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Lauren gave Mahendra a slight smile, she really never had anything luxurious in her line of work she usually just served people their meals and drinks and then heading back home to her own family. Lauren gave Mahendra a smile and nodded towards him once they were by his assigned room leaning up against the side of the wall. "Of course, anything for a friend who is in need of it." Lauren said towards him, and then gave him a wave as he unlocked the door and headed into his cabin. He seemed to be a very nice person in their short time meeting, as Lauren started to turn around and headed back up the flight of stairs she had just came from. Lauren would present her ticket over towards the crewman who was at the checkpoint.

When she was okayed to go through Lauren slipped her ticket back into her pocket as she went up the stairs once more until she was on the Elite Deck. Lauren walked along the deck until she found her assigned cabin as she took the ticket out to make sure and then opened the door as Lauren made her way inside. Seeing her bag of personal belongings that were set up Lauren walked over as she searched around her bag and pulled out one of her nicer dresses she brought with her from home. She started to get changed neatly laying the clothes that the men at the barracks had given her and headed back out making sure she had her keys to the cabin as well as her ticket and then headed over towards the dining area.

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Passing through the improvised checkpoint at the staircase didn't take too much time as the groups got going. It seems everyone was in a hurry to prepare for diner because the lines were moving fast and the decks were getting less crowded, presumably with people in their cabins preparing and then moving to the dining areas. She too passed without much of an issue and got to the second deck. Since this was a ship it wasn't the grandest thing, but it was good enough and spacious for the fact it was a ship. The hall was filled with people moving from and to their cabins and she too joined in that action.

Checking her ticket for the cabin number, it didn't take too long for her to track down the front door of the place she'd would be staying at. With a pleased smile she quickly opened it up and entered, closing it behind her. It was a decent sized cabin actually. She couldn't really find faults with it and supposed that she'd enjoy her stay here. On the negative side was only the fact that she wouldn't really be able to deal with anything smithing related while on the ship, but sadly that was part of the course. Mosi well realized there was nothing to be done about that fact. She could only wait for them all to arrive.

Moving her eyes to the luggage that was transported to her cabin, she made a pondering expression before she opened the bags and searched for something inside. What she finally pulled from it was the thing she'd wear for tonight's dinner. It was a light brown pair of trousers and white shirt. She naturally didn't forget to put on her cowboy hat. She was nearly inseparable from it. Doing a last minute check to see if all was ready, she quickly headed to the cabin's door and exited, locking it behind herself. It was time to diner.

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All Decks: Dinner will start being served during my next update. So if you are attending the meals and such you will want to make sure in your next update you are there and seated.

In the lower level of the ship where even the staff take their meals things are very relaxed. There are not individual tables or even small ones for groups to get together and talk quietly. There are long bench tables that span one end of the room to the other with bench seating. Like cafeteria tables one might see in larger schools or even prison. They are decently nice however. There is no seat assignments and things are relaxed. Food is served buffet style, which means grab your plate and serve yourself before being seated. All foods are local street fare foods popular in Egypt. Ales and Beers and Water are there to drink. Hard liquors are not unless you brought your own. People are loud and rambunctious. Talking drowns out most noises and what it doesn't music played by staff or even other passengers does. This is a good since you are right near the engine.

The Main deck has two lounges. One open air and one enclosed. Both are just your general bar type areas with tables scattered about. People don't really eat there unless it is some soft of small finger food or appetizer that has been placed out. Can't order more unless it is drinks. Anything hard or upscale costs a pretty penny and isn't covered in the cost of travel unless you have an Elite Level Ticket. Though no many of those are caught there. Most people mulling around here are from the lower level who just want some peace and quiet while still being social. That or have a major gambling habit and just want to play poker.

The Second Deck has more formal seating but the seats are not reserved. Tablecloths and the basics. You are waited on here and most of the people on this level are middle class or servants of the Elite who are taking a meal before they have to get to their employers above. You will have an option of several different meat choices before being served. Meals are served in 2 courses. Bread/Sides/Meat and then a small dessert. Wine, Beer, Ale, and water are free of charge, anything more does cost extra out of pocket and it not included in the cost of ticket.

The Elite Deck is a full seven course meal that is served slowly and with grandeur. All drinks are part of the fare of the ticket. Seating is assigned and it is the least crowded area. Light music is provided but nothing that would drown out polite conversation. Since the weather is nice currently and the air is cooling, dinner is served on the Sun Deck above and not in the Meeting Room of this deck. The Lounge will serve anything an Elite Ticket wishes as they play Poker, shoot Craps, talk, etc.

Character Proceeding Forward: Vera's brow went up slightly at George's words. He was there to make sure she was safe? Why wouldn't she be? That was a silly question though in her mind. Peter had died, Neema, Haakon. Even more than those... Others had gone awol. Several had brands on them, which made her question a lot of things. Of course she wasn't safe, was any of them? Or was leaving Cairo putting an end to the danger? No, it was probably putting them in more danger. And Vera was no fighter. She had no training really when it came to combat of any sorts.

In fact she tended to be more of a danger to herself than others. The best things that she had going for her was the fact that she could swim and knew how to ride. So hopefully she wouldn't drown if she got wet and could ride away from the danger. Looking up at George she nodded slightly. "Thank you George," was all she could manage to say to him. While she had accepted the fact she needed protection of some sort she didn't like the idea.

George returned the nod. "Peter would have wanted it mmm," he said after a moment and looked down before glancing back towards the stairs and moving slightly so he wasn't in the way of the flow of traffic from people moving from the second deck to the Elite and back again. Though his mind did dwell on the fact one had pushed by him without even looking back or speaking up. That struck him as odd but he wasn't going to leave Vera alone right then.

Looking over Vera bit her bottom lip. The reminder that Peter was gone made her stomach turn. Would he have though or was he just holding onto a promise from a time when they were two different people? It was something she would never know now. Looking down she noticed she wasn't wearing her watch and sighed. "Do you have the time?" she asked George as she looked back up at him.

Pulling out his pocket watch he opened it and turned it so that Vera could check the time. "Almost dinner mmmm," he said before closing it back and slipping it to his pocket once again.

They conversed shortly over where she would be dining. Vera stating that she would be going to the second deck so that they all could dine together instead of splitting the group up between the Elite deck and the second one. George seemed to understand but he did mention that he would prefer her eat up here as it would mean less people and perhaps less danger. Vera was stubborn about it. Her and Nora had already discussed it and agreed to it, she wasn't changing her mind now.

George relinquished and escorted her to the second deck to find a table and be seated. One that was large enough for the group hopefully. Vera had wanted to wait longer for the others but it was growing close and she hated being late. Pulling her seat out, George took a step back and then pushed it in as Vera sat down before seating himself. They were the first two to show up on the Second Deck in the Dining area from their group.

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Nora had spent a bit longer getting refreshed for supper than she had expected. It was mostly because she had yet to be quite alone since Neema's passing and, raised with a stiff upper lip as most Brits are, she had not afforded herself a proper cry yet. She had spent a few minutes just grieving for Neema, someone who she had known for such a short time but connected with more than she had her own parents. By the time she had finished drying her tears and had made herself ready for supper, Lady Munn and George had set down the stairs.

"Maybe they'll have tea," Nora muttered to herself, before she left her cabin and went down the stairs through the various points until she reached the dining area. George and Lady Munn were already there and Nora could not help but feel bad for missing her appointed meeting with Lady Munn. That was rather impolite of her. "I must apologize. I...I must have lost track of time whilst preparing for supper," Nora said quietly, taking a seat down next to Lady Munn. She hoped that her new friend would forgive her.

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Gene had embraced her brother back, only mildly perplexed by his reaction. He truthfully seemed to be quite fond of Lady Munn, despite both he and Gene knowing that time was not on his side. She supposed that she could remind him of that and caution him - yet with Peter's death and the news she had had to break to him, perhaps he needed something to protect and be fond of for a moment. It was a sort of attachment she could understand in the abstract, those of romantic nature. She never felt those feelings towards another person.

She left her cabin a few moments later, having intentionally decided to give George some alone time with the apple of his eye, before she then headed to the dining area. She was getting a bit peckish and since she was joining them on this exhibition, she wanted to know the details. Coming into the dining area, she noted that her brother was there with his possible infatuation and another woman - Lady Kingston, she recalled. Taking a seat next to George, Gene pulled out a sweet from her pocket and started unwrapping it. She didn't care if she spoiled her appetite. "So Lady Munn, what's this adventure of yours then? And I want in on it, of course. I may be tiny but I'm made of tougher stuff than you'd expect."

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Reginald seemed in good spirits as he toddled along, up the stairs and past the guardian thereof, tipping his cap and the like. He was just enthused to be along on this adventure. It had been quite a long time since the old man had found decent excuse to leave the Barracks, let alone Cairo, in quite some time. And here was a ready-made Quest just begging to be taken; were it a dog begging as hard he would have already swatted it with a newspaper. The Lord Major loved Cairo, make no mistake. It was a second home for him, foreign though the city was, to his own native Brighton. He had just hoped for one more piece of action, hopefully his last in the most direct, terminal manner possible. The thought made him positively giddy.

The domestic sentry at the next staircase made a similar request to the first, which Reginald was happy to oblige yet again. Considering that he was a man of some age, dressed smartly in formal British Military uniform and with his rank insignia (and crest of nobility) clearly showing, it was barely necessary to show his paperwork. Barely, but necessary nonetheless. A smile, a nod, and gracious bow later, and Reginald was on his way again. He looked around for just a bit, getting his bearings - The Lord Major was a man of the Royal Army's Royal Flying Corps, suitable for ground sorties and probably more familiar with being in the air than anyone else on the planet, but the occasional foray into watercraft still occasionally left him mystified. Luckily, it was a mere moment of confusion before he had located his stateroom and began a very momentary settling in.

For Reginald, that meant splashing water on his face, changing into his khaki field uniform, and pouring himself a quick two fingers of whisky. He draped a grey burnoose about himself, affixed a tie around his collar, and made sure that his sword, pistol, and cap were all straight and orderly. He threw back his drink and, emboldened by its earthy notes and abrupt alcohol content, set himself to join the others.

Imagine his surprise when only one from his group had gathered to dine on the Elite Deck.

It was Lauren. Reginald located his assigned seat at the table and settled in. Before addressing his *one* dining companion, he glanced about to make absolutely sure that no one else familiar was walking in their general direction. Being as Reginald was not privy to the conversation that brought everyone else to the Second Deck, he was ever so slightly concerned that everyone rooming on the Elite Deck was going to be late for the amuse-gueule. "Good evening, Miss Ridgeway. I daresay the table is a touch sparse. Else the soiree has moved elsewhere and we have not received invitation. Nevertheless, if your American upbringing has not exposed you to haute dining, I would be happy to serve as guide should questions arise." He intended no insult by the phrasing, but it did have the assumption that Americans were not ordinarily exposed to such things. "Classic dining of this nature usually starts with a tidbit of some sort; a bite or two that shows the Chef's flair, paired with an accompanying wine. But how is your evening so far?"

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The initial shock of realizing to whom Corporal Reddish was speaking gave way to a sense of odd wonder. Truly it was an interesting world wherein someone of her background would find their way into a British Military barracks, let alone on board a Nile riverboat with himself. The feeling was compounded by the fact that she had just invited him to dinner. The expression on his face might have indicated that he was going to immediately pen a letter back home about the incident the moment he had the chance. However, being as he was a non-commissioned officer in the Royal Armed Forces and still representing this with distinction, he put on what might be considered a demeanor of social propriety.

"Oh, absolutely Miss Clark, it would be an honor to join your for supper. Why, were I not under respectful employ of the Lord MAJ <ahem> the Lord Major's necessities, I would consider it an honor just to attend to your service, if you take my meaning, ma'am!" He seemed to be repressing a fair amount of animation as he spoke. "Let alone take a meal alongside your magnificence. Please forgive me, ma'am - I gush. It's unflattering. Very sorry."

He offered his arm to Josephine, continuing, "Being truthful, I had strongly considered retiring to my room to change into something more Civilian-y, ma'am, but it would be a slight against gentlemen everywhere if I did not offer proper escort. Some ne'er-do-well might think twice about giving you grief if you're seen with an armed member of the Royal Army, I'd lay bets!" Haring seemed a little starry-eyed right then, but still bright and observant of the world around him as he accompanied Josephine to the dining area.

"Oh Miss Clark, purely curiosity, but did you get to keep that iconic antebellum dress from your American Civil War picture? I thought you looked so lovely in it."

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As Lauren stood there her eyes scanning the area a little bit more, she didn't know that the rest of them had moved to the second deck she was busy tending to the injured Mahendra who was now resting in his own cabin. As Lauren decided to make her way to the assigned table for them, she stopped and looked over her shoulder when she heard Reginald's familiar voice. Lauren gave him a friendly smile and then shrugged a little bit. Lauren hadn't really experienced fine dining in a very long time, which was probably back on her own wedding day. "Good evening Lord Major." Lauren said as she went to take her seat at the table, and looked up at him. "Its been a very long time since I've had something fancy really. It was during my wedding night."

"My evening is alright, I went to escort Mahendra to his cabin his injuries were pretty bad, and I assumed that whatever medication he has made him tired." Lauren then reached over and gently took the napkin that was there spreading it over her lap while looking up at the Lord Major. "I wonder where the others are, I sort of left a bit earlier than the rest of you guys as well." Lauren said, though she was starting to get pretty hungry right now.

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Josephine didn't quite know how to handle the situation placed before her. On the one hand, she had found yet another admirer of hers and it filled her with pleasure to no end, especially considering she had found only a handful of others. But, the man, this Reddish person, was unlike any of the others. It wasn't that he was ugly or things of that nature, but on more than one occasion Josephine had found the man to be rather....annoying.

Still, she was being admired and she would not take such things for granted. She took the man's arm in hers before she proceeded to the dining room. "Reddish, my darling, I appreciate the gesture. Truth be told, having someone of your...caliber along with me would be a delight. Apart from my companions, I trust not a one on this ship. For all I know, the crew have went through my belongings in my cabin. No, darling, having you here with me makes me feel all the safer. As for that dress, I did keep it. But more for sentimental reasons, you understand. One must keep up with the trends, after all."

Jo entered the dining compartment and found some of her companions. They moved over to the table and she sat down (Reddish pulling out her chair for her). "Hello, darlings. I am positivley famished."

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Faye had to admit to herself that she kind of enjoyed Richard's somewhat protective nature over her. His words were true though. She had long admitted to herself that the wworld was not a good place. After all, the world, and the secrets it held, are what took her sister from her and lead her to Egypt.

"Your concern is noted and appreciated, Mr. Barker, but I have already come to terms with the world and how it looks at some people. I am a woman, after all. We are not seen as equals among our male bretheren, but still we persist despite efforts against us. You may not appreciate my job, but you are right, I am good at what I do. It's a comfort knowing that."

Faye eyed the buffet set out, wondering if the food would be any good for them on the lower decks. But she was hungry, she would eat none the less. "Yes, let's see what they have to offer. Should be the least scary thing we deal with on our adventure, I should say."

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The Bengali geologist, far far away from his native homeland and still a fair distance away from the sort of location his occupation normally would guide him towards, was still sweating as he lay in his bed. In a matter of minutes, his closed eyes were no longer closed on command but instead closed in restful sleep that a man of his current circumstances were duly deserving. Who knew how long he would be like this? Certainly long enough to miss the certainly filling dishes that the rest of their fellowship were to soon enjoy. And if Lauren was as kind as Mahendra was under the impression of, perhaps he too could enjoy their meals, just a little delayed. Hopefully they would have something not containing cattle, or else he'd be more than happy with a normal sandwich. But that was not on his mind right then, but more urgent matters. Matters of life and death.

In his sweat- and pain induced dream-state, he was still in the desert of Egypt, but not in the area surrounding Cairo. The sun was scorching everything it set upon, including the large line of entrenchments and soldiers in it. Defending it. Defending what? Mahendra was there, then the Sepoy Zalil of the 11th Indian Divison, defending the Suez-Canal from the advancing Ottoman forces. The orders were clear, to stop them from taking control of one of the many lifelines of the British Empire and critical supply route to the entire European Theatre of war. Good for them, they already knew when and where the Ottomans were coming. But it was still bloody.

Mahendra wouldn't be sure if his dream was an accurate representation of the actual battle, but the main themes were there. He was there, both of them were there; He and the Turk. Mahendra stood up from his position in the trenches to look at the incoming soldiers charging them. From his back they was given the order to open fire, and so they did. Mahendra hesitated, staring down his rifle's sight at a man that could barely be any older than him. The order was given again, but again no shot rang from his rifle. Aagin he was told to start shooting by his English commanding officer, and now he had no choice. He pulled the trigger with closed eyes, but they opened just in time to see the soldier get hit and stumble forward.

His first kill in a line of many through that war, but on he'd rather forget.

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"Oh yes, you persist. That much is true." Richard had to pull his cheek into a small smile at her observation of the 20t century's women. Richard wasn't sure where he stood on the whole "Women's Liberation"-thing. Sure, some ladies had more than enough backbone to prove their worth and be compared to even the President of the United States, and for those women he had all the respect in the world. But then there were the women who used their new-won freedom to take advantage of men with soft hearts or ambitions of their own, and then turn around just to stab them in the back. There probably was a word for that, and it was probably something in French. His own ex-wife probably fit into the bill. Faye on the other hand, she was more of the first. Even if she just kept talking like most women did.

"Be careful what you say. Before you know it, one of us or both get a serious case of food-poisoning. If they served meat of dubious quality and origin back in New York, I'm sure it can happen here too." Richard cautioned Faye as he too eyed the buffet table. There were large assortments of food there, ready for the lower-class passengers to dig into like the doves in Central Park. Who knew if they served pigeons here? "If it tastes funny, reconsider what you're having to eat. If it tastes normal, still reconsider." Richard continued as he made his way towards the buffet, starting to feel his stomach growling. He hadn't eaten breakfast after all, or anything else for that matter he thought? Only cigarettes and cynical comments about this foreign land. Grabbing a plate and starting to put a small assortment of Egyptian cuisine on the platter. "Beer or water, Faye?"

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Getting away from her room and off to the dining area, Mosi noted a number of people who were also heading in the same way. Apparently a lot of people were up for this dinner and wanted to enjoy it. She vaguely wondered what exactly the dinner will consist of. She more or less suspected it wasn't going to be better than the one she had on the trip from the States to Europe. That one was real nice and all.

Once she arrived over at the dining area, Mosi quickly located the people from her group. It wasn't like they were hard to notice frankly. What she felt more displeased about was the fact that Lauren and Mahendra were missing. She liked those two a whole of a lot better than the others, all things considered really. She then looked about for other spots, but she didn't really know anyone else on the ship. Finally shrugging the displeasure away, she headed over to the table. She was marked like the others, she had probably enough right to be present around them for now at least.

“Good evening to you all.” She greeted them as she moved in to take a seat on one of the sides. She saw Josephine seemingly close to another man who was not good old museum friend. She was curious of there was something going on there, but then again it didn't really matter to her. Mosi probably wasn't even going to spend too much time here aside dinner. After getting the meal, she planned to go back to her room after a walk around the decks she had access to. Maybe go back down to the main deck for a stroll.

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All Decks: Dinner has begun. Those on decks where it is being served as courses, the first light course is being set down. Buffet foods for the others is laid out now and people can serve themselves. Dinner will last this round and the next.

In the lower level of the ship where even the staff take their meals things are very relaxed. There are not individual tables or even small ones for groups to get together and talk quietly. There are long bench tables that span one end of the room to the other with bench seating. Like cafeteria tables one might see in larger schools or even prison. They are decently nice however. There is no seat assignments and things are relaxed. Food is served buffet style, which means grab your plate and serve yourself before being seated. All foods are local street fare foods popular in Egypt. Ales and Beers and Water are there to drink. Hard liquors are not unless you brought your own. People are loud and rambunctious. Talking drowns out most noises and what it doesn't music played by staff or even other passengers does. This is a good since you are right near the engine.

The Main deck has two lounges. One open air and one enclosed. Both are just your general bar type areas with tables scattered about. People don't really eat there unless it is some soft of small finger food or appetizer that has been placed out. Can't order more unless it is drinks. Anything hard or upscale costs a pretty penny and isn't covered in the cost of travel unless you have an Elite Level Ticket. Though no many of those are caught there. Most people mulling around here are from the lower level who just want some peace and quiet while still being social. That or have a major gambling habit and just want to play poker.

The Second Deck has more formal seating but the seats are not reserved. Tablecloths and the basics. You are waited on here and most of the people on this level are middle class or servants of the Elite who are taking a meal before they have to get to their employers above. You will have an option of several different meat choices before being served. Meals are served in 2 courses. Bread/Sides/Meat and then a small dessert. Wine, Beer, Ale, and water are free of charge, anything more does cost extra out of pocket and it not included in the cost of ticket.

The Elite Deck is a full seven course meal that is served slowly and with grandeur. All drinks are part of the fare of the ticket. Seating is assigned and it is the least crowded area. Light music is provided but nothing that would drown out polite conversation. Since the weather is nice currently and the air is cooling, dinner is served on the Sun Deck above and not in the Meeting Room of this deck. The Lounge will serve anything an Elite Ticket wishes as they play Poker, shoot Craps, talk, etc.

Character Proceeding Forward: Vera looked over towards Nora as she arrived, George standing up in the ladies presence and nodding towards her. "It is nothing to apologize over, we had just been seated ourselves. I wanted to ensure we had a table is all," Vera said kindly. She was glad Nora was there now, she felt more at ease with her there instead of being alone with George. George could have gone either way, he seemed to enjoy Vera's company with or without anyone around. Seeing his sister come over he smirked a bit seeing her pull out the candy. The woman did have a thing for sweets. His brow however did go up at his sisters words.

Vera looked equally surprised but she had come to trust George over the short amount of time knowing him and hoped that the apple did not fall far from the tree. "Currently we are going to a dig site in Bubastis in hopes of solving a few puzzles that have come up that seem ancient in origin. We have had a few things develop over the last few days that have raised more than a few questions both scientific and perhaps religious if not just hokkum. All signs seem to be pointing to the ancient site so we are following them in hopes that this time x will mark the proverbial spot," Vera said, not exactly sure how to tell someone on the outside that people were getting branded by mysterious ways and several had turned up dead. It didn't seem like dinner conversation.

George remained standing as more women came over and finally sat down as Josephine was seated. Vera's eyes going over to Reddish and then to Josephine. He didn't seem like the type of man that the starlet would be found around but if she had learned anything over the previous months about the man when dealing with her uncle, he was not one that was easy to get rid of. Perhaps he had just latched onto her. She felt sorry for the woman but she had no doubt that if Reddish bothered her she would put the man in his place. It has been quite a day has it not Miss Clark? I think we could all use a good meal and rest this evening. Peace and quiet if you know," she said glancing over towards Reddish.

"Mmm, indeed. I am mmm surprised you are not with the Lord Major," George said to Reddish before carefully taking a sip of his drink and beginning to eat. He had to be careful with his mask on. He normally would take his meals in private so he could remove the mask but he was not going to leave Vera alone right then, not with everything that had happened so far. His sister, while he was protective of her, he wasn't worried over. The woman was truthful when she said she was made of tough things. He had seen her handle far more than one might believe.

"Yes, where is my uncle?" Vera asked as she picked up her spoon. "Would I be correct to presume he is taking his meal above?" she asked before noting that George was standing again and nodding towards Mosi. Vera looked over towards Nora before looking at Mosi. "Good evening to you," she said as any good hostess would.

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"Ah, well that may be just the thing then, Miss Ridgeway." started Reginald. He suddenly stopped, took to thought one of the things that Lauren had just said about herself, and veered off of his train of thought for a moment. "Wedding, you say? Ah, I believe you had mentioned something to the like previously. I have been addressing you with the honorific of a maid, which is quite ungentlemanly. If you would please forgive me, Mrs. Ridgeway... Drat it all, now where was I?" Reginald mentally went over the last bit of their conversation before continuing, "Ah yes, insomuch as you left our group a little early to attend to Mr. Zalil, I tarried a little later at the table. Perhaps it was within this time that some other arrangement was suggested."

The Lord Major shrugged, "Well, nothing to be done about it now." Dinner was just beginning to be served. "If you would forgive any condescension, madame, but for a refresher? That smallish plate is for bread only, that tiny fork most likely indicates an ocean-based dish coming in the near future, and the small bowl to the side is only ever used to clean one's fingertips - do not make the mistake of one of my Lieutenants from once upon a time and drink it." He smiled and shook is head at the memory, permitting himself a moment. "Ho, ho... he wasn't the sharpest knife in the drawer, that one. Pleasant enough boy, though I daresay his father purchased his commission for him. Pity. I should say that even my Corporal deserved a merited commission before that one. Hmm. But I digress - otherwise, just start with the outer flatware on either side of your plate and work your way inward as the courses arrive. If the staff is properly trained, they shall remove what is necessary as service continues."

His words were meant kindly, despite his predisposition toward haughtiness with things of this nature. Reginald might have considered himself more like the common man than most of his family, and indeed seemed to get along better with these people, but certain things would happen to remind him of the circumstances of his birth: Second born son to an Earl, career Officer, and master of a few households with the accompanying education in the ways of nobility. He couldn't help it, sometimes. His next words seemed to echo his thoughts on the matter, "...Cairo is so much simpler..."

Snapping back to the present, Reginald looked to Lauren, suggesting, "If the good Mr. Zalil's medication is making him drowsy, it stands to reason that he might awaken ravenous. Perhaps we should request something to take to his room afterward, what say you?"

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The subtleties of mannered people were not lost upon Corporal Reddish, though sometimes he didn't quite understand the point of it all. The rising and sitting and rising and sitting, though quite necessary when persons of the fairer sex entered or left the area, seemed just a hair troublesome to him. For that matter, it made perfect sense to him that the Anglican split from the Catholic Church was due in large part to get away from the incessant shift between sitting and standing and kneeling and sitting and standing and... Ok, not the point. Like a good soldier, his was not to wonder why, his was but to do and... stand. Again. But such was life among the better civilized than he.

In any rate, after ensuring that Josephine was comfortably seated and that he had his own chair in decent position, the Corporal sat down to a table that seemed just the slightest bit chilly. Not in temperature, as October along the Nile was something that a man of the British Isles had to grow accustomed to, but in his perception of how he was received. Nonetheless, he made the attempt to maintain as polite of civility as he could muster.

Reddish definitely felt the stares from the table upon him as he sat, prompting a quick, "Something on my face?" Okay, NOW he was making the attempt at polite civility.

Such civility extended to the subtleties of discussing peace and quiet from Vera, a thing which, were he honest with himself, was not his forte on a day-to-day basis. He picked up a forkful of what he assumed was lamb, based upon the fact that it was what he ordered earlier. He had a momentary doubt, having consumed goat on several instances, but quickly dismissed it. It tasted just fine whatever animal it was cut from. But what he wouldn't give for a decent curry... Anyway, he gave Vera a curt smile and a brief intonation of, "Of course, m'Lady. Sounds like just the thing, yes? Yes." He picked up a glass of bubbly, amber colored beer and gave a quick smell of its hoppy aromatics before addressing the observation made by George. "Oh, indeed sir. I often find that I am amazed by life's little inconsistencies, don't you? Why, here the Lord MAJ <ahem> Sorry, the Lord Major bestows a grand, grand honor upon me and makes me his Valet. Then suddenly, without so much as a by your bloody leave (and pardon, excuse my language, Miss Clark)...," He was covering his section of dining etiquette, and the use of unnecessary profane language, even something minor, would reflect badly upon himself and the lady inviting him along. "...he up and tells me that, unless he specifically requests my services, I am supposed to be "Off Duty". Can you believe that? I'll tell you, I'm not sure what to do with myself; Off Duty."

Reddish took a sip from his glass and set it back down, continuing, "Yet here I am, moving farther and farther away from my usual duties and among such notable persons, at that. Again, life's little inconsistencies, a sort of 'betcha didn't see that one coming' from the universe, as it were." His face possessed a fair amount of animation as he rattled off his story, occasionally punctuating sentences with his fork. "Take for instance, a Lady of standing from the house of Munn, a fellow veteran of the Great War and his sister who, as a matter of extraordinary coincidence, makes a last minute appearance, a genuine Hollywood starlet (again I am sorry to gush, I'm just so very impressed), and a..." The Corporal looked to Mosi who had recently joined them, "I'm sorry, but I haven't an earthy clue who you are past a name. Corporal Haring Reddish, at your service, ma'am."

"But as for the whereabouts of Lord Major Keystone or the American lady who seemed overly comfortable with bottles of distilled spirits, M'Lady, I should assume that they are taking a meal on the Elite Deck. Their tickets indicated access, and not being privy to the talk that brought us all here right now, ma'am, I imagine that they are enjoying various rich, imperialist tidbits dipped in chocolate and served with Cairo's fanciest bubbly wine. I should be a little jealous, speaking frankly, but being up there with the flowers and finery would have deprived me of present company," he gave a thankful smile in Josephine's direction, "and that of all of yourselves which is truly an experience. Besides that, as I may have mentioned... Off Duty."

Corporal Reddish popped a bite of roasted potato into his mouth and chewed with a triumphant glow about his face. Therewas something internally satisfying about a rant. Got the humors flowing in proper alignment, or something to that effect.

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Nora felt relieved to see that her tardiness had not been taken as a slight against Lady Munn. With all of the problems and chaos they were facing, the last thing they needed was to have a spat brewing over decorum. Of course, a bit of pettiness or perhaps anger that she could not yet process fully prevented her from even imagining smoothing things over with that irritating woman from before - Mosi. She understood Lady Munn's veiled explanation of the events that were transpiring - they would appear immensely illogical and impossible if not merely improbable to an outsider.

But Gene just raised an eyebrow at the mention of puzzles and ancient religions. "Say what you mean," Gene told Lady Munn simply, folding the wrapper of her sweet into various different shapes. First a square, then a rhombus, then some odd thing with triangles - creased and uncreased as she continued to just fiddle with it. She doubted that Lady Munn was telling her the entire truth - puzzles didn't cause educated people to turn to hokkum like that. And while others may not, Gene kept an open mind. She had seen a lot and doubted that anything Lady Munn said would truly shock her to her core.

Gene then gave Josephine a bit of a friendly wave as she sat down and Nora gave Jo a bit of a kind smile. Although any friendship between them on the outside would appear unlikely, Josephine had imparted a bit of wisdom that Nora was thankful for. She had to give the woman credit where credit was due. She was welcome company and Nora enjoyed having female friends - it was a nice feeling. She did not mind isolation and solitude, but that did not mean that she was opposed to spending time with others - especially those who had put in the effort to get to know her and allowed her a space in which she could speak her mind.

"Which one are you again?" Gene then asked Reddish, looking at him. She couldn't recall having been introduced to him and Nora had given Reddish a bit of a polite smile. He was British military and she imagined had been sent down by Lord Major - though she found it odd that the man himself and Lauren were both not present. Her eyes widened slightly as she realized that they must not have informed them of their intentions to eat on the second deck as opposed to the elite deck. As Mosi sat down, Nora ignored her on principle. She didn't care to have any sort of interaction with her - not after her callous treatment of dear Neema.

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Jo nodded at Vera's words, glancing over to Reddish and smiling to herself at the comment. "I look forward to seeing how the food is on here. So far, the cuisine in Egypt has been rather good." Soon, Mosi joined them. She wondered where the others were, but the Lord Major was dining upstairs. That was where she wanted to be, but the others were here and she didn't want to seem like she was not considering herself part of the group. She gave both Nora and Gene a nod and a smile. She had taken to Nora quickly, hoping the girl took her words to heart. Gene seemed like a delight. She had no doubt the two of them would get along quickly.

And then Reddish went into what could only be described as a tirade. Jo looked over at him, wondering if the man would ever take a breath. She noted himself stopping his high pitched yell for the Lord Major and thanked whatever god was watching over them for such things. Truth be told, Jo was fine with the man in general. He wasn't terrible to look at, just...annoying.

Reddish did have a solid point in his speech. It was truly unique and quite unexpected that this lot be drawn together. "I agree. It is rather astonishing to think that those of us with our backgrounds are all here together, called to action as it were. Fascinating."

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Faye perused her options, taking various things she was sure would not get her sick, but she did not know. She pitied that the lower rungs were treated in such a manner. But then again that was how the world was, was it not? The lower class are treated like garbage for no other reason than capitalism.

"Is the water...all right to drink? If so, then water. If not, then I suppose beer is the safest bet. One glass though, I need my wits about me, I feel." She was sure Richard understood her and her words when it came to women's rights. For long they have fought to get up to equal standing. It would take something big to change that, she felt. Something major to get men to see that women can do what men do, perhaps even better.

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Lauren listened to The Lord Major as he spoke to her and smiled shaking her head a bit. "It is perfectly fine, and there really isn't a need to call me by my last name." She didn't mind being called Mrs. or Ms. she simply was always used to be called by her first name, the only time she was ever called by Ms. Ridgeway was from her family's younger kids or when she was in school as well growing up they always did that. She looked at the plates in front of her as she listened to Reginald as he gave her a little refresher on the ways of fine dining and gave him a nod. "Thank you." Lauren said giving Reginald a smile as she watched the servers come over with plates of food to their table.

Lauren stared at some of the food that was there, and then reached over for the bread first and then started to put some butter on it was well. Lauren listens to Reginald as he brought up a story of one of his lieutenants and smiled a bit, she certainly did have her own fair share of dealing with people who weren't as bright as they should be. And then he started to bring up Mahendra and gave him a nod, which she was planning on doing regardless. "I was actually planning on doing that after our meal, and see if we can get some left overs to him if possible." Lauren said, figuring that he would really want some of the food, she then decided to try and learn more about the man. "So how long have you been with the Royal Army?" Lauren asked.

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As she had arrived, Mosi nodded that people were being polite quite polite enough as they were also greeting her in return. She nodded to George with a smile of thanks and also to Vera.” Thank you Lady Munn.” She even replied at the woman acting like a good host. It was nice to know people could display good manners and be kind. Admittedly she herself while not completely lacking in pure manners, wasn't really tactful when it comes to the whole speaking part a lot of the time. Part of it was the fact that she was a wild tomboy of the family back home and escaped all manners of ladylike education she could get away with.

“Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Reddish. Priscilla Harker at your service.” She introduced herself to Reddish with a smile.” As for who I am beyond name, I'm just someone with adventurous spirit I suppose. Here to study the occult, the art and most important of course the smithing crafts of Egypt.” She explained with a huge grin. Not quite shy about it or anything, she had nothing to hide really about this.

Since the dinner was starting she quickly stated what she wanted for a meal which was a salad, a steak and some beer. With that done and over with, she returned her attention to the others of the group again. Just as the Nora woman was ignoring her, Mosi was simply acting without care about it. Not her problem what that one thought of her anyways. What she was more curious was the new addition to their merry crew, or at least new as far as she was aware, the Gene woman. For whatever reason she was folding a candy wrapper into different shapes. Those were some nicely folded shapes, she had to admit though.

Having introduced herself and being rather hungry right now, she slowly started eating in small bites. She liked the food as it was served and the beer was not bad. Granted she'd had better for her taste, but this one wasn't bad either. Thus she smiled, enjoying her beer. The only thing missing from making this enjoyment full, was the fact she wasn't leaving the forge just now. Having a cold beer after a hot day of forging was one of her more favorite way of enjoying beer.

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The dream continued to swurl around his Mahendra's head as he was still fast asleep in his bed, changing from one dream into another with a seamless transition that only made sense in a state of sleep. The burning heat of the Sinai-desert was slowly but sure replaced by the less hot air of a military hospital. It was still in Egypt, his bed neighbours were still soldiers, but the sounds of artilley, gunfire and screaming had changed to the usual sounds of a hospital. Chattering between nurses, soldiers and doctors, people playing cards or shuffling in their beds due to itchy bandages, and himself lying motionless in his own bed. His own father, pale as a ghost but with a smile on his face stood beside Mahendra, comforting him while an officer from his regiment told him the impossible; his father was dead. Mahendra couldn't understand it as he was standing right there, comforting him. What was true? Was he then himself dead? His father comforted him, even as he faded from existance, and a soft voice told him not to worry.

The dream shifted scene once again, now to an even colder climate as the Bengali son of a poor trader in Kolkata who had never travelled far from his home, now saw the smoke rising tall in the distant horizon. Ships of countless sizes and designs sailed to and from them, as themselves sailed towards the coast. England, the heart of an empire that was as eternal as the moon and stars. This was his future now. Mahendra, in his dream, both smiled and showed concern as he packed himself tighter in a coat that was obviously too big for him. He was so far away from home, but perhaps this could give him a better future there? Soon he would step out onto proper British soil for the first time, and embrace what his future had in store. But all the people he could see from the ship were grey and obscured, and no-one said a word. Or if they did, he didn't understand them. Or did they not understand him?

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"It's probably okay enough to drink, if it's the same water served on all decks of the ship. But if you start to feel sick, you know the drill." Richard answered Faye's question about the water, while he himself was personally setting his sunglass-less eyes set on the beer on the table. But first, the various bits and bobs of food. He recognized several dishes of Egyptian street food from his time as a street cop back in Little Egypt; Kushari, Falafels, Kofta, you name it. Even if the New York Egyptians had their own variants, made with American ingredients, the smells rang true to his bandaged nose. Too bad they didn't have any Greek food, he'd like a small pot of souvlaki. The detective grabbed a few foods onto his plate, enough to fill his nicotine-filled stomach, before grabbing a beer.

"Good girl, you're starting to learn. But one glass is good." The beer looked okay enough, better than most speakeasies had to offer in the various hidden joints that he wasn't supposed to know about, and certainly not go to. But in all honesty, he missed the taste of a good beer. "That's one thing I gotta give to'em; they still serve beer in this country. Say what you want about 'The Destructive Effects of the Devil's Drink', but outlawing it was a stupid move by stupid men in the top that still drink it like the rest of us, just behind their back while lying to everyone else."

Richard made his way over to a bench and table where there were resonably enough space for Faye and him to sit. Sitting down on the bench and putting his plate and glass down on the table, he looked around to show Faye where he was sitting, while making sure no-one else took her spot. It was like the subway or bus during rush-hour; it was a fight of life and death, only with seats. "Say Faye, you never told me how you got cooked up in the whole 'supernatural' business, did you? What made you believe in ghosts?"

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As the meal progressed Reginald took some comfort in the fact that Lauren had not called him out for his proclivities toward naming the various place settings and bits of flatware. It was his own attempt at grandfatherly instruction, coupled with an occasionally unattractive sense of haughtiness that was fairly common among those of his social strata. Nonetheless, he almost could not help himself as he rattled off the occasional off bit of trivia or point of etiquette, such as, "No no, that item is generally broken open first," or "Yes, that dab of reduction on the plate is supposed to be the accompanying sauce. I know, it is French, you see, Makes no sense to me either, but there we are."

There was another point of etiquette that the younger lady had addressed that Reginald felt the need to address, as well. "Madame, you will have to forgive me my formalities, I am afraid. It it simply the manner in which I was brought up, and I am quite a man sedentary in my ways. If you would prefer it, I will call you Lauren in times we are among ourselves, but to address you as anything but Mrs. Ridgeway in mixed company has certain implications. I do not wish to bring insult nor dishonor to yourself. Perhaps I am a bit old-fashioned, but the people in charge of this land are as well, for the most part."

As dessert came, a welcome bit of sweetness as opposed to the palate cleansers stacked between layers of savory that they had been brought over the course of their meal, Reginald addressed the service staff: "Hmm, yes. That does look lovely. I shall have that one... and that one." And then his dining companion."Right then! To answer your question, madame, I have been with the Royal Army since I was barely a man. There were two options for someone in my position, you see: Become a local Lord and make one's self beholden to the fickleness of society, politic, etc., or increase the honor of one's family by accepting a commission in the Royal Military. I am biased, mind you." He took a small bite from his colorful, sugary (almost) last course, and after a pleasant expression, continued, "I've always had a profound mechanical inclination and thirst for adventure. It helped significantly as myself and a handful of like minded nutters helped to build the Royal Army Flying Corps, you see. Of course back then, it was all dirigibles and modified weather balloons..." He obviously had more to say, but his attention was waylaid by the approach of another waiter.

"My good sir, if you would please? We have a friend who is feeling poorly and could not join us this fine evening. Would it be possible to have something wrapped up picnic style to take back to him? I believe that the honored gentleman has dining restrictions pertaining to the Indian Subcontinent." Depending upon the level of understanding, Reginald stood ready to repeat his query in the native Arabic.

"Well then, Mrs. Ridgeway, a bit of coffee and that should conclude our meal properly. There are many occasions that I prefer a good roast and some spirits, but every so often the allure of fine dining suits me. Perhaps I find satisfaction in being waited upon. Eh, who's to say, indeed."

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Despite a standoffish beginning to dinner conversation, Corporal Reddish was pleased to note that others were attempting to engage him in pleasant conversation. While he did not wish to overshadow the lady who had invited him along to the equivalent of "The Big Table" at a holiday gathering, he was obligated by the guidelines of proper etiquette to give attention where it was due for the purpose of answering direct questions or acknowledging that others was responded to his own. As he spoke, his mannerisms grew slightly sharper in purpose, less satirical in nature, as if he were putting a guard up - or taking one down.

The first such response was to the very new newcomer, Gene. The sister to the American veteran, if he remembered properly from the exchange earlier. "Oh indeed, Miss. My manners need work. Corporal Haring Demetrius Reddish, at your service, of course. I am the personal Valet to the Lord Major Reginald I. Keystone, meaning I see to his personal affairs as necessary and facilitate as his driver and bodyguard, or extend service for others as he directs. At his order, I have handled much of the practical logistics that have brought us here. It is a pleasure to meet you, ma'am."

With Mosi, he was a bit less verbose. "Priscilla Harker." he said aloud, as if reminding himself. "So you are a student, then. How nice. I suppose an unlikely twist of fate brought you into this company, like everyone else, hmmm?" Though said in a light hearted manner, it had occurred to Reddish that every time one of their number died or otherwise left their Fellowship, someone stumbled into it, as if some unseen force was testing them, while simultaneously ensuring that they had a minimum number of participants. Unless it was a foolish observation brought about by one of the weirder, more paranoid parts of his psyche. There were a few of those lurking inside of his brain lately.

"Well then, Ladies and Gentlemen, I do hope we come to get along swimmingly. Just swimmingly." This sentiment passed along as he was finishing his own supper of, again, what he suspected was really braised goat. He turned to Josephine, bringing his mind back to her comment earlier about Egypt's cuisine. "I will be honest, Miss Clark, or at least as honest as decency allows. The local flavors didn't set well with me at first. Positively did not. But in time I have come to greatly appreciate the region's foodstuffs, and even the Muslim styles of cooking present here. I forget what they call it... Eh, no matter."

The finishing of a plate brought thoughts of dessert, and the spiffiness it might provide. "Oh! There is this local delicacy that I hope they have on board for afters. It's a seasoned carrot pie that they make in Cairo that is simply a delight. I forget the name of it in Arabic, but in English it's called (wait for it) 'Seasoned Carrot Pie'. Neat, eh?" He shrugged, making light of his little joke. "Miss Clark, I do hope it is not too presumptuous, but would you care to join me for a digestif and a walk about the boat following supper? The Nile is breathtaking under moonlight." His inquiry was open and casual, displaying a level of calm confidence that seemed uncharacteristic of the ordinarily boisterous man.

"And it might give me a chance to sneak a picture with you." he admitted. "It would mean a lot to me." Reddish, apparently not a man who was "Off Duty" a whole lot, seemed intent upon making the most of it while he could.

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All Decks: Alright, dinner is half way through and this will be the last round for dinner. Next round will pick up with tables being cleared and food being put away. Anything food or meal related has to be done this round.

In the lower level of the ship where even the staff take their meals things are very relaxed. There are not individual tables or even small ones for groups to get together and talk quietly. There are long bench tables that span one end of the room to the other with bench seating. Like cafeteria tables one might see in larger schools or even prison. They are decently nice however. There is no seat assignments and things are relaxed. Food is served buffet style, which means grab your plate and serve yourself before being seated. All foods are local street fare foods popular in Egypt. Ales and Beers and Water are there to drink. Hard liquors are not unless you brought your own. People are loud and rambunctious. Talking drowns out most noises and what it doesn't music played by staff or even other passengers does. This is a good since you are right near the engine.

The Main deck has two lounges. One open air and one enclosed. Both are just your general bar type areas with tables scattered about. People don't really eat there unless it is some soft of small finger food or appetizer that has been placed out. Can't order more unless it is drinks. Anything hard or upscale costs a pretty penny and isn't covered in the cost of travel unless you have an Elite Level Ticket. Though no many of those are caught there. Most people mulling around here are from the lower level who just want some peace and quiet while still being social. That or have a major gambling habit and just want to play poker.

The Second Deck has more formal seating but the seats are not reserved. Tablecloths and the basics. You are waited on here and most of the people on this level are middle class or servants of the Elite who are taking a meal before they have to get to their employers above. You will have an option of several different meat choices before being served. Meals are served in 2 courses. Bread/Sides/Meat and then a small dessert. Wine, Beer, Ale, and water are free of charge, anything more does cost extra out of pocket and it not included in the cost of ticket.

The Elite Deck is a full seven course meal that is served slowly and with grandeur. All drinks are part of the fare of the ticket. Seating is assigned and it is the least crowded area. Light music is provided but nothing that would drown out polite conversation. Since the weather is nice currently and the air is cooling, dinner is served on the Sun Deck above and not in the Meeting Room of this deck. The Lounge will serve anything an Elite Ticket wishes as they play Poker, shoot Craps, talk, etc.

Character Proceeding Forward: Vera looked over towards Gene and then glanced at Nora. This was going to be a bit to explain. Setting her fork down she pushed her plate away and nearly toppled over her wine glass in the process. George reaching out and catching it before a drop could splatter, he said nothing, just sat back and nodded towards Vera before his eye went towards his sister as if he seemed to say with a glance to proceed. Vera was not looking forward to this, she would much rather just enjoy the meal right then, the food was delightful.

Taking a breath she leaned back in her seat and began to let the story unfold of the branding that showed up, the people that had passed away, the clues they had found, the circumstances of things unfolding. She did what she could to keep her voice down as to not draw attention to them and speak as plainly as possible. It was as if she was reading a rather boring paper about history but she was trying her best not to get excited or to let personal views get into the data she was giving itself. She didn't want to sway the woman one way or the other but she did want her to know what she was getting into. Her eyes slowly went to George as she finished before the meal plate was switched out for dessert.

"Mmm, they have been through a lot," he said towards Gene as he sat there. He had barely taken a bite of his own meal and as the plates were being switched out he requested that covered plates be brought back for him to take to his room. They would return post hate with the covered dishes for him. Above, the same would be done for Miss Ridgeway if she requested it. George was more comfortable eating alone than with the others. The mask he wore was not comfortable and it made eating difficult. It was best to remove it but only his sister had seen what was underneath it and he doubted a room full of strangers or even those that he was starting to consider friends would be ready to see what was hidden.

Vera took a bite of her dessert and looked over towards the corporal, at least he wasn't yelling anymore. He seemed very different off duty than one but she gave a glance to Josephine. "If not you and Nora and of course you Gene are welcome to join me in my quarters for a night cap," she said extending an exit plan for the starlet if she felt she needed one. George perked a brow and looked over towards his sister.

"Becareful, my mmmm sister is a prankster and mmm weaves many entertaining tales," George said with a bit of a grin.

On the second deck and on the elite things were rather reserved and calm but in the lower deck was where the party was at. Employees eating, lower class people breaking out fiddles and the like. Dancing and singing. Small groups forming at the table, games of cards and dice were breaking out. Even one man broke out a pipe of sort to play music with and his companion had a snake that she was letting slither over her.

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Lauren would look towards Reginald and nodded a bit as she took in his advice it was has been quiet a while since she had this kind of fine dining. "Thank you. And it's fine you may address me as Mrs. Ridgeway if that is what you'd like I don't mind it at all." Lauren said as she was given course after course, enjoying the food as she listened to Reginald eventually he went to answer her question. "I am sure your family is very proud of you." Lauren said towards Reginald and gave him a friendly smile as she whipped her hands off with a napkin. As the final dish came out to her along with desert Lauren quickly started to dig into it as well as she looked around at the other guests that were on the Elite Deck.

Lauren then started to think for a moment as she thought about all the other people that they had lost rather recently which was sad to see them all die. "Also my condolences to your nephew Lord Major." Lauren said softly as she finished up the rest of her food and leaned back in her seat looking up at the server nearby. "I'd like some food to go as well if possible." Lauren said, she wanted to make sure that Mahendra had some food to eat and also she wanted to have some of her own in her cabin if she ended up getting hungry.

"I did bring some of my family's stuff with me it's in my cabin if you'd like a bottle." Lauren offered Reginald, even though it wasn't something as fine as wine it was still very good and strong as well. "Coffee would be great as well." Lauren said, as she took a quick drink from her wine glass.

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Josephine was enjoying her mean as the others spoke. Most notably, Reddish seemed much more animated. She chalked this up to him being "off duty" and enjoying it at his leisure. It was almost cute, in a way. Jo quickly shook this thought out of her head. She noted that no one had asked her what brought her to Egypt. In fact, the only person she ever really told was Haakon. There were, of course, needless details as to the why, but she wouldn't bother her party with that.

"I actually came to Egypt to get away from it all. Dreadfully tiring, Hollywood is. So many things to do and never enough time to be alone. I know it sounds like bragging, but really it does get to be a bit much. I've enjoyed my time here, not the least of reasons being that I got to meet you all and go on this grand adventure. So cheers to that." Jo lifted up her glass of whatever was put in front of her and sipped.

"Oh, Reddish darling, the food here is far better than what I've had in America. Granted, there are some foods I do miss, but we tend to like to fry our foods a lot. And lots of salt. Not so good for the waist, eh? No, here spices are used beautifully." No sooner had dessert started that Reddish took quite the initiative and offered her a walk. Jo met Vera's gaze and inwardly thanked the woman for what concern she ushered. "I may meet you afterward if you are still around Lady Munn, but I feel a walk to see the Nile would be lovely. I accept."

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Things were picking up below decks. Music playing and...was that a snake? Faye had to double take that. She pointed at it and looked at Richard, seeing if the man saw it too. She mouthed something along the lines of "Is that a..." before shaking her head. Clearly those on the lower decks were enjoying what time they had together.

Faye, of course, did not mean to start a conversation on the prohibition of alcohol, but Richard went off. Soon, she was thankful he brought it back around to her and her career. "Truthfully Richard, and I know you are a skeptical one, and if I would hear this without seeing it I may not have believed it myself, but it's the truth. My sister ran in with the wrong crowd. Now, that's pretty common, I am sure you are aware. Girls running off to find themselves, getting into shady business, but my sister went about that a peculiar way. Devil worship. Or rather a ritual. Now, I know my sister Richard. She may have been flighty, but she had a solid head on her shoulders. If she learned that her friends were part of that, she never would have gone with it. It led me to believe there was more there. Something killed her that night. So I want to learn what I can and stop that sort of thing from happening again."

After her speech, she took a hearty swig of beer, forgetting it was in her glass, and nearly choked on it. She coughed a bit before setting it down. "Sorry, got excited there."