Outward Bound - Wally Tour part 2

The next stop of the journey was to Antiquity Dublin Harbor. There has been some tectonic shifting in this area recently, with a few regions being lost, but the majority have survived, and even new ones have appeared.

I arrived in this region as it is the most south-westerly of the continent. A very 'salty' air to the place, I had a wonderful walk northwards into Antiquity Irish Coast. Beautifully luscious in its greenery, and decorated with charming cottages, it was a pleasure to take a stroll along the rutted track. I made my way down to the coastline and looked to sail through Antiquity Battle Dock, skirting Antiquity Oceania and into Antiquity Texas which houses the residence of the Prime Minister. A point that I feel I should make, as I wish I had considered it before setting off: water travel arrangement. Having been a mostly mainland explorer up to now, I had never felt the need for any kind of boat. After a couple of unsuccessful attempts to obtain something 'on the fly', I 'made do' with an old landing craft, which just about limped to Texas. Having resolved to rectify the situation at the earliest possible moment, I am pleased to say that I am now the proud owner of an old steam powered fishing boat. I'll not be caught out next time.

From Texas I crossed the bridge east into Antiquity Britannica, and from there caught my next transport to Magi Island. I have to admit, the name leapt out at me when studying the map, and being a nice little 'l' of three regions I thought it might have something of interest.

Magi Island itself is mainly set for commerce. It has a quaint fishing town look to it and some of the buildings would not be out of place in certain parts of New Toulouse. Unfortunately, I was unable to produce my landing craft for the journey south through Magi Island Sea and into Magi Port Town which was to be the jump point to the next stop. Undeterred, and by use of the arcane arts (available free to all), I was able to fly the route. The Port Town seemed to be made up of small residences, very plain and unassuming in nature.

I had been looking forward to my next stop-over, which would be in Sylvhara Elen. This was part of a large collection of regions, and the name of this one and those adjoining just screamed 'Elvish' to me. I was correct. As time was pressing on, I decided that it would probably do the area more justice if I had time to expore all the regions and converse with some of its inhabitants. A return to be planned later.

Studying my map, I could see that there were lands to the south, which although not adjoining the Elvish lands, they did abut them. These had names mentioning dragons and faeries, and I just had to have a peek, and so selected one of the most southern regions, called Faery Dust. Green and 'woody' as was to be expected, but little sign of any small folk. Perhaps a major expedition would prove to be more fruitful at a later date.

Now onto the last leg of the journey before arriving on the continent of the Realm of the Roses.

The deep green of Midsomer Meadows and its companion, Midsomer Isle just grabbed my attention as I studied the map when preparing for this trip. I have never seen a land with such a dark green.. I wonder what it would look like peppered with snow? Meadows had a large store area called Belle Amie, and some very nice secluded spots which would be ideal for couples wishing to talk quietly or dance in beautiful surroundings. Indeed, Midsomer seems to be geared towards this purpose with gazebos, balconies and even cottages available for use or residency. A charming walk from one region into the next and my target was in sight.... the south western tip of the Realm of the Roses, Caledon Cymru.

My journey would now be most simple, and although I could walk a great deal of it, I decided to avail myself of the CAT public transport system. Walking from Cymru into Caledon Greystoke, and then Caledon Oxbridge Village where I was able to catch the airship Sumie K with only an 8 minute wait.

I was tempted to light my pipe to while away the minutes, but thought better of it as I didn't know how these ships were powered and didn't want to risk any sort of combustion. I took one of the route planners offered, and thought to take the route into Caledon Southend, where I would then be able to walk to Caledon Ahavah which I understood to have a new synogogue which I was most keen to visit. Sumie K arrived on time and I climbed aboard.

Instead of taking the route indicated on the leaflet, Sumie K's new route took us into Caledon Steam SkyCity and then through: Caledon; Caledon II; Caledon Tamrannoch; Caledon on Sea; and finally to the end of the line at Caledon Cay. This is a wonderful terminal, linking four CAT routes, and is wonderfully centrally situated. Looking at the various routes, I found that my next CAT would be Dorothy Ruth which would take me to Caledon Cape Wrath. With some 20 minutes before its arrival, I decided to make use of the time with a quick look at my Order's Caledon Chapterhouse which is situated in Caledon Cay. Currently preparing for renovation, I found the building easily enough and delighted in looking at some of the maps that were contained there. It was easy to get distracted... I'm terrible when presented with old documents, and as a result I had to make a dash for the CAT platform as I saw that Dorothy Ruth was docked when I was walking up the road. I had to dodge the tram, and fortunately my leap carried me up far enough and into the safety of the carriage before Dorothy Ruth disembarked.

Our route took us out of Caledon Cay and through: Caledon Rothesay; Caledon Mayfair; Caledon Penzance; Caledon Strathspey, Caledon Brigadoon (I didn't spy the village unfortunately); and finally into Caledon Cape Wrath where I departed and bid Dorothy Ruth a fond farewell for a safe journey travelled. I'm a bit strange like that.... I always thank the public transport vehicles themselves.

I decided to stretch my legs a little before the final stage of my journey. I knew that there was a hospital in Cape Wrath, and as a friend is considering some surgery, decided to check out the facilities. The hospital comes under the control of the RCAF, but even though it is primarily intended for the pilots and service people of that organisation, I was hoping that it also opened its door to the general public. Unfortunately I was unable to find anyone that could help me with my enquiry, and with time pressing on, I decided to make my way to the Winterfell Embassy on the north coast.

I made use of the bench and finally had the pleasure of a smoke with my pipe. It's strange, I am rarely seen about NT without my pipe, but being abroad I found that I hadn't missed it too much at all. That being said... it was WONDERFUL.

The Embassy also contains a boat house which accomodates the famous Winterfell ferry. Although I would not be exploring Winterfell on this visit, I would be able to say that I had used the ferry, but next time I will make full use of it. We (the ferry and I) sailed out of Cape Wrath and into the eternal twilight of the realm of the northern rose, Winterfell, and in particular her Absinthe town. We stopped at the bank where I saw a charming elf about her business. I smiled at her but I don't think she noticed me sitting in the ferry.... she certainly seemed to have an aura about her... an aura that stated 'I might be small, but DON'T mess with me'. The ferry then made its way across the river into the town of Winterfell Laudanum, where I climbed out and thanked her. A walk through the town and into the leafy surroundings of Nepenthe Lane saw me arrive at my final destination, the Motherhouse of my Order.

I was greeted by my fellow Councillor, AJ Raffles, and having a little while before the council meeting was due to commence, he supplied me with refreshment and we caught up each other with our latest news. As we are a particular type in the Order, being devoted to observation and study of our chosen field, he knew that I would want to see the library. And my, but I was not disappointed.

The meeting went smoothly, it was wonderful to see my old friends again. But a promise had been made to new friends in NT, and I would be having to get back to join the party. But with this journey now having been made, I would be able to return direct to the Motherhouse next time, and explore the delights of the gem that is Winterfell.

Outward Bound - Wally Tour part 1

Having been quite lazy for a couple of days following the massive clean-up that was required in the wake of Hurricane Bernadette, I was determined to make some sort of excursion at the coming weekend. I had planned to go along to Captain Alecto's Mystery Tour, but this was unfortunately postponed to a later date... I do hope all is well for the Captain. I had also received an invitation from Armand to a roof-top party to be held Saturday afternoon, which would take me quite nicely to my 'nap' time. I would, however, have to make plans for Saturday morning.

The matter was quite neatly taken out of my hands by the arrival of a letter towards the end of the week. A Council meeting for my Order had been scheduled for Saturday, which was to take place at the new Motherhouse in Winterfell. This was to be my first visit to Winterfell, as the acquisition of the property there had been dealt with by two fellow Councillors that live in the region. Although a tour of Winterfell had been promised by my colleagues, I would have to defer that to perhaps a stay-over at a more convenient time. I would hate to rush that sort of thing, as the explorer in me was itching to take in every square meter the region had to offer. I had an idea....... I would use the time BEFORE the meeting to seek my entertainment.

I pulled some charts off the shelf and started to plan my route. Normally, one can use the travel service to make a non-stop, door to door trip, but I decided that I would study the map and make the journey in short 'hops', still taking the most direct route. According to my findings, the distance from my home in New Toulouse Jardin to the Motherhouse in one of the Winterfell regions, is 73,027m, or 45 and a half miles. Bearing in mind that a region is some 256m across, this would equate to something like 285 regions. Now a lot of that distance is purely water, but there are quite a few regions to be found. Dragging my finger across the map from NT, northeasterly to Winterfell, there were a couple of regions known to me, and some interesting clusters unknown too. I plotted my route and got quite excited at the prospect.... it seems that in the absence of Captain Alecto's Mystery Tour, I was going to make my own 'Wally Tour'.

I awoke early on Saturday, in fact it could still be classed as 'night time'. I often think my body clock is out of kilter with the rest of my neighbours, as I do seem to be awake at the strangest times... and conversely, can fall asleep dashed early too! As I was getting dressed, I heard my name being called in the street. I rushed out onto the balcony so as to stop the calling before it awoke the neighbours, and laughed as I saw two of the neighbours sitting astride their horses. Lady Gabrielle and Armand had just returned from a night's ride, and joining them in the street I admired their horses and joined in with their talk. After a little while, Armand left with a wave and the extraction of a promise from me that I would not forget to come to his party. Lady Gabrielle similarly bade me a good day, and said she would see me at the party.

Returning inside, I made sure my fires were doused, put on my hat and coat, picked up my valise, and started the first leg of the 'Wally Tour'....

... by walking from NT Jardin to NT Algiers station.

I lit my pipe and had a few puffs while I waited for transportation to my next stop, as I didn't think I would get to smoke it again until at my destination... unless there were some unforeseen delays.

Mont Saint Michel was my next stop. I really can't recommend this place highly enough. I have visited before, as a younger man making a pilgrimage of some of this world's religious sites.

The streets and walkways are beautifully narrow, and there are plenty of shops for those wishing to browse their goods.

The place really does deserve extensive exploration in its own right, rather than merely being a leg of a larger tour. I loved walking into darkened alcoves only to reappear on the other side in a blaze of light, which really does dazzle at first.

Making my way to my departure point, which took some back tracking I must say, my next port of call was to be South Charleston, a place to which I had never been before, but the name proved to be enticing, plus the fact that it was situated in a group of six regions, albeit two of the regions' names had the unimaginative repetition of two of the others, but with the added suffix of 'II'.

It boasts a pristine shopping area......

... and some large attractive homes, but seemed to lack any 'heart'. Perhaps I'm doing it a disservice, bearing in mind the time of day, but somehow, I think not.

Continued in part 2

Flash Flood

Sunday saw what was to be the final day of the storm. I can't say I'm sorry to see it go.. but it didn't leave without one final reminder of our fragility.

Early on in the day, the clouds had gone, and it was nice to see a clear sky once more. I debated whether I should move my furniture off the rafts as I was looking forward to restoring my home to order as I'd only been in it a few days when the storm struck. I decided that I should perhaps wait... and was most pleased that I did so when one of the levees broke, resulting in flash floods. The water level was actually higher with the flooding than it was at the worst point of the storm! At least I now know that the rafts work.

That's the top of the fireplace you can see under the raft.. gives you some idea of the depth of the water.

I made my way onto my balcony which overlooks La Limonade, and was amazed at how high the water was again.

I was glad that I had the foresight to stock up on provisions as I was now content to sit out the flood and not venture forth until it was all clear... the perect excuse for an afternoon of reading, and perhaps a nap.

Sitting in my study with the boards and windows open I heard someone calling. I went back onto the balcony and was being hailed by one of New Babbage's Marines. He asked if I wished to be transported to dry land, or if I needed further provisions. I assured him I was alright, thanked him for his and his companions' assistance, and bid him adieu. I was to hear later that there was a bit of a worry when they thought they had found a casualty of the flood, but I don't believe it proved to be a fatality afterall.

The rest of my day passed pleasantly enough. A supply of good books will always see me through periods of wait, and the odd nap is always welcome too. When I next looked out of my window, the flood had reduced to a much more manageable level. The day was beautiful, I would imagine that there would be plenty of folk who would enjoy being abroad once more, providing they didn't have too much of a clean up to undertake. I removed the boarding from my windows and doors with great delight, and set to cleaning up. Hennie had been a good companion to have in the house, so I have decided to leave her be. I removed her run and mopped up around the doors of the house.

It was enjoyable being outside again, and a few people were milling about the street. I heard one person say that having been away for the weekend they had only now returned to their property to find it heavily storm damaged, and looted to boot! There will always be those who are all too happy to help themselves at the cost of others.

I was most pleased to see Nana enjoying an evening stroll, and we spent a while catching up and swapping stories as we sat by the fire. She later left to complete her stroll before the daylight was to disappear completely.

Before climbing into bed, I walked out on the balcony once more... the sky was clear and the stars were beautiful, and all seemed tranquil in New Toulouse once more. I smiled as I thought back over a busy week, and am extremely glad that I came here. It is a nice place to visit, and an even nicer place in which to live.

Storm Day 1 & 2

The wind really has been howling down La Limonade, but I have to admit, curiosity has had the better of me on a couple of occasions over the two days of the storm so far. I ventured out late on Friday in order to see how the various regions were coping. I used my truck on this particular jaunt, being most careful as to where I went so as not to put any undue pressure on the already stretched emergency service/relief teams.

Driving in Jardin is not easy even without storm conditions, as the roads have a kerb at the intersections. I imagine this is designed as a sort of traffic calming measure ..... Lumps in the road to slow people down?.... It'll never catch on.

New Toulouse town and Bourbon were a pleasure to drive in, but as I crossed the bridge between them I could see that the water level had risen quite significantly. I crossed over into Algiers and drove through there but thought the better of going into the Bayou. Even though I had packed my gun, I didn't relish the thought of getting stuck and encountering zombies, or worse still jeopodising others who may have to come to my aid. On crossing back into town I stopped to view the river, which was looking VERY choppy indeed, and also to view the storm overhead.

I made my way home and made observations as to how high the water had risen, and at this time, by my calculation it was some 1.3m above its normal level. The next day would be time to put my earlier plan into action as I really didn't want any of my furniture to get ruined.

Saturday, I spent the morning raising the platforms I had made out of crates from the market. I had affixed barrels (also from the market) to each platform, and though I was hopeful that their initial clearance would be sufficient, I was confident that the barrels would assist the platforms in floating should the level rise higher.

After completing my preparations, I decided to check the water level once again.

It was now some 2.3m above normal. In my earlier conversation with Louis and Lestat, I had predicted that the level could possibly rise to 5m above normal...which would take it to the top of my wall. As I could forsee the level rising much higher, I decided to have one more foray into the storm. This time, the truck would be left in safety, and my bicycle 'avec des améliorations' would be most appropriate.

I didn't think it would be a good idea to linger, as the lightning was quite ferocious, but it certainly blew the cobwebs away and gave me enough exercise to make up for the prospect of a couple of days being housebound. After a quick circuit of New Toulouse town, and seeing the canals absolutely foaming with the torrent, I made for home, for a nice cup of tea and a couple of hours nap time.

As I napped, the water level increased. With a sort of perverse satisfaction, I noted that the level was just a little under my projected limit. If only I could have that much luck on the horses! With a great deal of GOOD satisfaction, I was very glad that Hennie was safe and sound in my bedroom, for her run was completely under water.

And at the risk of sounding unbearably smug... my furniture stayed dry, as did my curtains!

I settled down to write some letters and this journal, and after a little while a noise caused me to get up and peer out into the street through the gaps in my window boarding. I couldn't believe it, the water level had suddenly reduced. I went quickly downstairs, and sure enough, the pool that had been there previously was no longer to be seen. I was able to go back out into my back yard once more, and while I was there, Louis appeared and enquired after my well being. We compared notes on our storm preparations and their effectiveness, and as he looked at the platforms in my living room, with the furniture arrayed on top, he became quite concerned. He made me promise to contact him when it was time to take the furniture off the platforms, as he didn't think I should be doing it on my own. He's a very considerate young man. I remarked about the sudden drop in water level and he explained that he had heard what sounded like an explosion, and theorised that a levee may have broken. He then pointed out that our fortune could well be someone else's misfortune. I offered a quick prayer that all would be safe. Seeing me bend over with a twinge in my back, brought another admonition from Louis about not contacting him to move the furniture, and I explained that it was an old wound that just needed stretching now and then. He shooed me over to my rocking chair and got me up on the platform and into the chair with barely any effort as he hoisted me into place. He then started to make me a mug of coffee and I relaxed as he busied himself. Just as he was making himself comfortable in the chair opposite me, I could see movement just outside the front window. It was the young adventurer I had met earlier in the week. She was wondering how a carriage was situated where it was, and Louis went to let her in and explained that it had belonged to a friend of his and had been washed out from the garage. Louis then introduced her to me as a friend of his and (quite unbelievably!) Lestat's Mother; Lady Gabrielle. She must have been incredibly young when she had him as she appeared to be not much older than Louis and Lestat. I indicated that we should move to the table and it was nice to be able to sit there and chat. Even though the storm could be heard in the distance, for now, my home was like an oasis of calm; good company, with new friends.

We talked for quite some time, and then noticing my fatigue, Louis and Gabrielle both got up and wished me a good night. I smiled wearily and let them out of the front door where they made their way to Louis's home. A final call came from Louis beseeching me not to move the furniture without him, and they disappeared into the night.

I went upstairs and climbed on my bed, and as I drifted off, I hoped that tomorrow would see the end of the storm.

The Calm Before The Storm

My initial plans for the day consisted of a little exploration of the neighbourhood, especially the Garden Quarter where Nana and Miss Eili have their homes. As I sat eating my breakfast I heard someone pause outside the door, and as I turned to look, I saw a note appear being pushed underneath the door. I went to the door and picked up the note and a frown added to the already numerous creases on my brow as I read it. It seems that the storm is now definately due to hit New Toulouse from the west sometime tomorrow. Miz Gabi was contacting the authorities in New Babbage, to inform them of the situation and to request assistance from their navy. She was also requesting assistance from Winterfell, Steeltopia, Steelhead, Caledon and Seraph City. I drained my mug of coffee, all thoughts of exploration now put aside. I went into the yard and busied myself getting the bags and boards ready for the minimum of effort later when I would have to install them.

A delivery arrived of what must surely be the last of my furniture, and some boxes of documents that I was very much looking forward to reading. The documents are very old, and aren't the sort of thing that should be left around for any to view. I decided that I would fit closers to my doors, and also, locks. That saw me busy until lunchtime, and after eating my lunch I sat in my rocker and read..... and napped.

It was mid afternoon when I awoke, and going out into the street I noticed that some of the neighbours had already put up their boarding to protect the glass of their windows and doors. I returned to my yard and set to work, as I had an idea for something that might be able to keep my furniture dry.

It was getting late as I was settling sandbags at the foot of the front door, when two young gentlemen offered me assistance.

They introduced themselves as Lestat and Louis and they had rooms in the Conciergerie on the other side of the street adjacent to my property. I assured them that there was little left for me to do, and so we spoke of the coming storm and preparations that had to be made for it. I have to admit to allowing myself a little smile as they seemed to struggle with themselves (and each other, as I detected that they were communicating out of the range of my hearing so I couldn't hear what was being said) as to whether to ask me something. When you get to my age, you learn patience, so I am sure that I'll hear what was on their minds in the fullness of time, as the question wasn't forthcoming today.

The two gentlemen returned to their rooms and I completed the work to the front of the house.

I was hopeful that my windows and doors would remain intact from the onslaught of Bernadette's fury.

Returning to the yard, I made the last few adjustments to the door at the back of the house. I went over to Hennie's run and gently lifted her out. I put her into the house and then climbed in myself, as it was a tricky job to finish what had to be done from the inside.

Satisfied that all had been done that could be, I picked Hennie up and took her upstairs. I didn't want her to get distressed in any way, so thought it would be best if she remained upstairs where she shouldn't be subjected to any flooding whatsoever..... hopefully.

Now all we could do was, wait.... hope.... and pray.

Storm Preparation

With time marching towards the weekend and the forecast storm, Hurricane Bernadette, (why do I see her as a fiery redhead?) I thought it would be best to get some preparation underway. I quickly walked up to the market to get a supply of sandbags that had been made available by one of the residents. While at the market I made enquiries and managed to source a supply of wood, which was delivered with the sandbags in excellent time.

It felt good to be working, and I always work better with a deadline looming. I was making quite a bit of noise, and very engrossed in the task at hand. I heard a man hailing me from the other side of the yard wall. I stopped working, leant back and wiped my brow. "Storm prep'ration?" The man asked. "Yes", I replied, "hot and noisey work... I hope I don't disturb the neighbours." The man threw back his head and laughed. He looked at the buildings around us and then looked at me. "You new ain't choo?" I nodded and held out my hand, "my name's Wally Nacht." He ignored my hand and looked into my eyes. "Sommat you need know 'bout some o' yer neighbours, Wally..... They sleep like the dead." His eyes widened as he added "YOU'LL not be disturbing them." He turned to look towards the alley, and I turned my head to follow his gaze, and when I looked back, he was gone.

Despite the heat, I shivered. There was a loud knock at the front door and I jumped. Walking through the house I was relieved and very pleased to see Nana. I invited her in and she explained that she was just calling in to see if I needed any help settling in. She took a look around the room and smiled. "I see that it won't be necessary after all," she said, and complimented me on the house. I took her through to the yard and we spoke for a few minutes about construction and remodelling work, and also the fact that she had received a goose from Miss Stormy when she saw Hennie in her run. Being a very busy lady, she wished me well, and made her way out.

I finished my work, and seeing that I had much wood left decided to make some more shutters for the neighbours. Now that all the wood was cut to size it didn't take long to knock up a few sets, and the afternoon passed quickly.

I arranged to have the extra shutters transported to the local market for the neighbours to be able to collect, and also left some in the yard that could be taken by those unable to carry them from the market. I noticed that the sun was going down, but decided to take a set up to the market in order for them to be displayed so that the carrier of the main stock would know where to put them. I rode to the market using the path that runs behind my house, and fair shot into the enclosure there. As I was unloading the shutters Nana came across with Miss Eili. They commended me on my community spirit and helped me hang them on the wall.

The sun was now very low in the sky, the ladies bade me a good evening and I leapt on my bike and rode home 'lickety-split'. I put the bicycle away, said goodnight to Hennie and went indoors, closing the curtains behind me. I'm pleased with just how cozy the house is, and the shiver that had run through me earlier was now fully eradicated as I sat and eat my dinner. It was not to last, as a sense of foreboding came over me as I remembered what the man had said... That he should make a reference to not being able to wake them during the day did not reassure me.

The rest of the evening was spent listening to some music, writing my journal and reading. I started to nod and decided to get into bed, and as I did so, reflected that when I awoke (God willing!) in the morning, Hurricane Bernadette would be only 1 day away.

Lock & Load

After composing the last entry I was determined to make sure that the chicken was safe. I have decided to call her 'Hennie' after a very nice Dutch girl I knew many years ago.

I jumped back on my bicycle, and headed up La Limonade. I had noticed what appeared to be fencing on my way back from the club, but upon inspection it turns out it is constructed for use as a walkway for the Bayou. It looks good enough to do the job in question, so I obtained some and rode carefully home.

This is the coop I have constructed. As you can see, Hennie has plenty of room in which to run about.

Knowing that all would be well with Hennie, I went back inside and sat by the fire to relax before bed. A public service broadcast was made by Miz Gabi, the Prim Minister, alerting citizens of the impending storm which is forecast to arrive on Friday. I had already considered shutters for the windows, and perhaps sandbags might be a good idea... but I was unprepared for what Miz Gabi recommended next. It seems that Zombie attacks are a very real threat during the storms. The rise in water level drives them from their usual habitats and they make their way towards the town, and generally make a nuisance of themselves. Miz Gabi was most ernest in suggesting that we all arm ourselves to ensure our safety. That was tomorrow's project established.

Determined NOT to fall asleep in the chair once again, I made my way to my bedroom, said my prayers, and then dressed for bed. Settling myself into my new bed, I knew it wouldn't be long before sleep overcame me. As my mind reviewed the events of the day, I remembered that Miss Amber had made a comment at the club about zombies when talking about last year's storm. She said that she amassed quite a collection of zombie corpses having thwarted their attack. I remarked that the smell from the collection must be quite offputting after a while.... Miss Amber smiled playfully, and then stated that she made a marvellous 'Zombalaya'. My brow creased as I wondered what that would be, and then I have to admit I must have paled slightly as Miss Amber chuckled and continued to dance. She was joking... right?

My sleep was wonderful! As the sun streamed through the window I made a mental note of the day's deeds to be undertaken. More furniture was due to arrive, and I had to travel to New Toulouse town to obtain a weapon. I dressed and went down stairs and was amazed to find both my front and back doors open. I have no 'closers' on the doors, and so someone had entered and left while I slept. I ran into the yard to check on Hennie, and was relieved to find that all was fine there. Going back inside I checked my meagre possessions, and found nothing out of place. I have to admit to a moment's panic as I considered that 'she' may have found me. I reassured myself that even if she had, she would not be able to enter my home without my invitation. Perhaps she had tried both entrances, to make sure.... or perhaps it was just sight-seers more used to modern devices like door closers.

After I broke my fast, my other furniture arrived and I spent the rest of the morning rearranging items. I checked the time when I finished, had a light lunch and then dressed to walk into town. The bicycle would not be coming with me as I was looking forward to going into several shops, and it would have only been an inconvenience. I set out through the back yard, waved to Hennie and could have sworn I could hear the bell from my bicycle ringing as I walked away. With the increasing years, it seems my imagination is still as fanciful as it always was.

The walk into town was most pleasant indeed. The sky beautifully clear and showing no sign of the impending storms, it was nice to feel the warmth of the sun on my face, I then spent the next few hours checking out some of the local stores. I am a firm believer in shopping locally, and will always check for items in the locality before venturing further afield. I found a gunsmiths, and not really knowing what differentiated one pistol from the next, I was careful to check all of the stock. I have to admit, the weapon that immediately jumped into mind when culling zombies was mentioned, was a shotgun. Having made my way around the shelves of the store, I finally arrived at the section for rifles... and shotguns. On the top shelf, I saw the very weapon I wanted to buy.... a 12 bore 'coach' shotgun. I assume this is in reference to its use being for those 'riding shotgun' on the various coaches between towns. The barrels were a bit shorter than others on display, and this would facilitate ease of use in a confined area. I took the gun, and broke it open... it was very nicely balanced, and sat very well on my arm. I paid my money, and placed the gun into my case and stepped out of the store, and into the darkness.

I bit back an oath as my eyes adjusted to the lack of light. I had been so engrossed in perusing the stores (shopping is a GREAT weakness of mine), that I had completely lost track of time. With the earlier thought that 'she' may have found my new home, I decided that I would be better staying in town. That part of the journey home on the desolate path from the end of town to the back of my house on the edge of the old quarter of Jardin would be perfect for an ambush, and my new gun would be completely ineffective against her. I quickly decided that there was only one place I really could go, the Cathedral of all St. Louis'. I ran down the street and crossed the bridge into Bourbon, and then carried on running to the cathedral. I entered the cathedral through the cloister, in order to give myself time to catch my breath as I didn't want to alarm anyone that might be inside by coming in out of breath. The peace of the place flowed over me as sat myself down, and placing my hat and bag on the pew next to me, I offered a prayer of thanks and let my mind drift into tranquility.

The tolling of the bell for the divine office of Lauds woke me from my slumber. The sun was still very low in the sky, but all trace of the night had gone. I offered another prayer of thanks, and quietly left. The walk home was a delight, though could not be described as refreshing. In the daylight, the deserted part of my journey seemed very unthreatening, I knew that it would have seemed totally different in the dark. Approaching my back yard, I could hear Hennie quietly 'pocking' in her run. I would have to consider an alternative place for her before the storm hits. Hanging up my coat and hat I came back out into the yard and tried out the shotgun... it was very satisfying indeed.....

..... lock and load!

Jazz club and a chicken

Considering I never made it to my bed, I felt remarkably refreshed this morning when I awoke. I pottered around at home and met another neighbour calling to welcome me to the area. Miss Stormy came for a brief visit and gave me a wonderful gift, a chicken! I have put her (the chicken, not Miss Stormy) in the back yard, and she brightens the place up considerably. I do hope there are no predators in this area.

I received a flyer through my door advertising an event at Le Vieux Canal Jazz Club in New Toulouse Algiers. I studied the map and determined to make my way there on my bicycle which had yet to make its maiden trip in NT. I unpacked my cycling suit, quickly changed and set off.

The club was very easy to find, and the wonderful music which could be heard as I approached foretold of a splendid time to be had by all. I was not disappointed! I believe the expression "The joint was jumping" to be most apt in this case. So many new faces gave me a most warm welcome, and I soon felt at home. Miss Eili, a bunny, looked very classy indeed in her flapper outfit. She was to be the host for the event with Miss Mitsu Figaro jockeying the discs. This style of jazz has become a recent favourite of mine, and most of the tracks played elicited some sort of comment about it being a favourite of someone in the room. My own was 'Rhapsody in Blue' which was played by Glenn Miller, and the first time I had heard that version.... marvellous! The club's owners, Miss Amber and Miss Abi were also in attendance, and through them I learned that the club had just celebrated its 2nd anniversary, and was still going from strength to strength. I was delighted to meet Miz Gabi in the flesh also, having only spoken to her previously in 'instant message'. Miss Francesca, a fellow countryman of mine, arrived just after me and started dancing immediately... I get the distinct impression she enjoys dancing very much indeed! It was wonderful to be able to greet Nana, whom I met yesterday.

I was joined at the bar, for I do not dance well and did not wish to show it too soon to my new neighbours, by a certain Count who sat most quietly. You must forgive me, my memory for names is not what it was. Also, Mr Addison Greymyst preferred the bar to the dance floor, but apart from raising a glass to each other in salute, we did not engage in conversation. It was only after he left that I was informed that he is the New Toulouse Ambassador to Winterfell. Now there's a chilly sounding place!

The talk was light and jolly for most of the event, but took on a more sombre tone when the subject of the weather was brought up. Now, being English, talking about the weather is all part and parcel of my national identity... but then, we don't have the extreme weather conditions that are experienced in New Toulouse. There's always a price to pay for having a sub-tropical climate, and it seems that one of these, a hurricane, could hit our shores by the coming weekend if forecasters are to be believed. Many at the club recounted their experiences when Hurricane Adolphe hit the region last year. Sand bags were mentioned, and the possibility of a visit to a local timber merchant ran through my mind in order to construct some shutters for my windows.

I was delighted to learn that Miss Amber was the architect of the church and cloister I visited yesterday. I commended her on such a beautiful build. I intend to visit there regularly.

Concern for my chicken is leading me to enquire as to the availability of a coop of some kind for her protection...... I shall have to investigate.

A Busy Day

Yesterday I arrived in New Toulouse. I had heard very nice things about this land, and had made up my mind to stay at one of the hostelries here. I found the board in the square to be most informative, and after studying it, made my way for a stroll.

I found myself in New Toulouse Jardin district, and when checking the hostelry, noticed it to be full. I would have to try the other one before retiring for the day. As I stood on the hostelry steps, I noticed two properties for sale just opposite. I have often been branded 'impulsive', and so, true to nature I decided to look into obtaining a more permanent property. At my time of life, I really do need to have roots.

I made my way to the Real Estate office, but before entering, found the cafe opposite had details of builders' work. I sat and looked at the work before me and made some notes.

I entered the extremely grand central building, and found the real estate office within. I checked some of the other parcels that were shown as being available, but already had my heart set on a modest Jardin property in the old quarter there. I obtained a copy of the covenant and made myself comfortable whilst I read through it. It is always most important to know the laws of the land when buying property... ignorance is never a legitimate excuse.

I now had all the details to hand, but decided to view some properties in Bourbon as suggested, to view some builder's work there. I passed the hostelry there, and noted that there were vacancies should I decide to wait before purchasing... but I thought that unlikely at this point. I came across a wonderful church and cloister, and had to call in for a quick look. It was so peaceful there, but with all the excitement I had endured so far, it was no surprise that sleep took me.

Waking a little while later, and completely refreshed, I made my way back to Jardin, chose one of the available properties and made my purchase. I now had roots here. Fortunately a furniture store is immediately opposite my new home, and I made use of it.

The evening was drawing in, and although being quite lost in decorating I had the opportunity to meet two of my neighbours. The first was an extremely attractive blonde haired lady, with fine aristocratic bone structure, and wearing what can only be described as 'adventurers' clothing. She explained that she had spenty quite a lot of time recently in Africa, and had not long returned and so was still in the process of unpacking. She obviously did not want to keep me from my work, for she bade me well and made her way up the street. Unfortunately I did not learn her name, but I believe she lives nearby, so will have to redress that situation should I see her again. The second lady had striking red hair, and introduced herself as 'Nana'. We spent a most pleasant few minutes in light conversation, before she too, continued her evening walk.

It was not too late when I declared myself to be finished for the day, but fatigue had other ideas and I ended up falling asleep in my chair by the fire.

I look forward to exploring this wonderful land further!