West of Maddock Zungji's Land Outdoors
Nestled between the river to the east, with pasture lands and the looming mountains to the west, this plot of land is tiny and picturesque, a little garden cradled by a great expanse. The winding, manicured trail that leads to the house is laid with large stones, smoothed from their life in the riverbed from whence they were gathered. A cluster of aspen trees lays just north of the house: their fragrant smell is a pleasant addition to the general aesthetic of the land. Sloping gently to the river, the property has other small places to rest and enjoy its waters, here a clear, rapid stream about twenty-five feet across. A single, tall willow, its long branches hovering above the stream is on the path halfway to the house. To the west, a big ponderosa pine shades a circle of rocks one can sit on. Red maples are placed along the path and the house to bring color and shade. Along the west wall of the house is a small vegetable garden. The crisp winter afternoon drifts in the snowcovered landscape. The house itself seems largely complete. It looks more like a longhouse or tiny village cluster than a traditional American home, and carries a simple Chinese-style wooden roof whose edges curl elegantly upwards. The house's verandah can be seen overhung over the river, supported on thick logs. The vegetable garden has been fenced off with barbed wire and posts that have been carved into abstract animals: a dog, a cat, a dragon, and a monkey. Each pole is festooned with a red or yellow lantern.
There is an area set just off to the side of the path with large bamboo mats, weighted down by four huge brass braziers. Set alight, these make for warmth, and provide an agreeable performance area. There are lanterns set all around for light.
Caitlin leads her brother down the path, this being only his second trip out to Kei's house.
JingLu bows, "Hello Caitlin. Welcome to the party. Hello, Owen, how are you enjoying Maddock?"
Caitlin looks over to the performance area before smiling in response to Jing's greeting. "Hello, Jing. How are you?"
Owen tips his hat politely, "Ma'am." He then smiles, "Oh, it's nice enough I suppose. Different than home, though. Nice setup y'all have got out here."
Kei sweeps outside, a flurry of silk of many different colors. As usual, he looks slightly rushed -- moreso because he is having a party, and like any good, overly-concerned host, the Doctor finds himself rushing to make every right at the last minute. Well, at least he looks good. "Happy New Year!" he says in general, waving, trying to look less stressed out than he actually is.
JingLu is standing next to the Red Lion costume, propped up on a couple of poles - at least it looks vaguely like a lion, or a very hairy dragon. The area in front of the house has been shoveled out and bamboo mats have been placed on top of the ground, with braziers at each of the corners. The cleared space looks to be about 30' square. JingLu gives Caitlin a warm smile, and a nod to Owen. "Thank you."
[Kei] The only reason this small (about 5'6") unassuming-looking man would be noticed in a crowd is because in this part of the world, it is rare to look upon someone Chinese. With tan, smooth skin over delicate, almost impish facial features, it is difficult to discern the man's age, though the maturity of his posture and carriage suggest someone older than he looks. He is quite slender, but his hands look very strong, suggestive of a person who leads an active lifestyle. His eyes are gently sloped and almond-shaped, with long lashes, and are full of intense expression, whatever his mood -- indeed, Kei's primary form of communication is through his eyes.
Kei has pulled out some of his finer attire from China to create impressive formal dress. A deep-blue silk overcoat with a simple round, collarless neck is made festive by the intricately-embroidered gold and burgundy silk panel that spans across the chest: the picture on the panel is of a stylized golden dog against the a burgundy background. Little silk buttons break the center panel, and extend to the waistline of the coat, which reaches to Kei's ankles. The coat is cut to make an opening which reveals beneath the overcoat a hem of about 16 inches of bias-cut silk, in stripes of blue, burgundy, green, and light purple, each cut stripe carrying a brocade. The voluminous sleeves of the overcoat are short enough to expose the undercoat's burgundy brocade, also of small stylized dogs.
With this outfit comes a pair of black silk shoes, slightly turned up at the toes, and platformed about an inch-and-a-half. It makes the diminutive Kei look a little taller.
Kei's thick, jet-black hair has been cut into a loose and pleasing style, longer on top and short at the nape, and parted at the side. It is a studious sort of cut, though Kei makes it look more boyish than it should, given the nature of his features.
[JingLu] You see a Chinese woman apparently in her early twenties, about 5'4" high, with typical yet pretty Chinese features. Her almond shaped eyes are brown, like all Chinese, and her round face is framed somewhat by her dark, shiny hair - pulled back into a traditional loose bun that hangs over her neck, and held in place with an elaborate comb over her ear and a pair of decorated chopsticks. She wears a decorative black Chinese tunic and matching loose pants of black silk. The tunic is covered with highly detailed designs, and is fastened with frog-knot buttons down the center. There are 8 large circular scenes arranged geometrically with a scene in the center of the tunic just under the collar and two scenes at about hip level (on the front and back), and two on the shoulders. The scenes are of Chinese people in various surroundings, all brightly colored. Surrounding the scenes are smaller, highly detailed flowers in colors that match the bright scenes. The cuffs, collar and the bottom of the tunic are trimmed in wide golden-yellow designs, with sweeping curls at the top of the small slits on either side of the tunic. The cuffs are turned-out and somewhat more plain than the collar and bottom trim. The entire ensemble is loose fitting and comfortable looking. Over her Chinese outfit, she has a rather new looking dark green cape draped over her shoulders, to keep out the chill.
[Elise] Long, flaxen colored hair has been gently pulled back into a simple chignon at the nape of the woman's neck, several rebellious strands escaping the pins to rest around her face. Intelligent hazel-green eyes are partially hidden behind silver-rimmed spectacles, and her delicate features show her to be in her early twenties. While no raving beauty, she has a pleasant countenance and there is usually an air of impish confidence about her. The emerald green of the gown she wears brings out the hints of green in the woman's eyes, the result of careful consideration on the part of some modiste. The gown has been excellently made, every line emphasizing the delicate curves of her slender form. Black thread embroiders both the bodice and sleeves, as well as the hem. The ever present golden locket gleams from its position around her neck, resting over a modest, but flattering, neckline. A black coat with gold buttons serves to give the woman protection against the elements. Hailing from the Northeast, Elise Montgomery's accent and mannerisms clearly mark her as a lady.
[Caitlin] Small but wiry - that's the usual impression folks get looking at this woman, who appears to be in her early thirties. Slim and standing just over five feet, she might at first glance seem somewhat frail. A closer look reveals a hint of strength behind that compact frame, and weathered hands that look like they've done some honest work in their day. Her face bears a light tan, her sandy-blonde hair bleached almost white by too much sun. The harsh, bright color seems almost at odds with her dark brown eyes and delicate, features. Her looks are rather plain, a situation not helped any by the unflattering bun her hair has been pulled up into. Caitlin's clothing is simple, with no frills. She wears a dark green dress, with black buttons down the front. The shoulders and the dress' high, square collar are offset with a lighter tan color, as are the cuffs.
[Owen] Though actually in his late twenties, Owen Duffy has a clean-shaven, youthful face that makes him look much younger. He's on the tall side of average, and has the strong build of someone who's done a lot of manual labor. His sandy-brown hair is cut fairly short, but even that doesn't stop it from looking like a tousled mess with the slightest provocation. No doubt why he keeps it covered in a cheap but serviceable cowboy hat whenever possible. His clothes are clearly homespun - good, sturdy work clothes. His shirt is light brown in color, with buttons but no collar, and he wears a brown vest overtop of it. Plain dark trousers hang over well-worn boots.
From the verandah, Nathan Zamir sits on the veranda, having watched (and likely helped with) the preparations. Head slightly cocked, he watches the guests arrive. He nods a welcome to Owen and politely touches fingers to his cap to his sister, Caitlin.
Elise comes up the trail, her coat gathered tightly against her to keep out the cold. She approaches slowly, taking in the area and obviously impressed by it. Spotting JingLu, the writer raises a hand in cheerful greeting, but her eyes again stray in their detail taking.
Owen casts a skeptical glance over at the lions, not really knowing what to expect with all this. He probably wouldn't have come if Caitlin hadn't dragged him along. Leaving Caitlin with Jing, he thrusts his hands into the pockets of his jacket and walks over toward the verandah. He nods to Kei and Zamir in turn. "Evening."
[St John] Black hair crowns the top of St. John's head, the thick locks falling just past his shoulders, quite the unusual length for a man who could seem to keep up with the latest fashion. Violet eyes are a splash of color against fair skin that burns more easily than it tans or freckles. He doesn't stand particularly tall, reaching just under 6' with his shoes on, nor is his frame particularly powerful. His build is that of a scholar...a scholar who enjoys some outdoor activities, but a scholar nonetheless. His features are all in the proper place, his nose sharp and aquiline, his cheekbones high and his chin strong with a slight cleft. There is a slight gauntness to his cheeks and a sorrow in his eyes and in his posture, giving him an air of being much older than his early twenties. On the ring-finger of his left hand he wears a gold wedding band, but there is no sign of a wife. When he speaks, his accent is certainly not that of any local area. Indeed, it is a strong British accent...perhaps not the accent of Royalty, but not cockney either.
His mode of dress isn't anything too spectacular...a white shirt is worn beneath a black long-coat, and grey trousers...of a quality cut, but the lapel of the coat is torn...and has not yet been repaired. Black boots that could probably use a good polishing are worn on his feet and occasionally, when he goes out, a wide-brimmed hat protects him from the sun or rain.
An overcoat of rich, thick wool is worn, the lapel and cuffs showing a bit of fur...as if the entire thing is lined in its softness. A scarf of a deep purple is wrapped about his neck and a felt hat worn against the chill. Rich, rabbit-fur lined gloves protect his hands.
There is a sound of hoofbeats as two riders come along the trail. Well, only one horse, but there are two figures on it. Dismounting, the larger rider pulls off the smaller and carries him in his arms while the horse is hitched. The child is set down so St. John can readjust his coat and scarf before they head towards the grouping of people.
Caitlin hears the motion behind her and turns to see who it is. She smiles at Elise. "Hello, Miss Montgomery." Then to the other new arrival. "Mr Rosen."
"Good to see you! Good to see you!" Kei clasps hands as he passes by each guests, smiling a little more assuredly now that guests have actually arrived. The braziers have been lit up to their fullest, keeping at least the area around bamboo mats warm. Dressed in all that silk, Kei is likely quite comfortable. "We have food for everyone in the courtyard, if you all would like to come inside." He smiles. "Much warmer there too. Though it is turning out to be a surprisingly warm day for winter eh?"
JingLu offers a wave back to Elise, and another smile to Caitlin as Owen wanders over to Kei and Zamir. She turns to wave a greeting to St. John and his son. "Welcome!" When everyone is within easy conversational distance, she gestures toward the house, "Please come inside."
O'Dwyer saunters over from the trail that winds along the rivers edge.
The toddler waves back to JingLu, his hazel eyes round with trying to take everything in. St. John gives a nod back, "Good evening..." moving to Kei, he offers, "This is amazing..." certainly more interesting that what he's seen. Nodding at their directions, he then moves into the Courtyard.
West of Maddock Seui-Kei Ting Yun
An enclosed space of about fifteen-by-fifteen feet, the courtyard is small, with room for perhaps a small gathering to mull in. Flat stones pave the entire space with rustic efficiency, their dark grey color a contrast against the white plaster walls east and west, and polished wood panels north and south. An overhang created by the house's Chinese-style roof provides considerable shade, and a walkway of sorts is created all around, leading to four doors in the cardinal directions. Quiet winter afternoon slows in the snowcovered landscape. In the center of the courtyard, standing tall and slim, is a single Western serviceberry tree, planted in an exposed spot in the earth where the stones create a ring for it. With nothing but its branches against the winter's backdrop, the tree looks almost like a skeletal hand rising from its ring of stones. The tree is hung with little lanterns of red and yellow, each painted with a gold Chinese character. The rest of the courtyard has been decorated with them suspended off the overhang of the roof. Big brass braziers set afire provide light and heat, keeping the courtyard agreeably toasty despite the weather.
Kei leads everyone into the significantly warmer and more festooned courtyard. "Please, or Cheng," he says politely. "Fell free to taste things, have some things to drink. I did not bring ahh...spirits, but I have juice." He pulls out small red packets from his pockets, and begins to hand these out. "Good luck money, for the New Year," he explains.
Kei murmurs, "Where is Jinglu..."
"Yes, it's not so bad out," Caitlin agrees readily. Even so, she's happy to go inside where it's even warmer. She takes one of the packets, surprised. "Oh.. thank you. Happy New Year." It sounds odd to her, coming in February, but it's said with sincere wishes.
The inside of each packet, which is embossed with gold Chinese characters, has a small piece of honey candy and what looks to be a little copper coin with a square hole in the center. Kei is busy making sure cups are ready for the table of food, speaking to another Chinese man -- a stranger -- who passes cautiously between the courtyard and the office waiting through the east door.
"Dohje, Dohje," Kei says distractedly, first to the man, then to Caitlin.
Elise hangs back a bit upon entering the courtyard, hands clasped before her and eyes looking about in curiosity. After a moment she moves to stand near to Caitlin, smiling warmly. "How have you been?"
Owen takes his packet with murmured thanks, and looks curiously inside. He takes out the coin and holds it up, puzzled by the hole in the center. "Chinese money always have holes in it?" he wonders aloud.
St. John takes the packet and kneels down to help his son open his own packet. The toddler is thoroughly enchanted by the coin and the honey, whereas his father just looks amused at his son's delight. Straightening, he glances about at those gathered as if looking to see who he knows besides the hosts.
Caitlin smiles back at Elise. "Oh, I'm well, thank you. How about yourself?" She doesn't head over to the food and drink right away, despite Kei's invitation.
Kei answers as he approaches Owen, "Yes. It has holes on the inside so that they can be carried in strings. In China, not many people have purses -- they wear money on their necks, or on belts." He shrugs. "I guess it is different? But...very efficient, I think."
Elise spares a glance for the refreshments but then returns her gaze to Caitlin. "I am doing wonderfully." The writer looks over the courtyard once more and murmurs, "Well. They never cease to impress." A wry grin curves her lips.
Owen hmms at the explanation, tucking the coin back into the pouch. "That's right clever," he admits. Then with a grin, "Don't suppose it'd work too well with paper money over here, though."
Kei shakes his head, "No. But in China...paper money is much more rare. I think, much as I've heard the miners out here say, better to have something solid." He chuckles, then gestures towards the food, a little apprehensive. "You should try something...and have you met St John Rosen and his son Benjamin?" he gestures to them, and grins at the boy, "You have something special for New Years, did you know? Little men get special presents." He grins widely.
"Yes, indeed," Caitlin agrees readily. "I like those lanterns." She nods toward one of them hanging from the tree and then asks, "Been working on your writing lately?"
"Presents?" Benjamin claps his hands and runs up to Kei, "I like presents! Papa says I can have a pony for my Birthday! It's in...in..." the toddler looks back to his father who supplies, "A month." St. John then moves towards Kei, "It isn't necessary, you know..."
O'Dwyer arrives just after Jing Lu, the trail of bluish smoke. As he is outside, he puts his kepi back on.
Owen nods. "I'm all for coins. Paper money don't seem quite real." He eyes the food on the table, looking for something vaguely familiar, and eventually picks up one of the custard buns. Before he takes a bite, though, he looks over to the man Kei just introduced. Shifting the bun to his other hand, he offers his right hand to St John. "Owen Duffy. Good to meet you." He gives the kid a brief glance.
"Please, please, you must know I would have a special present for Benjamin," Kei says to St John with great magnamity. "It is very important to give gifts at New Year. Children especially! New Years is time for good luck and new hopes. Children have both." He smiles, and tossles Benjamin's hair. "Just remind me later on to get your present for you. Jinglu and I wanted to get you something special."
Elise lightly shrugs her shoulders, responding chipperly, "Ah, a bit. When the mood strikes me." The woman grins impishly. "But I have kept myself busy when it does not."
JingLu smiles at the crowd, standing near the eastern door. She glances around the gathering.
Kei greets O'Dwyer with a slight and formal bow. "I am glad you were able to come," he says sincerely. "The house also has a special New years' gift for you." He smiles, and, digging another of the red packets he's been giving out to the guests, hands one to the Irishman. He says to Jinglu, "Where is Natan?"
O'Dwyer doesn't bow, but accepts the gift. "Thank ye verry much."
St. John takes the offered hand. "Sinjin Rosen." Benjamin, of course, merely beams at Kei, "Papa, a present!" He'll probably be harping on about that all evening now. The young father then glances to his son, "What do you say when someone does something nice?" Always, he has to remind the child, but his memory seems to be better tonight as he pipes up with a quick, "Thank you!"
"Oh?" Caitlin is curious, and asks the obvious question, "Busy doing what?"
Owen chuckles, after shaking St. John's hand. "Likely he'll be reminding you all night, Doctor," he says with a look at the excited youngster.
"You're very welcome...both of you!" Kei has to speak to O'Dwyer and Benjamin simultaneously, the boy's enthusiasm prompting him to answer as soon as possible. Turning to O'Dwyer, he asks, "Are things faring well for you? I assume the spring will bring a considerable amount of work with the sheep."
Kei nods to Owen then, distracted.
"Oh, This and that." is Elise's vague response as she offers Caitlin another bright smile. "There are always things to be done, if one looks hard enough." Her eyes sparkle before she inquires, "And have you kept yourself busy?"
"I'm right here, doctor." Nathan says. Discreetly he places a couple of bottles of alcohol on the table with the food. He nods to Sinjin and waggles his fingers with a smile at Benjamin
O'Dwyer says, "Eh, it certainly will. I don't know how much though. I estimate maybe...twenty four lambs. I only lost two rams...well, lost isn't the roight word fer it, but I don't have them any more.""
[O'Dwyer] He is a man of medium height, burly without being grotesque. His brownish red hair is long, and combed back from his head to about mid length. He has a full beard, neatly trimmed for once and short enough so a person can see more red in it then his hair. He walks slowly, with a slight limp when he moves his left leg, and there is something odd about his posture, as if his right shoulder was higher then his left. His moss green eyes are full of cover, but they do not twinkle. He's missing the pinky on his left hand. He is wearing a white formal shirt, with a brass collar tab with two American eagles on it. His tie is solid black, made of a woven cotton material. The suit he has on is not tailored, and a little baggy on the left. A dark felt grey, it has black four hole buttons, and hasn't seen a press since it was made. He has on his good black leather shoes, the same as his regular ones, but only worn for Mass or meetings. He's currently also wearing a kepi, dark blue with a black bill, with a gold thread cornet curled on top, the symbol for the Army of the Potomac, for those who would know. In his mouth is a short cherry pipe, with a thin neck, preferred by men of an Irish persuasion.
"What happened to them?" Kei sounds genuinely concerned. "I hope the gift we decided to give you for New Years will be a help to you in that." He grins slightly, then asks Jinglu, "Now? You can give the special gifts, yes?"
This apparently catches Owen's interest. "You've got a farm?" he wonders.
JingLu smiles at Kei, and disappears through the eastern door.
O'Dwyer says, "I used them as gifts, to show my appreciation." He nods, to Kei, and then turns to Owen. "It's more of a settlement, I'd think. Not much of a farm, not yet, anyway.""
St. John offers a nod in return to Zamir, and Benjamin returns the wave. "Papa, what's that?" he asks, pointing to some of the food. Moving to the table he takes one of the custard buns and returns, offering it to his father to taste.
"I've been thinking about getting goats." Nathan mentions
Caitlin nods to Elise. "Yes, that's true." She smiles, "Not as busy as it has been, but that's a good thing." Given her occupation, that is.
Kei says to Natan, "You are going to be here for a minute, yes? Mister Zamir...we have a special present for you and...let me see. Caitlin, Mister O'Dwyer, Benjamin...and the Sheriff, if he arrives..."
"I will be here, Doctor, yes." Noting the number of people to be gifted, he raises an eyebrow.
Owen nods to O'Dwyer, "Our farm back home is mainly for sheep. We've got a couple dozen." He flicks a glance over toward Kei as his sister's name is mentioned, but she is out of earshot.
Elise nods in agreement of Caitlin's words and chuckles softly, "A very good thing, I would think."
O'Dwyer says, "Back home, you say?" He looks around at the decorated place, looking for something to drink."
Kei glances a little furtively at Owen...and smiles. He seems terribly pleased about something. As he is smiling (and secretly arranging the alcohol bottles by some sort of Feng Shui logic) he sees another of the visiting Chinese, who ducks off. That man is carrying what looks to be a large drum. He is also avoiding the guests.
"Maryland," Owen supplies. He notes O'Dwyer's cap, and asks, "How about yourself?"
St. John tastes the custard bun, giving the rest to Benjamin with a nod indicating that it's good. The boy chews on it while his father looks about at the conversation. One of the accents is recognized and he drifts a little closer to O'Dwyer and Owen.
O'Dwyer says, "I was born in County Hull, but I am American citizen. Lived most of my life in New York, now. Where were you in Maryland?""
Kei is greeting guests as they arrive, and wrings his hands lightly as he seems to be waiting, likely for Jinglu. "Where is that woman," he mutters.
Kei nods to Kathrine when she arrives. "Why hello! Long time no see. I am glad to see Maddock treated you well enough to stay...did you wish some food?" He gestures towards the foods and cherry wine on the table.
Caitlin nods to Elise, "Care for something to eat?" she asks, glancing over to the refreshment table.
Kathrine smiles "No thanks."
Nathan holds out his hands to St John, obviously offering to hold Benjamin
Tucker enters with Benjamin Culver at his side, Once childhood friends they have kept up their close relationship all through the years. William is talking quietly with Benjamin, joking with him about what it is like being the town Mayor. Most comments run along the line of, 'beats sitting out by a campfire in February'.
JingLu arrives from the front office, bearing a large basket filled with puppies and a beautifully carved stick horse, the right size for a young boy. She smiles at Kei and walks over to St. John, Nathan and Benjamin.
Elise looks towards the food and drinks again, then back to Caitlin as she responds, "Why not?" She gestures for Caitlin to go before her to the refreshments.
Owen smiles slightly in response to O'Dwyer. "Frederick. It's a pretty small town. My father's people hail from outside Kilkenny."
Nathan smiles at her and grins at the puppies as if having suspicions confirmed
St. John glances over to Zamir, "Thank you, but he should be fine without being held...just as long as he's watched." In fact, it would be a great relief to let his son wander about a bit...since Matilda ran away, he's been relegated back to nursemaid again. "Ireland then?" he asks of O'Dwyer, a dark eyebrow arched.
Nathan nods and sticks his hands into his pockets
Benjamin grins at Tucker and says something quietly.
Kei, ready to flit as the proper social grasshopper for the party, is quick to give Kathrine the same present of a red packet, embossed with gold Chinese characters, stuffed with a honey candy and a copper Chinese tael -- a coin with a square hole in the center. "Please enjoy yourself," he says sincerely to the woman, then holds out two more packets anda big smile for Mister Culver and Mayor Tucker. "You came!" he says, very pleased and animated about it. To Jinglu, he smiles broadly. "Ready?"
Benjamin mutters to Tucker, "... so... doesn't... to pretend... be... the..."
Caitlin heads over to the food table and picks up a few snacks and a cup of juice. She casts a glance over at her brother chatting with the other men, and looks pleased.
O'Dwyer talks to Owen. "I know where Frederick is. I passed through on the way to Antietam." He pauses, looking over to St. John. "Mr. Rosen. Eh, I was born in Ireland, but I left in '48, when I was four, during the Famine."
JingLu nods at Kei, and tries to get Little Benjamin's attention, crouching down.
Benjamin takes the packet from Kei with a curious glance. "Thank you. It looks like a noce party."
It takes a bit to get the toddler's attention, but JingLu finally gets it and the boy grins, "Hi!" he finished the custard bun and looks up at the woman. His father, on the other hand, gives a nod to O'Dwyer, "I visited there once...lovely area."
"Thank you very much!" Kei says sincerely to Benjamin. "I hope you gave Elizabeth my regards and...I hope your guest hasn't been giving you too much trouble...?" He clears his throat, then sees Jinglu bending down the get Little Benjamin's attention. "Jinglu!" he says quickly. "You should announce, hai?" Switching to Chinese, he reminds her, "(I am a noble. You are my family. We have to announce gifts, not just hand them out like week's pay!)"
Elise follows behind Caitlin, retrieving a cup of her own and sipping from it. She scans the crowd for familiar faces, recognizing most but having a true acquaintance with only a few.
William runs his hand along the brim of his hat. Noticeably missing is the silver star on his chest, but otherwise his demeanor and dress remain unchanged. He still looks like he could have just rode in from some far away post just this morning. "Evenin' Doc, Happy New Year to you and yours." William smiles at the Doctor as well as giving a glance at JingLu. This must be the wife that Kei mentioned. Er, make that former wife that is now engaged to the Water Engineer... or some such.
O'Dwyer looks at St. John neutrally. "I do not remember much about it, but I know I will always be a part of it."
JingLu glances up at Kei, unwilling to give up the little boy's attention, now that she's gotten it. "(Then introduce them, Kei! You are the noble!)" She gives him a mischievous grin, and turns back to Little Benjamin, smiling. "I have surprise for you. You guess?"
Owen looks over to St. John, wondering if he meant Ireland or Frederick. Then he nods to O'Dwyer and says proudly. "My brother was at Antietam too. Maryland Light Artillery, Battery A." It's a Union troop, though that may not be obvious given that Maryland had units on both sides.
That would be 'cousin', Tucker. Kei is too busy looking put out by whatever Jinglu said, shouting "Yaih-poh!" (Naughty woman!) But...he is smiling. To Tucker he says then, "Thank you -- dohje, in Chinese. Thank you for coming. I had hoped to see Miss Jenkins with you...I do hope she comes, hai?" Well, Gem is missing too. Sucks to date busy women. Glaring lightly at Jinglu, the Doctor claps his hands twice. "Excuse me everyone! IN Chinese New Year, before we begin our performance, we have special gifts to our friends and associates that we always /present/. So...my cousin, Jinglu, is going to do that." He gestures to the puppies and the...hobby horse? Where did /that/ come from?
O'Dwyer smiles broadly. "I was with the 63rd New York, The Irish Brigade, under Meagher. Not that'd you have to guess, with my accent and all. What Corp were you in?"
St. John meant Ireland and gives a nod to O'Dwyer, "It was quite green, I can tell you that much." The family didn't stay very long. But before he can continue, or comment about the Civil War talk, his attention is turned to Kei. His child, on the other hand looks up at JingLu and tries to see what sort of gift it could be, "I don't know?" But he wants to know!
JingLu grins down at Benjamin, and crouches down to present him with a little stick hobby horse, just his size, beautifully carved and with a red ribbon around it's neck. "It is a horse just for you!"
Rick looks around the crowd, and when he spies Kei he makes his way over to greet him. "Lanterns look good, Doc."
"A horse!" The child takes the toy and beams at JingLu, "Thank you!" He impulsively gives her a hug before running over to his father, calling loudly, "Papa! Papa, look! Look, it's a horse!" Now the boy will probably be 'galloping' about the Courtyard for a while.
Owen nods enthusiastically to O'Dwyer. "A right fine band of soldiers," he says. Sounding disappointed, he shakes his head in response to the second question. "My brother Sean and I were too young to join up. Patrick's the only one who made it off to fight."
Benjamin smiles, watching the boy. "When I was his age or so, I got a real horse. Course we lived on a ranch, not in town."
Kei is hard to miss in the flurry of silk he's wearing. He grins widely to Rick. "Looks better when it is all put together, hai?" He walks up to the barber, and hands him a red packet with copper coin and honey candy inside, as he does all the guests. To Jinglu again, his eyes wide, and his expression unmistakable. What the hell is that? sort of expression.
Caitlin stands near Elise, sipping her juice and watching the goings-on. She observes, "Quite a nice turnout for the party."
O'Dwyer says, "Well God protect your brother, and all the angels smiles on your house." He smiles. "Montana is a long way away from Fredderick, sir.""
Barron makes his way into the courtyard, having shed his coat and his hat, he's warming his hands as he steps into the room.
Elise takes another sip from her drink, watching the gift giving with a bright smile. Her eyes shift to Caitlin and she inclines her head, "Yes. I am very glad, for it seems they went through an awful lot of trouble. It would have been a pity if people had not come to enjoy it."
JingLu smiles brightly at the little boy, currently 'galloping' around the courtyard, and stands with the basket of puppies, shifting the basket and catching a big chocolate as he tries to escape.
St. John smiles down at his son as he shows off the hobby-horse and then goes to gallop away. Turning back to the conversation, he doesn't have too much to offer so he offers a nod and moves to get some more of the exotic food.
Nathan walks over to JingLu and takes the basket to hold it for her while she struggles with the chocolate puppy
"Much obliged. And yours, too, Mister..." Owen's tone is questioning. He sort of missed O'Dwyer's introduction, if there was one. He then nods in agreement to the 'long way' remark. "Yes, sir, it is. I came out to visit my sister." He nods his head over in Cait's general direction. "And I figured I ought to see the frontier, while it was still a frontier." Including both St. John and O'Dwyer with a glance, he asks, "What brought you fellas out here?"
Kei sees BArron, and grins widely, looking relieved. "Sheriff!" He exclaims. "So good to see you! Jinglu is about to give out the gifts -- we have one for you!" Besides the red packet with coin and honey candy he presses into Barron's hand. "Did Eugenia decide not to come?"
Caitlin nods her agreement. "Yes, it's good to see that Doctor Kei and Jing have so many friends."
O'Dwyer says, "Name's Sean O'Dwyer." He smiles, and offers his hand, the whole one. "I came out for the air.""
Ah, so he's back in the conversation. Makes him feel a little better, really, "Sinjin Rosen," his own hand is offered to O'Dwyer, whom he hasn't met yet. Then, in answer to the question he gives a vague shrug, "Don't most people come here to start a new life?"
JingLu smiles gratefully at Nathan, and takes this opportunity to take the big chocolate out of the basket. He's a rather large puppy, at 8 weeks old, and rather loud too as he issues a playful bark at the attention he's currently getting. As he shifts around, a lighter underbelly can be seen. Around his neck is a wide blue ribbon. JingLu glances around the courtyard, until she spots Barron. She holds the puppy up, and walks toward him, announcing, "The next gift is a puppy for Sheriff Barron."
Barron replies, "Ah think she's right ..... ah, there she is. Ah was runnin' a bit late, drunks all over the town tonight, ah swear. Gift? Ya shouldn't have, doc'..." He looks embarrassed.
Eugenia steps uncertainly into Kei's party, her old, banged up Confederate coat over her very fine velvet gown.
Rick remembers seeing the puppies earlier. He watches one being presented to the sheriff, and grins at the expression on the man's face.
"Owen Duffy." He shakes O'Dwyer's hand heartily. A nod to Sinjin. "Yes, sir, I suppose that's true. Though some come for more specific reasons. Business, or whatnot."
"Oh no, of course you should get a gift!" Kei exclaims with largesse. "You were fond of the this monster of a puppy, so...you and Mrs. Barron can deal with it now." He winks as the puppy is handed to the Sheriff, and in that time, he also acknowledges Eugenia with a slight bow. "I hope your husband is going to help you with out gift to your household," he explains. "He is quite a handful."
O'Dwyer says, "I would imagine some do. Maybe I did do that. Maddock is as different from the Bowery as Maryland was.""
Elise looks to be in hearty agreement with Caitlin as she replies, "They certainly deserve them." She smiles upon seeing one of the puppies given to Eugenia and Barron, her lips quirking upwards.
Eugenia eyes the puppy and almost smiles. She looks from Kei to Jack and then to the dog. "Good Lord," she mutters.
Caitlin watches the puppy exchange with an amused expression.
Tucker craftily eases his way towards the food. Standing next to Caitlin and Elise he brushes his fingers against his hat greeting both of them, "Maam.... Maam. Mighty good to see you both. As they say in China, Happy New Year." He gives them a sly smirk and his eyes glint as they travel behind the two women to the array of food behind them.
JingLu smiles as she puts the squirming puppy into Barron's arms. She gives him a nod, and then returns to the basket, to announce the next puppy. She pulls out a chocolate puppy with a snowy white underbelly, intense blue eyes, and a wide orange ribbon around his neck. He is rather quiet, at least compared to the big chocolate that was given to Barron. She turn and holds the puppy out to O'Dwyer. "The next present is a puppy for Mister O'Dwyer."
The distinct sound of loud drumbeats can be heard outside, even through the front office. There is some shouting, but Kei does not look alarmed -- it is likely the performers are practicing. If those drumbeats are any indication...something at least /interesting/ is going to happen.
St. John offers a bit of a grin, "It's as far from London and New York as I've ever boon, I must admit." He then steps aside to let JingLu in with the puppies.
Barron ruffles the puppy, and offers Eugenia and Kei an open grin. "Why, thank ya." he says with clear glee.
Elise nods politely in greeting to Tucker, subtly stepping aside so he can access the food more easily. "Happy New Year, sir."
Kei bows to Barron and Eugenia, and smiles widely. "I hope he brings you joy, and..I hope he does not destroy your house." He points at the puppy, and says, "You be good to your new mama and papa!" Then he turns to see O'Dwyer receiving his puppy, "You need a sheepdog!" he explains.
"You will need to learn to tie a muzzle." Zamir says as an amused aside to Barron
O'Dwyer looks very surprised, as a puppy is offered to him. He takes it, bemusedly, as a bachelor is offered a close friend's child.
Eugenia's head jerks instinctively toward the door and the sound of the drums. She reaches for the puppy as if to relieve Jack of him so he can deal with any possible danger. However, a tight, dark look falls over her features when Kei refers to Jack and Genie as 'Mama and Papa'. Her hands drop away from the dog.
Caitlin turns to face Tucker, smiling in return. "Good to see you, too, Marshall. I hope that you're enjoying the party."
Barron makes his way to Eugenia and offers, "He's cute. A handful, ah played with him before on another visit but he's cutern'n a button, ah tell you that."
"That is quite a journey," Owen agrees with St. John. "I thought it bad enough from Maryland to Montana." He grins at O'Dwyer's reaction to the puppy. He raises a curious eyebrow at the sound of drumbeats.
O'Dwyer says, "Ahh....O'Laughlin said I'd be needing a dog, but I didn't think I could be gettin' one.""
Tucker nods to Miss... er... Mrs Lockhart. "Ahrm afraid I had to give up that post Mrs. Lockhart. Seems as if there is some sort of bylaw in the town charter that I can't be both Mayor and some federal position. Ahrm damn sure it must have been Garrett who wrote in that little provision. He never did like me holdin' to many cards around here. That bein' said, Ahrv always enjoyed the Doc's little shin dings." He flashes the woman a sly wink and picks up one of the fried puffs. He gives it a suspicious look, turning it over in his hands, before popping it into his mouth.
JingLu smiles, giving the puppy a little scratch behind the ears before she pulls the next one out of the basket. It is a light-tan colored puppy, female, the classic "middle child." She is also quite delicate-looking in her features, sort of golden and pretty, compared to the other puppies. She has a wide green ribbon tied around her neck. She holds the puppy up, and walks toward the food table, grinning broadly. "The next present is a puppy for Caitlin."
St. John gives a nod, "It wasn't done all at once, but it certainly has been." Glancing to see where his son is, he also turns at the sounds of the drumbeats. Hopefully that's for here and not from some Native's warpath.
Kei's smile is so wide he threatens to split a lip. "Don't ever say I do not consider my neighbors," he teases O'Dwyer. "A friend of mine says these dogs are very excellent for hearding." Then he grins REALLY wide (still nothing splitting) when the next puppy is announced.
Rick heads over towards the food table, avoiding the JingLu-Caitlin-puppy area.
O'Dwyer nods, and looks at the dog, trying to decide how to hold it, and not really coming to any particular decision.
Eugenia says quietly to Barron, "The Bairds will probably be glad to have a dog out on the farm." She presses a hand over her stomach and attempts to keep her frown in check. "I think I'm going to go home, Jack. You enjoy yourself. Come home when you're ready," she says.
"Oh, I didn't know that," Caitlin says apologetically. She blinks when she hears her name, and turns toward Jing looking quite stunned. But then her surprise turns to delight, and she exclaims, "Oh! Thank you." She beams at both Jing and Kei. "Thank you very much."
Barron tells Genie, "He can stay in the house, if'n ya want. Be nice to have a dog around. You feelin' not well? AH can ride ya back."
Kei clasps his hands and bows deeply at Caitlin. "You should have known I should given you one, taking such good care of them. Plus!" He raises a finger. "You are my apprentice! Always the best for my apprentice!" He glances at the saddened Euegnia, and his lips purse. He seems to know something is going on. "Youa re nto staying for the lion dance?" He asks both Barron and Eugenia.
Elise grins widely to Caitlin, happy that the woman got her puppy afterall. The writer makes sure she is well out of the way, watching with amused eyes.
Eugenia eyes her husband without saying anything. After a minute, she repeats, "You stay here and enjoy yourself." The former widow abruptly trails off when Kei speaks toward her. "Jack's going to stay. I'm afraid I forgot something that I need to take care of," she says in her Southern drawl.
Owen watches his sister with an amused glance. What the heck is she going to do with a puppy? Especially living in the boarding house. But still, he seems pleased to see her happy. He studies the puppy from afar, noting the big ears, and wonders of anyone who happens to be standing nearby, "What sort of dogs are they?"
Barron nods to Eugenia. "I'll stay." he tells Kei, as he ruffles the puppy and heads furthe rinto the party. "Thank you, again. For the puppy a'n all.
JingLu gives the puppy at little pat and Caitlin a big smile, before she turns back to the basket. She pulls out the second largest puppy, close to the chocolate's size. She is all-tan, with ears that are large and snowy-white on the inside, and has a big red ribbon tied around her neck. She barks delightfully, and squirms toward Nathan even as she is presented to him. "The next present is a puppy for Mister Zamir." She trades the basket for the puppy, before the puppy leaps onto Nathan.
"You are certain?" Kei asks Eugenia politely. "I...hope you enjoy the puppy -- he is for both of you." He seems to mean that, and offers, "Something to drink? Please, feel free to take in the hospitality of my house before you go." Then he shouts upon hearing the announcement for Natan's puppy, "Goat-dog for you!"
Benjamin watches the dogs getting handed out, then looks at all the people who came to the party. Nope, not enough dogs to go around.
Kei answers Owen, a little distracted. "We do not know -- or we..." He looks uncertain. "They are ahh...local dogs."
St. John arches an eyebrow as Zamir is offered the dog, "Goats? Have you given up the water business?" He then turns to Kei, his brows creasing at the mention of the dogs being 'local'. "Mutts, are they?"
Rick looks at the food, then turns to the writer. "Do you know what these things are, Elise?"
Caitlin holds her puppy gingerly. She seems at a loss for words, but her smile says it all. She watches Jing give out the other puppy.
Kei seems a little...reluctant to answer. Being open that these are Indian Dogs seems to not settle well with him, from his expression, though a few people know. "I think they are ahh...somewhat mixed, yes. The mother was a stray -- unfortunately, she died."
Nathan grins and takes the puppy in his arms, delightedly. "Goat-dog!" he calls back to Kei and leans over to say something to JingLu, interrupted by a giggle as the tan puppy licks his face. Zamir frowns slightly at Sinjin. "By no means! A man needs a hobby, and meat on the hoof." he says softly.
O'Dwyer sits down under the tree, and sets the puppy down, while he looks at it. He seems a little surprised that it is playing with his sleeve.
William takes another puff and pops it in his mouth. Despite his earlier suspicion, they taste pretty good. He points out to Rick, "They aren't half bad." He watches the handing out of the gifts with pleasure and polite applause. I bet New Years couldn't have come a moment later for Kei what with all these mouths to feed around here.
Eugenia is standing stiffly. Stiff enough that Jack, at the very least, can probably tell she's pissed off about something. She gives an equally stiff nod to Kei, but doesn't even try to find a fake smile. "Thank you, Doctor. I think it would be best, if I took my leave."
Elise looks down at the food, her lips quirking upwards into an amused little grin as she shakes her head to Rick. "Food?" She offers helpfully, giving her most innocent expression.
Owen seems to accept that answer readily enough. There are coyotes in the West - why shouldn't there be other types of dogs as well? He doesn't press further and instead goes back to the food. He picks up a few things, and moves back to begin munching quietly.
St. John merely shrugs and takes another of those custard buns, "I never thought being a goatherd was a hobby." But he smiles, apparently offering no ill will as he comments back to Zamir. Violet eyes look back to see where his son has galloped to before he moves closer to Kei, asking, "Do you know if Miss Johnson will be appearing?"
Kei glances at Eugenia then. His genuine look of apology suggests that whatever has offended Eugenia wasn't intended. All he can say, really, is: "Thank you for coming. I shall speak with your husband as soon as the opportunity presents itself." Tension there, definitely, but Kei is a practiced and gracious host. He does not sound the least unkind. He hmms? distractedly at Sinjin, "I do not know...I did not ask for responses to my invitation."
JingLu takes the last puppy out of the basket, the runt. He is the tiniest of the puppies, grey in color with a hint of silver in his coat. He has HUGE ears, which look comical and gawky. Around his neck is tied a wide yellow ribbon. JingLu lifts the puppy with an impish grin. "The last present is a puppy.. for Doctor Kei."
O'Dwyer watches St. John and Kei as the dog finds his boot interesting enough to sniff at.
Benjamin frowns slightly, and approaches the sheriff's wife. "I was going to leave soon, too. Can I walk you back to town?"
Elise's expression brightens when she hears JingLu's announcement, and she barely stops herself from letting out an impish cheer. She does give into laughter, however, watching the doctor with undisguised amusement.
Eugenia eases away from Kei, but pauses by Barron. She almost says something to him, when she hears Benjamin and nods. "Thank you, if it's not out of your way?" she replies. To Jack, she lowers her voice to a hissed whisper, "I am -not- that dog's mama." Indignantly, she steps back into the office.
Rick picks up one of the Yau Gwok, and gives it a careful taste. Apparently he finds it to his liking, and eats the rest in one bite.
Kei is heading towards the food, ready to chat with Sinjin...when he hears his name. HIS name. /Someone/ has swindled the Doctor -- /that/ puppy was supposed to be given out! "Ngoi! Chu-may-ah?" He points at Jinglu, turning red. "You -- you -- how can I have that animal underfoot! Such a mantai! Aiyah!" As usual, the Doctor complains when he gets a present -- you should have seen what he did when Barron gave him his horse. "Jinglu! How could you?" He looks deeply embarrassed.
Nathan's eyes widen with amusement at JingLu's last declaration. He ducks his head, grinning at Kei's reaction
St. John actually also smiles, "You know you wouldn't be able to part with that one..." he calls to Kei, remembering his attachment to that one.
Caitlin chuckles at Jing's proclamation, and Kei's reaction. "Come now, Doctor Kei, who else would that one be better suited for?" She nods in agreement with St. John.
Elise calls out cheerfully, "Such stress, Doctor! I am certain it is not good for you. Puppies are said to help alleviate that, though, so it seems you are in luck." Her green eyes sparkle mischievously as she arches one brow to Kei.
"That's not true!" Kei fusses. "Not true at all! How can I be a papa to /that/? I don't' have time!"
Nathan grins harder, touching his finger to the tip of his nose at Sinjin's remark.
O'Dwyer looks at the hysterical doctor, but he doesn't grin.
JingLu seems unswerved by Kei's reaction, and forces the puppy into his arms, still grinning. She responds to him in Cantonese, "(Now, Kei, it is impolite for you to have such hysterics in front of the guests. You should yell at me after the party.)"
"I think you are the gift to the dog Kei, not the other way around." William offers a friendly smile to accompany his remark. "'Sides, I seem to remember you saying that scrawny runt of the pack adopted you already. You sure can't be up and givin' him to someone else now, right?" William chuckles and bobs his head.
"You'll learn. It's really not that bad...at least you won't need to teach the dog its alphabet..." St. John replies. His son, who is still galloping pauses as if by cue and starts calling out, "A! B! C! D! E!"
Owen seems more puzzled than amused by the Doctor's reaction. What an odd little Chinaman. Is this how he treats everyone who tries to give him a gift?
Rick just shakes his head, and picks up another puff. He gives Elise a smile.
"(I /will/ yell at you after the party!)" Kei mutters back to Jinglu, fussing significantly -- that much is clear even if you don't' speak the language. He takes the puppy, who of course latches onto him as he has the past few weeks. Looking comically grumpy, like an old man on the street corner with a 'Irememberthegoodolddays' attitude, all the Doctor can do is sigh. He was hoodwinked by his cousin, and here he is. Odd that he is so tender with the puppy anyway. "Such a man-tai," he mumbles again, ruffling the dog's huge ears. "Such a man-tai. Jinglu...can we do the dance now?"
Nathan decides to try the food. He manages to keep the puppy in his arms from getting any. His eyes widen appreciatively at the taste of the custard buns
Elise looks a tad surprised by Rick's smile, but then she returns it with a warm one of her own. "How have you been, Rick?"
O'Dwyer would love the custard buns, but he doesn't get up yet from under the tree, because the puppy has decided that it doesn't like his shoe.
JingLu nods to Kei, smiling brightly. "The dancers should be ready."
"Are you still doing this?" Kei asks Jing, cradling his puppy, who seems quite content now that he knows he's going to be around for years, bothering his papa.
JingLu nods. "The first dance. Then I will retire."
Dance? Caitlin's eyebrows shoot up curiously. She didn't see any musicians. Well, aside from hearing those drums outside. But at the mention of dancers, she's even more curious. She shifts her grip on the squirming puppy.
Kei nods to Jinglu once, "Hiyah," he sing-songs. He clears his throat, and announces, "For the New Year, it is considered good luck to have a ahhh....performance. We Chinese do a performance that in English is called a 'Lion Dance'. Even though this is the Year of the Tiger, we still use lions." He grins. "Much better luck. If you would like to come outside, we will be doing a lion dance, so you can see it. And aah...maybe you will want to join, I don't know."
Kei adds, "You can watch on the verandah -- we will be doing the dance on the mats you saw outside."
O'Dwyer says, "That's not friggin' likely", Sean mutters as he hefts himself up, picking up the dog."
Rick comments to Elise, "I asked him about that earlier, having a lion dance when everything else was about tigers."
St. John inclines his head slightly as he collects his son, "Year of the Tiger?" He knows it's their New Years, even though it's February...but a tiger?"
Nathan tucks the puppy under an arm
West of Maddock Zungji's Land Outdoors
Nestled between the river to the east, with pasture lands and the looming mountains to the west, this plot of land is tiny and picturesque, a little garden cradled by a great expanse. The winding, manicured trail that leads to the house is laid with large stones, smoothed from their life in the riverbed from whence they were gathered. A cluster of aspen trees lays just north of the house: their fragrant smell is a pleasant addition to the general aesthetic of the land. Sloping gently to the river, the property has other small places to rest and enjoy its waters, here a clear, rapid stream about twenty-five feet across. A single, tall willow, its long branches hovering above the stream is on the path halfway to the house. To the west, a big ponderosa pine shades a circle of rocks one can sit on. Red maples are placed along the path and the house to bring color and shade. Along the west wall of the house is a small vegetable garden. Quiet winter sunset hangs in the sky as snow flutters silently down from the sky. The house itself seems largely complete. It looks more like a longhouse or tiny village cluster than a traditional American home, and carries a simple Chinese-style wooden roof whose edges curl elegantly upwards. The house's verandah can be seen overhung over the river, supported on thick logs. The vegetable garden has been fenced off with barbed wire and posts that have been carved into abstract animals: a dog, a cat, a dragon, and and a monkey. Each pole is festooned with a red or yellow lantern.
There is an area set just off to the side of the path with large bamboo mats, weighted down by four huge brass braziers. Set alight, these make for warmth, and provide an agreeable performance area. There are lanterns set all around for light.
Kei offers his hand to Jinglu after he takes off his silken robes, revealing a simple Chinese suit underneath. "You ready?" he says to her, seeming a bit nervous.
The toddler Benjamin leans against his father's leg at the sight of the dragons, apparently unsure as to whether or not he should be fascinated or afraid. His new horse is held tightly in one hand, his father's pants-leg held with the other.
[Red Lion] A Chinese Lion, in red and brown stripes. It has a large head - about half the size of a (small) man, with a beautifully detailed face. The eyes have lids that move, and the ears seem to be mobile as well, apparently controlled from the inside. The mouth is also mobile - a large flap that can open and close, and is strong enough to hold a small object. The head is surrounded with a great mane that looks remarkably like thick hair or yarn. The front and back legs of the animal consist of loose leggings that tie on - the leggings and back covered with the same long hair-like yarn. It looks like a two-man costume - one man apparently controls the head and his legs are the front legs while a man in back is the hind legs and back, also lifting the front man during stunts. The pairs of Chinese slipper shoes in matching colors complete the costume.
[White Lion] A Chinese Lion, in white and orange stripes. It has a large head - about half the size of a (small) man, with a beautifully detailed face. The eyes have lids that move, apparently controlled from the inside. The mouth is also mobile - a large flap that can open and close, and is strong enough to hold a small object. The head is surrounded by a great mane of cloth loops. The front legs of the animal consist of loose leggings that tie on, also covered with loops of white and orange cloth, arranged an approximation of tiger stripes. The back of the lion also has loose tie-on leggings for the second man, who leans over most of the time, controlling the cloth panel that is the animal's back, and also lifting the man in front during leaps and stunts. Two pairs of Chinese slipper-shoes in matching colors complete the costume.
JingLu smiles and nods, having left her cape in the office. She takes Kei's hand. JingLu grins at Feng Chan-Yu and heads for the red lion.
Owen moves over to stand beside his sister, who murmurs something quietly to him with a nod toward the lions. This is something new.
Kei bows with Jinglu. "We are the ah...frontmen for the lion dance, which looks kind of like we are fighting for the ball you see in the middle of the mat here. We control the head of the lion. Chan-Yu and Kam-po are the backmen -- they control the back, obviously." He smiles. "If one of the people from the audience would like to take the ball, and when I say, throw it, we can show you how this works." he rubs his hands together, and heads for the nack lion, saying something to Kam-po in Cantonese.
Elise attempts to find a position where she'll be able to see everything, rising on her toes so that her view remains unobstructed. A grin curves her lips and the writer is obviously intrigued.
Kei asks the crowd, "Who should like to throw first?"
"The boy!" Nathan offers
Tucker crosses his arms over his chest and leans against one of the pillars. What the heck is all this? His brow furrows a bit as he takes in all this. Maybe its some sort of parade? Or circus? As it is, none of the Chinese men are exactly dressed up like acrobats or clowns.
St. John glances at Zamir's call, his brows drawing down before he kneels and has a quiet conversation with Benjamin. The toddler nods, but then whispers something to his father who also nods. "It seems it will be both of us..." if that is permitted. No doubt the toddler is afraid to do it himself.
The drummer from Amoy does a drum-roll, and Kei rolls the decorated ball towards the pair. "Ho!" he says, and, glancing at Jing, heads towards the white lion.
The dum goes BOOM BOOM BOOM as he does this, and it's LOUD.
JingLu grins at St. John and Benjamin. "Throw it high." Then she turns to the red lion.
The child presses close to his father who stops the ball and hands it to Benjamin. It would seem that the drums are just a bit much for the boy, so St. John takes the decorated ball and tosses it high in the air, his son clinging to his leg.
White Lion shakes its head once Kei and his partner have gotten into it. When the ball goes up...the drums start to roll. Kei can be heard to shout "Gwoh Leh!" and the 'lion' shuffles forwards.
Red Lion shakes his head as JingLu shouts in Chinese, and UP the front end goes, the front legs pawing the air. They seem to be JingLu's feet, actually. The head shakes and the mouth flaps, but the ball is missed by a mile. With a neat little step, the front is landed and the lion seems to shake.
The drummer begins slowly and settles into a steady beat. BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
Red Lion seems to use the drum beat for coordination, taking steps on the beat, and moving toward the ball.
The ball rolls between JingLu's feet. It slows and begins to head for the edge of the mat, and towards the watchers
White Lion shoves up near the Red Lion now as the drumbeats go, ignoring the ball momentarily, apparently to pester her. He shakes his head and his eyelids, which move independently, start to blinks rapidly, as though he were flirting. The back of the lion rubs up against the back of the Red, and his head starts to shamke more violently. Apparently, it's normal for Chinese lions to do the bump.
St. John has moved out of the way with Benjamin, lifting the clinging child into his arms. The boy seems fascinated and a little afraid of the large dragons...
White Lion shouts using Kei's voice, taunting, "Mo OI leh! HEE HEE HEE!!!" (I LOVE you...)
O'Dwyer holds both dogs by the scruffs of the neck, as they yap ineffectually at the dancers.
An un-noticed until now Chinese man steps slightly forward, wrapping a counterpoint to the steady drum beats BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
Elise's grin widens even more, her entire attention riveted on the two lions. She looks away from them long enough to cast a bright smile to Rick before looking back.
Wincing at first at the loud drumbeats, Caitlin soon becomes used to them. She watches in amazement as the lions dance. Her puppy doesn't seem to like the noise much. She buries her head under Caitlin's scarf.
Red Lion rears up again, the front legs landing briefly on the White Lion's back before making a rather cool turn, so it is facing the ball again. It begins stalking the ball, much like a cat, with the head low to the ground, tilting from side to side. One of the back legs gives the White Lion a playful push as the back end wiggles around.
Rick moves a little closer to Elise as he watches the lions. "That's some dancing they're doing."
Between beats the drummer pulls small items out of a bag at his waist and tosses them to the watchers BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM . They turn out to be small simple instruments to shake or tap to make noise with. Grinning hugely the drummer waves his hand to encourage the watchers to join in. BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
White Lion sees this rebuff of his "advances", and scurries up to the Red Lion, kicking the ball HARD out of the way, and sliding down on the mat, so its head is on the ground, and its butt is high up in the air. Both head and butt get shaken violently, quickly, in twice-time to the drumbeats. The ball scurries towards the crowd, in particular, Elise and Rick.
Tucker thinks they should have this kinda thing at the circus. It sure the heck is more entertaining to watch than a couple stumble happy jugglers and brightly colored clowns. And he didn't even have to part with a nickel for this side show. William stands up straight and pushes up his hat with a stray thumb, his eyes still riveted on the show.
From inside the Red Lion, JingLu shouts something in Chinese.
St. John actually laughs at the playing 'lions', shaking his head and explaining in hushed tones to his son. The boy seems a bit wary, even though he can see people's legs.
As the lion sticks it's butt into the air, the drum beats speed up BOOMBOOMBOOMBOOMBOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
Red Lion jumps up and rebounds off White Lion's back end, doing another flip to change direction. The Red Lion then roars (two voices) and appears to charge right at Rick and Elise.
Elise scrambles back a bit in an attempt to avoid the approaching ball, most likely bumping into Rick as she does so. The writer is laughing, her eyes dancing with merriment.
From inside the White Lion, Kei shouts back to his backman, "Laih! Laih!"
Large teal eyes blink to the noise and then the sights as she moves slowly approaches the back outskirts of this event. Mariah dusts a hand through her ringlets as she watches these 'lions' perform.
Rick grins at Elise, then stoops down to pick up the ball and toss it back onto the mat, over the heads of the lions.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM the drums call.
White Lion rolls THREE times to approach the Red Lion, then vaults up, both dancers having the coordination to do this, as though it was practiced. It REARS up, and seeing the ball sail into the air, hops after it, the front end rearing up so high that Kei must be standing on his backman's shoulders. Its head shake-shake-shakes!
O'Dwyer is holding two small puppies, who have deiced to yap at the lions from inside his lap.
The ball bounces away from the White Lion and towards the Red.
From inside the White Lion, Kei can be heard shouting something in Chinese again. The tone sounds taunting. His backman is hears to cry a pained "Oi! Aiyah!" and starts yelling at Kei in Cantonese.
Caitlin's hands are full, but Owen catches one of the noisemakers and, after a little prodding from his sister, begins tapping it in time with the drumbeats.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
Elise's cheeks flush and she takes a step forward in order to give Rick more room. But she is still laughing and the amused grin hasn't left her lips.
Red Lion stops mere inches from Elise and Rick, and the head shakes at them as the Lion rears again, and then falls into a coordinated tumble. The tumble rolls backwards and the Red Dragon again gives a coordinated leap toward the ball, overshooting it. Red Lion rears up, the ball between the backman's feet, and the front legs swipe at the White Lion.
Benjamin actually smiles, holding onto his hobbyhorse with one hand and the other arm about his father's neck. He points to the dragons and says something that is drowned out by the drums. St. John watches actually thoroughly amused by this. His smile does pause as he catches sight of Mariah, watching her now as well as the lions.
The twanging gong weaves around the drum beats and the yelling in Cantonese BOOM twangggg BOOM BOOM twangggg BOOM twangggg BOOM BOOM
Rick grins at Elise, "I didn't want them to run you down."
White Lion for his part sees the daring Red Lion attempting to fight him, and he leaps up, front legs kicking in the air at her face. BOOM BOOM the legs go up, BOOM BOOM they go up again and flail at his opponent. Then he butts heads with her, eyelids and eyeBROWs waggling with apparent mischief. The White Lion begins to circle the red, butt in the air, and trying to dig between the Red Lion's front legs for the ball.
From inside the White Lion, Kei shouts "YAIH-POH!"
From inside the Red Lion, JingLu shouts again, a brisk command.
From inside the White Lion, Kei does the same.
BOOM twangggg BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM twangggg BOOM BOOM twangggg
Elise laughs, casting a mischievous glance up at Rick. "I appreciate it, I truly do." Then she looks back to the two lions, her attention diverted again.
Wistful is a good word for the young woman's mannerisms, though she really could properly restrain her hair. With soft movements she tries to watch the large playing cats, even though she doesn't understand the reason behind the event. Mariah's eyes link on St. John as she tries to stay along the outskirts until she feels a thump. With startled teal eyes she turns to see that she's run smack into Tucker's reclined form, spilling herself slightly in the process. "OH! I.. I'm sorry." Her soft ivory cheeks dust with a rose tint.
Red Lion rears up again, and lands solidly on the high wiggling butt of the White Lion, using it to vault into a forward roll. Amazingly, the back end manages to pick up the ball with his feet and to continue the forward roll, the whole Lion curling up into a ball. The Red Lion comes out of the ball near the far edge of the mats, with the ball in it's mouth.
BOOM BOOM twanggg YAIH-POH! BOOM BOOM BOOOMBOM BOOMBOOM BOOM twanggg
White Lion makes his head bob up and down quickly, with each drumbeat, and his body moves the same, Kei having to raise his lion head a little up above his head to create the effect. It looks as the though the lion were rising up and down on his tip-toes to the drumbeats. When he is leapt over, his head shakes ANGRILY, and he falls over, onto his back, legs wiggling up in the air in apparent defeat. The drums stop, and all that is left is the TWANG as the lion twitches.
From inside the White Lion, Kei wails, "Aiyah! You cheated!" at Jinglu, sounding comically injured by his lion's vanquishment.
Red Lion does a victory shake and rears once for the crowd.
The final TWANGGG lingers in the air a half beat after the Lion stops twitching
White Lion rolls over on his side, and his head flops over like he is exhausted, eyelids fluttering.
William Tucker was firmly engrossed into this strange display arrayed before him. When Mariah stumbles against him, he almost jumps out of his own skin, simple surprise almost causing him to fall himself in the process. He clenches Mariah briefly to right himself, one hand clenching tightly at her waist and the other raking itself across her breasts. His ears burn a slow crimson as he pulls himself away from Mariah and helps her to stand in the process. "'Scuse me Miss Johnson... I didn't see you there."
The drummer and he tranging-gong player bow, and step back into the dark beyond the brazier.
O'Dwyer starts to get up from the ground, holding a puppy in each arm.
Kei struggles from under the white lion, and immediately points at Jinglu, shouting at her with a pleased grimace. He then appeals to the crowd, "She cheated! She jumped on me!" He doesn't look ALL that upset. He bows to the audience.
The drummer and he twanging-gong player bow, and step back into the dark beyond the brazier.
O'Dwyer says, "Eh, now, Doctor Kei, how are we to tell if that's cheatin' or not. It could be just clever.""
Elise's cheeks are starting to ache from the constant grin that has been on her face since the dance began. At it's end, she applauds heartily, still grinning widely. "That was amazing!"
Rick asks, without sounding too worried about it, "Should I have left the ball where it was, or is it OK that I tossed it back onto the mat?"
Tearing his gaze away from Mariah as she stumbles into Tucker, offering his applause as Kei and JingLu clumb out of the lions. He encourages his child to applaud as well, tucking the hobbyhorse under his arm to free the child's hands.
JingLu looks as though she's just finished some vigorous excercise, breathing a bit heavily. That last stunt was apparently rather tough. She grins wickedly at Kei. "(I need to clean up. I am sweaty.)" Her backman also grins at Kei. Apparently this little maneuver was planned. She bows to the audience, wiping sweat from her forehead.
Nathan Zamir applauds too. A wide grin on his face. As well as one can applaud while holding a large puppy.
Kei points at O'Dwyer, "Oh...we know when it is cheating!" He laughs. "But you don't! So it is all well. We hope you enjoyed our Lion Dance. If you want...you can come see the inside of the lions, ask us any questions...ahh, thank you Miss Montgomery! Very pleased you like it." He claps for Kam-po, who comes out, looking a little out of breath, and the musicians who retreated from the crowed.
Caitlin joins in the applause, as much as she can with a puppy cradled in the crook of her arm. Owen does, too. He may not be into the Chinese customs, but he can appreciate the athleticism involved in all that.
Mariah opens her eyes wide as she finds herself rather IN the man's arms for a moment as he fights to right himself and she herself. "I.. it.." Her melodic voice dies upon her lips as she flushes a deep scarlet to where the man's hands fell before he backed away. "I fear it was my fault, I was caught up in this.. show.." Long golden lashes shimmer downwards to conceal her eyes in embarrassment before she turns to clap as well. The ringlets dancing about her features as she does.
O'Dwyer would clap, but has his arms full of puppy.
Kei responds to Jinglu very evenly, in Mandarin. "(You should have thought of that when you pulled that stunt.)" He approaches O'Dwyer, taking up his puppy and thanking the man for holding him. "Any questions?" he asks.
O'Dwyer says, "No. That was roight nice, if I say so myself. Very colorful. What are you goin' to name yer dog?""
William clears his throat, "Yessim..." is about the only reply he has to Mariah besides a warm smile. He joins in the general applause having missed the very end of the show. Oh well, he pretty well got the shape of the thing anyway. "That was real nice Doc, real nice." He nods and claps to the other Chinamen too, since they were as much a part of the show as Kei was.
Kei hmms? a little taken aback by the question. "Me?" He points to himself, then his puppy. "Ahh...well, I've called him Man-tai for the past few weeks, so I guess he will continue to be that." He ruffles the puppy. "He named himself. Man-tai means, 'problem', or 'nuisance'." He grins. "He's been that. Thank you Mayor Tucker! I am so glad you enjoyed." He looks genuinely relieved.
JingLu waves and gestures to the costumes. "Please, if you want to try, feel free to use the costumes, or to look at them. She is still breathing hard, but her breathing is slowing down, and the grin hasn't left her face. She walks to the verandah.
The other two backmen, Chan-Yu and Kam-po, bow when Kei yells back to them in Chinese. They bow. Kei must have translated -- they don't speak English.
JingLu bows again at all the compliments, smiling.
Kei grins at Jinglu. "We'll talk later," he tells her.
O'Dwyer says, "Eh. What you call someone, they become. You might want to call him, White Lion, since he was given to you on the night when you became that. They were lions, eh?""
"Oh! I made you miss the.." Her head hangs forward with a sigh as she again looks ashamed in her actions. Though those bright lens that compose her eyes seem to sparkle a bit while she looks back up to Tucker. Her eyes glance over the lions in curiosity now as if attempting to figure out what they are made of.
JingLu waves at everyone as she climbs the stairs to the verandah. "Thank you all!"
Opening up a pocketwatch, St. John gives a slight frown and hitches his son in his arms, "We should be getting back...thank you for the festivities." The child is probably conking out.
Kei simply shrugs at O'Dwyer. "You are correct, that is something to think about. What are you going to name your puppy?" He bows to St John, "Thank you so much for coming!"
O'Dwyer smiles. "What was told me tonight. I'm going to name him Meagher."
Elise inclines her head to Kei and offers a warm smile, "I should be getting back as well. It was a wonderful evening."
St. John turns to get his and Benjamin's things, meeting Mariah's eyes as they pass. A slight smile and a nod is given...he really can't tarry, not with the boy in his arms.
Kei bows sincerely to Elise. "You are very kind for coming! Hopefully, you can have this to write about. It is...different, I assume." He grins.
Tucker chuckles at Mariah, his head lowering closer to her ear, "Oh now... don't worry yourself about it Maam. Ahrm sure I can catch the ending to the show next year." His voice is a warm jumble of scolding mirth. He rests a hand along her back briefly, his slender fingers knuckling against her spine before he steps off the Verandah and approaches the Doctor.
O'Dwyer sits Meagher down. "Eh...thank you for holding this. It's been a hard winter, so far, now. I hope you enjoy what I brought you, Doctor." He starts off for the way out.
[Mariah] Appearing constantly out of place in the harsh west, this young woman stands at five foot nothing. Dancing around a slightly oval face are cascades of pure spun gold that are formed into swinging ringlets. Each curl finds its own place as it tapers down to the middle of her back in a careless tumble. Flashing beneath thin brows and surrounded by eyelashes the color of sunshine are bright teal eyes. The exact shade is a hard one to pin down, as it tints from blue to green, to settle on a shade mixed by both. Curiosity fills those orbs along with easy rapture as if she is in awe of everything she looks upon. Her nose is placed proportional to her features, though is slightly 'cute' as a few freckles scatter across the bridge of it. While not perfect, her lips do possess a soft cupid's bow, yet her lower lip seems slightly larger and more pouty. Sparkling white teeth are always found curved into a smile of welcome and genuine friendship. Her body seems curved in all the right places, however its covered for modesty sake. A prairie dress of soft azure covers her bust with a sweetheart neckline before falling to three-quarter length sleeves. Her hands appear pampered while the nails are filed into a square cut, yet covered in a clear polish to protect them. At her waist their is a sash of darker blue that tightens in slightly. Her waist could easily be enclosed in a large man's hands before the skirt covers her legs and hips to her ankles. Soft traveling boots are found on those small feet of hers, looking slightly scruffy, but well cared for.
Kei hms! at O'Dwyer. "You brought me something? Oh...you should not have." He flushes.
Mariah smiles softly to St. John a moment only to have her eyes pulled back by the man who touched her. "Um.. yes.. of.." Her voice stops there as he's already stepped off, so she scurries to St. John's side, "Can I walk you to the bridge?"
O'Dwyer says, "Ahhh...neighbors do that. Good night.""
Elise laughs and nods in agreement, "Indeed! In fact, my only complaint of the evening is that you gave me too many things to look at and made it almost impossible for me sociable less I miss something!" She winks with a grin and heads to the trail.
O'Dwyer starts to walk off limp less noticeable now, giving a shrill two tone whistle, and looking back at the puupy.
The four Chinamen are lingering near the side of the house. They are watching with curiosity, speaking with one another in rapid Cantonese. Unused to the presence of foreigners as Kei is, they are hanging back, which is much more common for their kind to do.
St. John gives a nod, "Of course, Miss Johnson..." Draping the coat over Benjamin's shoulders he offers his farewells to Kei and JingLu, "Thank you both for Benjamin's gift..."
Kei bows to St John, "Thank you for coming! We hope he enjoys."
Mariah smiles to Kei very softly as she prepares to walk off to the bridge. One small hand lifts to ruffle Benjamin's hair slightly, but not in horseplay. "Heya haven't seen you in a bit." Her voice then drops off as she waits.
Tucker waits patiently for most of the well wishers to say their thanks and farewell to Kei before stepping forward and offering his own, "Thank you again Kei, sorry Wilona couldn't make it. She musta got tied up." That seems to be the usual case these days. Now that William has actually managed to corner himself into the Mayor job so he could be closer to home, Wilona is more busy than ever. Such is the way things work from time to time. His eyes flicker a bit as he apologizes to Kei, a bit sad, a bit annoyed.
Moving to unhitch his horse, St. John doesn't mount him...instead, he merely holds the reins as he walks with Mariah and his son to the bridge. Benjamin smiles at Mariah but goes back to leaning his head on his father's shoulder.
Kei gives Tucker a gentle pat on the shoulder. "I am honored you came. You are so busy these days! I assumed you could not come, hmm?" He sighs. "And I empathize." No Gem.
Kei snaps his fingers, and says oh! "I DO have a special gift for you too...I was just too busy to get it for you. Have a moment?"
Caitlin and Owen step over towards Kei as well, waiting nearby while he speaks with Tucker.
Zamir steps back outside grinning oundlike an idiot at the ground slightly flushed.
William holds up his hands, palm up towards Kei, "Oh now.. you don't have to do that. This is your holiday after all... and I didn't get you anything." He shakes his head, smirking at Kei.
"You're not supposed to get me anything!" Kei retorts, grinning. He sees Caitlin and Owen, and bows to them. "Thank you both so much for coming. And Caitlin...well, thank you for being my apprentice." He grins.
"Was a fine party," Owen concedes, having enjoyed himself more than he expected to. This admission seems to please Caitlin to no end, and she smiles in response to Kei. "Thank /you/, Doctor. Especially for this." 'This' being the puppy, who sees fit to yap lightly when Caitlin looks at her. "I'll see you for rounds next time, then."
Kei bows twice in succession. "A very high praise from you, sir. Thank you."
Kei looks up at the sky, and sighs. "Just in time to remind us of the winter." he smiles to Caitlin. "Hai. If the puppy becomes a problem, she can stay here until spring. But...I think you can figure out what to do. She is quiet, after all."
Nathan, not grinning quite so hard now, unbuttons the top 2 buttons of his coat and sticks the puppy inside it. He bounces slightly on the tips of his toes, glancing periodically towards Kei.
Kei hmms? at Zamir. "What is it?" He is flushed, excited no one tried to blow up his house, and relieved that the party went well.
Caitlin smiles and nods, "I figure the worst Miss Johnson can say is she has to stay elsewhere." Though given some of the other goings-on in the boarding house, Caitlin can't imagine a puppy here or there being much of a problem. "Thank you." She smiles, seeming happier than she's been in awhile. A puppy, a brother, the possibility of a real home come spring... things are truly shaping up. "Good night, Doctor." Owen tips his hat as well, and the two of them start walking back to town.
Kei waves after Caitlin and Owen, still smiling...and gently caressing his own puppy, despite the fact that he fussed so much in getting him. "Thank you so much! I shall see you soon!"
Nathan draws up to full height and whispers in Kei's ear for a long moment.