Fourteen Bells: [WRITTEN/ACTION] Forward-dated to morning.

[simplestgift]

I understand that Twenty-Six isn't any different from Twenty-Five, and that birthdays are no accomplishment, but I find myself especially grateful for this one. I didn't expect to spend it thinking about being thrown into the lions' den tomorrow, but one can't have everything.

Kennedy

[Archie will be about the library, the grocery store, and Good Spirits today, looking strangely neutral. Catch him pretty much anywhere. Horatio is permitted to tag along wherever, so responses might come from both.]

Comments

[action]

[simplestgift]

[You mean distraction, Raine?]

I...well.

[Clueless, here.]

[action]

[wise_maiden]

[She tilts her head.]

... Ah, my apologies. I had thought you might have been here to pick up books about the conditions we'll be facing.

[action]

[simplestgift]

[That's a really good idea, actually.]

Of course, that was my intent!

[Not convincing.]

[action]

[wise_maiden]

It's all right if it wasn't. Wanting some moments to not think of it are needed as well, after all.

[action]

[simplestgift]

[An embarrassed look.] I make a better sailor than soldier.

[action]

[wise_maiden]

The conditions are unsuitable for many of us. It's understandable.

[action]

[simplestgift]

[That doesn't make him feel better, being called unsuited for something, even if that's not what she means.]

What will you do?

[action]

[wise_maiden]

I'll likely be heading out with the offensive forces, once the details are settled. [She had pitched the idea to Albert already, before the meeting.] It'll be better for me to be on hand in case of emergencies.

[action]

[simplestgift]

Are you a healer?

[action]

[wise_maiden]

Yes, I am. So if you find yourself with an injury, and you aren't close to any others... you're welcome to let me know.

[action]

[simplestgift]

I'll be assisting the defensive forces, actually.

[action]

[wise_maiden]

Ah, I see. [She nods approvingly. And more reason for her to steer Jack in that direction later.] Still, it's something you can keep in mind.

[action]

[simplestgift]

[He nods.] Thank you, Miss Raine.