A Brief Stroll

There's a tapping noise, at first steady and rythmic. But then it turns a bit less regular. Finally there's a series of taps, some at the same time and surely from more than one source. Critias emeres from around the side of the bleachers, with what appears to be a walking stick in each hand as he taps them against the ground experimentally.

Critias has a slightly reserved bearing, but heavy creasing wrinkles at his eyes and lips suggest he smiles quite often. Observing him long enough will show hints of an interest and curiousity in the world around him. A tall human, his skin is the color of chestnut. He keeps his dark hair cropped close to his scalp and wears an equally short beard spanning the width of his chin. His clothes are drab or earthy colors and worn loose and unrestricting with extra layers at the waist and shoulders. Both forearms are protected by darkwood bracers. A brownish quarter-cape of fur draped from his shoulders covers for the most part an intricately stylized necklace. A similarly colored hide skirt at his waist mostly obscures his finely crafted belt.

Asphodel's stride is quiet, and it is the nimble, quick quiet of elven feet. Her presence is notable first by scent, for her perfume or shampoo is of roses with petals that surely do not bloom during the day. Coming upon Critias, her pace slows, and while maintaining a respectful distance, she does speak up: "Excuse me, good sir... I find myself a bit lost in these Festival Grounds. Would you care to escort a young lady?" Her tone is playful, almost flirtatious. Critias smiles politely, and then inclines his head. "I'd be happy to. I must admit I'm a little new to this area myself. This city is huge, I don't doubt that some who have lived here all their lives, still haven't seen every part...where is it you were looking for?" "Oh, someone to talk to," Asphodel says, walking astride Critias and offering her arm. "It's new to me as well. Well. This version of the city. It seems to change so rapidly. And the fairgrounds are no different; why play games when you can chat?" She asks.

Critias transfers one of his walking sticks to the other hand, so that both are held in one hand...which leaves his other arm free to take the offered one. "This version of the city? You've been here before? That's amazing. Why read about history, when you can experience it," he smiles again as he echoes her words somewhat. "Even if second-hand."

Asphodel takes the arm, and does her share in support as the other walking stick. "Oh," She says, laughing quietly. "Seeing it at different moments in time is not the same as living through one of its many changes. You lose context, over the years. Friends and families you once knew move on, or you lose touch."

Critias nods. "I see. Still I don't think a description, or even a journal entry does a city like this justice. I'm glad I finally had a chance to visit." He tilts his head slightly to the side as if remembering something. "Ah, forgive me, my name is Critias."

"Asphodel," Asphodel replies. "And no, nothing quite does it justice. It is a majestic place to be. Things are a bit tense right now between my people, the Llyranesi, and Alexandria, but I have hope those of us doing good work can help."

"I hadn't realized," Critias muses. "I suppose current events and news is something else you can only learn about in person. What happened to cause this...ah tension, as you say. Does anyone know?"

"I think everybody knows," Asphodel says quietly. "It was not a fortuitous time to visit the city. And I'm sure my people are as much to blame as anyone. So far, the city has been kind," She notes, giving Critias' arm a gentle squeeze, and smiling nontheless as she slowly guides him to clear and clean pathways. "But I do fear what would happen if it were to turn ugly."

Critias says, “'Ugly' would be the right word for it, I fear." He follows along but then slows as they reach the path. "I'm also afraid that I need to go back to my own business." He releases her arm and then sets both walking sticks leaning against a bench. "It was a pleasure speaking with you, Asphodel.”