joke as he got older that he was dating one of his daughters because of how young I looked compared to him, to of course the horror of everyone else, time spent with me he went from little nonsense to mischievous pokings." She glanced at the red head, and offered a smile, and slight nod of the head. "Bad boys are attractive I won't lie, but often they can be shallow and Mr. Right Now, I would suggest looking in the department of those trying to be like them, but failing out of their good nature, it’s those that go unnoticed but if you look hard enough you might find them." She made a motion in the air for the check to which the red head would go get the check for. "Lycans are pretty wild creatures, Felines they can be pretty fun too but, if you can get over their transformations and such, I will have to say that it be Dragons and their draconian offspring that can make some of the most steady partners, I had two daughters who dated two, well we called draconians a different name in my lands, but they have their wild nature, they can transform, or barely, but in most regards, because they are outcasts, they will make every effort to stick with one mate. And if your elf or half elf, they can live about as long as you do as well." She took a drink from the ale sent over, that Lana had pushed near her. "Ah very dry, reminds me of home." The male soon arrived to ask out on a date. "I would love to." She said with a smile. She glanced back at Lana, "Agreed we should definitely go to the lounge together, especially during the late night when the second floor is open. So many lycan and felines, and the occasional draconian, course we best not take any humans with us especially near the mermaids." She chuckled. "Feeding Frenzy." She giggled. She opened her pocket and paid for both her and Lana. "So Sunday, how soon will you be waking up, to go walking?"

Lanara is mildly horrified at the admission of Thalra being young enough to pass as the daughter of her late husband, her chocolate hues widening and her jaw slightly dropping. Having been the victim of an incestuous relationship with her own father, she’s sickened by the comparison. True, the elf hadn’t known that Thronnel was her birth father, and she was suffering mild amnesia directly after, to repress the memory, but it still stung on occasion. She knows that Thalra is merely joking, and she offers a faint half smile, as she rummages for coin to pay the bill. Only three knew the truth of her past, and she preferred to keep it hidden, so she’s grateful when the ‘Ed Sheeran’ lookalike appears at their table and fawns over the drow. The male introduces himself, “Hello, Lovely. My name is Fletcher, and I was wondering if perhaps I could buy you two ladies some dessert to go along with your lunch? They make the finest strawberry shortcake here, and I insist!” He glances at Lana, but it’s obvious he only has eyes for Thalra, as he reaches out and gently kisses the back of her hand, in a graceful greeting. He has impeccable manners, and it’s obvious that Lana approves, as she winks after the drow accepts the offer of a future date. “I really should be going, but thank you for the offer of cake. Maybe another time. However, Thalra will have to eat extra, since I must be going!” Smiling, the elf rises from her chair and pulls Aspen from his highchair. The cub wraps his paws around Lana’s neck, and the pair gives Thalra a knowing look. That future date would be starting -now- and perhaps lead into a second date in the future! Looking at her friend, Lana quirks a brow and tugs on her lower lip, thinking about what time they should meet up on Sunday morning. “Hm… How about seven? That way the sun isn’t so threatening and we won’t sweat as much. I can meet you in front of the Kelay Tavern, if that works? And we can walk all the way to the bath house to shower, and then grab breakfast at the market. My treat! Thank you for lunch!” Leaning in, she places a chaste kiss to Thalra’s dark cheek, before she waves in parting to Shiloh and Fletcher, and heads for the exit. She’d want details on this impromptu date on Sunday!

Thalra smiled noticing Lanara's jaw drop expression she added to clarify, "Well when you marry a human and he turns 95 and you’re a drow or an elf, you always look younger than they do." She chuckled. She noticed Fletcher and smiled, "Shortcake hmm, I might just have to give it a try." She said with a small eyebrow wag and a wink. Turning back to Lanara she thinks over the time. "Of course Kelay Tavern at seven, sounds like a plan." She blushed slightly as Lanara kissed her cheek, but smiled and waved goodbye as Fletcher sat down bring out the shortcake. "Hmm a little might look like bloody rubbish but I bet it tastes amazing..." She started saying until Lanara was out range.