SPECTRE and SHADOW Conference (storyline)/2025-10-11 - Lecture 7 - Pet Grooming and Reincarnation (log)

Lecture #7 of the 2025 SPECTRE and SHADOW Conference was a double booked lecture that was split jointly between Orralith on behalf of PAWS and Zethes Wraith on behalf of SPECTRE and SHADOW. While Orralith focused on how to appropriately groom various types of pets, Zethes delved into the nature of reincarnation, with a single soul passing from one body to the next to live out different lives in different forms, frequently using Orralith's own teacup pig as the subject.

Log has been heavily edited to remove ambient messages from 5000 pets. The start of the log is some conversation carryover from the lecture immediately prior.

A crisp, clear voice calls out, the sound echoing through the halls and across the grounds, "The conference continues in the library with more lectures."

[Evermore Hotel, Library]
Towering bookshelves are crammed with grimoires, tomes, and scrolls adorned with mystical symbols shimmering in the dim light of softly glowing orbs.  Tables scattered throughout the library are covered with open books, their pages fluttering as if stirred by an unseen breeze laden with the musty scent of aged parchment.  An enormous tapestry hangs above a grand stone fireplace carved to resemble the gaping maw of a colossal dragon frozen in a perpetual roar.  You also see a ghostly raven, a long-haired tortoiseshell cat with an ebon face mask, a giant ovate leathery winged cockroach, a two-toned cerulean weevil, an innocuous house spider, a coy forest spirit that is flying around, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake sprouting lavender-grey ghostbells, a volatile luck spirit that is flying around, a slender brown fox, a sleek polychromic teadragon with lacy opalescent wings, a pale amber mosquito, a glowing red-gold fire puppy with a luminous white face and belly, an obese drunken chinchilla, an innocuous house spider, the Serene disk, a blue-eyed seal point cat sporting white whiskers, a grizzled white puppy with a scar-covered hunchback, a faded red phantom puppy bleeding whorls of sanguine mist, a black-lacquered witchwood bar framed by mist-enshrouded iron cauldrons with some stuff on it, a branch-like ghostwood basket perched on a base of raven-carved marble, a polar bear skin rug and an overstuffed dark leather couch.
Also here: Fenthywick, Orralith, Squire Everall, Zethes, Omrii who is sitting, Manager Blodeuyn, Aurelyn, Oogey who is sitting, Thalita, Nilandia who is sitting, Aihan who is sitting, Ermias who is sitting, Bathcwyn Missoni who is sitting, Hospitaller Yukito, Vulpine Chaser Perigourd, Sister-in-Arms Delindra who is sitting, Magister Raelee, Aifric, Rivienne, Fleurs who is sitting, Land Pirate Maylan who is sitting, Serene, Master Giedrius, Lady Erienne, Vexlia, Gardener Brigit who is sitting, Lady Meliyara who is sitting, Small Game Huntress Kialeigh, Brave Soul Alek who is sitting, Madam Felisaithne who is sitting, Ceibhfhionn who is sitting
Obvious exits: out

Zethes smiles.

Speaking to Raelee, Giedrius says, "I apologize for my distraction."

Maylan says, "Oh."
Maylan glances around the room.
Maylan says, "That's here."

Zethes asks, "Does this mean I get to interrupt Giedrius?"

You see Zethes Wraith the Witch.
She appears to be a Half-Elf from Evashir.
She is average height and has a delicately boned, waifish body.  She appears to be an adult.  She has kohl-lined auroral green eyes and ashen skin.  She has waist-length, rich auburn hair shrouded in a gauzy veil pinned by an amethyst-spiked crystalline haircomb, the silken strands and ethereal fabric flowing down her back.  She has a soft-featured face, a short, upturned nose and upswept, pointed ears pierced by a series of blackened rings.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a stout bottle of ice water in her right hand.
She is wearing a cropped aubergine silk shrug with sheer bell sleeves, a charm-strung fall of filamentous necklaces over a sleeveless byssus blouse gradated from ivory to plum, numerous delicate chains cascading crystal-beaded strands over the hips, a dark wyrsilk handkerchief skirt grazing the floor in diaphanous layers, and a pair of night-dark sandals banded in scrunched chiffon.

Ceibhfhionn takes a drink from her violet liqueur.

Ceibhfhionn looks rather relaxed.

Brigit softly says, "Oh we are here."

Raelee nods slowly at Giedrius.

Ceibhfhionn winks at Fenthywick.

Brigit nods at Maylan.

Aihan says, "Yes, please do."

Orralith blinks at Zethes.

Everall rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Zethes chuckles.

Fenthywick bites his lip.

Ceibhfhionn says, "Please, Zeth dearie."

Speaking politely to Orralith, Zethes says, "Yes, you can start."

Omrii glances at Giedrius.

Ceibhfhionn says, "And no one give him a demon."

Speaking to Raelee, Giedrius says, "It seems to me a sthough he is a kind of mentalist construct, which is why I question if he would be... well, smashed apart trying to be brought through like a soul."

Orralith smiles.

You see Orralith.
She appears to be a Caoineag.
She is shorter than average and has a waiflike physique.  She has round emerald green eyes that hold a deep sadness to them, causing her to appear to be weeping at every turn.  Her subtly bronzed skin is barely visible, at times disappearing completely and leaving only a faint impression of a form.  She has waist-length, silky mahogany brown hair drawn back at the temples by twine braids woven in a herringbone style and ornamented with bright blue starling feathers and beads..
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a twine-corded carved oak leaf pendant, an quilted ebon wool corsage over a bright white chainsil blouse with ebon-banded funnel sleeves, a wide black leather cincher, a pair of baggy woolen pants, a pair of worn calf-boots, and a pair of copper-framed spectacles with pristine round lenses.

Brigit leans against an overstuffed dark leather couch.

A ghostly raven says, "There was a... I think a dwarf or halfling. That specialized in stitching together amalgamations."

Yukito cocks his head.

Fleurs agrees with Ceibhfhionn.

Speaking to Zethes, Felisaithne says, "If you are to speak next, yes."

Felisaithne flashes a wide grin.

Ceibhfhionn says, "You may want to take away his hamsters."

Speaking concernedly to Ceibhfhionn, Aifric asks, "... there are demons, too?"

Speaking to Raelee, Giedrius says, "It's unclear how much cohesion his incarnation has beyond the plane it currently exists."

Speaking to Aifric, Ceibhfhionn says, "Not yet."

Speaking concernedly to Yukito, Giedrius asks, "Are you going to lecture me again?"

Yukito sighs.

Missoni gazes in amusement at Yukito.

The brown fox circles Ermias with a predatory instinct, a low growl buried in his throat and each rotation growing in speed.

Speaking slowly to Felisaithne, Orralith says, "I was to speak next..."

Fenthywick picks idly at a stack of matchbooks.

Raelee whispers something to Giedrius.

Speaking to Orralith, Zethes says, "Yes, its okay, you can do that, too."

Zethes chuckles.

Speaking worriedly to Ceibhfhionn, Aifric says, "What if the spiders are demons."

Giedrius blinks at Raelee.

Fenthywick taps his owl feather duster managing to free several small clumps of lint from the fluffy feathers.  The lint plummets quickly to the floor.

Speaking to Giedrius, Perigourd says, "You need a good lecture on morals."
Perigourd nods at Giedrius.

Fenthywick uses his ebonwood dust broom to sweep up a bit of debris on the floor.

Felisaithne nods at Orralith.

Speaking to Perigourd, Giedrius says, "Morals are relative."

Giedrius just went over and threw himself down on the couch.

Speaking to Giedrius, Perigourd says, "I disagree."

Orralith adjusts a basket of grooming tools upon the floor.  The teacup pig sits beside her, his tiny hooves tucked neatly beneath him.  With great care, she pulls a large beet from the basket and gives it to the teacup pig.  Happily squealing, the tiny creature begins to chew away on the beet.

Ceibhfhionn says, "The webs seem downright demonic.  So perhaps."

Aihan whispers something to Orralith.

Giedrius says, "Now, I have taken up enough time already."

A ghostly raven says, "I did mention that I did not intend to, yes? The raven is speaking for me. And, I am... protective of Paidreg. I merely suggest that if you find his notes, it might help you."

Yukito snorts derisively at Giedrius!

Serene blinks at Giedrius.

Erienne says, "It looked like there were enough hamsters for everyone to have one."
Erienne glances at Giedrius.
Erienne mutters hoarder.

Speaking helpfully to Aifric, Missoni says, "Arashan are quite similar to what we know as spi--arachnids."

Orralith smiles at Aihan.

Omrii seriously grunts at Giedrius his thanks.

(Yukito puffs his cheeks out.)

Ceibhfhionn says, "Maybe the fix for the webs will work on him."

Speaking to Aifric, Giedrius says, "My apologies for going into your time block."

Giedrius nods at Raelee.

Speaking softly to Giedrius, Ermias says, "Good of you to say."

Speaking to Missoni, Aifric quips, "They even start with the same letters!  I think.  How do you spell "arashan"?"

Ermias nods gratefully.

Speaking curiously to Fenthywick, Everall asks, "Just inquiring, but were those feathers given willingly?"

Zethes sweeps in from the opposite side of Orralith, a broard grin plastered on her otherwise vapid features.

You ponder the meaning of life, the universe, and everything.

Speaking to Aifric, Missoni says, "A. R. A. S. H. A. N."

Speaking to Missoni, Aifric says, "So, yes... they start with the same letters."

Delindra fidgets.

Missoni agrees with Aifric.

Aihan whispers something to Orralith.
Aihan offers Orralith a handful of elderberries.

Blodeuyn moves about straightening up the library.

Speaking to Everall, Fenthywick muses, "Perhaps."

Orralith accepts Aihan's elderberries.

Orralith smiles at Aihan.

Orralith says, "Good evening, everyone.  I am Orralith, as you may remember, and this is Mr.  Brimblesbee.  Today, we will be speaking about proper nail and claw care for animals of every kind.  It is our last official discussion."

Speaking confusedly to Giedrius, Aifric says, "Me?  I'm not... no, I'm not presenting... unless it's to show off Princess Doughnut."

Zethes says, "And I am Mistress Zethes Wraith, speaking upon the mysteries of reincarnation and the return of spirits in living form.  What a delight that our subjects complement one another so neatly."

Zethes curtsies.

Delindra asks, "We already have P.A.W.S and S.P.E.C.T.R.E and S.H.A.D.O.W and Maylan mentioned R.E.F.U.N.D, now we have A.R.A.S.H.A.N too?"

Ermias applauds politely.

Delindra asks, "Does no one monitor bookings?"
Delindra shakes her head.

Speaking to Aifric, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Oh, I cannot keep up with the people in PAWS."

Felisaithne rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Orralith hesitantly says, "I am not certain that they do  but I am happy to share the space."  She turns back to those gathered.  "Now, when trimming the nails of a cat or dog, remember to hold the paw gently but firmly.  Trim only the clear portion of the nail.  If you cut too far, the blood will rise and cause pain.  It is best to have a cloth ready to press against it."

Raelee glances between Zethes and Orralith.

Giedrius idly pets a hamster in his lap while he watches the speakers.

Speaking to Delindra, Maylan says, "More bang fer yer monies."

Speaking to Fenthywick, Everall asks, "Did you helper who should have been cleaning. Was this person ever found?"

Orralith blinks at Delindra.

Orralith hesitantly asks, "Should I... not give the dicussions?"

You glance between Orralith and Zethes.

Zethes says, "Darling, you'll get over the nay sayers, please continue."

Delindra gazes with interest at Orralith.

Zethes smiles at Orralith.

Aihan tilts his head toward Orralith, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Aifric raises her hand.

Speaking to Orralith, Felisaithne says, "Please, do continue."

Felisaithne nods at Orralith.

Orralith bites her lip.

Orralith nods.

Yukito sets his stylus to his page and scratches away at his writings.

Orralith repeats, "Now, when trimming the nails of a cat or dog, remember to hold the paw gently but firmly.  Trim only the clear portion of the nail.  If you cut too far, the blood will rise and cause pain.  It is best to have a cloth ready to press against it."

Speaking angrily to Everall, Fenthywick says, "She's managed to avoid me and her duties all day long."

Missoni turns an inquisitive ear toward Orralith.

His hand lowered, Yukito gives Giedrius a subtle wave.
Yukito offers Giedrius a weathered vellum page.

Giedrius accepts Yukito's vellum page.

Zethes says, "Blood often carries memory.  A single drop can stir an echo of what the creature once was.  You see, many animals bear the souls of travelers who have returned to learn patience or companionship."

Giedrius glances at Yukito.

Zethes nods at Orralith.

Everall glances at Fenthywick and cringes.

Giedrius nods at Yukito.

Yukito nods at Giedrius.

Orralith hesitantly stammers, "Thank you, Mistress Zethes."

Felisaithne gently rubs at the nape of the black cat's neck.

Giedrius removes a blue-black raven quill from in his night-dark overrobe.

Orralith shifts her weight.

Perigourd turns an inquisitive ear toward Orralith.

Aifric furrows her brow before glancing confusedly between Orralith and Zethes.

Orralith says, "For lizards and other scaled creatures, you may use a smooth stone or a bit of pumice.  They shed the tips of their claws naturally if given rough surfaces to walk upon."

Ceibhfhionn settles back into the couch, sipping from her flask, an amused grin on her face.

Meliyara glances between Orralith and Zethes.

The tortoiseshell cat paces uneasily in a circle around the leathery winged cockroach.

Alek adopts an agreeable expression.

Zethes excitedly says, "You speak of stones.  Excellent.  Stones remember, too.  I once met a spirit who lived as a mountain goat after his mortal life.  He swore his hooves knew the shape of every cliff he had climbed as a man."

Brigit gazes in awe at Orralith.

Meliyara absently chews on her lip, appearing to ponder possibilities and potential nuances.

Delindra surreptitiously glances at Alek.

Lissaya glances between Orralith and Zethes.

Fleurs furrows her brow.

Orralith can offer Zethes only a blank expression.

Ceibhfhionn bursts out in laughter, snorting pale honey liqueur through her nose.

Aihan glances between Orralith and Zethes.

Lissaya glances over at Ceibhfhionn and winces.

Orralith slowly continues, "Birds require special care.  Their talons must remain sharp enough to perch but never so long that they curl.  A small bit of soft rope can be wrapped around your finger to smooth the edges safely."

Delindra interestedly mouths, "Goats..."

Lifting her open jade-inked fan above her head, Brigit easily spins it to create a jade-washed blur.

Aifric scratches her head.

Serene watches Zethes in breathless anticipation.

Aihan agrees with Orralith.
Aihan nods.

Giedrius sets his quill to his page and scratches away at his writings.

Giedrius offers Yukito a weathered vellum page.

Yukito accepts Giedrius's vellum page.

Speaking to Giedrius, Thalita whispers aloud, "You should collaborate with Zethes."

Giedrius put a blue-black raven quill in his night-dark overrobe.

Zethes says, "And birds, of course, are among the most willing vessels for old souls.  They see the sky as the veil between lives.  I wonder, Orralith, if your pig there remembers flight."

Everall peers quizzically at Serene.

Orralith blinks rapidly.

You chortle.

Yukito raises an eyebrow.

Delindra's face turns slightly pale.

Aihan blinks at Zethes.

Speaking to Thalita, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Only if you join us."

Orralith firmly asserts, "Mr.  Brimblesbee is not a bird.  He is a pig.  He likes sunbathing, fruit, and naps.  He has never spoken of wings."

Yukito smirks at Giedrius.
Yukito turns toward Giedrius and renders a sharp salute with his vellum page.

Thalita nods at Giedrius.

Brigit blinks.

Missoni furrows her brow.

Giedrius glances between Zethes and Orralith.

Aifric whispers something to Felisaithne.

Speaking to herself, Ceibhfhionn says, "Even my Sight findsd this amusing."

Zethes vaguely says, "Spirits seldom remember at first.  They drift through time like seeds on the wind.  I can feel the aura of a farmer about him.  Perhaps he once tended orchards and sang to his pigs before dawn.  His eyes are far too knowing for a simple beast."

Speaking bemusedly to Orralith, Meliyara asks, "Does he speak of other things?"

Zethes waves her hand slightly.

Felisaithne nods at Aifric.

Orralith frustratedly challenges, "He has intelligent eyes because he is well-loved and fed."

The tortoiseshell cat saunters around the glowing fire puppy in a slow circle, his back arched high.

You ponder the meaning of Zethes's existence.

Zethes says, "As you say, dear, as you say."

Zethes smiles vapidly.

Fleurs glances between Zethes and Orralith.

Oogey adopts an agreeable expression.

Orralith frowns.

Ermias takes a bite of his grilled squid rings.

Orralith vigorously shakes her head.

Brigit shudders.

Orralith slowly continues, "Speaking of care, always clean beneath the nails.  Dirt holds illness, and an infection can spread quickly.  A mix of clean water and a drop of vinegar will suffice."

Zethes absently says, "Vinegar is also useful for warding certain restless souls.  Curious that our practices align so well."

Felisaithne glances between Orralith and Zethes, a look of bewilderment plastered all over her face.

Meliyara glances appraisingly at Maylan.

Missoni furrows her brow.

Lissaya nods slowly.

Orralith opens her mouth to speak but nothing comes out.

The tortoiseshell cat sniffs at Oogey.

Speaking to Orralith, Oogey says, "Like oogeys lizard."

Delindra furrows her brow.

Speaking to herself, Meliyara murmurs, "Add vinegar..."

Everall glances at Zethes and rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Zethes smiles encouragingly.

Aihan confusedly asks, "Wait..what..birds..?"

Speaking to Orralith, Zethes says, "You are doing great."

Serene nods once.

You nod in agreement at Zethes.

Everall glances at Serene and shivers.

Orralith tartly responds, "I prefer to keep my lessons free of haunting, but you are welcome to share the bowl.... I guess."

Giedrius covers his mouth with his free hand--the one that isn't holding a hamster--insufficiently hiding a silent laugh.

Speaking to her elephant shrew, Missoni murmurs, "We always clean your nails."

Speaking to Orralith, Zethes asks, "How generous of you.  Tell me, Mr.  Brimblesbee, do you miss your fields?  Do you recall the sound of the plow and the wind?"

Serene nods understandingly at Everall.

Orralith patiently says, "Mistress Zethes, he cannot answer you.  He is a pig and is enjoying his beet."

Serene appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Oogey starts chortling.

Everall sighs at Serene.

The teacup pig looks up briefly from his beet and oinks.  Once.  Then goes back to eating.

Aifric mentions, "I, too, enjoy a good beat."

Missoni agrees with Aifric.

Zethes understandingly says, "The beet must be symbolic.  Red for the earth, red for memory.  It is all becoming quite clear."

Nilandia chuckles to herself.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Aifric.

Kialeigh stares at Aifric.

Blodeuyn says, "Not many do."

Everall takes a drink from his sparkling champagne.

Blodeuyn nods at Aifric.

Zethes nods.

Delindra furrows her brow.

Aihan gets a blank look on his face.

Ceibhfhionn leans forward as her eyes go white, and she whispers, "By the pricking of the briar, something dark needs the fire."

Orralith exasperatedly says, "What is clear is that his nails will soon need trimming."  She takes a steadying breathe before continuing.  "Pigs grow small points upon their hooves that must be filed lest they split.  Always do so after a warm bath when the keratin softens."

Missoni glances at Ceibhfhionn.

Ceibhfhionn coughs.

Ceibhfhionn takes a drink from her honey liqueur.
Ceibhfhionn looks rather relaxed.

Speaking glibly to Blodeuyn, Aifric says, "Oh, it was a play on words... beat... like music... drums... you know... oh, nevermind."

Zethes casually says, "Baths cleanse the spirit as well.  Perhaps in his next life he shall be a fish."

Serene nods firmly.

Ermias nods sympathetically at Ceibhfhionn.

Blodeuyn blinks.

Orralith tartly retorts, "Perhaps in his next life, he shall be a larger pig."

Fleurs asks, "A fish?"
Fleurs blinks.

Everall begins chuckling at Serene!

Ceibhfhionn mouths, "A fish" and laughs to herself.

Zethes lets out a delighted laugh, clasping her hands together.

You think to yourself, "Perhaps he'll be breakfast, first."

Alek raspily says, "Larger pigs are nice."
Alek adopts an agreeable expression.

Felisaithne nods in agreement at Orralith.

Giedrius is practically doubled over in his seat, shoulders shaking.

Raelee surreptitiously glances at Ceibhfhionn.

Fenthywick surreptitiously glances at Ceibhfhionn.

Meliyara nods in agreement at Alek.

Zethes amusedly says, "Delightful.  Two lessons, one truth.  Whether the spirit returns or the body remains, both require tending.  You care for the outer form, and I tend the inner journey.  Between us, no creature escapes attention."

Missoni murmurs, "Oh, I hope not. He is so cute as he is."

Speaking to Alek, Meliyara agrees, "More bacon."

Orralith gets a blank look on her face.

Alek gives an approval gesture with his hand.

Giedrius wipes at the corners of his eyes with the heel of his palm.

Orralith says, "That is a fair way to put it.  My advice, then, is simple.  Trim with patience, clean with care, and never rush.  A steady hand makes a calm companion."

Ceibhfhionn put an ancient gnarled staff etched with runes in her auroralaen robes.

Felisaithne pets a skeletal black cat, which bristles slightly at her touch.

Zethes says, "And my advice is equally simple.  Listen to their silence.  The soul speaks softly through the eyes and the small sounds between breaths.  If you learn to hear it, you may know who they once were."

Orralith says, "Thank you, Mistress Zethes.  And thank you, Mr.  Brimblesbee, who is neither a reincarnated farmer nor a fish."

Rivienne smiles.

Serene says, "Nor a bird."

Aihan glances between Orralith and Zethes.

Thalita idly remarks, "The Ithzir have an interesting reincarnation process."

Lissaya appears to be trying hard not to grin.

A large wolf spider scurries across the floor, past Zethes, Orralith, and the teacup pig, practically pouncing on one of the cockroaches.  It drags it into the shadows.

Thalita examines her fingernails.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Thalita.

Speaking amusedly to Orralith, Zethes says, "Not yet, my dear.  Not yet."

You give a sidelong glance at Thalita.

Orralith sighs softly, gathering her brushes, pointedly ignoring when Zethes holds a crystal under the pig's snout.

Missoni frowns at Perigourd.

Perigourd surreptitiously glances at Missoni.

Ceibhfhionn raises her honey liqueur in a toast!

Zethes happily asks, "Any questions?"

Ermias takes a bite of his grilled squid rings.

Ceibhfhionn takes a drink from her honey liqueur.

Speaking to himself, Everall says, "Reincarnated farrmers..."
Everall rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Felisaithne glances after the spider, visibly shuddering at the sight.

Serene nods firmly at Everall.

The brown fox slinks away from Zethes.

Speaking quietly to herself, Orralith says, "How could they ever ask questions about that."

Fleurs agrees with Orralith.

Giedrius raises his hand.

You raise your hand.

Missoni shifts her eyes to Giedrius.

Omrii glances at Giedrius.

Fenthywick leans against a table.

Perigourd raises his hand.

Speaking to Everall, Serene says, "First you feed the pig. Then when you die, you are the pig."
Serene says, "It makes some kinda sick sense."

Zethes says, "Oh darling, please, ask away."

Zethes says, "We aren't in school."

Orralith stares at Serene.

Everall looks over at Serene and shakes his head.

Speaking to Felisaithne, Aifric says, "I'm happy to see the spi-- arachnids cleaning up the bugs."

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "So you speaks of these... souls reincarnating into pigs or... larger pigs, or farmers..."

Orralith smiles at Aifric.

You ask, "When you refer to reincarnation, are you referring to a soul returning from Oblivion beyond the Ebon Gates, or something else entirely?"
You raise an eyebrow in Zethes's direction.
You add, "Or I suppose from the Maw."

Speaking dubiously to Serene, Everall says, "I'm pretty sure I can't make sense of that."

Speaking to Aifric, Orralith mouths, "Thank you."

Ermias glances at you and rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Everall rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Zethes says, "OH, yes, spirits just got sideways at times."

Zethes asks, "Do you remember Clarence?"

Zethes says, "Well, he's just been tuttering away in a corner this whole time."

You ask, "Clarence?"

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius asks, "Animals, especially birds, being ideal, yes? What of placing a soul into a bird, with purpose, rather than... in this cycle you describe?"

Speaking to Aifric, Felisaithne says, "Oh, for certain, I am also glad for that... I just wish the multi-leggers would clean up when the place is less... busy."

Speaking to Everall, Serene says, "You're thinking too much. To reach the kind of thinking that makes sense. You must stop with that pesky thinking."

Speaking to Giedrius, Zethes says, "Nature decides, Giedrius, dear, not us."

A long-haired tortoiseshell cat with an ebon face mask sniffs at the rose gold dasher.

Speaking to Orralith, Aifric asks, "I had a question about the claw trimming... You mentioned only trimming the clear part, but I've seen so many dogs with black claws that you can't really tell where to stop... what is the best approach for those?"

Fleurs asks, "Is he still sitting in his favorite chair?"
Fleurs peers quizzically at Zethes.

You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius asks, "But what if we decided?"

Speaking to Serene, Ceibhfhionn says, "I recommend the booze."

Ceibhfhionn nods at Serene.

Missoni mouths, "Clarence is still here?"

Brigit sighs.

Everall glances at Serene.

Ceibhfhionn says, "It helps with the less thinking."

Everall takes a drink from his smoky scotch.

You give a sidelong glance at Missoni.

Speaking to Aifric, Orralith says, "That's a good question."

Speaking to Aifric, Felisaithne says, "Oh, a good question."

Meliyara laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement from Ceibhfhionn.

Felisaithne nods at Aifric.

Lissaya nods approvingly at Ceibhfhionn.

Yukito snorts!

Speaking to Ceibhfhionn, Serene says, "Sounds like a great place to start."

Orralith says, "You have to kind of look to make sure you don't hit the root, only go a little ways in."

Brigit raises her smoky scotch in a toast!
Brigit softly says, "This one is for a friend."
Brigit takes a drink from her smoky scotch.
Brigit looks quite relaxed.

Zethes says, "Don't be absurd."

Zethes nods at Giedrius.

You quietly whisper to Missoni, "Who is Clarence?"

Speaking to Thalita, Giedrius whispers aloud, "I do not think she wants to work with me."

Aifric nods at Orralith.

The tortoiseshell cat purrs as he glances in your direction.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "Mm. Fine."

Giedrius waves a hand at Zethes, dismissing her indifferently.

Thalita says, "Alas."

Giedrius leans back.

Orralith asks, "Did that make sense?"

Missoni whispers, "A spirit that we met last year who makes his home here in the library."

You quietly whisper to Missoni, "Ah.  I see."
You nod at Missoni.

Serene says, "If the nail starts to bleed you've gone too far."

Everall nods in agreement at Serene.

Missoni whispers, "Zethes is perceptive when it comes to seeing spirits, it seems."

Orralith says, "Yes, and you should soak it if the little darling will let you."

Speaking to Orralith, Aifric says, "I think so.  I'm not a big dog person, but if I ever need to trim the claws, I want to make sure I'm not torturing it."

You nod slightly.
You quietly whisper to Missoni, "The answer given makes more sense now, then.  My thanks."

Serene appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Zethes says, "Oh, Clarence, do shut it... your chair will be fine."

Orralith nods at Aifric.

Orralith glances at Zethes.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Zethes.

Orralith bewilderedly asks, "Who is Clarence?"

Zethes asks, "Can't you see him?"

Kialeigh asks, "Is Clarence STILL going on about chairs?"
Kialeigh says, "It's been nearly a year.."

Speaking to Zethes, Meliyara asks, "He is still at it this year?"

Zethes exclaims, "Yes!"

Zethes says, "See, she knows."

Meliyara shakes her head, clucking her tongue.

Orralith stares at Kialeigh.

Speaking to Orralith, Perigourd asks, "How do you treat a fox that's had too much whiskey?"
Perigourd nods thoughtfully.

(Oogey glances at his lizards huge claws and sighs.)

Missoni mutters, "I need more champagne."

Orralith asks, "Why are you feeding a fox whiskey?"

Lissaya gazes in amusement at Perigourd.

Speaking to Orralith, Zethes asks, "Why aren't you?"

Zethes glances at Orralith and folds her arms over her chest.

Alek raspily says, "Foxes don't often ask first."

Orralith looks at Zethes blankly, at a loss to express herself.

Ceibhfhionn asks, "I thought PAWS was about loving the animals?"

Fleurs agrees with Alek.

Giedrius raises his hand.

Speaking to Orralith, Perigourd says, "He seems to like it."

Orralith says, "What kind of pets are you people raising."

Perigourd nods at Orralith.

Orralith gets a blank look on her face.

Speaking to Orralith, Maylan says, "It's called a chinchilla."
Maylan pats the drunken chinchilla on the head, the rodent submitting to the condescending gesture with an irritated hiss.

You glance at an obese drunken chinchilla.

Aifric concernedly says, "Why would you get a fox drunk?  I don't think their constitution can handle it."

Ceibhfhionn says, "That includes sharing your food and drink."

Zethes chuckles.

Ceibhfhionn nods.

Speaking to Orralith, Erienne says, "All kinds."
Erienne nods at Orralith.

Blodeuyn looks very confused as she moves about the room.

Speaking to Ceibhfhionn, Felisaithne says, "We are.."

Kialeigh says, "I'm trying to get my teadragons to breed. So this has been very enlightening."

Speaking to Orralith, Giedrius asks, "Do I have to trim my hamsters?"

Orralith asks, "Trim it?"

Orralith asks, "Do you mean the nails?"

Everall says, "It's about enabling the animals habits."
Everall nods.

Giedrius nods at Orralith.

Speaking raspily to Giedrius, Alek says, "I'll help you trim your hamsters."

Speaking to Orralith, Giedrius says, "Yes."

Perigourd glances at a slender brown fox.

Aifric says, "Alcohol, like chocolate, should be considered a poison to animals that can't process it properly."

Speaking to Alek, Giedrius says, "We do not eat Paul."

You chuckle at Alek.

Zethes amusedly says, "No, he means the hamster, don't let him fool you."

The tortoiseshell cat glances at glowing fire puppy and puffs its tail up as a guttural growl escapes it.

Speaking to Aifric, Maylan says, "Chinchillas don't have such problems."

Felisaithne nods in agreement at Aifric.

Ceibhfhionn asks, "I...your hamster's name is Paul?"

Orralith carefully says, "No, you'd... you'd just let them scrap at something."

Speaking to Aifric, Perigourd says, "Some poisons can be handled if taken in small doses over time though."

Serene says, "I would think if you messed up trimming a hamsters nails you might not have a hamster for long."

Ceibhfhionn peers quizzically at Giedrius.

Giedrius nods at Orralith.

Zethes chuckles.

Speaking to Ceibhfhionn, Giedrius says, "One of them."

Everall looks over at Ceibhfhionn and shakes his head.
Speaking to Ceibhfhionn, Everall says, "It's made up."

Ermias takes a bite of his grilled squid rings.

Speaking to Maylan, Aifric scolds, "You cruel, cruel woman."

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "Or copious amounts of them, every night, in the market."

(Yukito blinks once and squints, emerging from his thoughts.)
Yukito sighs.

Speaking to Everall, Meliyara points out, "All names are made up."

Speaking quietly to a slender brown fox, Perigourd whispers aloud, "Later."
Perigourd nods knowingly to a slender brown fox.

Giedrius glances at Yukito.

Speaking confusedly to Aifric, Maylan exclaims, "I'm not cruel!"

Kialeigh says, "The way he experiements, I'd bet Paul is dead and we're now onto Zoey."

Orralith asks, "Who is Zoey?"

Oogey says, "Oogeys lizard name is Oogey's lizard."

Ceibhfhionn starts chortling.

Speaking to Aifric, Maylan asks, "What've I done to be called such a thing?"
Maylan scoffs.

Yukito shrugs at Giedrius.
Yukito removes a weathered vellum page from in his flecked wool sweater.

Aifric primly says, "I am judging every one of you that is clearly poisoning your pets.  Be grateful I do not try to resuce them from you."

Speaking to Meliyara, Everall says, "This is true."

Kialeigh says, "I assume he's naming his hamsters in alphabetical order as they die."

Zethes asks, "You named your lizard after you name?"

Kialeigh grins at Orralith.

Erienne agrees with Aifric.
Erienne shakes her head, totally at a loss.

Orralith says, "Oh."

Meliyara nods in agreement at Everall.

You gaze in amusement at Aifric.

Maylan offendedly exclaims, "I'm not poisoning anything!"
Maylan pats the drunken chinchilla on the head, the rodent submitting to the condescending gesture with an irritated hiss.
Maylan scowls.

Orralith frowns.

Oogey nods at Zethes.

Everall glances at an obese drunken chinchilla.

Erienne says, "It's drunk."
Erienne gets a blank look on her face.

Speaking to Erienne, Maylan says, "Yarr, it likes the hooch."

Erienne nods at Maylan.

Speaking mildly to Aifric, you ask, "What are your thoughts on feeding pastries to birds?"
You try hard not to grin.

Raelee glances at you.

Missoni glances at you and folds her arms over her chest.

Aihan says, "If you have a forest animal drinking alcohol the chances are it is already dying.  My condolences.  If you're the one supplying it, you have my ire."."

Thalita asks, "If the poison comes from an animal, should we call it a venom?"

Oogey says, "So Oogeys doesnt forget whos lizard it is."
Oogey grins.

Missoni thoroughly musses the elephant shrew's fur and it squirms out from under her hand, glaring at her as it begins to try to attend to its matted fur with an affronted air.

Maylan says, "Never seen it eat poison though."
Maylan glances at an obese drunken chinchilla.

Having finished its beet, the teacup pig gives a little oink and then looks up at Orralith expectantly.

Speaking to you, Aifric says, "I think that depends on the pastry and the frequency it is given.  I'd suggest still avoiding chocolate."

Ermias flashes a toothy grin.

Lissaya shakes her head, totally at a loss.

Kialeigh chuckles.

Giedrius notes, "I do not give my hamsters alcohol."

Aifric says, "So you're just weird, not cruel."

You nod understandingly at Aifric.
Speaking to Aifric, you ask, "So... five muffins a day?  Ten?  Thirty?"

Speaking to you, Maylan says, "I don't think that lass knows what she's on about."

Aifric nods.

Thalita says, "I should think not.  That could make them flammable."

Speaking to Aifric, Maylan says, "Yer right daft."

Speaking to Thalita, Zethes says, "I think there are definitions there.  Venom comes from the body, poison from plant or concoction."

Oogey shows a feisty troll green lizard wearing a troll tooth-spiked collar his Troll King's Tears.

Kialeigh says, "Weird is underrated."

Speaking to Giedrius, Everall asks, "Don't they just eat their own babies?"

Zethes says, "Did I tell you I've been studying."

Thalita nods at Zethes.

Speaking to Everall, Giedrius says, "Sometimes."

Orralith slowly rubs at her temple.

Speaking raspily to Thalita, Alek says, "They're furry, they're already flammable."

Delindra furrows her brow.

Everall squints.

Missoni nods sympathetically at Orralith.

Erienne points a finger at her temple and twirls it slowly as she gives Orralith a sideways glance.
Erienne gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Perigourd shrugs nonchalantly at Missoni.

Speaking uncertainly to you, Aifric says, "Five might be a bit much."

Maylan pours herself a slender flute of orange blossom champagne.
Maylan takes a drink from her orange blossom champagne.

You nod once at Aifric.

Speaking to Orralith, Missoni whispers aloud, "I found the bit about nail care quite useful."

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius asks, "Do you think I should change my specialization from hamsters to avians?"

Speaking to Everall, Serene says, "I'm sure there are parents who wish they'd eaten their own young."

The drunken chinchilla laps at a slender flute of orange blossom champagne, its eyes darting back and forth, scanning for potential threats.

Thalita says, "I suppose the question is what could you soak them in that they would spontaneously ignite if the room was too warm."

Alek raspily says, "But I suppose some alcohol would definitely help."

Speaking to Aifric, you say, "Splendid."

Speaking to Aifric, Meliyara asks, "In a single sitting?"

Speaking comfortingly to an obese drunken chinchilla, Maylan says, "There there. Yer all better now."

Finished with a slender flute of orange blossom champagne, the drunken chinchilla makes a cursory pass of its paws over its whiskers, nosing at the ground for spilled drops.

Aihan glances at Giedrius.
Aihan squints.

Speaking to Meliyara, Aifric says, "I mean... anything above 0 could be considered too much, depending."

Speaking to Serene, Everall says, "I... I am not sure how to respond to that..."

Ceibhfhionn starts to laugh to herself.  She stands up and, still laughing uncontrollably, wanders out the door.  Even as you hear the tiny thump of her staff far down the hall, her laughter echoes in the library.

Orralith stares at Thalita.

Raelee gives a sidelong glance at you.
Speaking to you, Raelee mouths, "It is not my doing."

Everall stares off into space.

You gaze in amusement at Raelee.
Speaking wryly to Raelee, you say, "I know."

Orralith asks, "What?"

Giedrius squints.

Missoni gazes out.

Delindra raises an eyebrow.

Orralith says, "To be clear."

Thalita says, "Hamster firephantoms.  Think of the potential."

Orralith says, "Do not soak your poor friends little nails in anything combustable."

Serene blinks at Thalita.

Giedrius says, "Someone else should probably check on Ceibhfhionn."

Zethes chuckles.

Meliyara asks, "What if the avian in question regularly receives this many or more and goes begging for still more of them?"

Speaking to Orralith, Zethes says, "YOu are missing the point, he's aiming for flame spirits dear."

Speaking to Thalita, Serene asks, "Would that look like the fire puppies? Just... smaller?"

Orralith stares at Zethes.

Speaking to Meliyara, Maylan assures, "That's normal."

Speaking coldly to Giedrius, Aihan says, "You do not want to cross that line."

Meliyara glances skeptically at Maylan.

Lissaya gives a sidelong glance at a glowing red-gold fire puppy with a luminous white face and belly.

Blodeuyn says, "Please do not ignite anything in here..."

Blodeuyn frets.

Giedrius glances at Aihan.

Nilandia breathes in slightly.
Nilandia slowly empties her lungs.

Speaking unconvincingly to Maylan, Aifric states, "If your chinchilla goes missing, it was not my doing."

Speaking to Serene, Thalita says, "Only one way to find out."

Orralith asks, "I'm so sorry, what was your question?"

Orralith peers quizzically at Meliyara.

Giedrius shrugs.

Zethes chuckles.

Serene says, "I like your spirit."
Serene grins at Thalita.

Speaking to Blodeuyn, Maylan says, "I've half a mind to burn the whole place down, it's so badly infested."
Maylan removes a giant ovate leathery winged cockroach from in her cream flyrsilk toqua.
Maylan drops a giant ovate leathery winged cockroach.

Aihan twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.

Nilandia says, "I'll go check on her. I was going to see to the webs anyways."

Erienne looks thoughtfully at Blodeuyn.

Speaking raspily to Maylan, Alek says, "I'm the likely culprit, but it wasn't me either."

Giedrius says, "Well, the garden party s hould be interesting later."

Maylan shrugs at Alek.

Speaking sarcastically to Blodeuyn, Fenthywick says, "As if it would hurt anything at this point."

Fenthywick sighs.

Speaking to Maylan, Blodeuyn says, "I thought you would feel at home."

Speaking to Orralith, Meliyara says, "Apologies, I meant to ask Aifric about it. We were speaking of an avian that eats many muffins."

Yukito sets his stylus to his page and scratches away at his writings.

Oogey says, "Oogey not waste good drinkies on his lizzie he save it for his big ole happy belly."
Speaking to Blodeuyn, Maylan asks, "What's that supposed to mean, eh?"
Oogey raises his Trollkiller whiskey in a toast!

Speaking to Meliyara, Aifric says, "I would argue it is in an overindulging environment and clearly needs to be rescued for its own good.  Over spoiling can be another form of animal cruelty."

Serene asks, "We're not using flaming hamsters as the lighting for said, garden party right?"
Serene frowns.

Giedrius says, "We all have such harmonious opinions and beliefs."

Erienne laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Giedrius stands up.

Blodeuyn glances around the room.

Serene says, "Cause I might have to stay in my room."

Yukito snickers.

Delindra furrows her brow.

Meliyara nods slowly at Aifric.

Erienne raises her smoky scotch in a toast!
Erienne takes a drink from her smoky scotch.
Erienne agrees with Oogey.

Zethes raises an eyebrow.

Giedrius dusts off his night-dark overrobe.

Speaking raspily to Serene, Alek says, "They might not really be hamsters."

Everall begins chuckling at Giedrius!

Giedrius picks a few hairs off his overrobe.

Delindra asks, "Is it still a garden party if it's in the ballroom?"

Speaking to Giedrius, Aihan says, "If I catch you even glancing at a bird, the last feathers you see will be the fletching of my arrows."

Fleurs gazes in amusement at Delindra.

Missoni shrugs helplessly at Delindra.

Fenthywick places his hand on a stack of matchbooks.

Speaking to Aihan, Giedrius says, "And I'm the monster."

Speaking to Delindra, Missoni sighs, "What is anything."

Zethes says, "I should go find my room, I'd like to freshening up before the Garden party."

Speaking to Alek, Serene asks, "What would they be then?"

Speaking to Aifric, Maylan says, "Yer no expert."
Maylan shakes her head.

Blodeuyn says, "It is a garden ball party."

Blodeuyn nods.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "Likewise. Apparently I can't bring the hamsters, so I should tuck them in."

Speaking to Alek, Serene asks, "Some kind of fire rat?"

You chortle.

Speaking to Giedrius, Aihan says, "Oh no.  I am."

Fleurs asks, "If we finish clearing the webs, perhaps we can have an actual garden party?"

Felisaithne says, "Indoors garden party in the ball room."

Speaking raspily to Serene, Alek says, "That's the big question. I doubt even Giedrius knows."

Yukito signals, "I need to change clothes."

Zethes says, "Oh, you poor dear."

Delindra fidgets.

Everall smiles at Blodeuyn.

Erienne agrees with Fleurs.

Perigourd folds his hands behind his back.

Zethes asks, "Oh, it was moved?"

At the edge of your hearing, you hear a lilting voice whisper from nearby, "Give me a gust, give me the wind and the horizon.  Give me nine waves, seaman's grave, endless sleep."

Speaking to Alek, Serene says, "I assume he'd love to find out."

Omrii glances around the room.

Felisaithne nods at Zethes.

Erienne says, "Oh."

Missoni says, "To the ballroom."

Speaking to Zethes, Fleurs says, "The garden is rather infested right now."

Speaking to Zethes, Meliyara says, "The garden will be inside now, so it seems."

Zethes asks, "Yes, see, I know dear.  The sea was lost to you, but honestly, must you continuously lament so?"

Yukito shakes his head.

Speaking to Thalita, Giedrius asks, "Do you not still have a lecture?"

Speaking to Zethes, you say, "The spiders are making the garden a bit less hospitable."

Zethes asks, "Infested?"

Speaking to Oogey, Erienne says, "Thank you though."

Giedrius looks thoughtfully at Thalita.

Thalita nods at Giedrius.

Erienne smiles at Oogey.

Speaking to Thalita, Giedrius says, "I was looking forward to yours."

Thalita asks, "In half an hour, perhaps?"

Speaking to Thalita, Giedrius asks, "At what time?"

Giedrius nods.

The teacup pig begins to squeal horribly.

(Everall goes to drink more of his scotch only to be surprised by an empty glass.)

Orralith glances at you.

Oogey raises his Trollkiller whiskey in a toast!

Missoni frowns.

Ermias nods sympathetically.

You say, "Ah."
You correct, "Arachnids."
You nod once.

Orralith scoops up the teacup pig and leaves in a huff.

Everall twiddles his thumbs.

Missoni exclaims, "The s-word!"

Giedrius says, "I am going to go...tuck the hamsters in bed and I will return in a half an hour, then."

Felisaithne nods.

Blodeuyn asks, "What is wrong with the pig?"

You glance out.
You say, "Oops."
You realize there are some important matters you should tend to . . . later.

Maylan asks, "Are we on break, then?"

Giedrius says, "You will like Thalita's lecture, too."

Giedrius glances at you.

Giedrius nods to you.

You ponder the meaning of Giedrius's existence.

Blodeuyn glances at Giedrius.

Zethes shrugs at Blodeuyn.

Yukito signals, "That piglet is not so much afraid of words as he just has general anxiety."

Speaking to Blodeuyn, Maylan says, "It's scared of all the spiders and insects."
Maylan removes an innocuous house spider from in her cream flyrsilk toqua.
Maylan drops an innocuous house spider.

Everall gently rubs his hand across the bear skin rug.

Raelee says, "... if we have half an hour, that does give us some time to further test these oils in the garden."

Fenthywick uses his ebonwood dust broom to sweep up a bit of debris on the floor.

Erienne blinks at Maylan.

Meliyara gazes with a bemused expression at Maylan.

Zethes says, "Oh, I shall return then."

Everall says, "Oh, that's quite soft."

Fleurs signals, "You would too if someone suggested you should become larger to be bacon."

Zethes says, "Let me go to my room."

Missoni squints at Maylan.

Fenthywick just lunged out.

Zethes waves.

Zethes wanders off.

Felisaithne stands up.

Speaking to Maylan, Meliyara asks, "Have you not insisted you are on break since you arrived?"

Yukito grins.

Speaking to Missoni, Maylan says, "Whut."

You say, "I will look forward to it, then."
You nod at Giedrius.

Speaking to Maylan, Missoni says, "You dropped something."

Speaking to Meliyara, Maylan says, "I am."
Speaking to Missoni, Maylan says, "Did not."

Blodeuyn says, "I will clean up after all the creatures."

Blodeuyn frowns.

Speaking to Maylan, Erienne asks, "Are you bringing the bugs in here or is Trallihn sneaking around?"

Ermias nods sympathetically.

Missoni taps an innocuous house spider.
Missoni says, "Right there."

Erienne gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Blodeuyn says, "My poor hotel."

Serene grins at Blodeuyn.

Speaking to Erienne, Maylan says, "It was like that when I got here."

Blodeuyn sighs.

Meliyara glances skeptically at Maylan.

Manager Blodeuyn just loped out.