Nations on the Brink (storyline)/Time to Make the Scones (vignette)

Time to Make the Scones

Running her hands over the pale oak counter, Galieca’s fingers trace the various tiles set in the wood. With a slight sigh, she kneels before the rhimar-lined case and slowly takes out each spoiled item, placing them in a sack. A quick knock on the door breaks her out of her quietness.

She slowly calls out, “Come in,” and glances up, smiling as a delivery boy enters carrying a crate. Taking the order from his hand, she slips him some silvers in return. Grinning, the boy runs off but not before turning to give the woman an awkward glance. Not noticing anything amiss, she begins to unpack, filling the case with milk, cream, syrup, lemons, and other items used in her coffees and tea.

“It has been a while,” she thinks to herself, “hasn’t it?” Glancing about the shop, she feels uneasy in the quiet -- the once bustling tea shop silent. “Where are the ladies and their gaggling peacock grapevine with all the latest news? I long to hear the researchers from the Arboretum sharing their respective findings over a cup of Garden of Greyvael or even the snoring of the man that sometimes naps on the sofa upstairs.” Shaking her head, Galieca continues to clean and restock the cases.

“I even miss that scamp Gasen,” she whispers sadly. “I would give anything to have him hide a fish under my chair or jump out of the storeroom with a frightful scream. I fear for him and what that terrible man will do. I will give an extra thought to the patrons tonight for his and Lady Ardtin’s safe return.”

Wiping a tear from her eye, she gathers the ingredients for her famous almond chocolate scones and hums a soft elven tune as she mixes the batter. Hearing the door open, she Looks up and smiles as her customers start to return.