Crystal City Players/Logs/A Trio of Trouble

A Trio of Trouble was the eighth performance conducted by the Crystal City Players. It was a comedy, written by Siendra Vauns'Arotru.

Credits

Director/Cassandra - Ayrell Evyntine

Playwright/Narrator/Rowena - Siendra Vauns'Arotru

Connor - Ezerak Evyntine-Vershir

Sybal - Shaylynne Kendiahle

Jasper - Senthic Heru'Armiarma

Luca - Nyrhin Essrotha

Introduction

Lady of Elamiri Ayrell came through a thick dark curtain.

Ayrell smiles.

Ayrell curtsies gracefully.

Ayrell says, "Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the Shoan a Sidelkuloa."

Ayrell says, "Because our last production was something serious and somber, we decided this performance should be something a little more... lighthearted."

Ayrell smiles.

Ayrell says, "With that in mind, our very own Siendra Vauns'Arotru has written a wonderful play for you all to enjoy this evening."

Ayrell says, "Something light and that will hopefully bring smiles to everyone's faces."

Ayrell smiles.

Ayrell says, "So, without further ado, The Crystal City Players welcome you to our original production of - A Trio of Trouble."

(Ayrell curtsies gracefully one last time before making her way off the stage.)

Act One

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The curtain opens on a small group of young men gathered behind a large cauldron. They are in a wooded grove, the lights bright and cheery as they grin boyishly at one another. One shushes the other two and extends his hand reverently over the pot, releasing what appears to be a handful of dirt, rocks, and feathers into its depths.  The debris clatters against the bottom."

(Ezerak peers down into the cauldron, frowning.)

Ezerak exclaims, "Who forgot to add the water!"

(Senthic fidgets and sheepishly raises his hand.)

Senthic apologetically exclaims, "I left the jar at the river...oh, but look at this desiccated fish I found!" He digs it eagerly out of his pocket and the other two lean in with excited "ooh's" and "ahh's". After a moment they remember their task at hand once more. "Anyway, I'll go get it, hold on!"

(Senthic hurries out from behind the cauldron, his gait the gangly nonchalant stride of a young man just coming into adulthood. Glancing over his shoulder to be sure his companions aren't watching, he throws a cheeky wink to the audience before disappearing offstage.)

Nyrhin nervously asks Ezerak, "Hey, um, Connor? Do you really think this is going to work?"

(Ezerak, clearly the leader of the group, nods sagely.)

Ezerak says, "I'm sure of it, Luca! I saw it in a book and everything! There's nothing to worry about at all."

(Nyrhin looks rather less than relieved than before at this, but says nothing.)

(Senthic makes his way back onto the stage, waving a jar of water proudly over his head. There is an almost faceplant and a tiny bit of spillage in his excitement, but the near crisis is quickly averted. With added caution, he reaches the cauldron, and reverently hands the jar over to Connor.)

Ezerak solemnly asks, "Thank you, Jasper. Now, you all remember the words?"

(Ezerak watches as Jasper and Luca both nod, and then nods back conspiratorially.)

Senthic asks, "And you're sure this is gonna work?"

Senthic squints at Ezerak.

Nyrhin morosely says, "He read it in a book..."

Ezerak glances at Nyrhin.

Ezerak confidently exclaims, "It's gonna work. Now shush up and get ready!" They all lean in, visibly holding their breaths as Connor pulls out a small dagger and pricks his finger with a dramatic wince. He lets a single drop of blood fall into the cauldron before he intones, "Servants of the otherdark!"

Senthic chants in a tenor voice:

   "Hear us!"

Nyrhin chants in a countertenor voice:

   "Hear us!"

Ezerak chants in a baritone voice:

   "We command you to -"

Nyrhin quietly says, "Please..."

(Ezerak glances sternly at Luca, who shies away slightly while Jasper suppresses a snicker.)

Ezerak chants in a baritone voice:

   "We *command* you to come forth and obey us!"

Senthic chants in a tenor voice:

   "Obey us!"

Nyrhin chants in a countertenor voice:

   "Obey us...please, with a cherry on top!"

Ezerak scowls at Nyrhin.

Ezerak says to Nyrhin, "Keep that up and we'll be obeying them."

Ezerak clears his throat.

Ezerak chants in a baritone voice:

   "We call for three to serve your new masters!"

Ezerak yells, "Hucnunc!"

Senthic yells, "Hucnunc!!"

Nyrhin miserably says, "Hucnunc..."

(Ezerak waggles his fingers enthusiastically over the cauldron as the three of them finish their magic intonation.)

(Senthic leans forward giddily, fingers gripping the sides of the giant pot as he peers inside as though expecting to find something. His face falls with disappointment.)

Senthic exclaims, "There's nothing!"

Ezerak frowns.

Ezerak says, "Maybe it just takes a roisan..."

(Ezerak stands perfectly still, head cocked to the side as though listening carefully. Long moments pass.)

Nyrhin hopefully asks, "It didn't work?"

(Nyrhin lets out a deep sigh of relief, grinning.)

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "As Luca's breath brushes across the cauldron the lights suddenly begin to flicker and a crash of thunder shakes the theatre!  The boys all yelp and cower behind the kettle, disappearing from view as three female forms stalk into view.  The women, looking dark and mysterious, move like predators towards center stage."

(Shaylynne leads the trio forward, scowling at her surroundings.)

Shaylynne suspiciously says, "I don't see anyone..."

Ayrell says, "Perhaps they were smart and ran away."

Ayrell smirks.

Siendra sadly says, "Oh, but it's been so very long since we've dined on fresh meat."

(Nyrhin gives a startled little squeak at these words, and all three women snap their heads towards the cauldron.)

Shaylynne glances at Ayrell.

Ayrell glances at Siendra.

Siendra glances at Shaylynne.

(Shaylynne nods to the other two and then stalks towards the cauldron.)

Shaylynne sweetly exclaims, "Come out, come ooout!"

(Ayrell taps her fingers teasingly against the metal belly of the pot, the sound echoing ominously.)

Siendra sniffs the air around her.

Siendra says, "I can smell their delicious fear..."

Shaylynne smiles wickedly and leans over the cauldron. As she does, the heads of the three boys pop up, bringing them face to face.

Shaylynne sweetly says, "Oh, hello."

Ezerak loudly exclaims, "We weren't doing anything!"

Senthic says, "Well, Connor was doing things..."

Ezerak exclaims, "Shut up, Jasper!"

Nyrhin quickly exclaims, "It was both of them and they -made- me do it!"

Senthic exclaims, "Shut up, Luca!"

(Senthic pushes at Luca, who pushes at Connor, who pushes at both of them.)

Shaylynne sternly exclaims, "Silence, all of you!"

(Nyrhin squeaks again as his head disappears from sight. The other two snap their mouths shut, ignoring their friend as they stare at the women with wide eyes.)

Ayrell says, "It takes three to summon three. You cannot hide your involvement, silly little mouse."

(Ayrell rolls her eyes as she says this, crossing her arms and sneering down at the boys.)

Siendra disdainfully asks, "They are terribly stringy little mice, aren't they. How old are you all? 9? 10?"

(Ezerak blinks dumbly.)

Ezerak bewilderedly says, "What? No, we're...17..."

Siendra scoffs.

Siendra says, "Surely not. Where is the muscle, the height? Where I came from, by 17 the men are bigger than bears..."

(Senthic grumbles that he does have muscles, thank you very much, and kicks at the ground in a pout.)

Ayrell nods at Siendra, obviously agreeing with her views.

Ayrell asks, "This must just be a small world, Evanora. Well, what are we to do with them, Sybal?"

Ayrell cocks her head at Shaylynne.

Shaylynne asks, "An excellent question, Cassandra." She straightens, crossing one arm across her body and propping her other elbow upon it, resting her chin in her hand. "Tell me, why did you summon us?"

(Senthic glances at Connor expectantly.)

Ezerak makes a grunting noise.

Ezerak hesitantly says, "We just wanted...you see, we were hoping..."

Nyrhin exclaims, "He didn't want to do his chores!"

(Nyrhin pops up and prods an accusatory finger at Connor.)

Ezerak shoves futilely at Nyrhin.

Ezerak exclaims, "Shut UP, Luca!"

Senthic says, "But it's true! You told us to do your laundry and we said nuh-uh and then you said you'd find someone who listened to you and -."

Shaylynne frowns, shaking her head with an expression of exasperation before resting her face in the palm of her hand.

Shaylynne incredulously asks, "Oh, for...so you all summoned us...to do *laundry*?"

Shaylynne glances at Ayrell.

Ayrell glances at Siendra.

Siendra glances at Shaylynne.

Ezerak gulps.

Ezerak says, "Well, I mean..."

(Ayrell clucks her tongue, gazing at the boys. They shrink together behind the cauldron.)

Nyrhin asks, "Are you g-going to e-eat us?"

Siendra growls at Nyrhin.

Siendra licks her lips.

Nyrhin exclaims, "Eep!"

Shaylynne appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Szarevar says, "Seventeen is nice and such, but the most important number in the universe is seven.

Shaylynne says, "Oh, no. Certainly we cannot eat those that have summoned us. No, I think we have much more in store for you..."

Shaylynne glances at Ayrell.

Ayrell nods to Siendra.

Siendra grins wickedly.

(Siendra advances on the boys, raising her arms from her sides to summon a strong wind that whips around the stage. The boys yell and try to run, but find themselves cut off from escape whichever way they turn. The lights flicker and go out, leaving the cackling of the witches echoing in the dark.)

Act Two

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The cacophony of chaos on stage dissipates from the darkness, until all that can be heard is the hushed movement of stagehands setting up the next scene.  When the lights come up once more the setting is pleasant and peaceful.  A small village is painted into the distance and trees line the stage."

(Ezerak strolls casually into view, standing tall with the confidence a few years has brought him. He is followed by his trusty sidekicks.)

Ezerak confidently says, "Did you see how Sasha was looking at me last night? I think it may be time I ask her out. I'm sure she's been waiting for me."

Senthic rolls his eyes.

Senthic says, "Sasha is *engaged*, if you recall, Connor. If anything she was probably 'checking out' that scrubland of a mustache you've been trying to grow for a month now."

(Ezerak self-consciously runs a finger over the small patch of growth above his upper lip.)

Ezerak says, "Hey..."

Nyrhin chortles softly at some secret joke.

Nyrhin says, "Jasper's right. There's no way you could have won Sasha over, anyway. Her father is the judge, for goddess' sake! Everyone knows what sort of trouble you get into."

Ezerak scoffs.

Ezerak says, "It's the ones that are supposed to be good that like the bad boys, you know. Besides, maybe I could just ask Sybal if she would -."

Senthic sternly exclaims, "No. You can't just abuse her power like that. She does enough for you!"

Nyrhin says, "Except your laundry..."

Senthic snickers.

Senthic holds his hand out towards Nyrhin for a highfive.

Nyrhin grins.

Nyrhin drops his hand down low and Senthic responds by bringing his own hand down onto Nyrhin's hand in a gesture of camaraderie.

Ezerak grinds his teeth.

Ezerak exclaims, "*They're* the ones who decided to stay when we summoned them. Scaring us witless with half a hurricane and then sweet-talking out a deal." He mutters to himself before snorting. "I might as well get what I can out of it!"

You hear a voice exclaim, "Oh Connor!"

(Ezerak yelps as Sybal slips into view.)

Ezerak says, "Sybal! We were just...um..."

Shaylynne wryly exclaims, "Talking about me?" She grins at the shame-faced men. "Well, who wouldn't be? But I have such good news for you, Connor!"

Ezerak blinks at Shaylynne.

Ezerak suspiciously asks, "What is it?"

Shaylynne exclaims, "I've done your laundry!"

Ezerak gasps!

Ezerak exclaims, "Really? You did? Finally, after all these years!"

(Ezerak whoops with joy and runs off stage. The sounds of drawers being pulled from a dresser and tossed to the floor can be heard before Connor stomps back on stage.)

Senthic glances at Nyrhin.

Nyrhin glances at Senthic.

Ezerak darkly says, "Sybal."

Shaylynne sweetly asks, "Yes?"

Ezerak asks, "Where did you put my laundry after doing it?"

(Shaylynne purses her lips thoughtfully, tapping one slender forefinger against her chin.)

Shaylynne innocently says, "Did I not put them away? Hmm, where did they go..."

Senthic blinks.

Senthic says, "Is that..."

(Ezerak glances to where Jasper points, everyone now watching in complete silence as a raccoon - a very well-dressed raccoon - trundles into view. It stops and chitters curiously at the group, its red dress shirt and pressed trousers perfectly tailored to its form. With one last snuffle it waddles its way off the other side of the stage and disappears. Connor turns to Sybal slowly.)

Ezerak says, "Did you..."

Shaylynne asks, "Oh, yes, that's right! I resized them to dress the animals, aren't they just darling?"

Nyrhin begins to giggle, then bursts out in a silly laugh.

Nyrhin admiringly says, "Just fantastic."

Ezerak says, "Shut up, Luca..."

Ezerak grumbles.

Senthic flashes a quick grin at Nyrhin.

Senthic says, "They look fantastic, Sybal. Turns out you're very good at laundry."

Nyrhin looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Nyrhin says, "Quite fetching in a feral way, really."

Ayrell says to Senthic, "I could do yours if you like."

(Ayrell slinks into view, making Jasper jump slightly.)

Senthic gives Ayrell a wry grin.

Senthic says, "No, thank you, Cassandra. I like my clothes just as they are."

Ayrell grins at Senthic.

Ayrell tweaks Senthic's nose!

Nyrhin suspiciously says, "And where is Evanora?" He glances around, looking tense. "She can't be far behind you two..."

Siendra suddenly appears out of thin air, arms waving wildly and making loud, weird noises, and jumps at Nyrhin who shrieks in surprise.

Nyrhin clutches his chest in mock horror.

Siendra laughs with delight, her eyes full of merriment.

Siendra asks, "Hello, Luca. What have you boys been up to today?"

(Siendra links arms with Luca, showing an easy camaraderie despite his air of nervousness around her.)

Ezerak proudly exclaims, "We were out by the river all morning, catching dinner. Fresh fish!"

Shaylynne says, "Well, look at you! A man can be taught to fish."

(Shaylynne grins at Connor as he makes a face back at her.)

Senthic says, "We stopped by the market for a few things as well." He pats the heavy haversack at his side. "Yarn for your sewing, Cassandra, and some fruits and vegetables."

Ayrell asks, "Such a good boy." She pats Jasper's cheek, and the young man beams. "Let's get all this home then, hm?"

Act Three

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "With that, the motley crew moves off, talking easily amongst themselves as the stage lights dim.  The curtain closes behind them as the scene is shifted on stage, opening up once more to a cozy kitchen setting.  Luca and Evanora sit at the table, shelling peas.  Luca looks decidedly uncomfortable."

Siendra lightly says, "You just need to talk to her, Luca. I do not understand what is so difficult about that."

Nyrhin splutters.

Nyrhin exclaims, "It's... it's talking! To a girl!"

Siendra says, "To a *woman*."

Nyrhin exclaims, "That's even scarier!"

(Siendra tosses a pea at Luca, laughing.)

Siendra gently says, "Luca...none of them can be more terrifying than me and yet here you sit."

Nyrhin gazes down at the floor.

Nyrhin says, "Well, yes, but you're *you*. And... I mean, yes, you are probably the most terrifying person I've ever met -."

Siendra preens. Someone's pleased with herself!

Nyrhin exclaims, "But I'm not trying to court you!"

(Siendra gives an unladylike snort, putting down her handful of peapods and leaning forward on the table. She gazes earnestly at her companion.)

Siendra asks, "What if we could help you?"

(Nyrhin leans back, as if to escape Evanora's piercing gaze.)

Nyrhin says, "I-I don't want you to hex Deanna or anything..."

Siendra asks, "No, no! Just a bit of practice. What do you say?"

Nyrhin gnaws on his lip.

Nyrhin hesitantly says, "Okay..."

(Siendra claps her hands gleefully and leaps up, startling Luca.)

Siendra exclaims, "Now just stay here, don't move, I'll have everything ready in a moment!"

(Siendra rushes from the room, leaving a dazed Luca behind.)

(Nyrhin gazes after Evanora, his face set in a grimace. "What have I done," he mutters to himself, before picking up more peas to shell while he waits. There is a silence that sets Luca even more on edge before a woman's startled gasp has him standing quickly.)

Nyrhin frantically asks, "Evanora? Was that you? Are you okay?"

(Siendra pokes her head around the doorway.)

Siendra exclaims, "Not to worry, Luca, it is going splendidly. Even better than expected, really. Just putting the finishing touches on her now!"

(Siendra disappears again with a little wave.)

Nyrhin blinks.

Nyrhin exclaims, "Her who?? Evanora!"

(Nyrhin sigh and drops back into his seat in defeat, with nothing to do but wait.)

(Senthic appears suddenly in the doorway, almost unidentifiable but for a playful grin - as he has become most decidedly female. A sensible dress of periwinkle sits well on the newly feminine form, and longer locks of hair frame a softer-featured face.)

Nyrhin gawks at Senthic.

(Siendra strolls back into the kitchen, admiring her handiwork.)

Siendra asks, "Isn't she lovely?"

(Senthic bats her eyelashes at Evanora, before dissolving into giggles.)

Siendra grins at Senthic.

(Ayrell enters from the other door, offering a greeting to her companions. She stops suddenly as she catches sight of the strange woman.)

Ayrell asks, "Who...?"

Ayrell squints at Senthic.

Senthic shifts uncomfortably for a moment.

Ayrell blinks.

Ayrell laughs with delight, her eyes full of merriment.

Ayrell exclaims, "Oh, Evanora, what *have* you done to my darling Jasper!"

Useff says, "That is a lovely dress, I have to admit."

Siendra exclaims, "I am trying to help Luca feel more comfortable around women. And what better way than to provide him with one who is also a best friend!"

Ayrell exclaims, "What an inspired idea!"

Ayrell pulls Senthic towards her!

Ayrell says, "I have some dresses that would look absolutely beautif-."

Senthic shoves futilely at Ayrell.

Senthic laughingly exclaims, "One thing at a time, Cassandra! I have a job to do first!"

(Nyrhin finally shakes off his surprise. He looks bashfully at Jasper.)

Nyrhin says, "You do look nice..."

Siendra says, "Look at that, you're already doing quite well, Luca! Now come, let's see what we can do here." She urges them both onto the bench before arranging Jasper's hair to drape more alluringly. Nodding in approval, she steps back. "Luca, meet... Jessica."

Senthic groans.

Senthic exclaims, "So...boring...couldn't I be Jesabel? Ooh, or Jasmyn - with a 'y'!"

Ayrell giggles.

Senthic glowers darkly at Ayrell.

Senthic sighs deeply, looking very depressed.

(Senthic takes a deep breath and flips her hair over one shoulder before leaning towards Luca.)

Senthic coyly says to Nyrhin, "You look so handsome today, Luca."

Nyrhin gulps.

Nyrhin says, "Th-this isn't going to work..."

Ezerak asks, "What isn't going to work?"

(Ezerak comes into the kitchen with Sybal just behind, snatching an apple from the basket on the counter. Just as he's about to take a bite he pauses, eyes going wide.)

Ezerak asks, "Heeeey, who's this lovel - ack! Jasper??"

(Senthic sits back, wiggling a little as she adjusts to the experience of wearing a dress.)

Senthic says, "Hello Connor. Sybal."

(Shaylynne's eyes light up with merriment and she cackles out loud, head thrown back!)

Ezerak says, "Oi, Jasper, what..." He ducks his head as though there's some great conspiracy in what he's about to say, despite his friend's current state being quite obvious. "What's going on, Jas? You...you're a *girl*."

Senthic flatly says, "Yes, thank you, Connor. I'm well aware. And since I was a *man* before, I prefer to be called a woman."

Senthic sticks his nose up in the air haughtily.

Ezerak quietly says to himself, "Well, at least some things haven't changed about him."

Ezerak asks, "Oh," he straightens back up, glancing at Cassandra. She points to Evanora, who waggles her fingers playfully as Connor's gaze falls on her. "You, uh... you did this?"

Siendra says, "I surely did! We're helping Luca get over his fear of talking to women."

(Nyrhin edges closer to the table, apparently trying to disappear beneath it.)

Shaylynne thoughtfully says to Ezerak, "We can turn others into all manner of things. Perhaps I could turn you into that little beast of burden you often remind me of."

Ezerak edges away from Shaylynne.

Ezerak scowls.

Ezerak says, "Perhaps we finally send you back where you came from."

(Shaylynne gazes at Connor as silence falls over the kitchen. No one moves, and there is a sudden chill in the air.)

Shaylynne lightly says, "We could go 'back,' as you say, at any time we wish."

Ayrell quietly says, "Sybal, he didn't mean it."

(Ayrell rests her hand on Sybal's arm to calm her friend, glancing worriedly at Evanora.)

(Siendra gently ushers Luca and Jasper from their seats and out of the kitchen, coming back in to stand beside Connor protectively. She makes sure to give him a serious sidelong glance as she does so, however.)

Siendra asks, "We're not going back, Sybal, and they don't want us to either. Do you, Connor?"

Ezerak says, "I don't, you know I don't! I was just... that was stupid. I'm sorry."

(Shaylynne seems to relax ever so slightly, though her gaze still pierces into Connor.)

Shaylynne tersely says, "It is fine."

(Shaylynne turns to leave, but stops as Connor reaches out and grabs her arm. She turns on him, eyebrow raised. He releases her quickly.)

Ezerak says, "Erm, it's just...while we're here...on the subject...I was wondering...where is 'back', anyway? You've never told us anything and we have always wanted to know..."

(Senthic pokes her head around the corner of the scene, and Luca's face appears below, as if they had been waiting just out of sight for this moment.)

Shaylynne glances at Ayrell.

Ayrell glances at Siendra.

Siendra glances at Shaylynne.

Siendra exclaims, "Oh, we might as well tell them. It's certainly been long enough. Ah, but first!"

(Siendra claps Jasper hard on the back and a billow of smoke fills the stage. As it settles, Jasper is revealed as returned to his original form, trousers and all. He looks somewhat disappointed about it.)

Siendra exclaims, "Alright then, sit down and listen up." The young mens' faces light up and they immediately take their seats at the table expectantly. "But finish shelling these peas while you listen!"

Ayrell smiles as the young men dutifully do as bid, and leans against the counter.

Ayrell wistfully says, "We didn't know each other before we were sent away, nor any of the other hundreds of witches we met there. But we were all of us outcasts, shunned for having dabbled in the magical arts. Those that exiled us thought they were cursing us, but really they had freed us."

Shaylynne holds up her hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture.

Shaylynne says, "Besides the whole 'involuntary summoning' thing, that is..."

Ayrell waves dismissively.

Ayrell says, "Yes, yes, but we've had our fun with that."

Siendra grins wickedly.

Siendra ominously says, "So much fun..."

Nyrhin glances at Siendra.

Nyrhin asks, "You didn't really eat people... did you?"

Siendra exclaims, "So, as Cassandra was saying! It was good, 'back there,' wherever that is. I don't think anyone rightly knows. But then we were summoned by three silly boys and we thought, this could be a fun little adventure!"

Shaylynne smiles despite herself and nods, taking a seat at the table.

Shaylynne asks, "But I suppose you'd like to hear all about the rest, though, hm?"

Act Four

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The boys nod emphatically, leaning in close, and as the three witches regale them with stories of magic and mystery the lights dim on the stage.  Darkness falls, and so does a hushed silence, broken only by the muffled bumps and scrapes of the scene change.  The lights come up once more, though not so bright, indicating the outside of the house at twilight.  Cassandra paces on the doorstep, glancing worriedly into the distance."

Ayrell mutters something into the air about should have been home by now.

Ayrell wrings her hands nervously.

(Shaylynne steps out of the house, stopping Cassanda's pacing with a gentle hand to her friend's shoulder.)

Shaylynne says, "Cassandra, what is it? You've nearly walked a moat into the front yard."

Ayrell says, "Jasper should have come back from the village by now. Something just feels wrong."

Ayrell gazes off into the distance.

Shaylynne says, "I'm sure he's fine. He probably just met up with a few - oh."

(Shaylynne's voice trails off as Jasper comes limping into view, holding his side painfully.)

(Ayrell gives a strangled cry of concern and rushes forward, gripping at Jasper too tightly in her need to look him over.)

Senthic winces.

Senthic painfully says, "Oof, Cassandra, that hurts!" He relaxes slightly as the woman lets him go, though he cannot escape her scrutinizing gaze. "I'm fine, though. Really."

Shaylynne says, "You are most certainly not. What happened?" She holds her hand up as Jasper opens his mouth to respond. "And *do not* say you 'fell'."

(Senthic closes his mouth and pouts, hoping to get away with not saying anything at all. Neither woman is budging, however, and he quickly resigns himself to answer.)

Senthic hesitantly says, "It was a few of the men from the village." The witch's faces go dark at these words, and Jasper tries quickly to calm them. "It's okay, they were just frustrated with... their crops aren't great, and they are jealous of ours. They're hungry and upset."

Ayrell tensely says, "And they blame us, don't they."

Siendra says, "Of course they do."

(Siendra has come out of the front door, leaning in the frame while Connor and Luca peer out from behind her. She frowns as she looks at Jasper.)

Siendra says, "We can go turn them into frogs..."

Shaylynne says, "No, dear Evanora, I don't think that will help this situation."

Siendra says, "Just one?" She sighs as everyone gives her a stern look. "Ah, fine, fine. Have it your way."

(Siendra slips back inside the house with a shrug, leaving Connor and Luca to move forward and check on their friend.)

Ezerak asks, "Are you alright, Jasper?"

(Ezerak worries over Jasper despite the other man's protests. Once he is satisfied his friend is not in any mortal danger he looks between Jasper and Luca.)

Ezerak says, "We can't just let them continue this. It continues to get worse and I'd hate to see where it ends. Perhaps we can call a meeting with the heads of the village?

Surely we can all talk this out."

Shaylynne gazes fondly at Ezerak.

Shaylynne says, "Look at you, thinking rationally for once. But you don't think it would be dangerous? They've never been comfortable with us being here ever since we revealed ourselves."

Nyrhin snorts, loudly.

Nyrhin gruffly says, "That's their problem, then, isn't it. Just because you help us doesn't mean you've been hindering them. They just want someone to blame."

(Nyrhin blushes as everyone looks towards him. He shifts his weight but continues.)

Nyrhin says, "I'm just saying, Connor is right. We need to stop this before it gets worse."

Senthic says, "I agree. And you three can come... so long as you behave. Especially you, Evanora." He glances into the still-open doorway. Evanora's head appears from inside.

She scowls at Jasper, who sternly says,  "No frogs."

Siendra says, "No fun."

Siendra sticks her tongue out at Senthic.

Ayrell says, "Then let's go in the morning and settle this awful business. Agreed?" Her companions all nod in ascension, and she lets out a breath. "But for now let's get some rest. It's late. And Jasper, let me tend to your injuries."

(Ayrell takes Jasper's hand gently, and the two lock eyes for a moment longer than necessary before Cassandra leads him into the house.)

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The others share silent but knowing glances before following the two inside.  The lights descend into darkness, and everything is still on stage.  Slowly the lights come up, a rooster crowing in the dawn, but there remains no movement from the house.  Only distant chatter can be heard from offstage."

Act Five

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "Suddenly a large frog hops into view, croaking loudly.  It sits contentedly in the center of the stage for a moment before it's startled by the entrance of the residents of the house, who are talking excitedly amongst themselves.  With an annoyed *ribbit* the frog exits, causing the group to stop in surprise."

Siendra blinks.

Siendra quickly exclaims, "That wasn't me!"

(Ezerak laughs and pats Evanora on the back.)

Ezerak exclaims, "We know, Evanora, we know. You all did wonderfully this morning, really. And you all get to stay!"

Shaylynne glances at Ayrell.

Ayrell glances at Siendra.

Siendra glances at Shaylynne.

(Nyrhin furrows his brow as the witches exchange looks between themselves.)

Nyrhin asks, "And you're all okay with... with helping out the rest of the village?"

Shaylynne says, "It is a small price to pay."

Shaylynne smiles as she looks at the young men, and then offstage to the unseen village beyond.

Shaylynne distantly says, "I am glad we could resolve this. It will help..." She trails off, not finishing the sentence right away. She chews on her lip thoughtfully for a moment. "It will help everyone move on from all of this."

Ayrell says, "Yes, and a few extra spells to extend the reach of prosperity is an easy feat."

Senthic wryly says, "I'm sure you'll *barley* break a sweat."

(Senthic cackles while everyone else groans, Connor punching him on the shoulder. Together with Luca the young men move into the house, laughing easily together. The witches watch them silently.)

Ayrell quietly says, "It seems there is something we need to discuss, my dearest friends."

(Ayrell gazes sadly at Sybal and Evanora, and the three women move away from the house so as not to be overheard by the men inside.)

Shaylynne gently says, "I will not be coy...we all know this means it is only a matter of time before the village starts asking for more and more to be kept happy." Cassandra and Evanora nod sadly in agreement. "We need to begin preparing to return from whence we came."

Siendra sighs deeply, looking very depressed.

Siendra says, "It has been ever so much fun."

(Ayrell worries her lower lip, looking back towards the house.)

Ayrell asks, "It certainly has. Let us be sure they are settled before we leave them?"

Shaylynne smiles reassuringly at Cassandra.

Shaylynne says, "Of course we will. But come, for now we should celebrate with them."

Act Six

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The women linger a moment longer, preparing themselves before joining their comrades.  As they made their way back to the house the light dims and the curtain closes.  From behind it can be heard the deliberate sounds of construction, mingled with the comfortable noises of everyday life in fast forward.  Suddenly the curtain opens with a flair, revealing two houses on stage now.  Between them stand the group of friends, all dressed in stunning evening wear."

Nyrhin wrings his hands.

Nyrhin nervously exclaims, "Do I look alright? Connor, you have the rings? She didn't run, did she? Ohh, she did, didn't she! She's probably run off with the butcher, damn him and his muscles!"

(Siendra reaches over and clamps her hand over Luca's mouth, startling him and silencing him.)

Siendra says, "Luca, my dear, I'd hate for you to walk down the aisle with your mouth stuck shut. It would make your vows so very difficult."

Nyrhin whimpers softly.

Ezerak exclaims, "Ah, Evanora, give the poor guy a break. It's his wedding day!"

(Ezerak beams at Luca and wraps a friendly arm around his shoulder, jostling his friend cheerfully.)

Ezerak says, "You look great. I've got the rings right in my pouch here, and Deanna is all dressed and ready and *excited* to marry you."

Senthic exclaims, "She's beautiful, Luca. You're a lucky man. Connor and I can only hope to get so lucky!"

(Senthic glances at Cassandra and quickly away as he says this, clearing his throat.)

Shaylynne exclaims, "Everything is perfect, Luca. We'll go find our seats now and let you boys get to it!"

(Shaylynne links arms with Cassandra and Evanora, and the three women swoop down quickly to give the flustered Luca a group hug before striding off full of laughter.)

Ezerak grins wryly.

Ezerak asks, "Well...are you ready?"

Nyrhin inhales a great swallow of air.

Nyrhin beams!

Nyrhin joyfully says, "Yes."

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "A lively wedding march begins, and one by one the men move off-stage.  Luca brings up the rear, gazing fondly to where all of his friends have disappeared.  With his head held high, he follows them."

Act Seven

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "As the stage falls vacant, the lights begin moving in such a way so as to denote the passage of a day, from low on one side of the stage to high overhead and back down low on the opposite side.  This repeats slowly at first, and then faster and faster until it stops suddenly at the peak of its revolution."

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "Five figures step onto stage - Connor, Jasper, Sybal, Cassandra, and Evanora.  The men appear slightly more aged, while the women remain the same as ever.  They walk in silence, their arms full of produce."

(Ezerak drops his haul on the table between the houses before straightening and wiping his brow. He flops down in one of the chairs, grinning.)

Ezerak tiredly exclaims, "All this bounty is a lot of work, but it sure is worth it!"

(Senthic places his armful beside Connor's before snatching a ripe apple from the pile and biting into it. He offers it to Cassandra as she walks up beside him.)

(Ayrell grins at Jasper and leans in to take a bite for herself as she deposits her own share of the harvest, while Sybal and Evanora do the same, filling the table with produce. Cassandra closes her eyes as she savors the fruit in her mouth.)

Ayrell exclaims, "Ohh, the apples are delicious this year!"

Siendra says, "They had better be, I threw a few of my extra special puppy ears into the spell sachet for them." She cackles as the two men glance sidelong at her. "Oh for goddess' sake, the weather has just been good for the crops this year."

(Siendra gets to work organizing the bounty on the table before her, smiling as Sybal moves in to help.)

(Shaylynne lets her hair fall in front of her face, blocking herself from the view of the others while she gives Evanora a weighty look. Evanora's smile falters, but she nods. Without hesitation Sybal tosses her hair back and straightens.)

Shaylynne says, "Connor, Jasper, there's something we need to discuss."

Ezerak cocks his head at Shaylynne.

Ezerak hesitantly says, "If it's about Luca's share, I remembered to take everything into account. Extra for Deanna to keep her strength up, with a focus on protein and grains -."

(Shaylynne raises her hand to stop Connor before he begins rambling.)

Shaylynne says, "No, not that. I know you worked hard to ration things equally, and I have no doubt Deanna will give birth to the healthiest baby this village has ever seen."

She rests her hand on Connor's shoulder.  "There is no easy way to say this, so I will just say it.  We have overstayed our time here, greatly, and will be returning from whence we came."

Ayrell frowns.

Ayrell asks, "Wait... what?"

Siendra gently says, "The spells are well in place, and the village is set for years to come. And you boys are..."

(Siendra "tch's" quietly, unable to voice the sentiment.)

Shaylynne says, "You boys have excelled, and will do so much more good here. This is the right time. Luca is building a beautiful family. Connor, you will be sitting on the village council in no time with your leadership and empathy. And Jasper..."

(Senthic makes a sort of strangled sound as he's addressed, his gaze helpless.)

Siendra says, "Jasper, you will have Cassandra."

(Ayrell's eyes widen in shock, even as both her and Jasper's bodies seem to relax towards each other.)

Ayrell quaveringly says, "Sybal... Evanora..."

Shaylynne smiles at Cassandra, brushing a tear from her friend's face. Though her own eyes glisten, she remains strong.

Shaylynne earnestly says, "This is all right. Just as it should be."

Ezerak angrily asks, "But if Cassandra can stay, that means you two can as well!" He looks desperately between Sybal and Evanora, his face falling as they give no sign of recanting their decision. "I just... what do we do without you?"

(Ezerak sits heavily down at the table, his head in his hands.)

Shaylynne says, "Great things, my dearest Connor. You will do great things."

Act Eight

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The lights dim around the group until the stage is in darkness, silence falling like a blanket over the theatre.  There is a stillness to the end of the scene, a pause that stretches before a soft light rises once more upon the stage.  Connor sits exactly as he had been before, though he is alone now.  Cassandra exits the house and steps towards him, taking a deep breath of the morning air and gazing upward.  Neither of them speak for a long moment."

Ezerak sadly says, "They've gone. So quickly... so quietly..."

(Ezerak doesn't look up, though he drops his hands from his face to rest on the table.)

Ayrell lightly says, "They would not want to draw the decision out. And they are not much for goodbyes."

(Ayrell moves to Connor's side, rubbing a hand over his hunched shoulders. He glances up at her, and she smiles wanly down at him.)

Ayrell says, "I have known them for ages longer than you. It is their way, and I love them for it despite myself."

Ezerak asks, "I'm sorry, I know you will miss them greatly." He pauses, his lips pursing. "You don't resent being left here, do you?"

Ayrell laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Ayrell says, "Not at all. This is something I think I've needed for a long time."

(Ayrell gazes towards the house, her smile turning warm.)

Ezerak smirks.

Ezerak says, "You know...Sybal did my laundry before she left. Proper magic, too. My clothes have never been cleaner, or more organized! Why she couldn't do that trick all the other years she was here..."

(Ezerak grumbles, clearly trying not to grin.)

Ayrell laughs!

(Senthic steps out of the house and huffs, drawing the attention of his companions.)

Senthic cheekily says, "She did mine, too."

(Senthic holds up a scandalous-looking gown that had clearly been left for him, and the three burst into full laughter. Jasper strides over to them, laying the dress on top of the produce and pulling Cassandra to his side.)

Ezerak says, "It really brings out your eyes, Jas." He stands, clapping his friend on the back. Jasper nods in agreement, preening. "Well, then? I suppose it's the three of us now."

Ayrell happily says, "Three is a wonderful number."

You hear a voice recite from the shadows:

   "The lights go down for the final time, a soft yet cheerful tune wafting from the orchestra pit as the curtain lowers."

Curtain Call

(Ayrell gracefully makes her way back onto the stage.)

Ayrell smiles.

Ayrell says, "Let us give a round of applause for our wonderful cast."

Senthic grins sheepishly.

Siendra grins at Senthic.

Ayrell exclaims, "Siendra, Senthic, Shaylynne, Ezerak, and Nyrhin!"

Siendra blushes a bright red color.

Nyrhin bows.

Ezerak bows.

Siendra exclaims, "And Ayrell!"

Ayrell smiles at Siendra.

Senthic looks at Siendra and applauds!

Ezerak applauds.

Senthic looks at Ayrell and applauds!

Shaylynne curtsies gracefully.

Senthic looks at Ezerak and applauds!

Senthic looks at Shaylynne and applauds!

Senthic looks at Nyrhin and applauds!

Ayrell exclaims, "And an extra round of applause for our playwright!"

Siendra sinks into a deep curtsy.

Ayrell gestures at Siendra.

Senthic looks at Siendra and applauds!

Ezerak looks at Siendra and applauds!

Ayrell looks at Siendra and applauds!

Nyrhin looks at Siendra and applauds!

Siendra blushes furiously!

Siendra waves.

Ayrell says, "From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you all for attending our show this evening."

Ayrell smiles.

Siendra beams!

Ayrell says, "We will be in the lobby shortly, if anyone wishes to stay and converse. Thank you again, and we wish you all a pleasant night."

Ayrell smiles.

Ayrell curtsies gracefully.

Senthic bows.

Nyrhin bows.

Siendra bobs down and back up in a quick curtsy.

Senthic grins sheepishly.

Lady of Elamiri Ayrell's group went through a thick dark curtain.