A soft mist blanketed the small kingdom of Thalon this early summer sunrise. It wasn't uncommon for a Kingdom on the sea to awaken in a fog, however something was unsettling about this mornings grey demeanor. The sun was suppressed by thick clouds, clouds that let not a speck of blue sky shine through their overtake of the sunrise. Looking up, one would instantly anticipate a storm, for the sky was dark and forlorn. However, it was easy to tell that no storms would come. The clouds remained motionless in the sky.

Strange, early risers may mutter to themselves, this damp morning weather. Surely, the people of Thalon are used to some morning mist, but this was just ridiculous! Also strange, some may notice, that the birds are not chirping nearly as much as usual. The earth outside of the buildings of Thalon seemed to be holding it's breath. Something must be amiss in Thalon. Lights were lit in the morning dark, a task usually reserved for late evenings at this time of year. All throughout Thalon, from the Docks to the Gypsie's camp, lanterns bobbed in the slight breeze. Even after the morning had settled, and the now thinning mist glowed blue with the new day, firelight still flickered in the Shadows of Thalon. Even as the people of Thalon went about their morning business, less words than usual were exchanged. People took extra precaution to trod carefully around others, certainly unusual behavior.

As the morning progressed, the clouds and the mist slowly thinned. Shadows slowly grew thinner as the sun light subtly tried to wash over Thalon. It wasn't until the first incoming ship of the day was spotted that the last lantern was extinguished, the morning fog finally dispersing. The atmosphere of the town shifted, and spirits were lifted as they welcomed the sunlight back. The bleak morning was soon overtaken by a robust day, as the eerie morning was soon forgotten.

Not so far away from Thalon, on a large rock isle, a sulking Princess prepared to board a gleaming ship. Her chestnut hair flowed down over her shoulders, a circlet nestled round her brow. But even as she frowned, Ama was beautiful. Lifting her emerald silk gown out of the dirt, she stomped and shouted after her mother. She was in the middle of an argument with her mother, the Queen, on the subject matter of her Coming of Age Ball.

"They're dirty rotten people, and bad for our economy to boot!" The Queen's shrill voice rang over the dock, dismissing Ama. Many of the servants cringed scurried faster as the Queens tone became more and more aggravated. They readied the ship with haste. Nobody wanted to be around The Queen when she was angered, especially while in argument with her daughter. No, it was best to cast the two out to sea alone, and hope they didn't throw one another overboard on the way into the great city of Thalon.

Ama, however, did not scurry along. She was not about to be talked to like that. Like an angered banshee, she flew up the gangplank after The Queen, stomping all the way.
"Mother, they're Guests to our Great City, and I simply will NOT come of age without them!" She came to a stop on the ship, placing both hands on her hips in utter defiance. The Queen slowly turned, mouth agape, a truly shocked expression on her face. She shifted her weight, and a smile crept to Her Royal Highness's face as she fixed her eyes upon her daughter. She opened her mouth to speak, barely able to contain her humor.

"You think that time will stop for you, darling?" Ama remained motionless at the retort, standing firm in her position. She would stare down even the bravest of Knights if he stood between her and what she wanted. She was Princess Ama of Thalon, and she WOULD have the Gypsies at her Coming of Age Ball! The Queen stared back, mirroring Ama's stony expression. The Queen soon grew bored with this charade, however, for the show must go on!

"Come, baby," sap oozed from The Queen's lips as she spoke to Ama, "Let's discuss this while we travel. Our Kingdom awaits!" The Queen smiled, turning and heading towards the bow of the ship. Far in the distance she could spot two more boats, bobbing on the horizon. With a bang, the gangplank was removed, and the anchor was creaked out of the water. Ama remained on the Port side of the ship, avoiding her mother. They sailed towards Thalon, and didn't exchange a single word.

Meanwhile, on the Docks, the Head Guard had just caught signal that Her Royal Highness was on her way. With haste, he dispatched the caller, who ran the streets, screeching of the news. The Queen rarely visited Thalon itself, and usually when she did, was openly critical. Rue the day you accidentally sell The Queen a stale bun! However, sometimes The Queen could be exceptionally kind, and would often answer questions, or donate to beggars. She was fickle like that.


Queen


Princess

accident sorry!)

Reap looked out upon the sea. The wind was blowing deep into the sails, propelling them along with ease. The sea was calm today, maybe it knew where Reap was heading, and knew that he had to tread carefully. He wondered why he decided to return, after over ten years away perhaps he was curies. Either way, they had come far enough there was no stopping now. He was jerked out of his thoughts by the sound of footsteps approaching, turning he welcomed the face of his most trusted freind and firstmate Jimmy with a slight smile. "What is it?" He asked, Jimmy looked up at the sky, a rising sun blocked almost completely out. "There saying its a bad omen." Jimmy said, Reap only sighed. It was true there was something unsettling about the sky, the entire day. Though he refused to acknowledge it.He turned and looked back out over the sea. Jimmy's voice sounded again, this time quieter...almost cautious. "You thinking about Thalon?" Reap merely nodded, the firstmate didint say more, he didint have too. He only placed a reassuring hand on Reap's shoulder before walking back towards the bow of the ship. Reap inhaled deeply one last time, before walking along the deck of the ship towards the helm. He looked at Rachel, one of the best sailors he had ever seen. "conditions helmsman?" He asked, his voice demanding. She replied swiftly "Sandra is up on the crow's nest, she said that were going to enter some fog soon." Reap nodded. He walked to the deck, calling orders to the crew. "Lower the Aft Sails! We go in slow and silently!" The crew hurried to complete the commands. The ship slowed its pace, relying only on the main mast now. They pierced the fog shortly thereafter. Reap noted how most of the crew stood on edge, only a few...Jimmy, Sandra, and Rachel were going about there tasks regularly. "The fog is breaking!" Sandra called out from above. Slowly but surely the fog broke, revealing the now shining sun. "how's that for an omen?" Reap called to Jimmy before going to the bow. "Hoist Sails, full speed ahead!" Again the crew scurried. Jimmy looked at Reap. "We should make landfall within the hour Captain." Reap nodded, once again deep in thought. "We need to be discreet. After that skirmish with those Spanish privateers yesterday the last thing we need is attention. Raise the Gypsy flag. Let them think were traders." He told Jimmy, who left to fulfill the order. Reap looked out over the sea, watching as the first sight of land and ships came on the horizon. "Time to come full circle." He said to himself, before turning and heading towards the captions quarters.


Entering he grabbed his cutlass, positioning it on his back. Slid his pistol into his belt and sheathed his Rapier on his waist. He had a bad feeling now, something was going to go wrong. "Your just jumpy, calm down." He said to himself, then pushed the feeling aside and walked back out on deck. The land was approaching faster now. He walked to the helm. "Lower all sails! We remain here for the moment. I'll go ahead and survey the land, find what the best place to attack will be." He yelled up to the crow's nest. The ship came to a halt slowly. . He turned to the firstmate. "Keep them in line while I'm gone." Jimmy nodded. Reap proceed to the rail of 'The Nightshadow' and lowered a dingy. He turned to see Sandra standing behind him, she was armed and ready to go. "Not this time, I'm going alone." Reap said, Sandra frowned. "The hell you are, we both know you have a habit of getting into trouble." She replied. Reap surrendered to that fact and let her get in the dingy, he climbed down the rope as well, sitting down he took the oars and proceeded towards the shore. After thirty or so minutes they reached the docks, Reap tied the small boat up and looked around. Some had changed, some remained the same. People seemed to be antsy today, as if they were expecting something. "Sandra, slink around, get details on this area and what would be worth raiding. I'm going to see if I can get any information on the locals. He walked through the crowd, glancing here and there. Finally after a minute he came across a man dressed in nothing but rags, the man looked starved. "You, Begger, whats going on today? Answer well and there may be a bit of coin in it for you."

Boiko sat in his caravan, waiting for his guest to arrive. He had finished all he needed to do in the morning already, which wasn't all that much. He had predicted someone would be coming to ask him of something but something was clouding who it was, perhaps it was the weather.

It was not the most cheerful of places in Boiko's caravan, there was no window, not one small crack in the wood (that would be discrediting his craftsmanship.) If he were claustrophobic, it would take only seconds for him to be in hysteria. The humidity was somewhat higher than the outside and oxygen could only last them so long, but spending years inside of it had caused him to feel natural inside. It smelled like dirt and uncleanliness, but once he lit his candles it would be much better. That would not be until his guest arrived though, which would not be much longer.

The caravan was Boiko's home, so he was very comfortable and the darkness was like the morning when none of the shades were opened. Every now and then he'd go outside to get some fresh air or to stretch his legs, as it was very cramped inside with all of his books and valuable objects. What more could he as for though, being a gypsy? He had lived all his life in small places where he was secluded from other life, this was just a more condensed version.

The Beggar had forgotten his name long ago, and usually responded immediately to being called out by his disposition, in hope of receiving charity. He rarely was in the same place twice, Thalon was large enough that he could evade hassling guards easily. They liked to shoo him around, but were never successful in ridding Thalon of him.

This morning he lingered at the edge of the dockyard, hoping to maybe pick up a fish, or a fallen coin, or perhaps a generous tradesman would offer him a job on a ship. Oh, who was he fooling, he loved this small Kingdom so. Even though he was a beggar, he lived a life filled with characters. Never did a day go by that he wasn't fed something by someone, even if it was only broth. Sure, he may be barely surviving, but he is living! The beggar was an amiable man, who enjoyed gossip with the local ladies. He wouldn't give up all the stale buns in the world for a death cruise on some sea contraption!

The beggar caught glimpse of a young, exotic looking female that he had never seen before making her way from the docks. Who was she? She did not look like someone he would approach for charity.

"You, Begger, whats going on today? Answer well and there may be a bit of coin in it for you."

He turned his crazed gaze in the direction of the tall, armored man standing above him, his thought interrupted. This man. He offered coins for knowledge of this place the Beggar called Home. Why, the Beggar wondered, would he want to know anything about this old place? And who was he, why, so oddly clothed. He darted his glance around, and beckoned for the man to move closer.

"A penny for my thoughts?" He said, smiling, revealing not many teeth at all. The beggar opened his palm, awaiting coins. He was no fool.

Meanwhile, out in the Gypsy camps, the sun was fresh and shining. Bugs flitted through the Caravan cluster, and many gypsies milled about their daily business. Fesna, for instance, had just exited her caravan, coughing up a storm. She swatted at the air around her, sputtering.
"No no no, that was NOT good! Eaugh!" Fesna crafted beautiful scents to sell to the women in town. She stored them in small glass phials, small enough to wear on the necklace.

A chortle came from a short distance away. A shorter, chubbier man with sausage fingers hobbled over to Fesna.
"I tell you, Fesna dear," he said tauntingly, "Stink weed not good for beautiful things. Ugly plants, ugly smell-"

"OH HUSH!" Fesna spit at him, smiling as she shooed him. "Kragum you pest, tell me a thing I don't know!"

Miriel Bookman stood nearby the docks, watching the ships sway on the shallow sea. The morning wasn't as sunny as usual but it was still pleasant through the foggy dew. She narrowed her eyes before a smile crowded her lips. Such a fine morning! No time to dilly dally around! She chuckled and made her way to the bakery for breakfast.

She came out of the bakery with a new order and a piece of toast. The bakery lady had only seemed to wanna ramble on about getting a new dress made with the recent profits of her shop. However, Miriel had to agree that the bread was good but making dresses for the lady was a tiring task. Not only did she often dirty them with flour and other ingredients but the dresses had to be made tightly enough to make it almost water-proof. It took extra time and a certain type of fabric that Miriel just wasn't into having to go through the effort to attain. She took another bite of the buttered toast and peered up at the sky. It had gotten much sunnier in the time spent inside the cafe. She admired the view for a moment before allowing her feet to take her towards Southtown.

Miriel paused. "What now?" That silly old man approached her with a sort of lazy but giddy walk. Her gaze roamed over his clothes that she had designed long ago when she was younger and still being tutored in the ways of tailoring. Since then, the man hadn't asked for another pair. It miffed her slightly. "Miriel! My dear. Why I was just thinking about you. I was going to ask you to take this poor old man to the bakery but it seems you already went. That's the early bird for you!" She couldn't resist the smile and shook her head, her hands assuming their places on either side of her hips. "Old man. I keep telling you that the more you go there, the more that bakery lady is going to eat you up. Your just begging for it." The man laughed, and her brow raised with mirth. "I know that. I'm just the ladies man in my old age. Speaking of courting, why haven't you gotten married yet? You certainly are ready."

She sighed and lowered her head, one hand raised to rub the spot between her eyes in mock stress. "How many times do I have to say that I'm not interested? Men are just not in my agenda. I have a love for clothes and it must be nurtured!" The old man wagged his knobby finger in front of her face before chortling. "Just you wait. When a fine young man comes around, you'll be swooning!" She laughed and batted his finger away gently. "No way. I'll see you later. It's about time for me to set up shop." The man nodded and waved his hands in a gesture to tell her to be on her way. "You take care, Miriel." She turned and started walking towards the shop on the edge of Southtown, giving a solemn wave goodbye over her shoulder.

Miriel opened her door and strode inside. She didn't bother pausing to scan her store, she knew what was inside and that no one would dare mess with it unless they wanted to get put in their place in a hurry. She set about to dusting and cleaning up the shelves and such. Her mornings were always like so, a kind walk and then to return to her dazzling work. She brushed the counter off, noticing that there wasn't much dust in the first place. Her shop was immaculately clean and she kept it that way. It helped preserve the outfits on display. Miriel walked over to the female centerpiece, a gorgeous silk white gown with gold embroidery. It had open shoulders yet straps over the upper part over the shoulder held it in place. The sash gave it a innocent, yet feminine appearance. It was made with the white silk she had gotten imported lately and the price wasn't cheap but the buy was well worth it. Miriel let a finger trail over the dress before she looked over her shoulder to view her other pieces making sure all was in order. The male outfit she had as another centerpiece on the other side of the room mirrored the gown perfectly. She only kept up centerpieces to show off her work but generally she took requests and orders of clothes. It was easier to do business that way, but other than the pieces clothing items around the outline of the store she had bins of material to make your own clothes with. You could also choose to order a material too. Whether that be silk or otherwise. The prices varied. Miriel took a collective sigh and sat down behind the counter. It would be a long day of customers in and out of her store.

(Whopps!)

A groggy sight filled Tobias' eyes, then it was gone, then ti was back again. It was the roof of his canvas tent, supported by a stout wooden pole. Tobias closed his eyes tightly, to try to sort out the blurriness of his vision. Once he opened them again, he regretted it instantly. As soon as they were fully open a piercing headache split his forehead like an axe chopping through a melon. He groaned and flipped over, attempting to bury his face in a pillow, instead, what he found was a pile of empty jugs, his ceramic jugs that usually held various concoctions brewed in the woods by an old man by the name of 'Creecher'.

Aw, hell

Tobias swept aside the bottles unceremoniously with his arm. They simply formed a new pile, this time covering up his meager leather armor which he had discarded haphazardly the night before as opposed to placing it neatly in his chest. He groaned as he lifted his head off the bare floor, he tried to look around the tent, but he found his eyes unwilling to open in more than a slit, he decided to try out one of his favorite curse words, picked up by a traveling English merchant,

"Bloody BOLLOCKS!" He nearly shouted the last word, his semi-thick Russian accent slurring it, he rubbed his forehead with a hand. After he exclaimed, he felt movement at his right arm, which was propping him up. It caused him to tense, he slowly turned his head to look, and what he saw where a pair of bare shoulders and a head of long, flowing hair. He recognized the hair, it belonged to one of the gypsies around camp, he groaned and said gruffly in his native language,

"Вон из моей палатки шлюха!"
(Phonetically: Von iz moyeĭ palatki shlyuha! Literally: Get out of my tent whore!)

The lump at his side moved, then groaned, then got up and began dressing herself. Tobias lay back down, resting his head on the thick rug that served as a floor of his tent. He heard the tent flap open, then close, and realized he was alone. Once he forced himself to move, he grabbed a spare pair of pants, balled them up, and used them as a pillow, within minutes...He was snoring again.

"Well I could tell her 'bout her arse, something she don' see of'n" Kragum muttered jokingly to himself, as he hobbled away from the scene of the stench. Apparently, he wasn't mumbling enough, for he had just enough time to dart out of sight before he heard Fesna bellow (very distinctively),
"KRAAAAG YOU RRRAAAT GET YOUR STUMPY ..." But he tiptoed away out of earshot before Fesna had the time to pursue the insult. He chucked to himself, as he pulled a bandanna from his pocket and tied it around his balding head. The sun was getting hot, even in the shade of the trees. He made his way slowly through the camp, looking for some more people to pester. Kragum had nothing to do today! He admired the lovely weather, no longer thinking of the hot sun. He was glad to be in Thalon, it was one of his favorite camps.

Suddenly, a half dressed form came darting out of a shoddy tent not far off. Kragum didn't even flinch, but followed the figure with an amused expression as it stumbled through the camp. Looks like Tobias had a good night! Kragum shuffled up to the tent, and batted at the flap.

"FIND ME WHEN YOU WAKE, MAN!" He shouted into the tent, not caring to poke his head in, "AND WE SHALL TRAIPSE TO THE BARS!"
Satisfied, Kragum continued around the camp.



Meanwhile, at the docks, the workers scurried. They prepared diligently for the Queens arrival, organizing the docks the best they could. Seafaring men are not the cleanest, or the most tidy, but for the Queen...well. For the Queen.

The Beggar looked expectantly up at the young man, dropping his smile after a moment.
"In case you haven't noticed, scurvy, The Queen is coming today!" he said rushed, while the offer still stood.
"Now pay up!"



In town, people prepared likewise for her visit, factoring her into their days. The scents of pies and sweets could be smelled even buildings away from the baker's, and there were definitely more guards mulling about than usual. Even the Lords and Ladies had on their best, and were strolling about. Merchants rolled their carts into the Town Center, preparing to make the big sale. Ladies in fine fabrics holding parasols eyed the carts in passing, those with men on their arms might give the guy a tug towards the center. Every now and again, someone would pop into a shop. Couples many a time graced the bakery, longing for a sweet to accompany them along their walk. One lady in a large feathered hat particularly bee-lined for the Tailor. It was certainly a day of days in Thalon!

Whoops. Ha ha. One moment..

It felt like it he had just grabbed a few mere minutes of sleep before he opened his drowsy eyes. The room around him was just a blur, the sounds of the life around him blending into the background, barely heard by his ears. It took a few seconds, a few blinks of his eyes, in order for his senses to fully awaken. There were papers at his fingertips. Under his head, was a hard surface. He was bent and slouched over the surface in an odd position, one arm hanging limply by his side. His name...his name was being called. Out through the house it echoed, reaching to the point of his room where Hayden could hear it.

The man stared ahead at his wall for a moment, his eyes running over the rips and stains in the white wallpaper. The texture of the wooden beams against the side that kept the roof of the house standing. He wasn't exactly a morning person. Never was, and probably never would be. He detested mornings about as much as he hated the flames in the shop, flickering up at him, threatening to burn even more of his bare skin. Hayden sat up in the chair he was in, breathing out a large, exasperated sigh. He felt like he had been up all night. Which...he kind of had been. He had gotten just a few mere hours of sleep, because he had been working so hard on things that his father didn't want to see him working on. Night-time was the only time of the day when he could draw and sketch, build and work with other things besides metal. But it had its consequences. Large ones, in fact. His father was beginning to wonder why he was so tired in the mornings.

'You don't even do much in the shop. How in the name of God is it possible that you are so exhausted every morning?' Were the exact words he said. Hayden couldn't seem to get his father's yelling out of his head, the expression on his face, his hand gestures that came to close to Hayden that he was afraid that his own mentor would hit him. But he never did. He would shout and curse, but never came close to it.

He hurriedly began to throw all of his papers to one side of the desk, covering his sketches of the horses he so often visited with his diagrams of some of his other work. His workspace was no where near organized, there were papers pinned to the wall, ink and charcoal thrown about, covering the wood in stains. Another thing his father hated. How messy his own son was. 'When I'm dead, you better take care of the shop.'

Such reassuring words.

Hayden got to his feet, grabbing the nearest piece of fabric he could get. The charcoal on his hands rubbed off onto the light gray shirt. He pulled his other black one off, slipping on the loose long-sleeved shirt, still a bit drowsy from the lack of sleep he had gotten. He stepped towards the door of his room, grabbing the handle and exiting the room, shutting the door behind him. It was just a few minutes of stumbling around the building before he found what he needed. Some food to try and awaken him, a red apple from the basket of other fruits he had bought at the market the other day. With that, he ran through another door, and into the dimly lit surroundings of what was his workspace. The apprentice grabbed a thick apron off of a tack on the wall, throwing it over himself. He ran a quick hand through his auburn hair, trying to clear his vision of astray hairs, before grabbing a pair of the thick, heavy gloves required.

"What took so long?" His father's voice rose above the sound of the other people outside. Hayden shrugged, running over to the area where he usually resided.The taller man near him passed him passed him a crooked piece of metal, gesturing to a table nearby with a few hammers and anvils on it. Hayden set the metal down, leaning up against the table and putting his gloves down on it as well, turning around to grab the apple he had set on a shelf near the hearth. He placed it to his lips taking a small bite out of it.

"I...don't know. I was just tired." He responded simply, rolling the apple in his hand. His father opened his mouth to speak, yet stopped himself, glancing over his shoulder.

"Stay here, work on the steel. Don't mess it up, I know you've only done a few with that metal. I need to go grab something." And with that, his mentor walked by him, back into the home. Hayden sighed quietly, finishing off the apple with a few more bites. He could feel the heat of coals in the hearth of the forge upon him, giving part of his face an orange glow. The morning air was different this time, but nothing of concern to him. Just another day to get himself through.

Reap watched the beggar, starring at the hand silently. His face a clear message, info, then cash. Only a fool would trust a beggar. "In case you haven't noticed, scurvy, The Queen is coming today Reap half grinned at the thought. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a bag of gold coin. "Good, my thanks. Now surely you would be so kind as to not mention you ever saw me, or anyone that looks slightly like me. I pay my informants well." He said, placing the rather plump bag of gold in the beggar's hand. He turned and walked away then, like he was never there. Reap tossed the information around in his head as he made way towards Sandra, who noticing him walked away from the crowd. "What is it?" She asked. Reap had a gleam in his eye when he spoke, a terrific plan swishing through his mind. He looked over the sea. "The queen is making a visit to Thalon, I'd be willing to bet a pound of gold she never gets here." Reap replied, Sandra grinned too. A minute later they proceeded back to the docks, boarding the dingy and began rowing towards the Nightshadow. "How are we going to do it?" Sandra asked. Reap was silent on the matter, he had already formulated a plan for the kidnapping. As they came up to the Nightshadow they climbed up the ropes, Reap walked along the deck, leaning against the mast. "Men, today we dwell in ransom. Load the cannons!, prepare the Ballista!. Sandra, up to the crows nest, I want a report on every ship heading towards the docks. Rachel, pull us to port side, with the wind at our backs and the open sea at our fronts. When we spot her majesty's ship we will raise sails and intercept her. Whatever guards she might have will be no match for this battle hardened crew." The crew cheered when Reap was finished, they proceeded to carry out the orders. Jimmy came up to Reap. "Shall I prepare the boarding crew?" Reap waited a moment before replying. "No, put Max on the job...if he is even awake yet." Jimmy nodded. "How willw e know which ship is the queens?" He asked. Reap shot him a clever glance. "the queen rarely visits, they will most likely have a small honor guard. The harbor will most likely be cleared as she approaches. Just watch for the signs." Reap said, Jimmy again nodded, then started climbing the Crow's nest to inform Sandra. Reap heard a groan, as Max stumbled up from below decks. He was clearly hungover from the night before. "eh, oh boy." Reap said as he walked over to the man. "Max, time to earn your pay. Prepare the boarding crew." Max looked as if he was about to refuse, but only nodded when he saw the icy stare on Reap's face. As he walked away Reap muttered to himself. "This is going to be a good day."

The Royal Ship, Justina, was finally in sight. More and more commoners had crowded onto the dock, awaiting the arrival of their Queen. A path was cleared out to the Town Square by twenty or so dockmen. Spare brooms were brought by those who could bring one to lend out for the sweeping. It was quite the scene, a cluster of boatmen and traders and villagers alike, all sweeping dust and dirt off of the dock, clearing the matted earth path of loose stones. Many swept for respect of their Queen, many swept from fear. Some simply were handed a broom and felt the inclination to sweep, instead of passing it along.

Gus Yelper was not one of these people. He was not one to sweep, to cower, or to worship, but one to command the action.
"Move this here! That there! YOU SLIMY GIT, DROP IT!" He was often heard screaming over the docks. He was not officially in charge of ANYTHING except the stock buildings, but he lived on the top floor the main one. This gave him a birds eye view of the docks, and he practically considered them an extension of his property.
Today, however, Yelper made himself useful by passing out spare brooms he had lying around the stockrooms. Yelper fumbled with the bundle of them, every now and again dropping one.

He was just rising from picking up his third to last broom when he spotted a familiar figure on the horizon. Literally, on a rooftop!
"OI! Whot' are yew' doin' on tha' roof top?" A loud shout could be heard in the distance, and the man disappeared off the roof. Yelper half smiled to himself. What was that man up to today? It seemed nobody could resist the pull of the hubub today!



Meanwhile, in Town , Devy the young gypsy was in need of a new weapon. Any old shank would do, but today Devy had a little thing called money! Running a hand through his jet black hair, Devy pondered on the subject of weapons. He wasn't exactly what you would call fluent with one, a blade. He preferred his small pistol, but bullets for it were becoming harder and harder to acquire. But a shank, a knife, a blade... Unlimited ammo!
He palmed at the pocket of his loose wrap pants, yes the small satchel of coins was still there. He raised a fist, taking a deep breath, and knocking on he Blacksmith's shop. He had heard many stories about Gypsies that ended up mangled by crossing the wrong towns person, but this was Thalon! Stuff like that didn't happen here... right?



Simultaneously at another shop in Thalon, a robust Lady in a large feathered hat gazed longingly at the graceful gowns. She also couldn't help but shoot jealous glances at the shopkeeper, who was in her prime herself. Sighing, she turned her bored, heavy lidded gaze to the Tailor.
"You've anything my size?" She said with as little interest as someone studying a hard boiled egg.

Miriel Bookman glanced towards another customer before giving her smile. "One moment please." She turned back to her previous and most important order to finish up the work there.

After several minutes of signing papers she turned to the Lady. Miriel let her gaze travel over the female's attire before she raised it to her eyes that were expressing the same interest as Miriel would have like to express but she had a business to run. Keep a smile and a sharp attitude. Miriel waved and hand towards her gowns and chuckled with dry humor. "Of course. The dresses can come in any size you like. I take requests." She tilted her head viewing the lady before shrugging. "A nice gown would go perfectly for your gorgeous hat. I admire it. It's your choice however, ma'am."

Miriel walked around the counter and moved to stand in front of it instead. She took up a relaxed position and crossed her arms over her chest. She would have to go to the docks to acquire more materials for the new dresses to be made but that wasn't something that she could do during store hours. She let her gaze roam over the streets outside her storefront. She could try closing early but with the wave of customers coming in along with her regulars she hadn't the time nor pause to even get close.

Shall I do it in the morning? She sighed and waved a hand to dismiss the thought. Of course she would. If she hadn't the time this afternoon she could get it done in the morning. It wouldn't delay her tailoring by much. She glanced back at some of the customers floating in and out of her shop before she sighed and moved back around the counter to begin out some of the hemming orders. Those were easiest considering the outlines were already drawn. She pulled out the needle and thread and began with a haste that she had achieved after working at this job for so many years.

Time passed by slowly as her focus was solely on the work she was doing. Sometimes she would glance up at a customer who had work for her to do, or a customer who had question but would return dutifully back to her work. Aren't I just diligent? She shook her head and looked up to watch the Lady from before. "Have you decided on something you like?"

The lady in the obnoxious hat turned on her heel and smiled at the Tailor.
"No, just browsing," She said, flashing a fake smile sort-of in the Tailor's direction. The Lady, in truth, had no intentions of spending money today. Her husband forbid it, after all the gold she spent last week. She looked over at the Taior once more, quickly flicking her eyes up and down her thin frame.
Oh to be young again, she thought, and with with a humble thanks and a nod, turned and tried to exit the shop. Her figure gave her some trouble round the door, but surely enough she bustled on out.

---

Over at the docks, commoners waved with joy and discarded their brooms as the ship closed in on the land. The Justina was brought in and docked, and no sooner had the gangplank been lowered that Princess Ama stormed off the ship. She waved off the "Your Majesty!"'s and bows, her two burly guards running after her. They hadn't expected her to just take off like that! Never mind all the formalities, Princess Ama thought to herself, now was not such the occasion.

The Queen, however, slowly descended from the gangplank. Nearly everyone on the dock flicked up their reach, extending a helping hand to The Queen. She thanked all that helped, and nodded to all that bowed. The Queen kept her gaze fixated forward, following the Princess with her eyes. She didn't even acknowledge the fact that some people didn't bow.

"Oh, Not again", both Guard Lou and Guard Derril found themselves thinking as they rushed after the princess. They tried to keep up, they really did. By now the sun was beating down upon Thalon, and the cool breeze didn't reach beneath their armour. It was no use, they were barely able to keep sight of darn Ama as she slipped through the growing crowd in the Town Center. They thought they saw her slip around the southern edge of Southtown, but then... Wasn't that her there by the Stables all the way over there? The Guards foolishly separated, Lou making his way through Southtown thinking of not the Princess but the Pub. Derril was seen slipping into the Blacksmith's but a short time later. Lou removed his helm and scratched at his fluff of hair. He really could use a drink right now. He was younger than most the other Guards, and was stationed with Ama because he was the closest in age. Age, Lou snorted to himself, who was anybody trying to kid? She had added years to him in stress!

Guard Lou had not the slightest clue as to where Princess Ama could have gone. Neither of the guards had it right, entirely, but Lou was closer. Yes, Ama had slipped through Southtown, but she was headed towards the Gypsies. Ama slipped through the alleys and back alleys of Southown, doing her best to stay well hidden on her way towards the Gypsy Campground. Excitement boiled inside of her, she was doing it she was doing it! Princess Ama would surely have her way.


---


Meanwhile, the queen had a destination, yes she did, and she made her way fluidly towards it. She wrinkled her nose at the smell of fish, and something on the corner of the docks caught her eye. A beggar! Really, now, she thought she had... Why she HAD shooed this man away, just eight months ago, her last visit. The Queen paused, contemplating. No, she was in no mood for this.
The Queen sighed, sometimes she truly longed for a son instead. A son wouldn't take off into town, a SON wouldn't...
"Your Highness, do you Tire?" asked a gentlemanly guard to her left, flicking his eyes around the square. He had on more than one occasion carried the Queen to her destination, in his arms. She was not used to walking very much. Or dirt. Or beggars.
"No, no worries Tidmen," The Queen replied, then changed her mind. "On second thought, my Parasol?" The Queen stood, with her eyes shielded from the sun with a hand, as the Parasol was found, fussed with, and fussed with some more. The Queen, after shooting the two guards that wrestled the wire contraption the dirtiest of looks, snatched it from their grasp. "Is it so complex?!" She spit the question at them, belittling them. The Guards didn't even flinch, for they were too busy biting back grins. The parasol could be considered a weapon at this point, for the Queen had gotten it open, alright.



((thought this to be the most appropriate of pictures.))


The Queen huffed, and discarded the piece of metal as she briskly started to walk.
"Never MIND the sun, OR the HEAT!" She passionately spit at the umbrella, as six guards rushed after her, flanking The Queen on all sides. She had somewhere to be! The Queen knew the Tailor in passing, and had never actually commissioned something in person. However, she figured today would be the day.

---

Across town, Ama had already almost reached her destination. Then there it was. The parting in the trees, revealing the wide path that lead to none other than The Gypsy Campgrounds. Princess Ama surged forward with her heart pounding in her chest, camouflaged against the forest in her gown. She walked the trail, passing one or two Gypsies that were headed into town. The forest opened up, and Princess Ama stared awestruck at a small clearing filled with Caravans. She had never seen this part of her Kingdom before. Suddenly, she remembered what she was there for. If only she knew how to find... This must be it.

There she stood, outside of an elaborately decorated caravan. Yes, this is how the Maid described it to her. She looked over her shoulder, to make sure the guards hadn't spotted her. No, they had no idea. Ama raised a hand to... She immediately lowered it. To knock? Was that proper?

Ama's breath escaped her as the door to the Caravan creaked open. She could barely make out the interior with what light was let in by the door. She heard a mystifying voice, inviting her inside. First Princess Ama was skeptical of whether she was at the right place or not. If her mother was right, any one of these people could fool her and kill her...

Her thought process was cut short. She would recognize that name anywhere, remembering how she had raised an eyebrow the first time the young maid ever muttered it. It sounded much more elegant coming from the Gypsy himself. Ama took a deep breath, stepping up the short steps and into the caravan.

Reap heard Sandra yell as a ship came into view. He turned and began to give the order to intercept when he found Rachel staring at him. "What?" He asked. She looked at the new ship on the horizon. "We haven't had enough time to prepare, to many unknown factors. " Though Reap knew she was right he wouldn't admit to it so easily. "Bullshit, its a simple snag and bag." She looked at him, an expression on her face that said she wassent guiding the ship one inch. Jimmy came up and placed a hand on Reap's shoulder. "She has a point, you don't think we might just be rushing in? With all the witnesses, the guards...this is going to be a feat even for us. You may be acting brashly Caption." Reap sighed, surrendering to there pushing. "Fine, she is going on land now...our chance is past anyway." He said as the ship pulled into the docks. "Surely sshe will be here for a while, maybe a day or two. We will wait for the perfect timing. Jimmy, tell the crew to stand down." Reap turned to Rachel. "You would do best to remember that I give the orders round here Rach. Next time you flat out disobey one like that I'll throw you overboard. " He turned to the now assembling crew on deck. "What are you Sea rats standing about for!? Man the sails!." He ordered.

A few minutes later 'The NightShadow pulled up to shore, cruising into the section of docks farthest away from the queens and with many other ships between the two. It came to a light stop, just shy of hitting the ground. Reap walked up to the bow and looked down, he turned to his crew. "Men, tonight when the suns sets you can go ashore. If I remember correctly this city as a tavern of sorts, go there. Have a drink or two. Remember though, if your not on this ship when that sun rises you WILL be left behind." The crew nodded and cheered, no doubt happy that they could walk on solid ground for the first time in months. Reap turned, to find Jimmy and Sandra behind him. "Jimmy, I want you to find out exactly how long the queen will be in town. Sandra, your job is to test what kind of skill there guards have, but wait till nightfall. We will be less noticeable then." They nodded, and went about there daily duitys. Mostly just killing time. Reap climbed the crow's nest. Right up to the top where he sat contemplating. He would most likely stay in that same position till nightfall, just thinking about the past, and the near future.

Tobias rolled over and opened his eyes. This time, once his vision cleared, his view of the support pole of the tent was un-impaired, except for a remnant of the splitting headache. Tobias sat up and began to rub his head, glancing around the tent he noticed the pile of jugs, his leather cuirass, and his clothing strewn about on the ground. He stood and stretched, barely thinking, he opened a small chest and retrieved a glass vial full of his hangover remedy. He unstopped the vial, pinched his nose, and slugged the remedy down. It tasted like a mix between bile and horse intestines. He shuddered as he began to mill around the tent, finding bits of clothing and putting them on. First his flowing silk shirt, then his pants, and finally lacing on his boots. He glanced at his cuirass and thought about wearing it, but decided against it, he wasn't planning on any fighting today, but just to be safe, he rummaged around in a pile of junk and came up with his dagger and sheath. He slid it onto his belt as he exited the tent.

Much to Tobias dismay it was still day, but he shrugged it off as he walked around camp. He milled about senselessly for a few moments before heading towards his high bars. The bars were set up in the center of the camp, and he wasn't the only one to use them, but whenever he showed up, the others moved aside, and for a good reason. He stood and looked at the eight foot high low bar, then the eleven foot high high bar about ten feet away from the first. He crouched down low, flexing his legs, then in a motion so quick he seemed a blur, he launched himself into the air, catching hold of the low bar he began to spin in a circle, he released himself as he spun up, flying through the air towards the high bar. He was free. Acrobatics and whatever it was in that vial, they were the perfect hangover cure.

If anyone knew anything about Maria Mereworth, they'd know firstly that she was a manipulative, temptress wench. If they'd heard just a smidgen more about her, the second thing they'd know was how inexplicably curious she was. That said, today seemed like a day made just for her onslaught of inquisitiveness, what with the peculiar weather as well as the arrival of the Queen. Oh goody! She could just rip off her shoes and dance in the streets she was so overjoyed by Her Majesty's appearance. Can you taste the sarcasm? No, Maria wasn't very interested in the royalty- that was much too overrated and overdone- but she was extremely interested in all the commotion they brought forth. Or, that's what she liked to tell herself. Truthfully, she wanted to know about them just as much as every schmuck in town did. Everyone seemed to be out and about, people bustling here and there, sounds not typical of a morning in boring old Thalon reaching her ears. She stood outside, leaning on a pillar just outside of her home (the brothel in Southtown), sipping in the scenery with contentment. She had the day off today, which seemed to work perfectly. She wouldn't have to bed with the random strangers pouring in today, and she'd get to snoop around town to her heart's desire on such a fabulous day. She still might just bed with a stranger, but that would all be told with time.

She began to stroll down towards the gypsies leisurely, not really planning on going anywhere in particular. She certainly wouldn't be at the docks to greet the stupid Queen and her bratty daughter. She thought this with indignant pride, though that damned curiosity nipped at her toes. She wondered just what the two women were like. She'd bet they had a ton of fishy secrets- hot and heavy gossip. In a flash, she saw the girl in the flesh zipping past her and into the gypsy haven. Maria felt her eyebrows shoot out atop her face as she watched her fly, two guards chasing after her. Hmmm, the two men seemed like perfect opportunities to get a feel for how the royals really were. Scheming and mischievous, she followed the younger one- of course- to the pub like a shadow, dancing along the walls with stealth and secrecy. She entered the pub a few minutes after he had just to be safe, flinging the doors open with all the confidence in the world. She approached the guard, leaning on her elbows on the counter and flicking him a smoldering look.

"Not from around here, I presume." she said, an impish smirk gracing her plump lips. Her black eyes dragged lazily over him, obviously assessing him. The woman was toxic, that was for sure.

A majestic ship pulled in to dock, a ship that Gus Yelper had never seen before in his entire life. He eyeballed it as it cruised into place, scrutinizing it's every detail. It came to rest on the complete opposite side of the dock from both where he and The Justina sat. Peering across the docks, Gus could see people milling about on the ship. Seafarers, no doubt, but who the hell were they? For a moment longer, Gus remained perched on a stock box, contemplating. No, no more contemplating, he was going to see who these people were. Some of them had flooded off of the ship not seconds after the gangplank had been lowered, but a good handful still remained.

The docks of Thalon had seen many a ship, but Gus was sure that this ship had never come to dock here. He would have bet his shoes on it, in fact. The ship grew larger as he stomped closer, and clearer were the figures on it. There was someone up there, in the crows nest, for reasons Gus didn't quite get. What kind of human doesn't rush towards land as soon as they see it? But quickly Gus disbanded that thought, for he had met many a man who preferred the decks of a ship to the dirt of the earth. To each his own!

Gus came to a rest a few feet from where the gangplank to the beautiful ship had been lowered. The ship was somewhat intimidating, he had to admit. Cupping a hand over his eyes, he peered upwards. No use, he couldn't see who was up there. Gus leaned against a post, figuring he would just wait. He felt slightly obligated to greet whoever was aboard this ship, and welcome them to Thalon. After all, he was Gus Yelper, and these were his docks... kind of.


---


Maybe it was his guilty conscience, but Lou felt as if he was being watched. As the young man made his way through town towards the tavern, he couldn't help but dart glances over his shoulder, as if any second now the King himself would pop out and behead him for abandoning his beloved daughter.
But Lou was just being ridiculous. Of course nobody was following him, and why would they? He was a Royal Guard, and a good one at that. Not to mention his in with the Royal Family.

Lou snorted to himself. What was he thinking, the Royal Family could give three and a half shits about him. This wasn't true, of course, but Lou entertained the thought for the rest of his walk to the tavern. To be honest, Lou was an invaluable asset to the Royal Family, for he was the only one who could talk Princess Ama out of something stupid. A lot of good that did him today, of course, she just bolted before he had a chance to talk!

Lou eased his way into the Tavern, nonchalantly seating himself at the bar. He peeked around, noticing a couple of off duty guards at a table over there, and a couple of daytime regulars. He turned his gaze up at the bartender, who was boring into his soul with his eyes.
"Usual?" the burly bartender grunted to Lou, with a lopsided smile on his face. Lou smiled, a twinkle in his eye, as he slammed down a gold piece. In turn, the bartender slammed down a large frothing goblet of mead.

"Ahh you spoil me, Henchik!" Lou said, raising the glass before taking a swig. Henchik the burly bartender smiled, revealing not so many teeth. Henchik was good to the working people of Thalon, and everyone knew it.

"Not like I can often there, Lou," He said with a wink, and was off to serve more customers. It was true, Lou had only stayed in the city of Thalon for a short period of time before being moved off to the Castle. Duty calls, but he jumped at any opportunity to visit mainland again. Mainland being mostly the Tavern. The other guards were great and all, but he longed for real socialization.

The door to the tavern slammed open, and Lou of course looked to see why. He quickly averted his eyes, however, as soon as he saw her. In an attempt to sober his pulse, Lou quickly downed the rest of the mead, slamming the goblet on the counter.

"Not from around here, I presume."

Lou gulped, inaudibly he hoped. He did try to keep the gaze of the woman at the counter next to him, but her eyes wandered first. While she assessed him, he let his own eyes flick over her frame, and immediately brought them back up to her face.
Dangerous, he thought to himself, as she continued to smirk at him.

"Not quite, but almost," He said with a small smile, and motioned to the empty seat next to him.
"Thirsty, I presume?" and without waiting for an answer, he slammed two more golden coins on the counter. Henchick slammed down two goblets of mead in return, and slipped a wink at Maria.


---


Princess Ama left the decorated caravan feeling relieved and overjoyed. Yes, she would most certainly get her way. Liek always!

She had taken no more than three steps when she realized exactly where she was. She was in the middle of the Gypsy camp, alone. For a moment, fear washed over her. She darted her eyes around the camp, attempting to sense danger. But wait a minute, she thought to herself, what am I thinking? Fear, psh! She shook off the feeling with a shake of her hair. She had nothing to fear, for this was HER kingdom!

As she strolled along through the grassy clearing, she began to admire the different caravans. Many of them were strung with all sorts of exotic...things. She had no other word for some of the items she saw. They were simply....things. Trinkets, maybe, but she couldn't be so sure. Ama had heard all about these caravans, and this spot, but had never actually been here. Strange it seemed, but truth it was. It seemed to be a place filled with magic, just hiding away in the forest! The more Ama walked, the less she understood her mother's hate for the Gypsies.

As she rounded to the center of the camp, she spotted a small commotion going on. A small gathering of Gypsies were all looking upwards, and with good reason! Was that person...flying? Princess Ama crept closer, clinging to the edges of the small Gypsy crowd, as a man seemingly flung himself between a series of bars. Ama couldn't help but smile, these Gypsies.... She had not a word for them, but thought them to be grand! Silently, she watched the acrobatics commence. For the first time in her life, Ama was glad nobody seemed to notice her.


---


Devy the Gypsy boy had second thoughts about going to the Blacksmiths, as he watched a Palace Guard dart inside as he rounded the corner.
On second thought...
No, today would not be the day Devy got a proper shank weapon. Sighing, he turned on his heel and headed back towards the Gypsy camp.


---


The Queen, however, had finally reached her destination, and disappeared inside the Tailors shop, leaving her Guards to wait outside. What good were men in a clothing store, anyway? A short while later she emerged with a satisfied smirk. The Guards hopped to attention, but The Queen paid them no heed.
"Has anyone seen my Daughter?" She inquired, her shrill voice ringing over the sounds of the city. Hesitantly, a guard stepped forth.
"No, Your Royal Highness," he said after a small bow, and flinched when The Queen whipped her head in his direction.
"Then off with you to find her!" The Queen sent the guard off to find Ama, and after nodding towards the others, started off in the direction of the Town Square.

Tobias floated through the air, as a summer breeze, rustling only instantaneously against the bars before he flew again into the air. He spun and flipped and launched himself with ease, but as time drew on he began to feel a warning ache in his arms, telling him he had better give it a rest soon. As a final flourish, he launched himself at the high bar, latched on and spun around
once...
twice...
three times!
On the third spin, as he finished he slowed himself as he hit the vertical peak of his spin. He locked his arms and tensed his core...and stood perfectly straight on his hands, perpendicular to the ground. he bent his arms and launched off the bar, landing on the ground with a smooth roll and popping back up onto his feet. It was when he stood, brushing his hair back from his face, that he noticed an unfamiliar among the crowd. It was a woman whom he didn't recognize, she was standing in the dispersing crowd, a look of awe on her face. Tobias grinned and shook his head, outsiders always responded like that, even the people who were used to his performances were still amazed by them. He straightened his back and began to walk towards the girl, as he did, he raised his hand in greeting and called out to her, "Hello! I don't seem to recognize you, but if i may make your acquaintance, it would be an honor to get to know you," as he spoke the last word, he stopped about two feet away from the woman, the smile still upon his face.

Reap, still watching the horizon heard Rachel call up to him. Turning he looked down t her, she was gesturing towards the docks. He grabbed the spyglass kept up there and looked down with it. He saw a man, leaning on a post extremely close to the ships gangplank. "great, were being noticed." Reap muttered to himself, he grabbed a rope and swung down from the crow's nest, landing by Rachel. "How long has he been there?" She turned to look at Reap. "I don't know, I just noticed him." Reap sighed heavily. Thinking that he should he raised the gypsy flag when they docked. He checked to make sure his rapier was secure before heading towards the now almost deserted gangplank. Most of the crew had piled out already, except a few deck swabs. Rachel followed close behind Reap, one hand on the pistol in her belt. "Remember, we don't want to draw to much attention to ourselves." He muttered to Rachel. He walked along the deck, one hand dragging on the rail. Reap wore his red Captions coat, left hanging open at the front and displaying his scar across his abdomen, his short hair was just poking out the top of his black bandana. The green color seeming to fit him perfectly. Even at first sight it would be clear to any smart person that this was a dangeres man. His size, and the way he carried himself was sometimes intimidating to more common folk and few ever got in his way. He walked down the gangplank, Rachel and all her beauty hot at his heels. He walked up to the man, a calm relaxed look on his face. "She's a beautiful ship is she not? I won her in a game of dice on a small little island just off the coast of Spain." he would speak calmly and friendly at first, trying to figure why exactly the man was here before making assumptions that could lead to someone getting hurt.

What an amazing feat! Ama could not believe her eyes, as the man whirled around on the poles, flexing and throwing his weight around. She hadn't seen such a performance since she was but a small child.
Wait, what was he doing now? A handstand but- oh! Ama's stomach dropped as the man jumped (with his arms!!) from the bar, and plummeted towards the ground. But no harm was done, and a wide smile spread across Princess Ama's face as he landed in a tumble, gracefully pulling himself standing. He grinned at the crowd, and turned and started straight towards Ama.

"Hello!" He bellowed as he approached, and Ama froze. Oh no.
" I don't seem to recognize you, but if i may make your acquaintance, it would be an honor to get to know you," the Gypsy continued, to which Ama still stood in shock. Other Gypsies stared agape at her, knowing who she was. Kragum Himself darted "foot in mouth" looks at Tobias, what was the man thinking?

Ama stared at the grinning man for a moment, completely forgetting her manners. He had stopped a decent enough distance from her, but the camp had gone quiet and all eyes were on them. Her eyes flicked around the Gypsies, who all looked as if they were expecting her to summon Zeus himself to strike them dead on the spot. Princess Ama, although nervous, straightened her posture, raised her chin, and gently cleared her throat.
"Well, It is a pleasure to meet you, flying man," Ama said with a light voice, projecting her voice so all could hear.
"I am your Majesty, Princess Amasantia of Thalon," She said, grazing the Gypsy's with her eyes, "But I would prefer if you called me Ama," She said, a warm smile gracing her face. She curtsied gently to the Gypsys, keeping her chin up and back straight, for once. Oh if only Mother were here to see her Ama bowing to the "dirty rotten Gypsies". A grin spread across Ama's face as she pulled herself up.
"And you are?" she asked, feeling a new sense of courage at the thought of disgracing her Mother.


---



Gus Yelper nearly fell backwards off the dock and into the sea as the large man approached. Having had spaced out, the guy seemed to have practically appeared out of nowhere! Right behind him, practically glued to his butt, was a feisty looking female. The man seemed calm enough, but that girl was shifty. Gus hopped down off the post, and squared himself up to his full height of five and a quarter feet.

"She's a beautiful ship is she not? I won her in a game of dice on a small little island just off the coast of Spain."

Gus tried to look back up at the ship, he did, but the man who stood before him was HUGE! Gus could feel the sweat beading on his forehead, and it wasn't from the sun. Even compared to the average man, huge! Gus thought to himself, for even he acknowledges his height. But hey, what he didn't have vertically he made up in spunk. Still, Gus Yelper plastered a cheesy grin on his face, and attempted to take him with a grain of salt. His height, anyway.

"Well played! Gus Yelper, welcome to Thalon!" He stuck out a thick limb to shake with the newcomer, puffing his chest out in the slightest. Darting a gaze at the female behind him, Gus gulped.
"You a couple?" Gus made a crack at a joke, ending it with a hopeful smile.

Tobias raised his eyebrows and a smirk crossed his face for a second as he heard the princess introduce herself. How amusing! The princess had wandered her way into camp, and whats more had probably seen most of his routine. "My name is Tobias Chernekov, It's a pleasure to meet you milady," He said, bowing low with a flourish, but never breaking eye contact with the princess, "Hm, we seem to have gathered much attention," Tobias said with much chagrin, seeming to just notice the crowd gaping at him for the first time. he leaned over closer to the princess and stage whispered in her ear, his hand obscuring the other side of his mouth,
"If it would please milady to share a drink with me in my tent? get away from these crowds?" Tobias again leaned back from the princess, waiting for an answer. As he did so, his eyes flickered around the gathering of gypsies, stopping for a particularly long second on Kragum, who was wearing a particularly pained expression, and a smile seemed to dance across his face, but not from movement of lips, but a twinkle in his eyes. He pulled himself up to his full height and looked around the crowd again before turning his gaze back down to the princess, "What do you say?...Milady?"

Reap watched as the man stood up straight, and puff is chest out slightly. Already annoyed by the cheesy grin and in Reap's opinion, pathetic attitude of the man. You a couple? Rachel looked hopeful for half a second as the question was asked. "No. Just shipmates." Rachel clearly was a little wounded by the words but she had expected them. Her attraction to him was one sided currently. Much to her despair. Reap only stared at the hand, clearly with no intention of shaking it. "I'm Jack, this is my helmsman Swift." Reap said, first gesturing to himself then to Rachel. "Are you the dock master here in Thalon?" He asked, in an attempt to figure out why exactly the man had been oogling The Nightshadow. Rachel was about ready to shoot the cheesy grin off Gus's face as well, she hated phony people as much as Reap. Thus her hand remained on the handle of her pistol, ready to draw it in a moment's notice.