001 - Victorious Return!

[herecomesmama]

Hello pumpkins! Guess who? And just in time for Christmas! Impeccable timing. I've always had it, you know. I do know how to make an entrance!

How I missed this lovely place. A few things have changed, but that's life, I suppose. My room is just like it was when I left, right down to the silk stockings - oh, well, you don't need to know that

Comments

[young_idealist]

Greetings, is it mademoiselle or madame? I don't wish to offend such a vivacious lady. I'm Armand St. Just.

[herecomesmama]

Mademoiselle, darling! Aren't you just charming!

And what a lovely name. You must be French!

[young_idealist]

Mademoiselle Bohemme then. I am French, very much so, and some would say very old fashioned. I am somewhat a contemporary of our Marquis, but from vastly different social circles.

I think you likely know more about the Barge than I do, but I am very glad to see someone here who is so enthusiastic.

[herecomesmama]

We must all be enthusiastic! Why, if we all went around unhappy about the hand life deals us, what sort of life would that be? Just terrible.

[young_idealist]

Some would try to say I'm incapable of cheer, but that isn't exactly right. Let's not dwell on it, please. However, compared to some of our newest wardens, you're a breath of fresh air.

[herecomesmama]

What a nice compliment!

Incapable of cheer? How silly. Everyone is capable of cheer. You just need a little motivation.

[young_idealist]

The last few months have been difficult. Some people here don't know me except during that period. The fact that I'm still here means I have more to gain by staying and working than going home in defeat.

[herecomesmama]

That, Monsieur St. Just, is strength of character. I find it delightfully admirable.

[young_idealist]

Thank you. You can call me Armand if you like. I don't expect others to conform to my "old-fashioned" manners.

I hope to see you around and meet you in person soon.

[herecomesmama]

I would never be so bold!

I'll definitely be attending the Christmas party. Will you be there?

[young_idealist]

I don't know yet. I'll let you know when I decide.

[herecomesmama]

Oh, now, Monsieur. You must come! You can't sit in your room and be alone on Christmas Eve. For shame.

[young_idealist]

Parties are not how I'm used to celebrating.

I simply have to see. Perhaps I'll be doing better by then or she won't go.

[herecomesmama]

Well, then, I'll just have to come visit you. You absolutely can't be alone on Christmas Eve.

[young_idealist]

I'm sure I'm going to spend part of the evening praying, and I think Sergeant Howie is planning a religious service. I can't go to Mass here, but it will be the next best thing. Fewer people as well.

I won't be occupied the whole night, but I don't want to keep you from the party too long either.

[herecomesmama]

It's a date, then. You just let me know as soon as your prior commitment is over, and we'll have a glass of eggnog or mulled wine.

I'll even bring you a plate of food - yes, that will be just wonderful!