Goblin Town -- Logs

Tre looks around with wonder in his eyes. It's clear that, no matter how old he is in actual years, he's likely quite young for whatever his race is. Those ears of his are twitching and there's a hint of something moving at the hem of the long coat he's wearing, as he murmurs, "The pull's gone. Oh... that's nice."

Andreas is still crying softly, wiping at his cheeks with the heels of his hands. Cinnamon smiles a bit shakily at Andreas -- she's feeling the sting of sympathetic tears herself -- as she pulls a little travel-pack of Kleenex from her bag and offers them to the older man. As he wipes his eyes, she grins at Tre, "You have a tail -- cool! It's okay for it to show here, if you want?"

Tre flushes and shrugs out of his jacket. He does have a tail, which nearly reaches the ground -- though it's in pretty bad shape... likely because he's had to hide it so much. Shane whistles softly, "Iason should have some good grooming products... but so should the farrier."

Andreas sniffs and takes the tissues, voice rough, "And they... they can't find us here?"

Cinnamon blinks at Andreas, "Who's they? If you mean regular humans, then no. Nobody at all can get into Coblyn Street unless they were born here, or someone who knows Coblyn leads them in... or you have a map, and from what I was told, I have one of the only maps left in existence." She smiles as she adds warmly, "You're safe here, Andreas. You can figure out what you want to do for your living... and do that." As she says the word 'safe,' though, Cinnamon can't help remembering catching Hans with Shane... and she glances towards the far end of Coblyn with a small frown. She's got to remember to make an appointment with Caradog, darnit! Shane too winces slightly at the comment about not being hunted.

Andreas sniffs again and then takes a deep breath, getting his tears under control even though his voice still ragged, "Some'a th' humans know 'bout people like m'dad. They... hunt us."

Cinnamon sighs softly, giving the weary older man a gentle hug, "Yeah, I've heard. Humans are often scared of what they don't understand. It's why we hide in enclaves like this one." She smiles as she straightens, adding reassuringly, "But no one's going to hunt you here, Andreas -- promise. So, wanna walk with us and see the street? We can point out the inn to you, and take you to visit Iason, the chirurgeon -- he's who Thorn works for -- and take Tre to visit Hu the farrier. Sound good?"

Shane too is likely thinking of Hans, as he adds, "And if someone does take after you for some reason, you have places and people you can go to for shelter and redress."

Cinnamon nods a bit grimly in agreement with Shane, "Absolutely! If you feel anyone's bothering you, you can come right to either Shane or me, and we'll make it stop!"

Shane nods, "Me, Cinnamon, or even Diarmaid or Lorcan. Those two are the head of Caradog's guard. Caradog is the king here."

The walk down to the pub where the two Lost Boys will be staying is rather full of their gawking, and Tre's tail lashing happily. As the foursome stroll along the street, Cinnamon happily waves to folks she knows -- much as does Shane -- and cheerfully adds to the Lost Boys, "There's good folks and bad folks amongst supernaturals, just like with humans... so if you're ever not sure if you can trust someone, Shane is totally the best to let you know! He's like the unofficial sheriff of the street, and he knows all about this place!" She grins and waves as they pass Waylon's smithy, adding to Tre, "That's Waylon the Smith, but unfortunately he's not a farrier. He made a bunch of Shaney's blades, in fact!" She also points out the Vault, "I've got an account there, and John is the guy that manages the Vault, and I've told him about you guys. If you need to buy anything before you've got your own jobs, just tell the shopkeeper that they should bill it to Cinnamon's account at the Vault, okay?"

Shane grins at Cinnamon mentioning Waylon, while Andreas dubiously looks Shane up and down, "You don't look like you're carryin' much 'roun'..."

Shane grins even more broadly -- because, c'mon, sometimes it's fun to shock people! "Wouldn't be much good if I always showed all my weapons." He sets down the things he's carrying and adds, "Acushla, how many blades do you think I'm probably carrying?"

Cinnamon tilts her head as she studies Shane thoughtfully, "Ummm... I'm thinking... six... ish? Though I'd know better if I gave you a pat-down!" She giggles and blushes at the thought of doing that in... *gasp* public!

Shane's eyes twinkle, "Very close! Seven." He starts pulling out blades, though he only shows four. Two are in sheaths inside his combat boots and beneath the legs of his jeans, and two are in sheaths at the small of his back, under his loose shirt. "If I were wearing a larger coat I could easily wear one of my short swords in a spine holster... and Waylon has made several blades for me." He resheathes all the blades and picks up the basket he was carrying.

Tre nods at the information about the Vault, then bites his lip, "So, food and stuff... we can buy that and put it on your account?"

Cinnamon tchs at herself, grinning at Shane, "Darnit, you had two in the back! Didn't think of that, sheesh." She turns to beam and nod at Tre, "You can! Though you shouldn't have to worry about food if you eat in the inn -- I've already arranged accommodations there for you both. Like I said, it's just a little suite with two bedrooms and a shared bathroom -- sorry! -- but the food is good and filling. It's also the post office, which means there's a job board there as well, if you want to check it out. Umm, what else... oh! I mentioned the washer-dryers, right? Those are all available to you... and look! Over there, see the Mad Hatter haberdashery? Shane's apartment is above it." She cheerfully adds, "We can drop your bags off at your rooms in Duille Darach too, if you want -- they'll give you the keys to the room, of course -- and then head on down to Hu's and Iason's places!"

Andreas makes a sound that's sort of a snort but not quite, then mutters, "We been sleepin' in cardboard shakes. What you think ain't much mi's well be a palace."

Shane nods and points up at his door, "I'm rarely ever there, though. If I'm not patrolling, I'm likely at my a ghr�'s place. But I have a little drop box for people that need me to do something for them."

Tre asks almost nervously, "But she said you're the sheriff...?"

Shane shakes his head and smiles, "I don't have an actual title; I just make sure people aren't being a... jerks to each other."

Andreas peers at Shane, then at Cinnamon, "What's an aggruh, and who's Hugh?"

"Oh, and I mentioned to Jack Darach, the innkeeper, that you needed a lot of grains, Tre, and he said no problem, they'd make sure you got what you needed!" Cinnamon beams then at Andreas, regarding the cardboard boxes, "Then I hope you like the rooms better, Andreas!" She giggles, blushing slightly, "A ghr� is Irish for d-dear -- th-that's m-me!" She blushes more at the nervous squeak in her last words, coughing and adding in a deeper and hopefully more normal tone of voice, "Uh, Hu the farrier? Remember, I mentioned Tre could go see him today?" She hastily adds, "I, um, I-I'll point out my place too... and look over there -- see that big house? That's the Elmtrod Mansion, where Mar- uh, w-where Fauntleroy lives with his dad!" She hopes her cheeks aren't brilliantly scarlet by now -- she's still both delighted and shocked that Shane seems to actually want to be with her! Honesty compels her to admit, "Well, his name is actually Marcus, but... I figured you'd recognize the name you were using!"

Shane chuckles, "Though I can't deny your name fits... and yes, Cinnamon is my sweetheart, but me da' got me using all these Irish nicknames when he would wax poetic about me mum."

By now they're at the pub/inn -- and Cinnamon is blushing madly and feeling rather tongue-tied! She almost squeaks, "Here's the inn Jack these are Tre and Andreas can they see their rooms please?!"

Jack smiles warmly at the two men and takes them up to their rooms, explaining some of the rules of the place, including no iron weapons and no steel where it will be easily accidentally touched. Both Tre and Andreas nod as they listen intently. Shane watches them go, then murmurs to Cinnamon, "Iason next. Supernaturals are usually pretty resistant to disease, but they'll need to be checked out. They'll also need to register."

Cinnamon nods to Shane, "I was thinking Iason, then Hu, then Llewellyn... because hooves can get really messed up too if they're not cared for? -and I'm guessing he's had to walk wrong, for hooves, for like years? To hide, I mean?"

Shane nods and sighs, "Yeah. I got a little glimpse of them. They're pretty splayed and split."

Cinnamon winces in worry, "Oh, dear! Then definitely Hu right after Iason, I'm thinking!" She considers, then adds, "Should we pause for breakfast first, though? I've still got the thermos of soup in the bag you've got the- oh! Shaney, I'm sorry! You don't have to carry that anymore!" She apologizes profusely as she tries to take back the basket.

Shane turns, lifting the basket to keep it out of Cinnamon's reach as he arches a dark brow down at her, "Acushla, me mum would give me a tongue lashing like none other if I let you carry things that I could be carrying for you! It's nothing about you being unable -- it's being a gentleman! Besides, we both know you're the more deadly of the pair of us."

Cinnamon freezes and stares startledly up at Shane, "M-me?! De-de-dead-..." She cuts off abruptly, wrapping her arms around herself and staring down at the ground as she steps back and takes a slow, deep breath... then another... then says softly, "I... I don't... that's not... not the, um, th-the reputation I w-want? Sorry? I... I didn't try to be that, really!"

Shane leans down far enough to kiss Cinnamon's forehead gently, "Acushla, should we be attacked, you're the less likely to be harmed. Having your hands free first means that you have time to keep us both safe while I have time to size up the situation. I'm sorry I upset you." Cinnamon nods silently, feeling both a bit hurt -- does Shane not like that about her? -- and obscurely comforted by the kiss. Maybe... maybe once they actually have a day free or something, sometime soon... she wonders if she can talk Shane into a day that's just for the two of them? She'd like to... well, to talk some? To find out what being a sweetie is really like, and... stuff? Like, what Shane wants? Heck, she's not even sure what she herself wants! But then she looks up abruptly, her face deliberately clearing as she hears the sound of three folks clattering downstairs again. She smiles at Andreas' and Tre's rather stunned, almost wondering expressions, and hopes they liked their rooms.

Shane sees that look on Cinnamon's face, though, and leans down to whisper, "I love that I've got a badass for my sweetheart." He winks at her, then turns to the others. Cinnamon blinks a bit startledly at Shane's whisper... then blushes and grins shyly at him.

Tre and Andreas have clearly left their things upstairs -- Tre has even changed into something that leaves his hooves clear and free -- and Shane's right: the hooves are in bad shape! Andreas holds up three keys, "He... gave us every key to the room. Even his." Jack nods. He's a leprechaun, but a rather tall and bulky one.

Cinnamon nods inquiringly, "Okay? Um... is that a problem?"

Tre shakes his head, "No. It's good."

Jack explains, voice gentle, "Saw how anxious they was about their things. Wanted the lads to feel secure about 'em." Shane keeps his mouth shut about the fact that Jack could probably pick that lock in three seconds flat, him being a leprechaun and all... because the half-beansidhe can hear the truth in Jack's voice: the man wants them to feel safe and secure.

Cinnamon nods in agreement with Jack, "Totally get it! Thanks a ton for everything, Jack." She smiles at the two Lost Boys, adding, "Well, are you two ready to head on up to Iason's and Hu's? Or would you rather get some food first?"

Tre shakes his head, "Nah. The muffin did me good, and Andreas..." He crinkles his eyes a little, like he's not sure what he should say... and Andreas scuffs his foot on the floor, muttering, "I prefer my food a little less fresh."

Cinnamon tilts her head curiously, "Are you more of a carnivore? Or... oh, do you have problems with chewing, or something?" She's seen nature shows about animals that prefer their meat slightly ripe, after all, due to issues with digestion, or lack of jaw strength, or a few other possibilities? She smiles, adding, "Just let Jack know what works for you, okay? He's fantastic." Then she grins as she adds, "Whatever it is, don't be embarrassed, okay? We're not human, so no one expects us to eat like humans." She sighs as she wryly adds, "Ohmygosh, I thought I was going to die of embarrassment the first time I realized how much I was eating, after my first shapeshift -- until I realized Shane and Josie were totally pragmatic about it, and were just making sure I had enough food to hand!" She laughs softly, then continues, "But anyways... c'mon! Let's head on down the street, and we can talk about either that, or what it is you guys are good at and enjoy... and we'll see if we can figure out what'd be a rewarding job for you!"

Andreas' shoulders are still hunched as he shakes his head... then opens his mouth really wide and pulls back his lips. His teeth aren't as immediately terrifying as Elias' are, but before Thorn healed them, some were broken. Now they're all pointed like a carnivore's. "Broke m'teef so I look more human. But..." He licks his lips and they see a glimpse of a slightly pointed tongue, "They used to all be pointy. Whatever m'dad was..."

Tre rests a hand on his friend's shoulder, his voice very quiet, "It's better if it's really rotten. Like, decomposing." They keep walking, heading for Iason's infirmary. The doors are wide open as they normally are.

Cinnamon nods thoughtfully as she studies Andreas' teeth, "Okay, got it. Hmm... we should introduce you to Elias later tonight -- he might know helpful things to do too." There's no censure in her tone; just calm interest and consideration. As they stroll along the street, she explains how they won't get lost because Coblyn, though jiggy and jaggy, is all one long street. She also points out Liane's apartment over the seamstress shop should they wish to get any sewing repairs done, and grins as she warns them that Tre certainly won't fit there! Later she points out Elias' home, and a bit further on, her little cottage... and later still, Astrid's bookshop, and also the Pocket Park.

Cinnamon beams as she waves a hand, "Here we are! That's the infirmary, and after that we'll head over to the mansion -- but just the outlying buildings, of course -- to visit Hu. Then, over there, is Currier's Hall, where we can get you registered." The little dragon raps lightly on the doorjamb as she enters, "Hellooo?! -- oh, hi there, Nikos! Is Iason available? We have two lost boys in for a checkup! Thorn did a quick healing check on them two days ago, but we figured best to let them get a thorough check-up and all, right?"

Nikos looks up and smiles, "These are the ones that helped Marcus?" He stands up and comes around the desk, "Yes. Iason and Thorn both should be on duty."

Cinnamon beams and nodnods, "That's them! This is Andreas, and this is Tre. Guys, this is Nikos -- he runs the front here!"

Nikos smiles and offers his hand first to Andreas and then to Tre, "Oh, Iason will be so happy to have another equine on the street! What are you, if you don't mind me asking?"

Tre flushes, "Uhm... not... sure?"

Cinnamon adds with quiet sincerity to the little daemon, "By the way, Nikos, I wanted to thank you so much for running for the guard that night, when Hans came here!" She doesn't say it aloud, but she's mostly glad she didn't have to flame Hans again. Admittedly, she would have in a heartbeat if necessary, to protect Nikos, Marcus, Shane, and all the other folks in the Infirmary! But the arrival of the guard meant she didn't have to. Then she grins reassuringly at Tre, "Don't worry, Iason will probably know! Even if he doesn't, we can ask Elias to check his library too." A moment later Cinnamon brightens at the calm clopping sounds heading this way, "Oh, here comes Iason now, in fact!"

Thorn gathers with Iason so the centaur can meet the new arrivals on Coblyn Street. The smaller healer is wearing his scrubs today, and is clearly pleased at the chance to see Andreas and Tre again. At sight of Iason, though, both Lost Boys take an involuntary step back. Iason doesn't have to duck under any doors because the infirmary was built to accommodate him, so there's nothing to soften the first sight of his height. When you put the torso -- from the hips on up -- of a six-foot-or-so tall human on the withers of a 17 hand draft horse, you get a more than impressive specimen! Andreas mutters, "Holy fuck..." while Tre looks mesmerized -- after all, he himself is a few inches over six feet! "Dude..."

Cinnamon has to cover her grin at the reactions! Then she beams up at the giant man-horse, "Hi, Iason! This is Andreas and this is Tre, and they're new to Coblyn!"

Iason smiles and carefully lowers himself to his knees, bringing him down to a more human height, "Hello. I understand you've met my apprentice Thorn." He nods toward the healer, "He's one of the biggest assets we have." Thorn ducks his head a little, smiling shyly at the praise as Iason offers his hands to the two men; Tre takes one hand a bit more confidently than Andreas does.

Cinnamon adds thoughtfully, "Also, correct me if I'm wrong, guys? -- but I think neither of them know what species they are, so if you figure that out during their check-up, it might be nice to tell them?"

Iason nods and stands back up to his full height, "Of course, please, follow me." He walks at a steady, slow pace, ushering them into an exam room that holds two tables, "I assumed you'd feel better together?"

Cinnamon smiles at the two men, "Would you rather we waited here, or came along, guys?" She doesn't want to be pushy, after all, if the two men are shy.

They both seem a little nervous, though it's Tre who answers for both of them, "I think you should stay with us."

Iason motions for Thorn to accompany them, adding, "Thorn is the best of us at triage." The young healer nods and follows along.

Cinnamon nods cheerfully, "Happy to!" She patters along behind the others, and keeps to one side of the examination room so Iason can move around easily, ending up between the two tables, near the heads, so both men can see and easily talk to her.

Once Tre and Andreas are sitting on the examination tables, Iason steps away so Thorn can run a quick scan. The little healer does each man in turn, one at a time. This will be a more comprehensive spell, seeking not only any immediate life-threatening issues but also chronic ones. He doesn't expect it to be too different from his first exam of them, but there's always surprises. The scans show that Tre has some issues with his hooves that will need to be addressed, since they can cause issues with his entire system if they aren't taken care of. Andreas seems to have some moderate malnutrition, as if he hasn't been getting the kind of food that he needs. Cinnamon nods when hearing about the hoof issues, "We have an appointment with Hu the farrier after this!"

Thorn isn't surprised that nothing new came up, but he does let both men know their particular issues, adding, "I'm glad you're going to see the farrier -- he'll be helping you a lot! And Andreas, we'll just have to find out what foods work best for you." Andreas looks uneasy, muttering softly about usually just foraging.

Iason nods to Thorn, and leans over to pick up one of Tre's hooves, gently examining it, "Mmm. Yes. They're split and the frog seems irritated... hurts to walk too far, hm?"

Tre nods, "I protect 'em when I can, but it's not like I can get shod or anything."

Iason smiles quietly, "Here, you can indeed get shod if you like. It will help with navigating. Haven't you noticed the actual street out there is cobblestone? It's easy for shod hooves to grip on cobblestone." He lifts one of his enormous hooves to show he currently has some sort of rubberized cap worn over his own horseshoes... and then he adds, "Ipotane, yes? Or at least one of your parents was."

Tre's eyes widen in sudden excitement, "Wait... you know what I am?!" Cinnamon beams excitedly -- how lovely that at least one of the Lost Boys will be able to figure out their parentage a bit!

Iason looks surprised, "You don't? Oh... oh, dear. Yes, I do believe you're at least half ipotane. Your breed was always rarer than mine. Uhm..." He looks for a way to put it delicately, "Centaurs mostly breed with other centaurs, but there were very few female ipotane... and, well..." He arches a brow and makes a delicate gesture toward Tre's lap. Cinnamon pushes her glasses up and wonders what Iason is hinting at. She's pretty sure Tre isn't a female, after all? Or... would the correct word be mare, instead of just female? The little dragon isn't sure, so remains discreetly (and slightly confusedly) silent. Shane puts a hand over his mouth at Iason being so very circumspect about the fact that Tre is not a human male, but rather a stallion.

Tre's cheeks go quite red as he nods, "Yeah, that's... an issue." He shifts uncomfortably, adding, "But I'd love to know more about it."

Iason nods and smiles gravely, "I'll be happy to speak with you. I knew a few. In the meantime, we need to get your mane and tail taken care of as well. They're a bit... ragged." Cinnamon smiles, pleased that Iason's helping so much! She knows she wouldn't have had a clue, after all.

Andreas clears his throat, "Any idear what I am?"

Iason looks over at him, "You look considerably more human, aside from your ears and teeth, but your diet..." He strokes his neatly-bearded chin, "Well, there are a few different species that frequent graveyards, or are scavengers." Cinnamon looks a bit startled at that! Graveyards?! That's not going to fly on Coblyn! But a scavenger style diet... hm. She doesn't see any reason that couldn't work. Maybe... leave the meat someplace where scent can't get out, and let it rot a bit before eating it? Surely that should be feasible, especially if there are others already on Coblyn -- which, honestly, wouldn't surprise her in the least.

Iason catches Cinnamon's startlement, and smiles, "That is normally the habitat for humanoids that thrive on decomposing meat." He leaves out saying outright that it means they eat humanoid flesh, simply adding to Andreas, "I'm sure we can find some way to accommodate you. I'd suggest checking in with Elias. He knows more about undead and graveyard folk than anyone else on the street."

Cinnamon beams at that, "Oh, good -- we were thinking of bringing them by Elias' place later tonight! I'm glad to hear we're on the right track. So, is there anything else we can help with, or that they need?"

Iason hmms, "Well, I'd say check with the butcher to see if she has any meat that's gone off... and get Tre here to Hu as soon as possible. Other than that, you've got a good course mapped out." He rubs his chin again, "Elias might be able to tell you which folk have carrion-eaters..." then looks at Andreas as he firmly adds, "-and that is not an insult."

Cinnamon nods interestedly to Iason, then glances at Shane, "You know where to find the butcher, right, asthore?"

Shane nods, "Yeah. I know you mostly get meat from her stall in the mornings, but I know where her shop is."

Iason laughs quietly, "I think Shane knows every nook and cranny on the street. Gods help us if he ever turns against us."

Cinnamon laughs at that! She absolutely considers that a joke, after all. The concept of Shane going 'bad' is quite simply impossible to her -- he's the best, in her estimation! "Okay! In that case, guys, Hu is our next stop!" Shane also grins, because it would take some massive changes for him to go turncoat.

Andreas and Tre hop off the tables -- and then Tre trepidatiously asks, "Uhm... the bill...?"

Iason shakes his head, "No. Consider it my welcome gift."

Cinnamon smiles up at the big centaur, "I'm covering their bills as they get their feet under them, Iason, so if you want, just tell John to charge it to my account?" She doesn't press it, though, knowing that Caradog routinely pays for all medical care on the street. So instead she adds to Thorn, "Do you want to come along as we visit Hu? Is it almost your break for lunch, maybe?" Thorn thinks for a moment, then smiles and looks to Iason for permission... and the big centaur nods and waves Thorn on. Cinnamon beams, "Awesome! C'mon, everyone -- Hu is next, and then Llewellyn... and then maybe the butcher, Shaney? -and we can visit Elias after sunset!" The little group troops off.

The guards at the main palace gate let them all through easily, and they follow Shane to Hu's domain. The stables are large, airy, and well-lit with skylights, though there are obvious sconces on the wall. Hu is a large, barrel-chested man in practical clothes and a big leather apron. He moves to hug Shane, then looks at the others... and his brows go up as he sees Tre, "Well, well..."

Cinnamon grins and waves shyly, "Hi there! That's Tre, and you know Shane, and this is Thorn the healer, and Andreas, Tre's friend... and I'm Cinnamon, and Diarmaid and Iason both recommended you?"

Hu nods, "Indeed. He told me about you and the healer -- and I think everyone and everything on Coblyn knows Shane." Cinnamon blinks a bit startledly -- Diarmaid mentioned her?! But then she reassures herself: of course he did... um, right? That's what nice people do to help other nice people... or at least she thinks so? Though... actually, she shouldn't be nervous or startled -- people are going to know about her, if for no other reason than that she's Liam descendant and a councilor. She comforts herself with that thought as she follows everyone into Hu's workroom. Hu motions them all in, "It's a pleasure to meet you all. Please, come with me." The place he takes them to is almost like a doctor's exam room again, but instead of a doctor's implements, there are all the implements of a farrier.

Andreas wrinkles his nose, muttering, "No one's that nice..." Maybe he's feeling anxious.

Hu glances over as if he heard, "Nice? Shane?" He laughs, "Shane's got impeccable manners and there's no one better to be your friend. But nice means you simper and you're polite to the exclusion of all else. This one..." he hooks a thumb over his shoulder at Shane, "will be very polite and friendly and you'll never hear a word of a lie out of his mouth -- but you don't want to step on the side of harmin' people without cause."

Cinnamon blinks at that. Nice means... what? She... actually had thought she was nice, but this... hmm. Could this be another one of those 'seeing things with different eyes' sort of situations? How interesting, all the different perspectives people have! She's going to have to look into this at some point, when she has a bit of free time! Shane shakes his head with a roll of his eyes, "Not everyone has an ancient definition of nice, Hu. I am nice in today's parlance: friendly and helpful until there's reason not to be." Cinnamon blinks interestedly at that... and then, unwittingly, looks a bit relieved!

Hu looks thoughtful, "I suppose you're right." Then he chuckles and looks Tre over, clucking his tongue, "Those hooves! Who's been taking care of them?"

Tre scrunches his shoulders, his voice quiet, "Nobody. Been hiding. Didn't know anyone that could. Had to hide them."

Cinnamon smiles and explains the two are Lost Boys, and today is their first day on Coblyn... then adds firmly, "-and I'm covering whatever bill is incurred, thank you." She doesn't want Tre to worry.

Hu nods to Cinnamon, "I'll send it to John under your name, then." Then he starts working, explaining how he's trimming the hoof and what he's going to do to treat the issue with the sore frog, "Now... being shod is better than not, here, but I'll warn you that your feet will feel like they weigh a hundred pounds until you're used to it."

Cinnamon grins at that! To Tre she says encouragingly, "Everything I've read says shoes with screw-in calks really help in winter, too... if that's good to know?"

Hu nods and chuckles, "Like humans with snow tires on their cars, aye." He looks Tre over a bit, "You're an ipotane, right? Haven't seen one of you in probably twenty years."

Cinnamon looks intrigued, "Are there any others nearby, that you know of, Hu? Or do you travel a lot?"

Hu shakes his head, "I don't travel much, no... but one was traveling through twenty years or so ago, give or take five years, and threw a shoe. I replaced it for him."

Cinnamon grins, "How cool!" She watches with interest as Hu carefully trims and shapes Tre's hooves, even using some resin to fill cracks in the hoof wall -- all before the shoeing itself. The farrier nods as he works, "It was. Ipotanes, they're rare."

Tre blinks slowly, "Huh... I wonder..."

Cinnamon glances inquiringly at Tre, "What?"

Tre looks at Cinnamon as Hu finishes getting the second horseshoe properly fitted, "I was wondering... could he have been my dad." He shrugs, smiling a little lopsidedly.

Cinnamon grins excitedly at Tre, "Oh! So you're about twenty then? How cool!" She beams, adding, "Mr. Hu, do you happen to remember that guy's name by any chance?"

Hu shakes his head, where he's bent over Tre's hoof held between his knees, "He didn't wanna tell me, 'n I didn't pry. Some people hold that all close to the chest. But he did say he was heading back down south to home."

"Huh." Cinnamon considers for a bit... then smiles, "Well, either way, I'm glad you're here now, Tre." She watches with fascination as the last nails are neatly tapped into place, and the ends trimmed off and pressed down on the hoof wall... and then Hu shows Tre how to screw in the three calks on each shoe. After that she cheerfully thanks Hu for his invaluable work, then beams at Tre, "How's that feel now? Do your hooves ache less on the bottom -- what was it called... the frog part, I think?"

Tre sighs happily, "So much better! He's right -- they're heavy -- but I'll take heavy over painful all the time." He turns to Hu and actually hugs the man. Cinnamon awwws and beams at that, leaning happily against Shane -- who grins and wraps an arm about her shoulders.

After the visit with Hu, the two Lost Boys, Cinnamon, Shane, and Thorn head to lunch at Bunch o' Grapes tavern, with Cinnamon paying for Tre and Andreas as well as herself. Tre and Andreas both obviously have to purposely slow themselves down when it comes to eating, even though the meat is fresh. It's likely they've been dealing with food scarcity for so long that they're having to work to break that habit! Over lunch, the little dragon notes that she's going to have to ask Llewellyn for an office, since it looks like she's finally in need of one! Further -- and with Shane's and Thorn's help -- the little dragon explains to the Lost Boys about registering on Coblyn: what it means, how they do it, and what they'll need in mind (i.e.: their chosen names and sigils) when they speak with Llewellyn. She also explains about families, and asks the two men if they'd like to be part of hers -- she can send a quick message to Spice and Josie to come meet them for lunch, if the Lost Boys would like to talk to someone else who's actually in her family? Tre asks, "Can we choose a family after we register and stuff?"

Cinnamon nods cheerfully, "Sure! Like I said, you can either ask someone if you can join their family -- that's up to them, after all, not me -- or if you wish, I'm happy for you to join mine." She thinks for a moment, then smiles quietly, "After all, you've already shown you're kind and caring people."

Tre shrugs, "He just looked like... I mean... he needed help... and if 'Dre hadn't helped me, I'd'a prob'ly been dead a long while back."

Cinnamon smiles as she reaches out to gently pat both Tre's and Andreas' hands, "Guys, whether you know it or not, it was a very big deal that you helped... and I'd be honored to have you both in my family."

After lunch, the group heads for Currier's Hall, where Cinnamon quietly asks Llewellyn if he could put her on the roster for an office, please? She'd like to have one for tomorrow, if possible? -and also -- she beams, "We've found two Lost Boys! They're here to register. Andreas, Tre, this is Llewellyn! You guys ready to register?"

Llewellyn, in his crotchety way, lets Cinnamon know they've had an office set aside for her for months now! He mutters as he digs around for the key, handing it off to her before turning to Tre and Andreas to get them registered. Shane reinforces the suggestion that they use an alias, and Tre flushes, "Tre is an alias." So he registers himself as simply Tre; his sigil is a small horseshoe with a star in the center. Andreas thinks about it and chooses Navin as his alias, with a sigil of a little headstone.

Cinnamon happily thanks Llewellyn and strings the key on her keychain... then nods thoughtfully at the new names, repeating them to herself so she won't forget them, "Tre, still... and Navin. Got it!" After the registration is completed, everyone heads out to the street again. Cinnamon grins at the two men, "Congratulations! Once you have an income, you can set up an account with John, at the Vault. So... what do you two enjoy doing, or what's something you're good at? We'd like to help you both find good jobs, after all, so you can both live comfortably here on Coblyn!" Then she adds to Shane, "The butcher next, right?" She grins as they all troop along towards the butchershop, quite pleased at how well things are going, as she waits for the two now-formerly Lost Boys to reply.

Tre scuffs his hoof and shrugs, "I dunno. I haven't really ever had a job. I like to read and I can walk pretty much all day without getting tired. It's how I always kept warm, and almost never got in trouble for loitering." Navin nods and rubs his hands up and down his arms. He doesn't seem cold, though... it almost seems more like a habit.

Shane chuckles, "I know what you mean about walking all day without getting tired. That's half of how I earn money. It's only one street, but it's at least ten miles long -- and there's not exactly much in the way of public transit. I've racked up more travel time in one day than you'd believe."

Cinnamon looks curious, "Only walk, Tre? Not trot or run?" She knows that every one of the hooved folks she's seen of the equine or caprine persuasion all tend to trot briskly, after all, for everyday movement. She also smiles at Navin as she adds, "I bet you're a good teacher, right?"

Navin shakes his head, "I don't know that I'd make a good teacher. It'd be nice to find something quiet and solitary to do."

Tre smiles, "Oh, I can trot and run really fast, but out there? If you run too much, cops tend to assume you're running from something, and try to stop you." He grins at Shane, "How does everyone else travel?" Then he looks at Cinnamon, "Doesn't it hurt your feet? That's what most people complain about."

Cinnamon laughs wryly, "Oh, yeah -- these are relatively flat cobblestones compared to some I've seen that are like an inch and a half to two or three inches above the grouting... but yes, there are days when I am sick to death of walking ten miles a day!" She tilts her head curiously as she smiles and adds, "You know it's okay to move faster than us if you want to, Tre, right? Like, as long as you don't run into anyone, you can, er... trot or canter or whatever along Coblyn?" She giggles, adding, "Heck, you can run circles around us, if it'd help you stretch your legs and feel better!" Tre blinks... then smiles and starts humming as he lightly taps his shod hooves against the cobblestones. He grins at the clopping sound, then does it a couple more times... and then a very quiet giggle escapes him as he almost dances past them and back!

Cinnamon giggles delightedly at Tre's reaction! She knows how she'd feel if she was never allowed to fly, after all... so seeing Tre realizing how much fun stretching his legs -- which were, after all, evolutionarily designed for swiftness -- is a real pleasure for her! A moment later, she curiously asks Navin, "But... didn't you teach Tre how to survive? I mean, at the very least I bet you're very patient!" She grins, adding, "But quiet and solitary works too -- I know there are times when that's what I want too, when I'm working on books for folks. Hmm..." she glances at Shane, "Is there something on the street that needs doing, that's solitary and quiet?" Her mind tends to turn to things like research, but she's not sure that's what Navin really means... so she'll wait and see what he seems interested in.

Navin nods, "I taught him how to survive, yes -- that was doing a good service. I've just always preferred quiet, dark places, but my mother taught me kindness to people." He quietly rubs a hand over the top of his head as his eyes rove constantly around, taking in everyone and everything. Cinnamon nods thoughtfully to Navin, making mental notes: he's very observant of his surroundings! Also, he'd like something that's a kindness and of service, maybe during twilight or nighttime, and maybe outdoors? ...and that's quiet, where he doesn't have to interact with a lot of folks. Okay, that's a start! She'll ask around some, later -- but for now, they're here to visit the butcher.

Shane stops outside a small shop, replying to Cinnamon, "I'm sure there are. I mean, there's always something. Some jobs like that are a little tedious, though."

The little group watches the half-ipotane trot around in a couple of small circles... and then Tre grins, "Be right back!" -- and really takes off!

The ipotane is quite swift, and Cinnamon laughs delightedly, clapping her hands and calling, "Go, Tre! Awesome!"

Shane whistles quietly as he watches, murmuring, "If I could move that fast, I'd get a lot of work done in half the time!"

Cinnamon grins excitedly at Shane, "Ooh, there's a thought, asthore! If you're going to help me- eh, the Council more, then... would it be helpful to have someone else here too?" She smiles a bit wistfully as she goes back to watching the excited ipotane, and adds, "Would it be rude or... or species-ist to ask him how he felt about, say, pulling a little cart or carriage or something? I mean, speaking just for me, I would absolutely love not having to hike around twenty miles total, on council meeting nights!"

Shane shrugs, "Rules of etiquette are odd around here. Iason would pull a cart if it was needed for someone's health, and might even let someone ride on his back if needed... but he wouldn't become a carthorse. Tre, though..."

Navin smiles, "Tre would likely love to help."

Cinnamon brightens at that -- then nibbles her lower lip as she considers for a moment, "Well... what about maybe a rickshaw or pedicab kind of thing? The ones I've seen online are big enough to carry either people or packages, after all?"

It's not long before Tre comes racing back, eyes bright and tail swishing, "That was fun!" He glances around, then adds, "Wait... is this the butcher?"

Cinnamon giggles and nodnods, "This is her place, yes, according to Shane! Also, we may have an idea for you, for a job, if you want to talk about it later?"

Tre nods and smiles, "That would be good."

Shane pushes open the door and a bell rings as he calls out a hello, holding the door open for the other folks as he motions them to go ahead of him. Cinnamon patters in, looking around curiously -- this is a new place, to her! The butcher shop is brightly lit and smells fresh and clean. The walls and floor are tiled in white and there are glass display cases on either side as they walk in. The back wall has a counter, behind which stands a short, stout woman Cinnamon has seen selling her wares in the street market. She smiles and waves to Shane, "And you brought friends!" She's red-cheeked and blond-haired, and her voice holds Germanic hints.

Cinnamon grins and waves, "Hi there! I'm Cinnamon. You know Shane, obviously... and this is Thorn the healer, and Navin and Tre, who are new to Coblyn!" Thorn smiles and nods to the butcher.

The butcher nods, "I'm Jules. It's a pleasure. I have seen you and Thorn, but Tre and Navin... you are new." Her nose twitches slightly and then her head tips -- and a sharp gray ear appears out of her fall of blonde hair, "And one of you is a... horse... the other... huh... the other I have not smelt before. How can I help you all?"

Cinnamon giggles! "An ipotane, but yeah! Um, we were wondering... do you have any meat that's gone off, or that you save until it does, for other folks on the street?"

Jules' brows go up as she replies, "I do keep some. There are a couple carrion-eating folk on the street. The ifrit used to have someone in his entourage that needed it."

From the back room a deep voice calls back, "Jalil is djinni!"

Cinnamon laughs at the voice, calling back, "Thank you -- I was just going to ask who that ifrit was!" She grins at Jules, then turns to Navin, "So, how much do you need, guy? Let's set up an arrangement for you now, so you don't have any problems, okay?"

Jules calls back towards the back, "What is the difference?" She sounds curious, as if she doesn't understand why it matters.

A man comes through the door behind the counter, having to duck his head to do so. He's almost as broad as Bjarke, wearing a red pirate shirt, heavy dark pants, and a white apron, "Dearling, it would be like someone calling you a werewolf."

The woman looks shocked and somewhat affronted, "I am not a werewolf!"

The man smiles, the corners of his eyes crinkling, "Exactly." He nods toward the others, "They had a question."

Jules blinks -- then replies, "Oh! usually it's barter since I would only be throwing it out."

Navin sounds resigned, "I'm new to town. I don' got much t' barter yet..."

Cinnamon says firmly, "We can work something out, Navin! Barter is as much part of doing business here as just paying for things, after all." She smiles at Jules and... her husband? -- then asks, "Can you tell us if there's anything you need help with? Also, I'm sorry, sir, but you're new to me...?" She offers a hand to shake over the counter, smiling.

The man leans over and offers his hand, "You can call me Yarrow."

Jules thinks, "The last person we had helping us clean up after close had to leave. So maybe that?"

Cinnamon smiles and shakes hands with the man, "Yarrow? A pleasure. I'm Cinnamon!" She introduces everyone else, then looks at Navin inquiringly, "Is that something you'd be comfortable with, guy? Keep in mind, too, that 'no, thank you' is perfectly acceptable! We want you both to end up in jobs you truly want, after all."

Navin considers, "I could do that. At least for a while."

Yarrow nods, "It would also come with a room. There's a small bedroom off the storeroom..."

Cinnamon grins at that, "Awesome! Or..." she glances at the two men, "would you rather not be separated just yet? What works best for you?"

Jules' wolfish ears both perk up visibly now, "Are you a couple?"

Tre shakes his head, "No. Just friends. We've been, uhm... roommates for a while."

Yarrow hmmms, "The room's not really big enough for two."

Navin looks at his friend, "We can find another place..."

Tre shakes his head and shoulder-bumps Navin, "No! This is a good idea for you! We can stay at the pub for a bit together still if you wanna, though."

Cinnamon smiles as she watches the two men -- but nods at that, "Absolutely, guys. The goal is for you both to be happy. Or if you'd rather, we can start looking for a little place for you both, too."

Jules smiles, ears a-twitch, "You don't have to stay in the room! It will be there later if you want it. It's good to stay with your pa... uhm, family!"

Cinnamon grins and nods at that, "Oh, yeah." To the two new guys, she adds, "Family here is who you choose it to be, right? Like, my... er, genetic family? Totally fine with never seeing them again! But the folks I care about, here on the street? They're the best!"

Shane mutters, "I'd be fine seeing Cinnamon's family all catch a bad case of dysentery." Then he clears his throat, "Where I love my genetic family as well as my trod-family... most of them." Cinnamon giggles at that!

Yarrow's lips twitch a little bit, "So... tomorrow night, Navin? Give you time to get settled in?" Cinnamon beams at that, very pleased to see Navin starting out so well! Even if he doesn't stick with this job... it's a good beginning! She'll talk with Tre about the pedicab potential after this, she decides.

Navin nods, and seems pleased as they all exit, "They didn't even seem to mind my teeth..."

Shane smiles, "That would be because Jules has sharp teeth of her own you couldn't really see because they're smaller."

Cinnamon laughs! "Yay, Navin -- what a good beginning!" She curiously adds to Shane, "So... if she's not a werewolf, do you know what she is?"

Shane smiles, "She's a phouka. Her parents moved to Germany when she was a wee bairn; that's why the accent. So she's wolf-ish, but not a werewolf. You know how some people consider Josie a werewolf? But Josie doesn't feel like that's quite her species. She just calls herself a shifter."

Cinnamon replies indignantly, "But JoJo's not a werewolf -- in the classic sense, at least! She's a Native American wolf spirit!"

Shane grins, "Exactly... and Jules can become a wolf, but she's not a werewolf. Yarrow was just teasing her a little."

Cinnamon laughs at that, "Okay! And hopefully Navin will enjoy a nice, quiet, solitary job there too!" She beams at Navin, then happily adds to Tre, "So, here's my thought -- tell me what you think?" She explains about the pedicab idea, then grins hopefully at the ipotane, "How's that sound?"

Tre thinks about that, "Like you see in Chinatown sometimes?"

Cinnamon nodnods, "Yeah! Or in the French Quarter in New Orleans? Though those have a bicycle in the front, for the drivers. I don't know if that'd just be in the way for you?"

Tre wrinkles his nose, "I tried riding one of those once. My feet kept slipping off. I'd rather just run." He prances in place for a moment or two, clearly enjoying the freedom of motion, before he adds, "But they're expensive to buy."

Cinnamon grins happily at Tre's obvious pleasure in being able to move easily... then offers, "Well, if you want, we could go into business together? I'm a pretty good accountant, and I'd be happy to purchase the pedicab for you. Then, if you ever decided you wanted to own the business yourself, you could just buy me out over time... or if you were happy with how things were going, we could stay as a company!"

Shane walks up behind Cinnamon and wraps his arms around her, kissing the top of her head with a smile, "Generous acushla. Accountant. Dragon. Councilor." He grins, "And Thorn's the best freakin' healer I've ever come across. You two lads have landed on your feet." Cinnamon gives a small, surprised squeak at the unexpected hug -- but then nearly glows up at Shane in delight, as she wraps her arms about his as well!

Thorn smiles quietly, "Thanks, Shane. You've been a great help in helping us here."

Cinnamon nods emphatically, "Oh, yeah -- we couldn't have done it without you, asthore!" She beams at Tre and Navin as she adds, "Shaney's the best -- that's why I said you could always ask him if you're not sure about anything here on Coblyn!"

Tre looks excited at the prospect of being able to work in a way that will let him lean into his nature, "I would love to do that! I would really appreciate it!"

Shane looks up at the sky, gauging the time, "Did we want to visit Elias?"

Cinnamon beams excitedly at Tre, "Okay! I'll check online for some pedicabs, and then show you a bunch of them, and you can pick the one you want, okay? That way we can make sure there's no steel in them, or anything that'll harm anyone here -- so you don't have to turn away anyone's business!" She tilts her head back to beam up at Shane again, adding, "Uh-huh!" She doesn't move yet, though... it feels so very nice to have Shane cuddled up to her like this!

There's a warm laugh from somewhere behind them, and a familiar, musical voice with an Irish lilt calls, "I see you're making up for lost time, lad." Cinnamon blinks, then leans to peer around Shane to see who it is... without, of course, actually moving from Shane's lovely hug! It's Aisling, of course; she kisses a blushing Shane on the cheek, and smiles at Cinnamon, "You two are adorable." She looks at Navin and Tre -- or rather, looks up at Tre, "And who are these two young men?" Of course, they don't know at this point just how old Navin is.

Cinnamon turns bright red at Aisling's comment! The little dragon ducks her head a bit, resisting the urge to sort of... hide by burrowing into Shane's shirt or something -- as she mentally scolds herself: she is a great big scary dragon, darnit! She is not gonna be ashamed of... of... oh, dear! She hopes Shane doesn't mind people publicly knowing she's sweet on him -- she should have asked first! Darnit, this is what happens when she gets so busy that she hasn't had a day yet to relax and just think about this, uhh... th-this new thingie with Shane! Her voice is tiny, "Uhmm... N-Navin and Tre...?"

Shane grins at Aisling, "Why, thank you, yes: we are adorable together -- and I am indeed making up for lost time... and you can quit trying to make my sweetheart blush. That is my job."

Aisling laughs at Shane and shakes her head, then turns to the new people, "Navin. Tre. I'm Aisling, councilor for the British Isles, and Shane's trodmate. It's wonderful to meet you."

Cinnamon's small squeak is dismayed, and she turns even more bright red! She whirls in Shane's arms, resting her forehead against his shoulder and taking a few deep breaths... before she manages to get out, "They, uhh... th-they rescued Marcus!" After that, though... she sorta-not-really casually shifts to put Shane between her and Aisling -- how does that woman so constantly make her feel like she's going to self-combust from embarrassment?!

Aisling's eyes twinkle and she pretends not to notice Cinnamon hiding... though she thinks it's a step up from rabbiting. "Oh! That was very generous of you. An elf out in the wild without his memory could get into some real trouble. Well, not the wild -- in the urban jungle, I suppose. There's so much iron out there now!" She lays a hand on Tre's arm and the young man seems to go completely scarlet, eyes wide.

Cinnamon blinks, suddenly feeling protective -- she totally gets how shocking Aisling can be to those recently from human culture, after all! Her voice is firm, "Aisling, be nice, please? They're not familiar with Coblyn, er... behavior." Her voice is wry as she adds, "Neither was I, when I first arrived, after all."

Aisling ahhs and smiles, patting Tre's arm, "I'm sorry if I upset you." She smiles at Navin as well, "You seem familiar. Not you yourself, but your species. I'm not sure from where, however."

Shane speaks up, "Tre, please feel free to tell Aisling -- or anyone else -- to back off. Ash can't help flirting. She likes men. You know that Lizzo song? That's Ash." Cinnamon nodnods emphatically in agreement with Shane!

Aisling looks confused, but Tre actually laughs. Shane arches a brow at his friend and starts sing/rapping in a bouncy rhythm:

"I like big boys!
Itty-bitty boys. Mississippi boys. Inner-city boys.
I like the pretty boys. With the bow tie.
Get your nails did. Let it blow dry.
I like a big beard. I like a clean face.
I don't discriminate. Come and get a taste...!"

By the time he's done, Tre and Navin both look somewhat baffled -- that what looks like a D&D ranger is shamelessly singing a pop song in full voice! Cinnamon giggles and sings along with Shane -- then grins wryly as she adds to the two men, "I think Shane put it best when he once told me that Aisling is a fan of the male form!"

Ash laughs long and gleefully at the song, though she finally gets herself under control enough to grin and add, "Well, I can't exactly argue there... I am indeed an appreciator of the male form!"

Cinnamon adds a bit tartly to Aisling, "And thank you but no I d-don't want to know if that includes Fraser, Ash!" She's still blushing as she giggles nervously... and continues to keep Shane between them!

Aisling smiles sweetly, "I have appreciated Fraser, but not up-close and personal. He's just very nice to look at." She laughs warmly, adding, "I have errands I need to run, and they're all the way on the other end of the street, so I should get going."

Cinnamon sighs in relief as Aisling moves gracefully off -- she really likes the beansidhe but golly can Ash be a bit much sometimes! She takes another deep breath, slowly sighs it out... then grins wryly at her friends and companions, "Okay. I'm gonna guess I'm still red as a tomato, but... let's just start heading to Elias' place for now, okay?"

Shane kisses the top of Cinnamon's head and smiles, "A blush becomes you, acushla. Ash just sees no need for being ashamed of enjoying oneself." He puts an am around Cinnamon as they all head to Elias' apartment. When they reach it, he asks her, "Do you want to give them the normal disclaimers for meeting Elias?"

Cinnamon blinks up at Shane, distracted from slightly vexed thoughts about not being able to control her blushing -- she's pretty sure she doesn't want it to become her, when most everyone teases her about them! "Uh, wh... sorry, asthore, w-what now?"

Shane smiles, "Elias. Standard disclaimers." He gives her a playful wink, then looks at Tre and Navin, "Elias is very old. He is a very good friend. You will not try to expose him to sunlight. He will very likely smile at you because he's one of the sweetest people you will ever meet. It will probably freak you the f... freak you out the first time. You'll get used to it."

Cinnamon brightens, "Oh! But garlic isn't an issue, right?" She blushes without meaning to as she adds with a hint of embarrassment to Tre and Navin, "I was so scared when I first came onto the street! But Elias was a total sweetheart, and he and Shane helped me get my feet under me." Then she grins more confidently at Navin as she adds, "He's also why I suspect your teeth won't bother anyone here -- so you won't need to hide at all!"

Thorn nods, then smiles to Tre and Navin, "Don't worry, she's absolutely right. Elias is wonderful people." Cinnamon grins happily at Thorn -- she's glad he too likes Elias!

Navin says slowly, "Sunlight and garlic. You mean he's..."

Shane agrees, "Garlic's no problem. I've not seen anyone get holy water near him, but that might actually be a problem -- so let's not try it. Yes. He is. But..." he chuckles, "you'll see."

They make their way to Elias' basement apartment and Shane steps down to knock on the door, calling out, "Elias! We have company!"

Cinnamon smiles relaxedly as she adds, "Hi, Elias -- we're Cinnamon and Thorny and two new folks!"

Elias' voice calls back, "Door's unlocked and I'm in the kitchen. It should be safe!"

Shane opens the door and makes an ushering motion for folks to go on ahead of him, "This is the first place Cinnamon met most folks she knows on the street... except me and Thorn, I think."

Cinnamon nods cheerfully as she enters, "About half the councilors, yeah!" She giggles as she adds, "I almost ran into Thorn on the street, though!" She remembers it was actually that Thorn came to see if she was all right when she literally ran into Hans, though... and falls silent. She absolutely must get an appointment soon with Caradog! Maybe... maybe Shane and Thorn would be willing to go with her? As backup on the claims she's going to make about Hans? It doesn't even occur to Cinnamon to ask Marcus, though -- as another harmed by Hans -- to come along.

Once the door is closed and Shane gives Elias the all clear, the vampire comes into the room carrying a tray with dainty sandwiches and cakes, along with a teapot and cups, "Ah. These are the young men that helped Marcus." He's dressed in a pair of orange corduroy bellbottoms and a pair of Birkenstocks, along with a paisley button-up shirt. He smiles warmly at both Tre and Navin, both of whom stiffen slightly -- but then make themselves relax.

Thorn swears he could have heard Elias approaching the room, with the way he's dressed! Cinnamon blinks in surprise, then beams at Elias, "They are! How'd you know?" She moves to take the tray, "Here, let me pour, okay?" -- and is almost beaming as she proudly adds, "Oh! Also, Shaney said the beef bourguignon was absolutely delicious!"

Elias smiles, "I know because gossip travels fast on the street... and because I can't think of anyone else you'd be bringing to me after Jaeger told me you and Shane would be going to find them." He looks thrilled at the news about the food, adding, "I'm so happy to hear it! That's a recipe I picked up... oh... ages ago... I think around 1870 or so? Of course, it's easier to make now."

Cinnamon blinks, "He did?" then considers and adds, "Wait, of course he did."

Tre leans near Shane to murmur, "I thought you said he was very old -- not like... 80. I thought you meant like... ancient."

Shane murmurs back, "He is really old. It's just his fashion sense that got stuck in 1972." Cinnamon giggles at that, carefully setting down the tray before she seats herself too. She pours silently, waiting for Elias to reply, so she doesn't inadvertently interrupt him.

Elias settles in comfortably, then smiles, "Now, what can I do for you?"

The little dragon grins at Elias as she hands out filled teacups, "Okay! So, let's see... ah! We're here because I think Navin would like to know what species he is? We know a few things, like he has really sharp teeth too, and sunlight is really hard on his eyes, and he prefers slightly decayed meat... umm..." She glances at Navin inquiringly, "Anything else? Oh! Also his mom was human, I think -- is that right, Navin?" She adds with clear pride in the man, "She raised him to be the kind person he now is, he said!"

Navin nods, "Yes... and Muslim."

Elias looks curious as he leans forward, listening, "So, carrion eating. Muslim. Sharp teeth..." Then he says carefully, "I'm going to ask a rather... delicate question, Navin, so I am sorry if I upset you."

"Huh!" Cinnamon looks intrigued, making a mental note to check more on Islam, to see if there's anything she can do to help Navin with that. Maybe Jalil might have a few suggestions? She smiles as she adds to Navin, "It's okay if you want privacy to talk to Elias too, okay?"

Navin shakes his head and clears his throat, "No. It's... it's okay." He's flushing, though.

Elias says gently, "Have you ever been around dead bodies? Humans?"

Navin flushes and rubs the top of his head, nodding, "My mother."

Elias nods and reaches to touch Navin's knee gently, "What was your urge when you saw her?"

Navin flushes even redder and stares at the floor, but replies gruffly, "I buried her properly, according to how she raised me."

Elias ahhs and pats Navin's knee gently, "There's no shame there." He takes a deep breath, "I think I know what you are." Cinnamon looks both worried for poor Navin's apparent embarrassment... and confusedly intrigued by Elias' questions! The vampire stands and goes over to a bookshelf, pulling a book down, "In Middle Eastern mythology, there are creatures that live in graveyards and consume the flesh of the bodies buried there. Some think they may be twisted djinn, but that's not established because no one has actually known a djinn that became one." He sits down and turns the book around, showing them all a beautifully-illustrated page written in Sanskrit, "I believe you may be a half-ghul, Navin. It is nothing to be ashamed of to consume the flesh of the dead. Without carrion-eaters, the flesh of the dead would not be able to return to the earth properly... whether that be an insect -- even some butterflies are carrion-eaters -- a bird, a rodent, a hyena, or something else. Some cultures don't even bury their dead in the earth, but rather specifically leave them out to be consumed."

Cinnamon blinks interestedly as she leans forward to study the page... then she grins at Elias, "What language is that, please? Can you read it?" She beams at Navin as she adds, "Yay! Now you know, and can figure out how to make your best life!"

Elias smiles, "Sanskrit." He reads aloud from the page, translating as he goes... and it doesn't sound like a book of mythology. In fact, it sounds more like a biology book -- like it's simply describing a species: habitat, feeding habits, typical weight and height ranges. Cinnamon listens in fascination -- both that Elias knows Sanskrit, and to the descriptions. She glances at Navin with a smile as she does so, hoping that he's pleased -- or at least relieved -- to discover what species he is.

Navin looks stunned -- both at the fact that he finally knows what he is... and that no one here seems to be holding any censure. Tre too leans in curiously, and when Elias is done reading, the ipotane asks excitedly, "Do you have a book like that about Greek stuff? Iason says I'm probably half ipotane."

Cinnamon giggles! "Elias is our go-to guy for supernatural research!"

Tre looks shyly at Navin and squeezes his friend's shoulder, "Dude, you're not a monster or nothin' -- you're one of the best people I know! Just because you've got a specialized diet..." Cinnamon beams in approval at Tre, nodding in agreement -- good for him!

Thorn listens thoughtfully... half-ghul, likely the root of the word 'ghoul.' Even so, Navin is of the supernatural world, and is under Thorn's (potentially direct) care for as long as the man is on Coblyn. Tre's words make Thorn perk up, adding kindly, "And we've already covered that part. People are people, and the supernaturals of the world need to work together and stay together."

Cinnamon nods firmly at that too; Shane nods thoughtfully, "Good way to look at it." He tilts his head toward Elias as he speaks to Navin, "That amazing gentleman right there? The only sustenance that works for him is blood -- and it's best if it's humanoid, right, Elias?"

Elias nods, "Indeed. I can live on nonsentient blood, but it's like a human only eating celery... and usually it must be fresh. There are only a few species with blood potent enough that I can store it for any length of time. Luckily, I am old enough that I don't have to feed often."

Shane smiles, "And he's basically everyone's uncle. The only people that could even think of hating Elias are people that have reason to fear him because they're assholes!"

Cinnamon frowns consideringly -- she needs to get back to Iason sometime soon! She still wants to try and give some blood to Elias, even if it's a bit late now to be a Solstice present. Then she mentally shakes herself, remembering to focus on Navin just now. So she leans forward to gently pat his knee and check, "Are you okay, Navin? We want this to be a good learning for you, after all -- not a cause of worry or anything, right?"

Navin looks up and his eyes are shiny, but he's smiling... and not trying to hide his teeth. After all, they've all just seen Elias' shark-like, 'mouth full of razorblades' smile -- and no one even flinched! The half-ghul murmurs, "Thank you. Thank you all."

Thorn smiles warmly and nods to Navin, while Cinnamon beams in relief at him, "Of course! What are friends for, right?"

After having tea and the sort of soothing small talk that Elias seems so good at, Thorn is escorted back to the Infirmary, and the Lost Boys are escorted back to the pub -- where they're able to get back to their rooms for the night. Tre smiles, "Been a few years since I got t' sleep in a bed that's big enough for me."

Navin pats the younger man on the shoulder, "Or a bed at all." They both thank Cinnamon and Shane as they disappear. Afterward, Shane insists on walking Cinnamon home.

Cinnamon sighs happily as she strolls along Coblyn with Shane, in the cool, wintry night... hmm, she really wants to ask Shane some, um... possibly difficult questions, though... about 'them.' That's a slightly nerve-wracking thought, so she unwittingly tenses up a bit before taking a deep breath and asking, "S-so, um, Shaney... would you, umm... or, ah, a-are you... uhh... um, well, I mean, er... w-would you like to, ahh... t-to... sp-pendthenightandm-m-maybethemorningwithmet-too?!"

Shane, being Shane, doesn't even think to be coy about his answer. Instead, he squeezes Cinnamon's hand and leans down to kiss her cheek briefly, "My love, I'd adore that. In fact, the answer -- unless I've got something else pressing to do -- will almost always be yes."

Cinnamon heaves a huge, gusty, relieved sigh at that! -- then giggles at the big, fluffy cloud of condensation that creates. She nearly glows with happiness up at Shane, "Yay! Um, are you hungry, or anything?"

Shane laughs quietly, "Elias makes surprisingly filling food, for someone that doesn't eat, so no." He tugs Cinnamon in against his side. He has, once again, put himself toward the street side of the sidewalk despite there being no motorized traffic along the street. "But I could use some cocoa."

Cinnamon nods at that, "Sure! Cocoa's easy... and nummy!" About half an hour later they're cuddled up together on the futon sofa under a fluffy blanket and in front of the fire, each with a big, deliciously steaming mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. Cinnamon takes a tasty sip, then thoughtfully licks her lips before asking carefully, "Shaney... asthore, I, um... I just wanted to check, please? But... I remember you said once I could touch you anytime and anywhere. So... if I do that in public, I'm afraid folks are gonna figure out that, um, that we..." She stalls mentally: what does she call their, er... togetherness? Relationship? Something else? With an internal thrill of excited adrenaline, she suddenly wonders: does Shane maybe even think of her as... maybe like a, ahh... like an actual... girlfriend?! Though... how does she find out, without just asking? She doesn't want him to ever feel pressured, after all...?

Shane looks down at Cinnamon, brows going up when she seems unsure, "Yes, you can touch me anytime, anywhere, at any spot on my body that's socially acceptable for the setting. Why are you afraid that people are going to figure out that we're together? I mean, I'm proud that you're my sweetheart." He leans in as close as he can without his lips actually touching her ear to whisper, "I've been hinting and nudging and courting you to be my girlfriend since about a day and a half after I met you, a ghr�."

Cinnamon squeaks a bit breathlessly, her tumbling thoughts completely derailed by that amazingly tingly breath on her ear! She can tell she's both flushed, and grinning goofily -- Shaney likes touching her! He doesn't mind her touching him! Eeeee, this is so crazy-amazing! It actually takes her a few seconds to pull her head together again to review what he'd said... at which point she laughs a bit ruefully, "Oh! Well, that. Um, that's 'cause... well, back when I thought maybe someday I might actually be able to have a boyfriend -- before I gained so much weight -- I used to watch my sister, and all my classmates, a lot, you know? And... apparently after the short, beginning time when you want everyone to know that you have a new boyfriend... after that you d-don't want him to touch you much in public, r-right? Though..." she sighs softly, her small smile wry, "I'm... not entirely sure why? I mean, I've heard girls say it was 'cause the guy was too grabby, sometimes, or that it's too hot, or whatever... but... I'm not sure, but I think sometimes it was maybe because they were... like, a little embarrassed, or didn't want to be girlfriends or boyfriends anymore, or... something?" What Cinnamon is not socially ept enough to realize is that the main reason her sister did so, however, was so Candi could more easily attract other boys due to appearing cute, young, and available.

Shane ahhs and then tugs Cinnamon directly into his lap, taking her face between his palms, "Acushla, your sister is not a good yardstick to measure relationships or romantic behavior against. I would wager good money she liked to have three or four boys on a string and fighting against one another. Here, if you want three or four sweeties you can have them. Me? I don't want that. I am proud to have you touching me; to be able to touch you. To let everyone know I'm your boyfriend, sweetheart... whatever title you want me to wear. I. Am. Yours."

Cinnamon happily sets her mug aside to slide into Shane's lap, though she blinks uncertainly up at him as he's speaking. When he's done, she feels the oddest prickle of tears, though she's not sure why... but she swallows hard, then nervously checks -- she wants to be very clear, so she doesn't somehow mess up this... this beautiful, confusing, amazing dream she's having right now! Her voice is a little husky with tension, "So you... y-you don't, ummm... you d-don't mind if... if I slip up and say, m-maybe, th-that... that y-you're my Shaney? ...'n I'm y-your girlfriend?"

Shane strokes Cinnamon's hair back behind her ear and murmurs, "Mind? Slip-up? I'd be honored... and it's not a slip-up if it's true, acushla. I am yours... and you are my girlfriend. At least that's the common parlance." His voice holds gentle teasing, "Thought I warn you, some people around here have old-fashioned vocabularies and may call you my lover." Cinnamon blinks slowly, feeling almost overwhelmed with a mix of shock and excitement and... and thrilling delight -- Shane likes her! He really likes her -- enough to call her his... his girlfriend! She blushes hotly at the term 'lover,' though, her embarrassed squeak muffled as she ducks her head against his shoulder. Shane keeps his voice quiet as he continues stroking Cinnamon's hair, murmuring, "I'd be happy to become that in due time, in the way it's used in modern terms... but that's on your timeline, a ghr�. Just like everything else. I'm never going to push you toward anything you don't want, okay?"

It takes the little dragon a few seconds to pull herself together again -- who knew having a boyfriend was so... so amazingly shockingly tingly feeling?! -- but then she sighs happily and cuddles up against him again, "Oh, good... I'm so glad you don't mind!" She reaches for her hot chocolate again, having another sip before she absently adds, "That's why I didn't wanna kiss, too... far as I could tell from watching Candi, that was the first step to the end of the friendship, you know? -and..." she nuzzles up closer, tucking her head against him so she doesn't have to meet his (gorgeous amberWOWglowing!) eyes, and mumbles a bit sheepishly, "I, uhh... I d-didn't wanna lose you..." Shane lets Cinnamon skirt around his 'lover' comment because he's pretty sure she's trying not to freak out, but he still smiles against her hair. She sighs, relaxing against him and letting her thoughts drift contentedly... until an oddity floats up in her memory, and she curiously adds, "Hey, Shaney? Have you ever heard of, um... elf blood being somehow, like... healing or something?"

Shane blinks slowly, "Healing? Uhm... context?"

Cinnamon thinks for a moment to refresh her memory... then puzzledly replies, "Well, umm... after Hans was taken away by the guard, Thorny and I went to see to Marcus, and he was... kinda bloody? So I gave him my hankie to wipe off his face while Thorny was checking him over. But when Thorn told him to come back into the infirmary, but I needed to stay because Lorcan wanted to know what had happened -- hey, did you know his knack is apparently something like a 'don't see me' or invisibility or something? -- uhh... oh, right: so right before he left, Marcus handed me my hankie and told me I'd need it to wring over you!" Her small smile is confused as she adds, "So... I wasn't sure what he meant, y'know? -but I figured you'd know about elf blood... maybe?" Cinnamon is rambling slightly, following her thoughts... which means she's not quite aware she's far less clear than usual. She adds far more firmly, "Plus I am totally going to go petition Caradog -- even if he scares me! -- to exile Hans forever!"

Shane mouths, 'wring over me'... and looks confused. "Acushla, you're usually really good at being crystal clear, but I'm confused. Can you tell me precisely what it was Marcus said?"

Cinnamon blinks at Shane, "Uhh... oh, sure. Okay, moment... okay. So Marcus and Thorn and I are in the front of the Infirmary-" The little dragon sighs, adding, "I feel a little bad that maybe I slung him too fast into the waiting room when Hans let him go, but... I was so scared he'd crush poor Marcus like a bug, you know? Uh, anyways... right, okay. Thorn had just run in, and I wanted him to check on Marcus, but Marcus comes over and nearly shoves the hankie back into my hands and says, 'You'll need this to wring over Shane. I'll leave you to it. I can heal on my own,' and then Thorn insisted he go into the infirmary for healing." She smiles uncertainly, "Does that help?"

Shane rubs his fingertips over his forehead and sighs, "Okay, little love. Marcus was being a smart a- alec. When people are upset, there's a term: 'wringing your hands' or 'wringing your handkerchief.' I think perhaps he was feeling like he was being perhaps... overlooked. You were upset and I think you were sort of prioritizing me over everything... and Marcus was fairly roughed up trying to help."

"Oh!" Cinnamon blushes, "Oh, dear... Shaney, I'm so sorry -- I, I d-didn't mean to make you feel bad or anything! I didn't realize what he meant!" She sighs, adding, "I actually don't know why he was there, though. I mean, he'd stomped off earlier, after yelling at me... so I was surprised when I saw him come back, you know? There really wasn't anything anymore that he could help with..." She pauses, realizing a few things all at once, "That... actually is a really good question, asthore: why was he there?" -- and then turning pink: eeeee! She's beautiful amazing Shaney's 'little love' ohmygoooosh! Her thoughts keep galloping on at their usual speed, prompting her to hopefully add, "So... would you -- and maybe Thorn? -- w-would you guys m-maybe like to come with me to p-petition Caradog? We could maybe do it after I give Baird and Keiko his thank-you cake for helping me figure out what boys like for gifts?"

Shane shakes his head, "I don't know why he came back, acushla... did... did he help in some way after he returned? Did he get injured? If he said he'd heal on his own, how bad were his injuries?" He's still petting her gently, "I know I'd like to go with you. After all, I was the one attacked."

Cinnamon shakes her head, "No, he didn't help at all that second time... but maybe he meant to, but couldn't because Hans grabbed him by the head?" She shudders as she adds, "He could barely talk, and there were the most horribly vivid bruises and blood all over his neck and face -- poor guy!" She frowns consideringly as she adds, "Honestly, asthore, he... he didn't seem very happy at all to me? Like... like he was really mad about somethi- well, probably at me, actually? He did yell at me for getting him to help by holding you on while I ran for the infirmary. Though... I'm not sure why he'd come back just to yell at me again. That... doesn't seem logical?"

Shane closes his eyes a bit and takes a deep breath, "Acushla, I suspect he was angry that you were... not taking his injuries seriously... but I'm not a mind reader -- just a truth-sayer. Being strangled is frightening -- terrifying, even -- and for some people, fear translates to anger." He's trying not to say there's jealousy over her between himself and Marcus, "The only way to know is to ask him."

Cinnamon nods slowly as she considers, "That, actually... y-yeah, makes sense." She sighs and nods, "I should ask him... though... hopefully he won't yell at me again." Then she adds a bit indignantly, "Besides, I was taking his injuries seriously -- I asked Thorn to please check him over! I even asked, knowing you were in the back and really seriously injured!" She grins tiredly, "I figured Thorn would have already done whatever he needed to do to make sure you didn't d-di... d-didn't, um -- t-to make sure you'd be okay." After that, though, she hastily changes the subject, adding, "S-so! Umm, can we... maybe sleep late tomorrow morning?" Her small smile is unwittingly achingly tired, "I just... haven't had a chance to just relax in... gosh, a week or two now? I mean, just if you want, of course... but, umm... c-cuddling would be really nice... maybe? Oh! -and we can pick up your new boots tomorrow too?"

Shane smiles, "We can sleep in as late as you want. Remember, this isn't Out There -- there aren't a lot of people that keep banker's hours." He pauses, considering Marcus, "Plus... something tells me he's not going to be as much of a... a jerk as he was before." Shane seems tired himself, as he adds, "C'mere... let's sleep."

Cinnamon sighs happily, "Oh, good! I was worried you might have made promises or something, and I d-don't want to get in your way or anything, you know?" She sets her now-empty mug aside and turns off the lamp, then sighs contentedly again as she rolls over to snuggle up with Shane, "Love to..."

Cinnamon very much enjoys sleeping late with Shane! She was telling the truth, in that she was tired and hasn't had time to relax -- it's been just one emergency or event after another for her, for the past weeks! So she feels almost decadently luxurious in getting to snuggle in like this. Once they're both awake, she swiftly whips together a tasty Scottish Dundee cake. As it's baking, she then happily makes her usual hearty breakfast for them both -- eggs, bacon, orange juice, and so on -- as she chatters happily about the day, "So on the way to petition Caradog I'm gonna send a message to Nasteexo asking about her abstention, and then I thought we could stop by the cobbler's next door for your new boots, and then we can drop off the cake at Keiko's since I think Baird's still there so I can tell him thank you and ask about a folding staff, and then swing by the infirmary to maybe pick up Thorny to then go see Caradog? -and after that's all done, I should check out my new office and take a look at the letters Zaituna gave me, since they're coming out in the afternoon to talk more with me. How's your day gonna be, asthore, after meeting Caradog? Wanna do lunch maybe, before I head to the office?"

Shane is happy to luxuriate with Cinnamon and then help her with whatever in the morning. He mostly doesn't bother dressing beyond his kilt until absolutely necessary, and smiles the whole time she's chattering. "I'm looking forward to the new boots -- gods know I need them. The staff's going to be a good idea, too. I know you want a less-lethal weapon to keep close with you. My day's pretty wide-open, actually."

Cinnamon finds herself nearly frisking about her little cottage as she gets ready -- it is So! Much! Fun! having Shane [eeeeemyShaneyohmygoshohmygosheeeee!] -- having her beautiful asthore there, so close and huggable any time she wants! However, eventually they're both fed, the kitchen is cleaned up and the cake cooling, a good review for Kestrel's homemade shampoo is typed and uploaded, the query for Nasteexo is written, Zaituna's letters packed, they're both showered and dressed, the new boots have been received, admired, paid for, and are now on Shaney's feet... and they're both finally ready for the day! Cinnamon can't resist one last gleeful/snuggly hug at the door, of course, before she locks it and then turns and takes the carefully boxed cake from Shane, then starts pattering happily towards the far end of Coblyn... but her enormous happiness is very clear from the way she's almost glowing, and the beaming greetings she gives any friends or folks she knows as they proceed up the street.

Shane tries to carry the cake, but laughs warmly and lets Cinnamon carry it when she squeaks in protest! After all, she made it -- it's her gift! However, he thanks her warmly -- and with rather a lot of kisses, since he's going to take every damned opportunity for those for the next little while -- for the boots. Once again, he subtly walks on the street-side of the sidewalk, smiling at people that greet them. There are a few surprised looks at just how enthusiastic Cinnamon is, but there are also a few 'About Damn Time' expressions as well as they make their way down the street.

Cinnamon brightens at one point, "Oh! Look, Shaney -- it's Sparrow!" She carefully balances the cake, then waves enthusiastically with her free hand, "Sparrow! Hey, Sparrow, how are you?" Once they're closer, she beams up at him, "Hi! I knew you were likely heading back to the rez soon, so I'm glad we saw you! I wanted to ask: is there anything we can do to help you catch that doodyhead hunter guy?"

Despite the weather, Sparrow is basically wearing a denim jacket and moccasin boots, rather than being bundled up. He makes his way over, and his nostrils flare as he gets near the two of them -- and then his lips curl in a wide grin, "I'm doin' just fine, darlin'. You two seem to be doin' fine, too. Maybe. I know you got a few things you gotta take care of here. Why don't you hit me up when you got a few days free. A hunt like that? It's not over quick, usually."

Cinnamon nods interestedly, "It's not? Okay. Umm... it's going to take a bit, since I want to make sure the Maritime Southeast Asians are all okay before I take any time off -- oh! -and also, we found the two Lost Boys who helped Marcus while he was lost! They're here on the street now, and much happier already, I think! -- and yeah, happy to call you when we've got a bit of time, okay?" She's almost bouncy with exuberant pleasure -- she's getting to help lots of folks, yay!

Sparrow's brows go up at that, interested to hear about the Lost Boys, "Might have to stop and say hi to them, then. You go ahead an' take care of those folks Aoi was ignoring from her high and mighty perch, sugar."

Cinnamon smiles thoughtfully, "Yeah... I was wondering about that. I was thinking of maybe trying to talk to her some about it later... I figured it'd be polite, and maybe a bit face-saving for her, to ask for any advice, y'know?" More cheerfully she adds, "They're at Duille Darach inn -- I figured they could be comfy there until they decide on what they want to do!"

Sparrow smirks, "Face-saving... I think it would have been better had she been taking care of her people from the beginning, rather than thinking of any of them as peasants." He leans in and kisses Cinnamon on the cheek, "You go take care of things, sugar. You're doing a great job so far."

Cinnamon beams at that! She carefully hands Shane the cake, then gives the Trickster a cheerful hug, "Thank you, Sparrow! It's nice to know folks I respect think I'm doing good!" After goodbyes, she and Shane head on down the street until they get to Keiko's little apartment. Cinnamon knocks on the door, then grins up at Shane, "Hope they're both home!"

Keiko answers the door in her human form of a graceful Japanese lady. Currently she's wearing... well, not traditional Japanese garb. In fact, she's wearing a man's button-down shirt that fits her almost like a dress. Shane murmurs, "That answers that question."

Cinnamon brightens at sight of Keiko, completely missing the inference of the clothing, "Hi, Keiko! Is Baird here? He was really really helpful to me, earlier, and I wanted to say thank you... so I baked a cake. I hope you both enjoy it!" She happily proffers the cake, adding, "Plus I wanted to ask him if he could get me a folding staff maybe -- I'm happy to pay for it, of course! But I realized training in staff wasn't that helpful if I didn't have a staff with me, you know?"

There's a familiar male voice from further back in the apartment asking who's at the door as Keiko says, "It is an honor to have you come by with this gift. Please, come in." She steps aside and makes an ushering motion.

Cinnamon beams again, "Arigato!" She steps inside, laughing as she calls back, "It's Cinnamon and Shane, and I wanted to say thank you for saving my bacon when I was panicking about a gift for Shaney, Baird -- so I baked you and Keiko a cake!" As Baird appears, Cinnamon grins happily at him, "How're you feeling, Bairdy, now you're not worried about a curse? Oh! Also, look at Shaney's nifty new boots! We just picked them up this morning!" She happily explains to Shane, "Baird said boys like you like practical gifts, and modern armor or boots would be awesome for you, especially since your boots were wearing out!"

Baird is drying his hair when he arrives, clad in only a pair of jeans. He seems utterly at home and unworried about folks seeing his face isn't the only scarred part of his body, "I'm feeling like I'm finally able to breathe again without wondering if the next heartbeat is my last one. Ooh... cake." Keiko moves to take the confection out of Cinnamon's hands.

Shane smiles, then chuckles, "Thank you for the suggestion, Baird. They're excellent boots."

Cinnamon blinks as she realizes Baird is... is naked on top! -- but then she takes a deep breath, sidles a little closer to Shane... and tries her best (despite the blush) to -- to not notice the shirtlessness! She replies a bit breathlessly, "I -- I h-hope you both like Scottish Dundee cake -- th-that's what I made!" She can't help peeking just the tiniest bit (though loyalty causes her to decide Shane's chest is much nicer!) at Baird... and to wonder a little: where did he get all those scars?! Shane puts his arm around Cinnamon as she wriggles in close, chuckling as he catches her peeking and blushing. He's used to men getting topless due to heat or exertion, though he also finds it adorable when she's taken off-guard by it.

Baird smiles, "Dundee cake? Why, lass, how thoughtful." He takes it from Keiko, raising it to his face to breathe in the aroma before taking it over to the open-plan kitchen and setting it on the counter.

Keiko murmurs amusedly, "This is not a thing I am familiar with, but Baird will insist on me trying it. I do not have things to tease him into trying because he is very well traveled."

Cinnamon giggles at that, then grins and nods, "I'm finding a lot of stuff that's totally new to me, now that I'm on Coblyn!" She beams almost goofily at Shane as she adds, "Fortunately, Shaney's patient with me trying them all out, on my own time!" Then she cheerfully adds to Keiko, "But I guess as time passes, you'll get to try a lot of new things because of Baird too, right?" Probably also fortunately, Cinnamon entirely misses all the lovely potential innuendo in her comment!

Baird turns toward them and looks back and forth between the couple, blue eyes twinkling, "Indeed... and I'm sure the lad will be an absolutely excellent tour guide."

Cinnamon brightens at that, "Oh, yeah!" She grins cheerfully up at Shane, "He's the best!"

Keiko smiles thoughtfully, "I am learning many new things, yes... especially as a lover. He is very uninhibited."

Cinnamon blinks at Keiko... then turns bright red, squeaking out a faint, "Oh!" A heartbeat later, a few things finally click together in her brain: Baird showering near midday and not wearing a shirt, Keiko wearing a man's shirt -- and if anything, Cinnamon turns even more red as she nearly babbles out, "Oh! G-gosh look at the time we should really be going we're so sorry t-to uh, to, er -- c-cake and run gotta go take care thanks again Baird and Keiko b-bye!" She whirls and almost dashes for the door as she squeaks out her excuses -- and fervently hopes her friends can't see embarrassed steam coming off her by now!

Shane watches Cinnamon rabbit, then turns back to their friends, smiling, "Sorry. She's a little..."

Keiko inclines her head, "She is young and bashful. I must remember that humans can be very backward."

Baird chuckles and arches his brows at Shane, "The way she was snuggling in, though... seems like things have progressed...?"

Shane chuckles, "Not that far, though." He sketches a little salute to Baird and follows Cinnamon.

Cinnamon is waiting outside -- well, she's actually pacing back and forth a short distance away, with her mittened hands pressed to her still very flushed cheeks. She sighs at sight of Shane, hugging him tightly as she mumbles sheepishly, "I'm sorry, Shaney! I, I hope I didn't embarrass you -- I just didn't realize they were having -- uh, I mean th-that they'd been... um... a-and I didn't want to, er, t-to... like, get in the way, you know?" She groans quietly at herself, resting her forehead against Shane's shoulder, "Oh my gosh I am such a ninny sometimes!"

Shane wraps his arms around Cinnamon and kisses the top of her head, "I suspect, by the fact that Baird was just out of the shower, that they were done for the time being, acushla. If someone is bathing, that normally signals the end of the festivities, you know? -and you are not a ninny. You are simply inexperienced, and that's okay. They said thank you."

Cinnamon sighs ruefully, hugging Shane tightly until she doesn't feel like her face is still so hot that it will melt snow at 20 paces! At that point she leans back a bit and smiles ruefully up at her lovely asthore, "Well... let's go get Thorny and see if he can come with us to see Caradog, then!" Shane smiles and agrees.

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Last modified: 2019-Jun-12 19:53:32

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