an admirer of beauty

"What folly will not a pair of bright eyes make pardonable? What dullness may not red lips are sweet accents render pleasant?"

[odessareyes]

A quiet whisper in Parabola from a banded snake: how do you feel about putting out a fire at its source? I need your assistance, but... make me and mine a path to vessels, and there may be far less danger in London from a certain lodge and its plans.

It is midday in Parabola; a lush tree hides Odessa from the orange heat. The sound of the Writhing River’s shifting current has just about put her to sleep.

She opens one eye and casts a glance down at the serpent. “A path, you say? I believe the way to what you seek is clear, my little scursuni. For what does a fire leave behind if not scorched earth?” She stretches herself awake. “Hallowmas grows near, and the mirrors soft.”

“I am curious–what interest have you in such volatile hosts?”

[theincendiaryhunter]

If a serpent could smile, its wink would border on impropriety. “Well. We have our own reasons. Passing interest. Revenge for others. A chance to see beautiful sights in brass without staying too long. Tourism in a vessel that won’t be missed.” It coils on her arm, a lazy yawn coming from its mouth. Two small fangs flexed with the gesture. “Our reasons, we hope, are adequate. We do care to be reasonable in our offers.”

[odessareyes]

She considers the snake’s intentions. Outside of Mahogany Hall, who can say what will happen, or what the papers will say! But...it is time to put this turmoil to rest. I shall see it done.

“Well then,” she croons, letting the snake writhe along her palm, “Let us make it so. Where to begin?”

[odessareyes]

A quiet whisper in Parabola from a banded snake: how do you feel about putting out a fire at its source? I need your assistance, but... make me and mine a path to vessels, and there may be far less danger in London from a certain lodge and its plans.

It is midday in Parabola; a lush tree hides Odessa from the orange heat. The sound of the Writhing River’s shifting current has just about put her to sleep.

She opens one eye and casts a glance down at the serpent. “A path, you say? I believe the way to what you seek is clear, my little scursuni. For what does a fire leave behind if not scorched earth?” She stretches herself awake. “Hallowmas grows near, and the mirrors soft.”

“I am curious–what interest have you in such volatile hosts?”

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

[odessareyes]

[snip]

“No offense taken, of course,” Odessa laughs, batting her lashes. “I’m rather self-aware of the hedonistic nature of my hobbies. I’ve spent enough time in the Colonies for this to be certain,” she says a bit sardonically.

“I’ve always felt it a bit unfair, the Leaving of an urchin. One spend’s one’s years with a tight-knit faction of youths only to have to find another way about the city once you’re of age!” She casts a sympathetic glance in Sarrazine’s direction.

At the talk of swapping secrets, Odessa’s eyes come alight. “Rumors and whispers are some of my favorite currency as well,” she agrees. “And up here, so easily heard if you’ve an astute ear. What would you like to hear?”

[theraffishadventuress]

“ I’d assume that most of your tales are probably of bohemian gossip and such? While entertaining they are not really of much use to a longshanks like me. Entertaining is appealing though, has anything rather interesting happened in Veilgarden and such? Oh, and I do know there is always things happening regarding illusionists and intrigue at Mahogony Hall. “ Sarrazine eagerly says.

“ Altough from what I’ve heard the mysteries there among magicians and performers are incredibly complex. I might be lacking a lot of context for any secrets you could share. Come to think of it hedonistic madness is also not a field I have much knowledge of and I might just be a little too young to hear all the details about such things. “ She follows up with, giggling to herself a bit as she glances around.

“ Honestly, Anything of interest or value will do. Either recent gossip or any well kept and preserved bits of knowledge that you could share. Hell, Even just your own life stories could be quite fun listening to. I suspect they are likely tied to bohemian tales and maybe even other sorts of secrets, you strike me as a lady with quite a bit of experience with life down here in the Neath. “ Sarrazine tells her, moving closer to Odessa for the sake of making sure not everyone in the bloody Flit can overhear them.

[odessareyes]

“Why yes, I suppose I have been a citizen of this fair cavern for quite some time now,” Odessa muses. “One begins to collect a veritable arsenal of stories and scandals. What are they saying in the rags, these days? They say that the Sardonic Music-Hall Singer is being shipped to the Colonies yet again, perhaps intentionally, to continue a tryst with a certain once-dashing Tomb-Colonist, lucky girl…They say that the Talulah has a new captain at the helm, a certain Irrepressible Bruiser of noted good looks…They say that the Alluring Illusionist has taken too kindly to honey as of late, but they always say that,” she says the last with an eye-roll. 

“But you are right, for those outside of the bohème, such tales can be a bore. Or perhaps, as you imply, a bit inappropriate for present company.” She raises her eyebrows suggestively.

“As for Mahogany Hall,” Odessa continues, “it’s always alight with the promise of performance! We’ve a fine crop of young magicians preparing for their own Grand Illusions. Though I can’t say too much, for as you say the mysteries of the Glass are rather complex,” she adds with an air of mystery.

[theraffishadventuress]

“ I think I’ve heard a few whispers of those things up here. Especially that about a ship “changing” owners, I’m actually somewhat in that business myself! Yes I may be young but that doesn’t mean I’m all too foolish. “ She says with a giggle. 

“ Oh, and to trade you a few tales of my own. There’s always a ton of criminal activity up here and I don’t think that’s going to stop until the next city. But not all of the people up here happen to be rough and hardened members of the criminal underworld, A certain Gregarious Heiress has been seen sneaking around trying to live a bit of a double life as a caper. Clumsily at that! From what I gathered she does have a reputation down in Veilgarden too. “ Sarrazine explains to her. “ Altough I don’t know the exact details other than that. I’m not really in the spying and snooping business myself. Well not all too much. “

She giggles a bit, contemplating Odessa’s own tales. “ Ah yes, Other than that there’s of course your fair share of refugees hiding from the Constables up here. A Seditious Author moved in not far from here just last week. On the run from the ministry I’ve heard and his fiancée has been helping covering his tracks. “ 

The longshanks turns her head to look over towards the zee. “ He might have been caught though. I was out of town the last few days. As I told you I’m a Zee-Captain of somewhat unusual youth. Want to hear more? How about a personal story for a personal story. “ She adds with another giggle. “ I’m quite enjoying your company Miss Reyes. “

[odessareyes]

“Ah yes, I’d heard the Clandestine Printmaker was helping her on-the-lam beau! Good to know he’s hiding out over here. As far as I know, he’s still in hiding. For how long though, one can’t really say. It’s only a matter of time before he’s off to New Newgate, I’m sure. Though if he keeps his head down, and writes to the right sort, he’ll get out soon enough.” Odessa swings her weight along a rope, and joins Sarrazine in looking out at the horizon.

“A Zee-Captain, you say? That’s quite the task for someone so young as yourself! And if you’ve weathered the Zee, it certainly doesn’t show in your face. Your visage is as smooth as glass, my dear!” she smiles brightly up at Sarrazine. “I tried my hat at the Zee for a fair time--I’m surprised that Fortunata and myself lasted over an entire year! Not for lack of want to travel, of course. The whole endeavor was a bit of a misadventure, really!” she laughs, then sits down on the roof tile. “You’ll have to regale your zee-tales, or at least one of the most flavorful ones.”

[odessareyes]

Odessa chuckles as she rifles through taffeta and velvet. “Well, perhaps one’s appearance is second to performance, though a pretty face doesn’t hurt in the least. I’ve just found that those who are compelled to perform in front of the masses have confidence enough to look back at their reflection. ” She plucks out a voluminous-sleeved sage green gown, trimmed and cuffed in cherry red.

“Lyrics, you say?” she asks, stepping into the dress. “Perhaps you’d be a fine match for the Bohemian Epicene…they say thon’s always working on the latest hit opera.”

“Am I to believe that you’re one of the clergy, Mr. Blackwood? What a pity,” Odessa says, clicking her tongue. “Though I suppose this wouldn’t be the first time that’s happened,” she adds as she glides across the room to the couch on which Sereno sits. Her dress back is open, and she holds a sterling button hook in one hand. “Now, signuri, if you would be so kind as to finish the job?” she says smartly, covering a slowly erupting smile with the back of her hand. 

[cunninglingua]

“Perhaps.  I wouldn’t know.  I haven’t done anything with operas…”  Sereno says thoughtfully, replacing his glasses before he peeks over his knees to continue watching her, a small, admiring smile playing on his lips.  Those eyes trailed down different paths, always returning, nervously to her face before sliding back down to linger on her hands, her back, whatever skin that is exposed.

Sereno startles when she sits down beside him, spine going straight and his cheeks dark.  "You would be under false pretenses!“  He blurts out before he adds sheepishly, "I’m just a Catholic who prefers the option of sleeping in on Sunday.  It’s supposed to be a day of rest after all.”  He very carefully starts to work on her buttons with the hook, carefully working his way down.  Odd, isn’t it supposed to be going up?  "And the Church I attend tends to allow people to provide their tithe by work and assistance.“

[odessareyes]

As Sereno sets to buttoning her dress, Odessa bites her lip to prevent herself from giggling; the boy seemed nervous enough without a heckle regarding his improper garment-buttoning technique. “Yes, faith and good works, isn’t that what the Catholics say?” 

She glances back at him as he finishes with her dress, and casts him a smile. “To that point: thank you for such fine finger-work, Mr. Blackwood.” She smooths the fabric of her dress, then gets up to retrieve a few hairpins from her vanity. Though she’s now fully dressed, her hair still remains undone--she’d forgotten that step upon Sereno’s arrival through her mirror. 

“Now then,” Odessa asks while dexterously twisting her thick mane into a voluminous chignon, “where did you intend to go when you left the Marches? This is a far cry from any church or university, unless one’s religion is self-worship, or one’s studies lean toward a mastery of corporeal language.” She snatches a pistachio-colored hat from a nearby shelf, and sets to work pinning it atop her head. 

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

[odessareyes]

[snip]

“Sarrazine,” Odessa says, rolling the word around in her mouth, “how suiting, I suppose! It’s not often one sees anything aside from shades of pale here in the Neath,” she adds brightly, returning the handshake.

“I am Odessa Reyes: aforementioned actress and illusionist; purveyor of pleasures and connoisseur of Neathy delights, et cetera. You’re quite right that this is a much more agreeable distance for conversation!” She leans in close to stage-whisper, “and better for swapping secrets, at that.”

“Oh, all of us Veilgarden burgess are rather much the same,” Odessa remarks with a wave of her hand, “prone to prattle and preening, and a flair for making every moment ooze with drama. I’m far more interested in you, my dear, and your stories. Surely your perspective lends itself to great tales–or am I to presume that daily life in the Flit is rather uneventful?” 

[theraffishadventuress]

Sarrazine blushes a bit from Odessa leaning so close to her but regains her composure rather quickly. “ Well, Pleasure to meet you. I suppose you’re not entirely wrong to claim a lot of bohemian people are quite alike. I’ve certainly seen many londoners with your flair and similar… “decadent interests”? I think that’s a good way of putting it, if it does not offend. “

She moves a few strands of loose reddish hair out of her face and smiles a bit wider. “ Hah, The Flit is a rather strange place to live and even stranger to grow up in. Altough much akin to you bohemians a lot of urchins are truly quite similar. Either we straighten up and try to sneak back into common society or we become raggedy little fiends even in adulthood. I suppose I might have been a bit of both. “

Following that Sarrazine quickly flashes a grin. “ I suppose I have time to ramble a bit about myself and my own little story if you’d be curious, secrets would have to actually be swapped though. Gossip is a rather valuable currency, Everyone from me to the hooded masters of London know that much. “

[odessareyes]

“No offense taken, of course,” Odessa laughs, batting her lashes. “I’m rather self-aware of the hedonistic nature of my hobbies. I’ve spent enough time in the Colonies for this to be certain,” she says a bit sardonically.

“I’ve always felt it a bit unfair, the Leaving of an urchin. One spend’s one’s years with a tight-knit faction of youths only to have to find another way about the city once you’re of age!” She casts a sympathetic glance in Sarrazine’s direction.

At the talk of swapping secrets, Odessa’s eyes come alight. “Rumors and whispers are some of my favorite currency as well,” she agrees. “And up here, so easily heard if you’ve an astute ear. What would you like to hear?”

[theraffishadventuress]

“ I’d assume that most of your tales are probably of bohemian gossip and such? While entertaining they are not really of much use to a longshanks like me. Entertaining is appealing though, has anything rather interesting happened in Veilgarden and such? Oh, and I do know there is always things happening regarding illusionists and intrigue at Mahogony Hall. “ Sarrazine eagerly says.

“ Altough from what I’ve heard the mysteries there among magicians and performers are incredibly complex. I might be lacking a lot of context for any secrets you could share. Come to think of it hedonistic madness is also not a field I have much knowledge of and I might just be a little too young to hear all the details about such things. “ She follows up with, giggling to herself a bit as she glances around.

“ Honestly, Anything of interest or value will do. Either recent gossip or any well kept and preserved bits of knowledge that you could share. Hell, Even just your own life stories could be quite fun listening to. I suspect they are likely tied to bohemian tales and maybe even other sorts of secrets, you strike me as a lady with quite a bit of experience with life down here in the Neath. “ Sarrazine tells her, moving closer to Odessa for the sake of making sure not everyone in the bloody Flit can overhear them.

[odessareyes]

“Why yes, I suppose I have been a citizen of this fair cavern for quite some time now,” Odessa muses. “One begins to collect a veritable arsenal of stories and scandals. What are they saying in the rags, these days? They say that the Sardonic Music-Hall Singer is being shipped to the Colonies yet again, perhaps intentionally, to continue a tryst with a certain once-dashing Tomb-Colonist, lucky girl...They say that the Talulah has a new captain at the helm, a certain Irrepressible Bruiser of noted good looks...They say that the Alluring Illusionist has taken too kindly to honey as of late, but they always say that,” she says the last with an eye-roll. 

“But you are right, for those outside of the bohème, such tales can be a bore. Or perhaps, as you imply, a bit inappropriate for present company.” She raises her eyebrows suggestively.

“As for Mahogany Hall,” Odessa continues, “it’s always alight with the promise of performance! We’ve a fine crop of young magicians preparing for their own Grand Illusions. Though I can’t say too much, for as you say the mysteries of the Glass are rather complex,” she adds with an air of mystery.

[failbettergames]

Fallen London is coming to iOS in 2015.

[odessareyes]

Why, I’m feeling delightfully mobile today. Perhaps I’ll take the old velocipede out for a spin.

[odessareyes]

“Ah, don’t fret about Neville and your hija. Minerva’s keeping watch on the pair,” Odessa replies, referencing the two curious eyes still watching from underneath the chaise-lounge. 

Odessa laughs while considering his question, a breathy sound due to the current state of her diaphragm. “It’s less a matter of avoiding books so much as avoiding mirrors. But we artists are always so narcissistic, it’s hard for us to resist a glimpse.” 

When Sereno’s finished lacing her up, she does a bit of a twirl. “Ha! A perfect fit! You’ve quite the dextrous hands, there, Mr. Blackwood,” she admires, and throws him a wink.

Odessa glides over to the wardrobe and opens it up. Lush fabrics glitter back at them in the candlelight. She fishes around in the back, and pulls out the rest of the necessary bones of her outfit. She busies herself with assembling her crinoline and bustle, keeping conversation light. “And even if you don’t think yourself a match for the stage, you should still come by Mahogany Hall and catch a performance. Some Saturday, to see what the illusion’s all about!”

[cunninglingua]

“T-thank you.  I wear corsets myself.  Much warmer than suits at least, and occasionally easier to find something that fits.”  Sereno replies as he sits back down on one of the couches, turning his head to keep an eye on cat and salt weasel.  He still sneaks admiring glances at Odessa while he curls up, ducking his head down shyly.  "I suppose when your livelihood is tied to appearances, it’s important to keep checking, isn’t it?“

He pulls off his glasses, fidgeting and cleaning them as he continues.  "I don’t know if I’m good for the stage, but I have- a head for words.  Lyrics.  A decent singer?  But I know enough of those to know that they put my own voice to shame.  Maybe at some point, when I am not at vigil…”

[odessareyes]

Odessa chuckles as she rifles through taffeta and velvet. “Well, perhaps one’s appearance is second to performance, though a pretty face doesn’t hurt in the least. I’ve just found that those who are compelled to perform in front of the masses have confidence enough to look back at their reflection. ” She plucks out a voluminous-sleeved sage green gown, trimmed and cuffed in cherry red.

“Lyrics, you say?” she asks, stepping into the dress. “Perhaps you’d be a fine match for the Bohemian Epicene...they say thon’s always working on the latest hit opera.”

“Am I to believe that you’re one of the clergy, Mr. Blackwood? What a pity,” Odessa says, clicking her tongue. “Though I suppose this wouldn’t be the first time that’s happened,” she adds as she glides across the room to the couch on which Sereno sits. Her dress back is open, and she holds a sterling button hook in one hand. “Now, signuri, if you would be so kind as to finish the job?” she says smartly, covering a slowly erupting smile with the back of her hand. 

[odessareyes]

“Well,” she replies, “they say that too much time translating the Correspondence not only leads to singed eyebrows, but a certain…peckishness. Am I incorrect? That’s a language I’ve but dipped my toe in; my brief excursions at the University were mostly limited to flinging pies. I’ve just seen far too many artists at Mahogany Hall positively humiliate themselves after an attempt to be studious.” Her breath is a bit laborious as she fastens the front hooks of her corset. “Perhaps that’s the reason why I tend to shy from academic adventures; best not ruin one’s reputation amongst the theater habitués,” she adds with a laugh.

She peeks her head out from behind the divider, glancing him up and down. “Say there, Mr. Blackwood, could you lend a hand with these laces? The fitting in the back has become rather too loose for my liking.”

[cunninglingua]

“I- Oh.  That.”  Sereno answers flatly, his hand absently tickling Neville’s belly.  "I try to do my best to avoid hunger.  And there’s a reason why I-“  There is definitely a strangled noise at Odessa’s request, the sort that comes from surprise and half-hearted hope, before it was disguised with a cough.

"L…let me make sure your Neville and my kitten aren’t disturbed first.”  He carefully picks up the sleeping cub, eyes scanning the room for a cushion to set her on, and depositing Neville beside her on one before he got up.  A deep breath follows before he follows behind the divider, reaching out for the ties.  "But- yes, I tend to not be involved in theater myself.  It’s too time consuming, no matter how much a handful of friends insist I’d be delightful.  Though it’d-” He yanks hard, “I suppose if you avoid books in the theater, it is less likely you’d go into Parabola there?”

[odessareyes]

“Ah, don’t fret about Neville and your hija. Minerva’s keeping watch on the pair,” Odessa replies, referencing the two curious eyes still watching from underneath the chaise-lounge. 

Odessa laughs while considering his question, a breathy sound due to the current state of her diaphragm. “It’s less a matter of avoiding books so much as avoiding mirrors. But we artists are always so narcissistic, it’s hard for us to resist a glimpse.” 

When Sereno’s finished lacing her up, she does a bit of a twirl. “Ha! A perfect fit! You’ve quite the dextrous hands, there, Mr. Blackwood,” she admires, and throws him a wink.

Odessa glides over to the wardrobe and opens it up. Lush fabrics glitter back at them in the candlelight. She fishes around in the back, and pulls out the rest of the necessary bones of her outfit. She busies herself with assembling her crinoline and bustle, keeping conversation light. “And even if you don’t think yourself a match for the stage, you should still come by Mahogany Hall and catch a performance. Some Saturday, to see what the illusion’s all about!”

[odessareyes]

[sexy jazz music snip]

[caseybanning]

Casey, who was previously involved with trying to brush sugar crumbs from their hair, glances up when Odessa calls to them. It’s as if her question takes a second to be fully understood. “Oh–of course,” They reply, catching her gaze in the mirror before walking over to her. As they begin on the first button, their gaze trails over the nape of her neck and to the delicate spirals of hair clinging together in the honey. Oh.

“… I owe you a new hat,” They say, diverting their eyes to the sticky remains of the silk flowers. “Food fights are a great lark that also cause unfortunate mayhem to one’s personal belongings.”

[odessareyes]

“Oh never you mind that old hat. The casualty was worth the lark,” Odessa reassures them. “If anything, it’s an excuse to go shopping!” she laughs, and gives them an encouraging smile through the mirror. 

Larger strands of her hair begin to fall from their pins, sticking to her skin. She makes to wipe the congealed honey from the nape of her neck, and runs into Casey’s fingers on the first buttons.

[caseybanning]

There’s a brief second where Casey pauses in the middle of unfastening a button to brush their fingers against Odessa’s. They hesitate. Casey’s eyes remain on hers in the mirror in a more direct gaze than the previous moment, and they lean forward so they can speak in her ear. Their voice is soft.

“How far would you like me to go?” They ask, their hands still on the buttons.

[odessareyes]

Odessa’s lips part at Casey’s breath, neck arching upward in response to the near-touch. She then fashions her lips into a slight pout, and holds their reflection’s gaze for a moment. She turns her face towards theirs, and casts them a coquettish look through her lashes.

“Best to finish with the lot of them, I’d say,” she replies in a husky whisper. She still holds a cloth limply in one hand, its original intention all but forgotten.

[caseybanning]

Casey finishes with the last of the buttons down her back, catching bits of inked skin in their gaze underneath a few tenacious drips of honey. They reach forward, their head just barely resting up against Odessa’s shoulder as they do, and gently grab the cloth from her hand. “I can give you a hand with that,” They say gently, smiling. “If you’d like. I imagine there’s a few spots here that would  be hard to reach.”

[odessareyes]

“Why yes, I don’t believe I can quite reach that far,” Odessa replies softly, leaning into their embrace. She laces their free hand in hers. “Bon voyage, Captain Banning,” she whispers, then closes the distance between their lips.

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

[odessareyes]

[snip]

“Leisurely, you say?” Odessa gives herself a once-over as to inspect the fanciness of her dress. “Why, I’ve seen many a lady dressed likewise, most especially while engaged in exercise. Though, I suppose the material isn’t the best choice for rope-running,” she admits. “And I do think that my hair would manage quite nicely in a plait such as yours, but I simply don’t find the look as becoming to my face. Curious it may seem, but wicker is both light and practical.” She adjusts the ribbon tied beneath her chin, a proud, matter-of-fact gesture.

“And don’t sell yourself short,” Odessa adds. “You’re clad in quite the dapper ensemble!” 

She pauses to consider Sarrazine’s next point. “As for the matter of my frequency in the Flit, I am here more often than you’d think,” she finally replies. “Though certainly not dressed such as this! An actress is always used to the quick-change of costumes, and an illusionist adept at misdirection. Lucky match that I am both, then!” Odessa laughs, and throws the longshanks a wink.

[theraffishadventuress]

Sarrazine laughs too in response. “ Actress? Illusionist? Sounds a bit more like eccentric, but you seem like quite an interesting lady. Give me just a moment! “ She replies, darting off in another direction to find away across to Odessa’s rooftop. “ There we are… “ Mumbles the girl to herself, followed by a small thud as she lands on the other rooftop and walks up to Odessa.

“ Sorry about that, but my throat was getting a bit irritated by all the shouting. Also, greetings are a bit easier at a more personal distance. “ Is her next comment, followed by reaching her arm out for a handshake. “ Name’s Sarrazine Leavitt, pronounciation is a bit of a bastard but I’m quite attatched to it. By the way, I’m actually rather curious about you. Entertainers usually have a lot of interesting stories to tell. “

[odessareyes]

“Sarrazine,” Odessa says, rolling the word around in her mouth, “how suiting, I suppose! It’s not often one sees anything aside from shades of pale here in the Neath,” she adds brightly, returning the handshake.

“I am Odessa Reyes: aforementioned actress and illusionist; purveyor of pleasures and connoisseur of Neathy delights, et cetera. You’re quite right that this is a much more agreeable distance for conversation!” She leans in close to stage-whisper, “and better for swapping secrets, at that.”

“Oh, all of us Veilgarden burgess are rather much the same,” Odessa remarks with a wave of her hand, “prone to prattle and preening, and a flair for making every moment ooze with drama. I’m far more interested in you, my dear, and your stories. Surely your perspective lends itself to great tales–or am I to presume that daily life in the Flit is rather uneventful?” 

[theraffishadventuress]

Sarrazine blushes a bit from Odessa leaning so close to her but regains her composure rather quickly. “ Well, Pleasure to meet you. I suppose you’re not entirely wrong to claim a lot of bohemian people are quite alike. I’ve certainly seen many londoners with your flair and similar… “decadent interests”? I think that’s a good way of putting it, if it does not offend. “

She moves a few strands of loose reddish hair out of her face and smiles a bit wider. “ Hah, The Flit is a rather strange place to live and even stranger to grow up in. Altough much akin to you bohemians a lot of urchins are truly quite similar. Either we straighten up and try to sneak back into common society or we become raggedy little fiends even in adulthood. I suppose I might have been a bit of both. “

Following that Sarrazine quickly flashes a grin. “ I suppose I have time to ramble a bit about myself and my own little story if you’d be curious, secrets would have to actually be swapped though. Gossip is a rather valuable currency, Everyone from me to the hooded masters of London know that much. “

[odessareyes]

“No offense taken, of course,” Odessa laughs, batting her lashes. “I’m rather self-aware of the hedonistic nature of my hobbies. I’ve spent enough time in the Colonies for this to be certain,” she says a bit sardonically.

“I’ve always felt it a bit unfair, the Leaving of an urchin. One spend’s one’s years with a tight-knit faction of youths only to have to find another way about the city once you’re of age!” She casts a sympathetic glance in Sarrazine’s direction.

At the talk of swapping secrets, Odessa’s eyes come alight. “Rumors and whispers are some of my favorite currency as well,” she agrees. “And up here, so easily heard if you’ve an astute ear. What would you like to hear?”

[odessareyes]

“Other trouble, notwithstanding the occasional tumble into a distinguished lady’s dressing-room, I’m sure,” Odessa quips, still hidden behind the divider. She’s halfway through rolling up her stockings; her hands and feet flash from behind the wooden panel, toes pointed outward. 

“Scholarly pursuits in both the Third City and the Correspondence? I take it you’re not one to pay much mind to what they say…”

[cunninglingua]

“That is part of the trouble I get into normally.”  Sereno huffs.  After a moment, he makes a small noise, turning his head away fully when her limbs show beyond the panel for a moment.  "Well, not of your caliber or presence.  That hasn’t happened. Probably won’t happen again either, a pity.”  He shakes his head woefully before he looks up more fully, color gathering in his face. 

“And what do you mean by ‘they?’“

[odessareyes]

“Well,” she replies, “they say that too much time translating the Correspondence not only leads to singed eyebrows, but a certain...peckishness. Am I incorrect? That’s a language I’ve but dipped my toe in; my brief excursions at the University were mostly limited to flinging pies. I’ve just seen far too many artists at Mahogany Hall positively humiliate themselves after an attempt to be studious.” Her breath is a bit laborious as she fastens the front hooks of her corset. “Perhaps that’s the reason why I tend to shy from academic adventures; best not ruin one’s reputation amongst the theater habitués,” she adds with a laugh.

She peeks her head out from behind the divider, glancing him up and down. “Say there, Mr. Blackwood, could you lend a hand with these laces? The fitting in the back has become rather too loose for my liking.”

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

[theraffishadventuress]

odessareyes:

[snip]

Odessa turns her gaze toward the flash of red in her peripheral vision. She cranes her neck to get a better view, keeping her hand to the back of her head to better hold her hat in place. “Wotcher, there, longshanks! What makes you say such a thing? I could as easily say the same of you!” comes her cheeky reply.

Sarrazine smiles. “ Oh is that so! Are you claiming I look posh or something? “ She leans against a chimney, dusting off her waistcoat a bit. “ I don’t think my clothes can be compared to your outfit Miss! It along with the hat is a bit too leisurely for a local I’d say. Also I don’t happen to recognize you and as you said, I’m a longshanks. I’ve been ‘round here for a while and I think I would remembered your face, or hair if I’ve seen you before! “ Says the girl, glancing up at the woman and the curly hair that’s struggling to stay under the hat.

[odessareyes]

“Leisurely, you say?” Odessa gives herself a once-over as to inspect the fanciness of her dress. “Why, I’ve seen many a lady dressed likewise, most especially while engaged in exercise. Though, I suppose the material isn’t the best choice for rope-running,” she admits. “And I do think that my hair would manage quite nicely in a plait such as yours, but I simply don’t find the look as becoming to my face. Curious it may seem, but wicker is both light and practical.” She adjusts the ribbon tied beneath her chin, a proud, matter-of-fact gesture.

“And don’t sell yourself short,” Odessa adds. “You’re clad in quite the dapper ensemble!” 

She pauses to consider Sarrazine’s next point. “As for the matter of my frequency in the Flit, I am here more often than you’d think,” she finally replies. “Though certainly not dressed such as this! An actress is always used to the quick-change of costumes, and an illusionist adept at misdirection. Lucky match that I am both, then!” Odessa laughs, and throws the longshanks a wink.

[theraffishadventuress]

Sarrazine laughs too in response. “ Actress? Illusionist? Sounds a bit more like eccentric, but you seem like quite an interesting lady. Give me just a moment! “ She replies, darting off in another direction to find away across to Odessa’s rooftop. “ There we are… “ Mumbles the girl to herself, followed by a small thud as she lands on the other rooftop and walks up to Odessa.

“ Sorry about that, but my throat was getting a bit irritated by all the shouting. Also, greetings are a bit easier at a more personal distance. “ Is her next comment, followed by reaching her arm out for a handshake. “ Name’s Sarrazine Leavitt, pronounciation is a bit of a bastard but I’m quite attatched to it. By the way, I’m actually rather curious about you. Entertainers usually have a lot of interesting stories to tell. “

[odessareyes]

“Sarrazine,” Odessa says, rolling the word around in her mouth, “how suiting, I suppose! It’s not often one sees anything aside from shades of pale here in the Neath,” she adds brightly, returning the handshake.

“I am Odessa Reyes: aforementioned actress and illusionist; purveyor of pleasures and connoisseur of Neathy delights, et cetera. You’re quite right that this is a much more agreeable distance for conversation!” She leans in close to stage-whisper, “and better for swapping secrets, at that.”

“Oh, all of us Veilgarden burgess are rather much the same,” Odessa remarks with a wave of her hand, “prone to prattle and preening, and a flair for making every moment ooze with drama. I’m far more interested in you, my dear, and your stories. Surely your perspective lends itself to great tales--or am I to presume that daily life in the Flit is rather uneventful?” 

[odessareyes]

enough of nightmares...

[theambitiousoperative]

Roland takes her hand. “I never thought I’d see something like surface stars again. It’s almost enough to make me miss the surface.” Roland sits up. “But, there’s far more to see at night than stars. You know this land better than I do. I would love to see it with you, if you’d be my guide.”

[odessareyes]

“Almost,” Odessa echoes with a wry smile, and takes his hand in kind. She pushes against his weight to lift the two of them to their feet, gathers her gloves, then dusts herself off. 

“Have you not yet taken a solo excursion through Parabola, Roland? Come, I shall show you around,” she says, offering her elbow in guidance. “Though I am not native like your friend, I’ve explored enough–dreaming or otherwise–to consider this an adopted home. Even at Zee, one can still traverse the jungles.“

[theambitiousoperative]

Roland smiles, blushing. “I admit, I never remember my dreaming visits. The world behind the mirrors is one I don’t know well. I’m a little envious of people who can face their reflection without fear should it be staring back.” Roland walks with her, leaning into her arm. “I never did get past the idea of what I might think of myself, looking back at me.”

“But you move through this place so well, undaunted. Even years after I came here, your confidence and courage are just as remarkable to me as they were the first time I saw you on stage.”

[odessareyes]

“You’ve a fine reflection, Mr. Banning, that much is for certain,” Odessa laughs, glancing at him through her lashes. “And I must admit that it is a rare day for me to dislike what I see looking back at me. Though I think that my life on the stage has made that a necessity--one must look at oneself in order to practice facial expressions! And it helps in learning sleight of hand.”

She pauses for a moment, considering her thoughts. The moon-illuminated grass springs brightly in response to their tandem steps. “But one does not need to fear a reflection, for it is not really a truth. It is an illusion, filtered through silver-painted glass. Yes, mirrors are important in this place, but they just show you what could be, really. It is the frame you must pay close attention to. It helps to remember that when you are here,” she says kindly.

“Things never Are, here, nor Are they Not. That is the most difficult thing to learn when one begins to navigate behind the mirrors. It’s nearly impossible to map. But after you’ve spent enough time at Mahogany Hall... let’s just say that one becomes accustomed to the ever-changing proclivities of Parabola.”

[odessareyes]

“The Colonies yes, and perhaps even New Newgate, but I can hardly think of anyone who visits the Boatman of their own volition,” Odessa replies, “though I suppose I am not well-known to engage in games of intellectual fortitude, not unless there be some sort of earthly reward, ” she adds with a chuckle.

Neville sniffs Sereno’s hand, and rolls onto his belly in invitation. While they play, Odessa takes a turn about the room. Her hand covers a smile as she watches the interaction. She stops in front of the large mirrored divider from where Sereno fell out, runs a hand through her curls, then casts a look at him over her shoulder.

“And what line of work, pray tell, warrants such frequent trips of mental instability?” She starts to untie her dressing gown, the fabric slipping down her shoulder, and disappears behind the divider to dress.

[cunninglingua]

Neville finds Sereno is gentle, his fingers light as he scoops up the salt weasel and lets him run across his hands, moving them as Neville leaves one hand so that he can continue going forward.  The kitten is fast asleep by now, unperturbed by Sereno’s playing.

When Odessa speaks, Sereno starts scratching just behind Neville’s ears as he glances in her direction.  "Academia, with an interest in the Third City and the Correspondence.  I work as a linguist.  Keeps me out of other trouble at least.“

[odessareyes]

“Other trouble, notwithstanding the occasional tumble into a distinguished lady’s dressing-room, I’m sure,” Odessa quips, still hidden behind the divider. She’s halfway through rolling up her stockings; her hands and feet flash from behind the wooden panel, toes pointed outward. 

“Scholarly pursuits in both the Third City and the Correspondence? I take it you’re not one to pay much mind to what they say...”

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

Odessa takes a deep breath, and then another. She’s running along the rooftops, clad in a sporting costume of midnight blue. The crisp air is exactly what she needed. Her suite at the Royal Beth was getting to be far too stifling, you see, and Parabola a bit too humid. Not that Odessa’s curls can tell the difference; her thick hair can barely be contained beneath the wide-brimmed wicker hat she’s wearing.

The slick Unterzee churns in the distance; glim-star reflections wink on peligin waves. The zee sounds are mixed with whispers from secret rendezvous both up here in the Flit and on the streets below. She takes in the clandestine conversations, her mind spinning the threads of rumour while she toes the ropes. Bats flit to and fro along the cold currents above, almost daring her to snatch up the missives they carry in their claws.

She stops a moment to catch her breath, her heart a hummingbird inside her chest. She leans her weight on a net of ropes, stretches her neck upward, and looks toward the cavern roof. Maybe she should cut back on the honey and wine. Maybe. Maybe not.

[theraffishadventuress]

From this altitude it can be difficult to tell where the ragged realm of the Flit ends and where the finer parts of the city begin. The tangled nest of walkways and buildings stretches far across the rooftops of northern London like a great spider’s web.

Many people call the Flit a home, even if it sometimes looks more like a wasteland of scrap and ropes rather than an actual inhabitable part of the city. To the untrained or foreign eye the Flit may seem empty, almost hollow. But there is always life and action creeping around on the rooftops. A lady clad in midnight blue, enjoying the exercise and view one gets to experience when traversing the flit. And also a young yet ambitious zee-captain, watching the apocyanic tint of the wavecaps shine and then fade away as the waves hit the shores in the distance.

Swiftly the lady in blue darts across the rooftop landscape, Briefly drawing the attention of some inhabitants but remaining largely ignored until she stops near a net of ropes, some distance away from Sarrazine Leavitt.

The redhaired longshanks girl quickly leaps over a gap and follows along the edge of the building she’s landed on, until she’s within sight of Odessa.

“ Oi! Hello over there, Lady with the hat! You don’t look much like a resident of the Flit, what brings you here? “ Sarrazine eagerly asks her.

[odessareyes]

Odessa turns her gaze toward the flash of red in her peripheral vision. She cranes her neck to get a better view, keeping her hand to the back of her head to better hold her hat in place. “Wotcher, there, longshanks! What makes you say such a thing? I could as easily say the same of you!” comes her cheeky reply.

[theraffishadventuress]

Sarrazine smiles. “ Oh is that so! Are you claiming I look posh or something? “ She leans against a chimney, dusting off her waistcoat a bit. “ I don’t think my clothes can be compared to your outfit Miss! It along with the hat is a bit too leisurely for a local I’d say. Also I don’t happen to recognize you and as you said, I’m a longshanks. I’ve been ‘round here for a while and I think I would remembered your face, or hair if I’ve seen you before! “ Says the girl, glancing up at the woman and the curly hair that’s struggling to stay under the hat.

[odessareyes]

“Leisurely, you say?” Odessa gives herself a once-over as to inspect the fanciness of her dress. “Why, I’ve seen many a lady dressed likewise, most especially while engaged in exercise. Though, I suppose the material isn’t the best choice for rope-running,” she admits. “And I do think that my hair would manage quite nicely in a plait such as yours, but I simply don’t find the look as becoming to my face. Curious it may seem, but wicker is both light and practical.” She adjusts the ribbon tied beneath her chin, a proud, matter-of-fact gesture.

“And don’t sell yourself short,” Odessa adds. “You’re clad in quite the dapper ensemble!” 

She pauses to consider Sarrazine’s next point. “As for the matter of my frequency in the Flit, I am here more often than you’d think,” she finally replies. “Though certainly not dressed such as this! An actress is always used to the quick-change of costumes, and an illusionist adept at misdirection. Lucky match that I am both, then!” Odessa laughs, and throws the longshanks a wink.

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

Odessa takes a deep breath, and then another. She’s running along the rooftops, clad in a sporting costume of midnight blue. The crisp air is exactly what she needed. Her suite at the Royal Beth was getting to be far too stifling, you see, and Parabola a bit too humid. Not that Odessa’s curls can tell the difference; her thick hair can barely be contained beneath the wide-brimmed wicker hat she’s wearing.

The slick Unterzee churns in the distance; glim-star reflections wink on peligin waves. The zee sounds are mixed with whispers from secret rendezvous both up here in the Flit and on the streets below. She takes in the clandestine conversations, her mind spinning the threads of rumour while she toes the ropes. Bats flit to and fro along the cold currents above, almost daring her to snatch up the missives they carry in their claws.

She stops a moment to catch her breath, her heart a hummingbird inside her chest. She leans her weight on a net of ropes, stretches her neck upward, and looks toward the cavern roof. Maybe she should cut back on the honey and wine. Maybe. Maybe not.

[theraffishadventuress]

From this altitude it can be difficult to tell where the ragged realm of the Flit ends and where the finer parts of the city begin. The tangled nest of walkways and buildings stretches far across the rooftops of northern London like a great spider’s web.

Many people call the Flit a home, even if it sometimes looks more like a wasteland of scrap and ropes rather than an actual inhabitable part of the city. To the untrained or foreign eye the Flit may seem empty, almost hollow. But there is always life and action creeping around on the rooftops. A lady clad in midnight blue, enjoying the exercise and view one gets to experience when traversing the flit. And also a young yet ambitious zee-captain, watching the apocyanic tint of the wavecaps shine and then fade away as the waves hit the shores in the distance.

Swiftly the lady in blue darts across the rooftop landscape, Briefly drawing the attention of some inhabitants but remaining largely ignored until she stops near a net of ropes, some distance away from Sarrazine Leavitt.

The redhaired longshanks girl quickly leaps over a gap and follows along the edge of the building she’s landed on, until she’s within sight of Odessa.

“ Oi! Hello over there, Lady with the hat! You don’t look much like a resident of the Flit, what brings you here? “ Sarrazine eagerly asks her.

[odessareyes]

Odessa turns her gaze toward the flash of red in her peripheral vision. She cranes her neck to get a better view, keeping her hand to the back of her head to better hold her hat in place. “Wotcher, there, longshanks! What makes you say such a thing? I could as easily say the same of you!” comes her cheeky reply.

[odessareyes]

a brisk jog

Odessa takes a deep breath, and then another. She’s running along the rooftops, clad in a sporting costume of midnight blue. The crisp air is exactly what she needed. Her suite at the Royal Beth was getting to be far too stifling, you see, and Parabola a bit too humid. Not that Odessa’s curls can tell the difference; her thick hair can barely be contained beneath the wide-brimmed wicker hat she’s wearing.

The slick Unterzee churns in the distance; glim-star reflections wink on peligin waves. The zee sounds are mixed with whispers from secret rendezvous both up here in the Flit and on the streets below. She takes in the clandestine conversations, her mind spinning the threads of rumour while she toes the ropes. Bats flit to and fro along the cold currents above, almost daring her to snatch up the missives they carry in their claws.

She stops a moment to catch her breath, her heart a hummingbird inside her chest. She leans her weight on a net of ropes, stretches her neck upward, and looks toward the cavern roof. Maybe she should cut back on the honey and wine. Maybe. Maybe not.