The Grand Veranda

[brigida]

"Yes," she laughed, "I have seen proof enough."

[The Smith]

He laughed as he leaned in to kiss her again, "Would you like to play another game?"

[brigida]

"a game?" she asked smiling, "what sort of game?"

[The Smith]

He reached back and stroked her hair, "It is your night love, you pick the game."

[brigida]

"Let's go back to your chambers," she offered, as she glanced towards the door.

[The Smith]

"Lets stay here." The Sea Lord replied begining to work on her buttons.

[The Smith]

//////////////////////

The Sea Lord ate breakfast with three men from Pentos he was listening to them list the reasons he should support them over Lys in a colony dispute.

[brigida]

The sun was low on the horizon in the east as Tristeza finally found Lord Delinal, on the Veranda; her face was glowing in the sunlight, and she looked relieved to see him now.

[The Smith]

The Sea Lord stood and looked to her. She had never disturbed him while busy before so he motioned for her to follow him into a corner. "What is it, Tristeza?"

[brigida]

"I need to see you alone." she said decidedly, and looked hesitantly towards the other men on the Veranda; "It is very important."

[The Smith]

The Sea Lord looked at her a long moment, and then nodded. Turning to the other men he stepped over and said, "I am sorry gentlemen we will ahve to continue this conversation later." He motions for them to exit. "I would be honored if you could make time to sup with me this evening." They nodded as they exited. The Sea Lord said, "Thank you." just before they left hearing, and then turned to stare blankly at her.

[brigida]

Tristeza approached him slowly. When she stood immediately before him, she took a deep breath, and looking him directly in the eyes, she said in an even voice, "I am pregnant." her face was blank, but for a vague look of anxiety.

[The Smith]

"That is wonderful news, but could it not have waited until after my meeting." He stared at her calmly.

[brigida]

Tristeza looked slightly taken aback. "I thought you would want to know immediately." she said sulkily, "I apologize for interrupting your meeting," there was an undertone of sarcasm in her apology.

[The Smith]

The Sea Lord stared at her cooly for a long moment, and then he slowly smiled quite large. "Do not ever say I do not have a sense of humor again." Sergyo wraps his hands around her and pulls her close, not letting go. "It is a girl, just like her mother. I know this." There is a thawing warmth in his voice.