"Hmm, you make a valid point." Christian nodded his head to Eiryk. They both seemed adamant about Eiryk being mostly harmless and entertaining at the same time. Though Rowan suggested they should arrest him for everyone's well being.
He raised an eyebrow but made no comment about the three of them wearing the spandex and being part of the knife throwing, bedazzled circus act. It was not the past time he would have chosen but it was better than riding a bull. After further thought, Christian suggested. "With blue hair. Aishe tells me its a good colour for me."
Rowan asked what he did when he was not planning his circus debut. Christian answered "I keep the Towers safe from outside or...." He looked over at Eiryk. "inside threats."
"What do you two do when your aren't bedazzled?"
Car Lag
Rowan slung his duffel bag down on one of the chairs at the empty table outside Barney's. MARI had directed him here when he'd asked about the closest place to find some coffee. He'd invited her to join him but he wasn't sure the AI had gotten it. No sense of humor. He set his cup down on the table as well, and, still standing, braced his hands on his back and stretched.
It had been a long drive into Nachton but here he was, in the big city, for however long he decided to stay. He had a job lined up working nights, of course, at a clinic near the Towers and a place to stay that he'd check out as soon as he was appropriately caffeinated.
The mall was reasonably crowded in his opinion although he didn't know what qualified as crowded for this time of night. There weren't very many open seats around. The aroma coming from the coffee shop was delicious though, which probably accounted for the crowded tables.
Finally sitting, somewhat reluctantly as he'd spent the last several hours sitting in his car, Rowan pulled a book from his duffel bag, giving a contented sigh as he stretched out his long legs and picked up his coffee cup. Opening his book he began to read, not paying complete attention to the words on the pages since he had read this particular book many times before. He skimmed while he paid attention to the ebb and flow of people around him.
This definitely beat the dead silent mid west.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Who's side are you on?!"
Eiryk was pretty sure that Rowan had just suggested that Chris lock him up. And now he wanted to isolate him. This was cruel.
"I can do the whole 'boy in the plastic bubble' thing but you have to promise not to dribble me."
He raised his eyebrow at the spandex question. Certainly that was an obvious question. At least Rowan had reached that conclusion on his own.
"Ah... so -you're- Aishe's Chis. Nice too meet you."
Eiryk beamed and offered his hand again. Now he knew who Christian was... things get more interesting all the time.
"But she is right. The blue would look good on you. Make you stand out in a crowd."
Eiryk agreed with a laugh..
"She will vouch for me though. I am trouble, but not a threat."
Security then, Aishe was in security and that certainly sounded like a description for security and would explain the suit and dry sense of humor.
"I own a decorating studio in town. It keeps me off the streets. If you have any suggestions for a French country bedroom I'd love to see them."
Eiryk was pretty sure that Rowan had just suggested that Chris lock him up. And now he wanted to isolate him. This was cruel.
"I can do the whole 'boy in the plastic bubble' thing but you have to promise not to dribble me."
He raised his eyebrow at the spandex question. Certainly that was an obvious question. At least Rowan had reached that conclusion on his own.
"Ah... so -you're- Aishe's Chis. Nice too meet you."
Eiryk beamed and offered his hand again. Now he knew who Christian was... things get more interesting all the time.
"But she is right. The blue would look good on you. Make you stand out in a crowd."
Eiryk agreed with a laugh..
"She will vouch for me though. I am trouble, but not a threat."
Security then, Aishe was in security and that certainly sounded like a description for security and would explain the suit and dry sense of humor.
"I own a decorating studio in town. It keeps me off the streets. If you have any suggestions for a French country bedroom I'd love to see them."
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Frankly, Rowan thought Christian might look a bit like a smurf with blue hair but he kept silent on that topic. Instead he shrugged amiably at Eiryk and gave him a carefree grin. "My own side, of course," he laughed.
Rowan looked on with interest as Eiryk apparently made some sort of connection between Christian and someone named Aishe. From the description Christian gave Rowan assumed he was a member of security. It seemed a fairly safe bet. Interesting. So had he joined them because it really was the only empty seat, or because one or both of them were persons of interest? Rowan was obviously new here.
He winced at Christian. "No bedazzling for me, thanks," he said. "I had a bad experience with an opera singer in a sequined dress ten years ago and ever since then I can't wear the stuff."
Eiryk owning a design studio didn't surprise him. He certainly had a flair for the art. It hadn't been his job the last time they'd seen each other, but neither had Rowan held the same job.
He turned to Christian and pondered telling his usual falsehood. It wouldn't serve him well though, to tell stories to Evenhet Security.
"I'm a pediatrician," he said. "Starting a new job at clinic nearby the night after next."
Rowan looked on with interest as Eiryk apparently made some sort of connection between Christian and someone named Aishe. From the description Christian gave Rowan assumed he was a member of security. It seemed a fairly safe bet. Interesting. So had he joined them because it really was the only empty seat, or because one or both of them were persons of interest? Rowan was obviously new here.
He winced at Christian. "No bedazzling for me, thanks," he said. "I had a bad experience with an opera singer in a sequined dress ten years ago and ever since then I can't wear the stuff."
Eiryk owning a design studio didn't surprise him. He certainly had a flair for the art. It hadn't been his job the last time they'd seen each other, but neither had Rowan held the same job.
He turned to Christian and pondered telling his usual falsehood. It wouldn't serve him well though, to tell stories to Evenhet Security.
"I'm a pediatrician," he said. "Starting a new job at clinic nearby the night after next."
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian was amused to find that he was now Aishe's Chris. Great, you make one progeny and they take over your whole identity, next he would be taking her to ballet lessons and telling everyone at the office how gifted she was at speaking with raccoons. He -did- happen to think he had a wonderful child who was taking to being a vampire with remarkable grace for someone who didn't have their mentor around for much of their first couple of years.
He took Eiryk's hand again with a small smile. "Is that so?" Sending to Aishe, he said. [I have a blonde designer here name Eiryk Jensen who says you'll vouch for him. His friend here says I should lock him up for his own good and perhaps the safety of us all. What do you think?]
Setting down his coffee, he thought about Eiryk's last question. "A lot of light, make the windows play a large role. Keep the furniture simple but of good solid wood and add small personal touches that are unique and memorable. Even better, and less expensive, use things that your client already has and showcase them." Christian explained. "The country part doesn't look right without natural light, or the illusion of it, big open windows, drapery that lets in the light. The French like quality things, so the furniture for a more provincial bedroom should be simple but sturdy like heirloom pieces that would have been used for generations. The pieces need not even match. They would look more authentic if they didn't. The memorable accessories are what give the room the character of the owner. " He shrugged and took a sip of his coffee before adding. "That is just my opinion, of course." He had certainly seen enough actual rooms in the French countryside through out the ages. Thanks to Alfarinn, some quite recently. The look reminded him of home when done right.
Christian turned to Rowan and quirked an eyebrow. "You can't wear sequins or dresses? Or simply sequined dresses? Does this mean that you are okay with wearing a nice chiffon gown?"
((OOC: Who knew he had so much an opinion on interior design? Certainly not me but apparently he does in this case. ))
He took Eiryk's hand again with a small smile. "Is that so?" Sending to Aishe, he said. [I have a blonde designer here name Eiryk Jensen who says you'll vouch for him. His friend here says I should lock him up for his own good and perhaps the safety of us all. What do you think?]
Setting down his coffee, he thought about Eiryk's last question. "A lot of light, make the windows play a large role. Keep the furniture simple but of good solid wood and add small personal touches that are unique and memorable. Even better, and less expensive, use things that your client already has and showcase them." Christian explained. "The country part doesn't look right without natural light, or the illusion of it, big open windows, drapery that lets in the light. The French like quality things, so the furniture for a more provincial bedroom should be simple but sturdy like heirloom pieces that would have been used for generations. The pieces need not even match. They would look more authentic if they didn't. The memorable accessories are what give the room the character of the owner. " He shrugged and took a sip of his coffee before adding. "That is just my opinion, of course." He had certainly seen enough actual rooms in the French countryside through out the ages. Thanks to Alfarinn, some quite recently. The look reminded him of home when done right.
Christian turned to Rowan and quirked an eyebrow. "You can't wear sequins or dresses? Or simply sequined dresses? Does this mean that you are okay with wearing a nice chiffon gown?"
((OOC: Who knew he had so much an opinion on interior design? Certainly not me but apparently he does in this case. ))
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Pirate."
Eiryk rolled his eyes cheerfully at Rowan. Having identified Christian as a vampire they could take a few more liberties. Not that the one comment would be stupidly out of line.
"Mmmmm... that seems to be a story that I'm not involved in. You should wander by in a few nights and I'll open a bottle. You can tell me."
A story like that probably warranted him breaking open a bottle of the good stuff and it would be an excellent excuse to introduce him to Alex.
He was a little surprised by Rowan's answer. Huh, who knew. In a strange sort of way it seemed natural, a good fit. Rowan was a hell of a story teller and all he had to do was tone them down a bit for the kids. No doubt he'd hold their total attention despite all the poking and prodding. He was about to offer to give his friend a hand with his office, he'd picked up some great prints of children's art at an exhibit the Arch had a few months ago when Christian started helping.
That was a surprise. He never would have taken Christian for a decorating type. His eyebrows shot up his forehead.
"Do you want a job? I -hate- doing French country."
He snickered quietly into his coffee when the conversation went back to Rowan and sequins. All was as it should be.
Eiryk rolled his eyes cheerfully at Rowan. Having identified Christian as a vampire they could take a few more liberties. Not that the one comment would be stupidly out of line.
"Mmmmm... that seems to be a story that I'm not involved in. You should wander by in a few nights and I'll open a bottle. You can tell me."
A story like that probably warranted him breaking open a bottle of the good stuff and it would be an excellent excuse to introduce him to Alex.
He was a little surprised by Rowan's answer. Huh, who knew. In a strange sort of way it seemed natural, a good fit. Rowan was a hell of a story teller and all he had to do was tone them down a bit for the kids. No doubt he'd hold their total attention despite all the poking and prodding. He was about to offer to give his friend a hand with his office, he'd picked up some great prints of children's art at an exhibit the Arch had a few months ago when Christian started helping.
That was a surprise. He never would have taken Christian for a decorating type. His eyebrows shot up his forehead.
"Do you want a job? I -hate- doing French country."
He snickered quietly into his coffee when the conversation went back to Rowan and sequins. All was as it should be.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan looked back and forth between Christian and Eiryk, learning more in those two minutes about French interior design than he had known before. Amazing. He shrugged at the interest in his sequin issue.
"It was traumatic, but there's not much story to it," Rowan said. "It involved a minor on stage accident and a near tragic plummet from the stage. I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time."
He flashed a grin at Christian. "It's the sequins," he said. "I just can't handle them. Frankly I don't think I have the physique for a gown but I might just do all right in a nice chiffon."
And had, on occasion. Rowan had all kinds of random stories. Some of them were actually true. "I think the last gown I wore, though, was a silk and lace affair. High waist. Capped sleeves... really showed off my legs although the color wasn't me."
He was really more of a spring colors gal. And the piercings had been frowned upon. Very much frowned upon. Apparently women weren't supposed to be sporting multiples. Or spikes.
"It was traumatic, but there's not much story to it," Rowan said. "It involved a minor on stage accident and a near tragic plummet from the stage. I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time."
He flashed a grin at Christian. "It's the sequins," he said. "I just can't handle them. Frankly I don't think I have the physique for a gown but I might just do all right in a nice chiffon."
And had, on occasion. Rowan had all kinds of random stories. Some of them were actually true. "I think the last gown I wore, though, was a silk and lace affair. High waist. Capped sleeves... really showed off my legs although the color wasn't me."
He was really more of a spring colors gal. And the piercings had been frowned upon. Very much frowned upon. Apparently women weren't supposed to be sporting multiples. Or spikes.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian made mental note of the blonde's retort, wondering if there was any serious truth to the accusation of Rowan being a pirate or if it was his mercenary attitude. He certainly had no cause for complaint if it were the later, having been a mercenary for many many years. Actually he had no trouble with the former either unless Rowan and a band of ruffians were planning on boarding the Towers with a hostile takeover in mind.
He considered Eiryk's offer, not that Christian expected it to be serious but he did find that he enjoyed decorating, so long as one remembered not to block exits and to position furniture so that you can watch doorways for potential threats.
"I think Alfarinn might have a coronary if I ever did anything other than Security, however I am happy to consult on any French Country designs you might find yourself stuck with."
Listening to Rowan talk about his sequin fiasco, Christian could tell that whatever traumatizing effect the dramatic experience might have had on him wasn't affecting his mood at all. The man's aura was a nice creative upbeat yellow. There weren't any other colours or subtle shifts in patterns that he normally saw which suggested that Rowan was also good at hiding his emotions should he need to.
He gave the redhead a thorough inspection. "No, I'd say Eiryk and I would look better in the gown. Perhaps you can wear the tux and top hat. It will save you any future trauma and you won't rip any seams." Christian looked down at Rowan's legs. The man was tall and appeared to be in good shape so they probably did look good; it was hard to tell in the jeans for a a certainty. "Hmm, heels or no?"
((OOC: Empathy on Rowan with permission))
He considered Eiryk's offer, not that Christian expected it to be serious but he did find that he enjoyed decorating, so long as one remembered not to block exits and to position furniture so that you can watch doorways for potential threats.
"I think Alfarinn might have a coronary if I ever did anything other than Security, however I am happy to consult on any French Country designs you might find yourself stuck with."
Listening to Rowan talk about his sequin fiasco, Christian could tell that whatever traumatizing effect the dramatic experience might have had on him wasn't affecting his mood at all. The man's aura was a nice creative upbeat yellow. There weren't any other colours or subtle shifts in patterns that he normally saw which suggested that Rowan was also good at hiding his emotions should he need to.
He gave the redhead a thorough inspection. "No, I'd say Eiryk and I would look better in the gown. Perhaps you can wear the tux and top hat. It will save you any future trauma and you won't rip any seams." Christian looked down at Rowan's legs. The man was tall and appeared to be in good shape so they probably did look good; it was hard to tell in the jeans for a a certainty. "Hmm, heels or no?"
((OOC: Empathy on Rowan with permission))
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Oh well if it isn't a good story that saves me a bottle of mead. So never mind then."
Although he did snicker at Rowan's abbreviated story. He had no trouble imagining any of that. As he couldn't say he'd -never- worn a dress Eiryk didn't give Rowan a hard time about it. Well not much.
"Cap sleeves? Really? Tell me there was at least a slit, nice and high."
He didn't think twice about it. He slid his plans, measurements, sketches and orders over in front of Christian.
"All yours. I promised the client a consult in two days and the tentative deadline is three weeks. You have curtains on order. Good luck."
Ah that was a relief. One dead line off his plate. Why he took that job he didn't know.
And then they were off in a new direction. He chuckled at the ideas until he caught with what was being said.
"Well I do have the better legs... hey! ... ... Do I have to shave?"
Although he did snicker at Rowan's abbreviated story. He had no trouble imagining any of that. As he couldn't say he'd -never- worn a dress Eiryk didn't give Rowan a hard time about it. Well not much.
"Cap sleeves? Really? Tell me there was at least a slit, nice and high."
He didn't think twice about it. He slid his plans, measurements, sketches and orders over in front of Christian.
"All yours. I promised the client a consult in two days and the tentative deadline is three weeks. You have curtains on order. Good luck."
Ah that was a relief. One dead line off his plate. Why he took that job he didn't know.
And then they were off in a new direction. He chuckled at the ideas until he caught with what was being said.
"Well I do have the better legs... hey! ... ... Do I have to shave?"
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Watching Christian and Eriryk's interactions Rowan grinned and then grimaced. "Wow. Better call 911," he said to Christian, "because it looks like the boss is going to have some heart trouble."
He was highly amused by the fact that Eiryk had drafted Christian so easily. Or that Christian had been suckered in so easily... he wasn't sure which one applied. Maybe both.
As he listened he opened his mind to the emotions of those around him. He didn't always go this route; empathy, for him, was a painful and normally unpleasant experience. Over the years he'd gotten used to it and he did use it more often now than when he'd first discovered this ability, but still he generally tried to get a feel for things the natural way.
From Christian there was amusement, relaxed humor, and not much else. Rowan immediately recognized the telltale signs of one who was used to being inscrutable. Rowan himself had the same trait. Christian's feelings slid away and Eiryk's filtered in, far more open and much more painful as the brand upon his shoulder throbbed. He felt hot iron upon his wrist, clamping into a tight circle. Eiryk's feelings were similar to Christian's... but there were strong overtones of love and contentment. Rowan felt surprise. Eiryk had a companion? Interesting! He tried to ignore the singe as a hot brand pressed into his ankle and another string of fiery words laced his back.
The general relaxed mood of the tower residents around him flowed over him like a very small breaker as Eiryk's feelings slid off of him too. His skin heated as the combined emotions of the Barney's patrons encroached upon his psyche and Rowan turned it off as if it were a light switch. Empathy was not a popular tool for him. Useful, yes, but the imagined branding he felt every time he invoked it made it a harsh experience.
It was good to know, though, that everyone here seemed to be exactly how they appeared. That the amusing banter was entertaining to all parties involved. Rowan nodded appreciatively at Christian. "I can see you in a lovely silk getup, maybe, instead of chiffon. And of course heels! I don't need my height emphasized but they did wonders for my calves."
He pointed a finger at Eiryk. "You tell me, fashion guru," he said a little wickedly. "Would you be caught dead, or undead, in a cute little dress with unshaven legs? Isn't that a faux pas nowadays? It's been a while."
((ooc: permission for empathies))
He was highly amused by the fact that Eiryk had drafted Christian so easily. Or that Christian had been suckered in so easily... he wasn't sure which one applied. Maybe both.
As he listened he opened his mind to the emotions of those around him. He didn't always go this route; empathy, for him, was a painful and normally unpleasant experience. Over the years he'd gotten used to it and he did use it more often now than when he'd first discovered this ability, but still he generally tried to get a feel for things the natural way.
From Christian there was amusement, relaxed humor, and not much else. Rowan immediately recognized the telltale signs of one who was used to being inscrutable. Rowan himself had the same trait. Christian's feelings slid away and Eiryk's filtered in, far more open and much more painful as the brand upon his shoulder throbbed. He felt hot iron upon his wrist, clamping into a tight circle. Eiryk's feelings were similar to Christian's... but there were strong overtones of love and contentment. Rowan felt surprise. Eiryk had a companion? Interesting! He tried to ignore the singe as a hot brand pressed into his ankle and another string of fiery words laced his back.
The general relaxed mood of the tower residents around him flowed over him like a very small breaker as Eiryk's feelings slid off of him too. His skin heated as the combined emotions of the Barney's patrons encroached upon his psyche and Rowan turned it off as if it were a light switch. Empathy was not a popular tool for him. Useful, yes, but the imagined branding he felt every time he invoked it made it a harsh experience.
It was good to know, though, that everyone here seemed to be exactly how they appeared. That the amusing banter was entertaining to all parties involved. Rowan nodded appreciatively at Christian. "I can see you in a lovely silk getup, maybe, instead of chiffon. And of course heels! I don't need my height emphasized but they did wonders for my calves."
He pointed a finger at Eiryk. "You tell me, fashion guru," he said a little wickedly. "Would you be caught dead, or undead, in a cute little dress with unshaven legs? Isn't that a faux pas nowadays? It's been a while."
((ooc: permission for empathies))
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian took the book from Eiryk, and hearing Rowan's words, said to the other blonde. "I'll warn him. Shall I tell him you're going to fill in for me?"
Aishe had vouched for Eiryk earlier though she did suggest he needed a job in a Styrofoam peanut making factory. That vote of confidence didn't bode well for Meridian if Christian let the man substitute for him while he worked on an interior design project. Still he mused down at the sketch book, and after looking up at Eiryk to make certain he was serious, starting making his own notes. "What kind of curtains?" He asked absently, taking another sip of coffee while still looking at the measurements of the room.
Tucking the pencil behind his ear, he looked up at the other blonde and said.
"Of course not, you can always wax."
He turned to Rowan and nodded. "Silk is much better, I agree. Doesn't make as much noise when you move and it feels nice on the skin." Christian sighed slightly. "Clings though and that makes it harder to hide weapons." Tilting his head to the side, he thought for a moment. "...though not impossible."
((OOC: Aishe's sending with permission ))
Aishe had vouched for Eiryk earlier though she did suggest he needed a job in a Styrofoam peanut making factory. That vote of confidence didn't bode well for Meridian if Christian let the man substitute for him while he worked on an interior design project. Still he mused down at the sketch book, and after looking up at Eiryk to make certain he was serious, starting making his own notes. "What kind of curtains?" He asked absently, taking another sip of coffee while still looking at the measurements of the room.
Tucking the pencil behind his ear, he looked up at the other blonde and said.
"Of course not, you can always wax."
He turned to Rowan and nodded. "Silk is much better, I agree. Doesn't make as much noise when you move and it feels nice on the skin." Christian sighed slightly. "Clings though and that makes it harder to hide weapons." Tilting his head to the side, he thought for a moment. "...though not impossible."
((OOC: Aishe's sending with permission ))
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Silk? Really? This time of year? I would think a nice jersey would be more appropriate. I'll do silk in the spring."
The heels hadn't really been a question. Although he wasn't sure where he stood on this shaving thing. It would all grow back.
"I think I'll just do a longer dress with a medium slit and then I only have to wax to the knees."
And he'd probably never hear the end of it from Alex. Well it could be worse.
Oh, security work. That could be extremely exciting or extremely dull. But a change would be nice. He hadn't been entirely serious about having Christian do the rest of this job but he wasn't going to say no either. Something about this job was driving him up the wall.
"Toile. Pink Toile."
Eiryk said with a shudder. Maybe that was what was driving him crazy about this job. No matter how he tried to guide and suggest this client was convinced they had better taste. He had thought about quitting before this, he didn't want this room in his portfolio.
"Certainly, I can cover for you while you finish this up. I've always wanted to try the whole secret service look. And I could use some new sunglasses."
For some reason the idea of the new mirrored sunglasses highly entertained Eiryk.
The heels hadn't really been a question. Although he wasn't sure where he stood on this shaving thing. It would all grow back.
"I think I'll just do a longer dress with a medium slit and then I only have to wax to the knees."
And he'd probably never hear the end of it from Alex. Well it could be worse.
Oh, security work. That could be extremely exciting or extremely dull. But a change would be nice. He hadn't been entirely serious about having Christian do the rest of this job but he wasn't going to say no either. Something about this job was driving him up the wall.
"Toile. Pink Toile."
Eiryk said with a shudder. Maybe that was what was driving him crazy about this job. No matter how he tried to guide and suggest this client was convinced they had better taste. He had thought about quitting before this, he didn't want this room in his portfolio.
"Certainly, I can cover for you while you finish this up. I've always wanted to try the whole secret service look. And I could use some new sunglasses."
For some reason the idea of the new mirrored sunglasses highly entertained Eiryk.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan wasn't sure what to make of Eiryk the Security vampire. While he didn't doubt Eiryk could keep a thing safe, he wondered if the Towers would be left standing when he was finished. It wasn't a lack of confidence in Eiryk's skills at all. It was just that as a group, Vikings hadn't been known for their subtlety and delicate methods.
"Please tell me you've adopted a few new defense techniques over the years, dear," Rowan said to Eiryk, his voice a lazy sort of drawl. "If not, I'll wait to unload my belongings until the Towers have been rebuilt, hmm?"
Christian, meanwhile, was already buckling down to the chore of designing a French Country room. Talk about work ethic. "What is it you do in your spare time again, Christian?" he asked softly, amusement tinging his voice. "Surely there must be something."
They had already decided the book club might be appealing; ix-nay on the bull riding. "How about a good sword fight? Not in the dress, of course, unless you prefer it that way. Maybe after this interesting double date I seem to have stumbled into."
How had it happened anyhow? Rowan thought back along the conversation with a grin. Not entirely sure... his stories sometimes had a way of branching off like this into interesting side conversations. It only made him more inclined to tell them; nothing was more fun than learning about people by teasing their creative sides. He raised his eyebrows at Eiryk and said, "From silk to jersey to suit in less than a minute? I'm impressed. That's quite the decision-making."
Rowan swirled the remainder of his coffee around in the bottom of its cup and contemplated a second one. He wasn't in any hurry to unpack, really, and he hadn't brought a whole lot with him. He'd buy and furnish as he went.
"Please tell me you've adopted a few new defense techniques over the years, dear," Rowan said to Eiryk, his voice a lazy sort of drawl. "If not, I'll wait to unload my belongings until the Towers have been rebuilt, hmm?"
Christian, meanwhile, was already buckling down to the chore of designing a French Country room. Talk about work ethic. "What is it you do in your spare time again, Christian?" he asked softly, amusement tinging his voice. "Surely there must be something."
They had already decided the book club might be appealing; ix-nay on the bull riding. "How about a good sword fight? Not in the dress, of course, unless you prefer it that way. Maybe after this interesting double date I seem to have stumbled into."
How had it happened anyhow? Rowan thought back along the conversation with a grin. Not entirely sure... his stories sometimes had a way of branching off like this into interesting side conversations. It only made him more inclined to tell them; nothing was more fun than learning about people by teasing their creative sides. He raised his eyebrows at Eiryk and said, "From silk to jersey to suit in less than a minute? I'm impressed. That's quite the decision-making."
Rowan swirled the remainder of his coffee around in the bottom of its cup and contemplated a second one. He wasn't in any hurry to unpack, really, and he hadn't brought a whole lot with him. He'd buy and furnish as he went.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian looked up at Eiryk with a frown. "Toile? Pink?" He made some more notes. "Maybe we can turn them into a couple of nice throw pillows." Taking a sip of his coffee, he then added softly. "To hide in the closet."
Rowan seemed further amused by the idea of the two of them swapping jobs and still wondered what he did with his spare time. At the mention of a sword fight, he shrugged. "I could be convinced, in or out of the dress. I suppose its an interesting handicap but really unnecessary." He enjoyed testing his sword skills and any excuse to do so was good to him.
Turning back to Eiryk, he considered. "Don't forget the ear piece otherwise you won't get to hear all the good inside jokes."
He was amused by this idea. Of course he couldn't let Eiryk run security for however long it took to finish a bedroom but he could let him do some work for them. Since the blonde already knew Aishe he could volunteer his daughter's time as Eiryk's partner. Christian was sure they could manage to find him some interesting things to do while he was helping out.
Rowan seemed further amused by the idea of the two of them swapping jobs and still wondered what he did with his spare time. At the mention of a sword fight, he shrugged. "I could be convinced, in or out of the dress. I suppose its an interesting handicap but really unnecessary." He enjoyed testing his sword skills and any excuse to do so was good to him.
Turning back to Eiryk, he considered. "Don't forget the ear piece otherwise you won't get to hear all the good inside jokes."
He was amused by this idea. Of course he couldn't let Eiryk run security for however long it took to finish a bedroom but he could let him do some work for them. Since the blonde already knew Aishe he could volunteer his daughter's time as Eiryk's partner. Christian was sure they could manage to find him some interesting things to do while he was helping out.
Eiryk
13 years ago
He frowned as if trying to remember how things worked when Rowan asked hm. After a moment's hesitation he finally offered,
"Pillage -then- burn. It is a classic strategy."
His smile was all innocence and sincerity. He still had it.
Eiryk suppressed a laugh, Christian was taking this all in stride and with an admirable determination and good taste.
"If we are sword fighting in drag I am going to need to get this on video. With me out of frame."
And probably not in drag either. Eiryk wasn't shy about his preferences but even he didn't just go out like a queen for no good reason. He couldn't remember the last time he'd worn a dress and he was fairly certain that was for a good cause.
He just might suggest Aishe invite her maker over the next time he offered to open a bottle of mead for them. The man was drier than the Sahara but he was amusing. Eiryk wondered if he ever lighted up. Rowan would obviously have to come too, you had to balance the dry with the wet. Wait, that sounded bad even in his internal dialog. But the idea was sound.
"I have always wanted an ear piece, but not one of those cheesy blue tooth ones that people wear when they are just trying to look more important than they really are."
"Pillage -then- burn. It is a classic strategy."
His smile was all innocence and sincerity. He still had it.
Eiryk suppressed a laugh, Christian was taking this all in stride and with an admirable determination and good taste.
"If we are sword fighting in drag I am going to need to get this on video. With me out of frame."
And probably not in drag either. Eiryk wasn't shy about his preferences but even he didn't just go out like a queen for no good reason. He couldn't remember the last time he'd worn a dress and he was fairly certain that was for a good cause.
He just might suggest Aishe invite her maker over the next time he offered to open a bottle of mead for them. The man was drier than the Sahara but he was amusing. Eiryk wondered if he ever lighted up. Rowan would obviously have to come too, you had to balance the dry with the wet. Wait, that sounded bad even in his internal dialog. But the idea was sound.
"I have always wanted an ear piece, but not one of those cheesy blue tooth ones that people wear when they are just trying to look more important than they really are."
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan sighed at Eiryk. "I forgot you barbarians weren't any good at defense. Are you sure you're not getting it confused with offense?"
Without waiting for an answer he waved his hand. "Right, right... with Vikings it's all offense. Just try to pillage the invaders' stuff, not your own, mkay?"
Looking at Christian again Rowan smiled and nodded. "All right. A good sword fight sans drag. That would be fun. Do you prefer a particular style? Fencing? Dual-handed?"
Christian's small stature and fine bones would make him a wicked fencer, and Rowan doubted that any member of Security was a slouch. Of all the defense mechanisms Rowan had, swordplay was his strongest physical form. He was good at it and confident enough to match himself against anyone else. It wasn't that he assumed he'd win; he just knew he wouldn't embarrass himself. Win or lose, it would be a good match.
He did point at Eiryk. "Sword fighting. No axes. It's a refined thing. With subtlety. You might not get it."
Nothing like a gay Viking for a laugh... only Eiryk could manage to mix swinging and axe like a testosterone-driven monster with sitting down for tea while discussing French Countryside design. If it were anyone else Rowan would have laughed his ass off. On Eiryk, it was quirky and charming.
Without waiting for an answer he waved his hand. "Right, right... with Vikings it's all offense. Just try to pillage the invaders' stuff, not your own, mkay?"
Looking at Christian again Rowan smiled and nodded. "All right. A good sword fight sans drag. That would be fun. Do you prefer a particular style? Fencing? Dual-handed?"
Christian's small stature and fine bones would make him a wicked fencer, and Rowan doubted that any member of Security was a slouch. Of all the defense mechanisms Rowan had, swordplay was his strongest physical form. He was good at it and confident enough to match himself against anyone else. It wasn't that he assumed he'd win; he just knew he wouldn't embarrass himself. Win or lose, it would be a good match.
He did point at Eiryk. "Sword fighting. No axes. It's a refined thing. With subtlety. You might not get it."
Nothing like a gay Viking for a laugh... only Eiryk could manage to mix swinging and axe like a testosterone-driven monster with sitting down for tea while discussing French Countryside design. If it were anyone else Rowan would have laughed his ass off. On Eiryk, it was quirky and charming.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
"Hmm I never could understand the Norse fascination with burning valuable resources. I've asked about this on numerous occasions with no decent response."
He looked over at Eiryk when he suggested getting a video camera to film the future sword fight in drag and mentioned that he would not be in the footage.
"Coward."
Christian finished his coffee as he listened to Rowan discuss Viking tactics. Keeping true to his heritage, he remained neutral on the discussion. It was rather cliché to think of the Norse as bumbling invaders with no subtlety and a penchant for raiding and whoring as their only past times but that was what the media made of them these days. As a vampire, he found you had to let go of a certain attachment to parts of history because they were going to change and evolve with the fuzzy human memory of them. So with that in mind, he asked.
"We can have all our security men wear helmets with horns so that who is who is clearly marked."
Christian relayed this bit of information to Alfarinn, filling him in on the reason. There was return muttering about how horns were never worn except for religious ceremonies and how those 'damn things' never truly existed. Various artists and authors were cursed vehemently in several languages. Christian smiled to himself and listened quietly, content with the trouble he started.
"I can get you an ear piece. It helps sell the sun glasses."
He looked over at Eiryk when he suggested getting a video camera to film the future sword fight in drag and mentioned that he would not be in the footage.
"Coward."
Christian finished his coffee as he listened to Rowan discuss Viking tactics. Keeping true to his heritage, he remained neutral on the discussion. It was rather cliché to think of the Norse as bumbling invaders with no subtlety and a penchant for raiding and whoring as their only past times but that was what the media made of them these days. As a vampire, he found you had to let go of a certain attachment to parts of history because they were going to change and evolve with the fuzzy human memory of them. So with that in mind, he asked.
"We can have all our security men wear helmets with horns so that who is who is clearly marked."
Christian relayed this bit of information to Alfarinn, filling him in on the reason. There was return muttering about how horns were never worn except for religious ceremonies and how those 'damn things' never truly existed. Various artists and authors were cursed vehemently in several languages. Christian smiled to himself and listened quietly, content with the trouble he started.
"I can get you an ear piece. It helps sell the sun glasses."
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Like your kind was much better and you had this smashing habit of running away when out gunned."
Eiryk had no problems taking it, but he was going to dish it out too. Turn about was fair play. With any one else Eiryk might have protested and attempted to educate, well some days. But with Rowan this was an old game one often played and well loved.
"It made sense to us at the time."
Was the only response Eiryk gave about the fire thing as he let the other two set up a play date... er fencing match. Eiryk was quite capable with a sword and Rowan knew it. But this was something he wasn't going to get involved in it. He was distracted from any comment about subltey by Christian's threat. Oh he -hated- that. The only saving grace was he wasn't a woman and didn't have to deal with brass bra comments too.
"You keep saying nasty things like that and I'm going to panel your office in toile. Besides it is bad form to threaten me with stereotypes without sharing any of your own."
Eiryk said with a relaxed grin. Christian's looks could lend themselves to any number of places in the world and he didn't want to leap to any conclusions.
Some day though, some day he was going to round up every Scandinavian former viking vampire he could find, then invent time travel, find the guy who came up with the horns and skin him alive.
"Besides, the horns won't fit through the doors and I'm sure OSHA would have a fit not to mention clashing with the ear piece."
Eiryk had no problems taking it, but he was going to dish it out too. Turn about was fair play. With any one else Eiryk might have protested and attempted to educate, well some days. But with Rowan this was an old game one often played and well loved.
"It made sense to us at the time."
Was the only response Eiryk gave about the fire thing as he let the other two set up a play date... er fencing match. Eiryk was quite capable with a sword and Rowan knew it. But this was something he wasn't going to get involved in it. He was distracted from any comment about subltey by Christian's threat. Oh he -hated- that. The only saving grace was he wasn't a woman and didn't have to deal with brass bra comments too.
"You keep saying nasty things like that and I'm going to panel your office in toile. Besides it is bad form to threaten me with stereotypes without sharing any of your own."
Eiryk said with a relaxed grin. Christian's looks could lend themselves to any number of places in the world and he didn't want to leap to any conclusions.
Some day though, some day he was going to round up every Scandinavian former viking vampire he could find, then invent time travel, find the guy who came up with the horns and skin him alive.
"Besides, the horns won't fit through the doors and I'm sure OSHA would have a fit not to mention clashing with the ear piece."
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan nodded in agreement with Christian's assessment of Nordic burning. "I stop at pillaging," he said. "But then, you know," he gestured to himself with a shrug. "Pirate. It's what we did."
He turned to Eiryk. "And we didn't run away. We just advanced in the opposite direction."
Rowan winced when Christian mentioned horned helmets and Eiryk countered with a redecoration option. He quickly decided it might be best to stay out of the middle of this particular fight. Yes, it was mercenary but... again... pirate. That was also what they did.
"Your main objection is that the horns clash with the MIB suit and earpiece? Why am I not surprised?"
Rowan grinned at his two companions. "Well. Much as I would love to see this all play out, I do need to get myself into my new digs."
He stood, stretching himself out once more, offering his hand to Christian. "It was good to meet you. I hope I see you soon."
He had been sincere in his offer to go out; Rowan didn't dislike many people and enjoyed socializing with most everyone he met. Turning to Eiryk he said, "I know I'll be seeing you."
He left them with the number of his new place and a standing invitation to stop by anytime, picked up his duffel bag and his empty coffee cup which he tossed in a nearby garbage. With a final casual salute over his shoulder to Christian and Eiryk, Rowan made his way out of the Mall in the direction of his new apartment.
((ooc: Rowan out))
He turned to Eiryk. "And we didn't run away. We just advanced in the opposite direction."
Rowan winced when Christian mentioned horned helmets and Eiryk countered with a redecoration option. He quickly decided it might be best to stay out of the middle of this particular fight. Yes, it was mercenary but... again... pirate. That was also what they did.
"Your main objection is that the horns clash with the MIB suit and earpiece? Why am I not surprised?"
Rowan grinned at his two companions. "Well. Much as I would love to see this all play out, I do need to get myself into my new digs."
He stood, stretching himself out once more, offering his hand to Christian. "It was good to meet you. I hope I see you soon."
He had been sincere in his offer to go out; Rowan didn't dislike many people and enjoyed socializing with most everyone he met. Turning to Eiryk he said, "I know I'll be seeing you."
He left them with the number of his new place and a standing invitation to stop by anytime, picked up his duffel bag and his empty coffee cup which he tossed in a nearby garbage. With a final casual salute over his shoulder to Christian and Eiryk, Rowan made his way out of the Mall in the direction of his new apartment.
((ooc: Rowan out))
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian looked amused by Eiryk's threat to redecorate his office, not surprised at all that vehemence similar to Alfarinn's, though perhaps less scathing, was the result of mentioning Vikings in horned helmets.
"So not what to get you for Christmas. I'll make a note."
In answer to the rest of Eiryk's complaint, he shrugged and said. "We're very useful, run like clockwork and make great cocoa."
The reasons for not wearing the horns were sketchy at best but Chris didn't push the issue. He'd have to pay most of the security team extra to get them to wear them in the first place.
Standing, he shook Rowan's hand again. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Rowan. Good luck getting settled."
Christian threw his cup in the recycling trash bin and then turned back to Eiryk. "So when should Security be expecting you?"
"So not what to get you for Christmas. I'll make a note."
In answer to the rest of Eiryk's complaint, he shrugged and said. "We're very useful, run like clockwork and make great cocoa."
The reasons for not wearing the horns were sketchy at best but Chris didn't push the issue. He'd have to pay most of the security team extra to get them to wear them in the first place.
Standing, he shook Rowan's hand again. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Rowan. Good luck getting settled."
Christian threw his cup in the recycling trash bin and then turned back to Eiryk. "So when should Security be expecting you?"
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Sure... you were just racing to the next swashbuckling ambush. If you say so."
Eiryk grinned broadly trying not to pick on pirates too much. After all, as some one had once pointed out to him, Vikings were just Swedish pirates. They were all brothers on the water really. Except of course a viking could kick a sissy boy pirate's ass.
"I could spout on about historical inaccuracies if you'd like, but that has been done to death."
For just the tiniest flash Eiryk regretted that he wasn't going to get to play pillage the village with Rowan. But he almost immediately started thinking about playing said game with Alex and was immediately over it.
"Mmmmm I see how you are, advancing in the opposite direction again."
Eiryk got up and gave Rowan a big bear hug.
"I expect to see you again very soon."
He was very pleased to see Rowan here. They'd gotten close over the years and he looked forward to catching up. Although, it was Rowan's turn to buy no matter what he said.
Settling back down he suppressed a giggle.
"Cornered the market on little red knives did we?"
They were great knives though, he almost always had one on him.
Spluttering into his coffee he shook his head.
"Do I get a better cell if I make reservations?"
Eiryk grinned broadly trying not to pick on pirates too much. After all, as some one had once pointed out to him, Vikings were just Swedish pirates. They were all brothers on the water really. Except of course a viking could kick a sissy boy pirate's ass.
"I could spout on about historical inaccuracies if you'd like, but that has been done to death."
For just the tiniest flash Eiryk regretted that he wasn't going to get to play pillage the village with Rowan. But he almost immediately started thinking about playing said game with Alex and was immediately over it.
"Mmmmm I see how you are, advancing in the opposite direction again."
Eiryk got up and gave Rowan a big bear hug.
"I expect to see you again very soon."
He was very pleased to see Rowan here. They'd gotten close over the years and he looked forward to catching up. Although, it was Rowan's turn to buy no matter what he said.
Settling back down he suppressed a giggle.
"Cornered the market on little red knives did we?"
They were great knives though, he almost always had one on him.
Spluttering into his coffee he shook his head.
"Do I get a better cell if I make reservations?"