2020-12-17 Singing at the Irish Pub
Singing at the Irish Pub
Participants: Saoirse Ramsay Nisha Calla
Location: Tom Bergin's
Date and Time: December 17, 8:00 pm
Summary: A 'black sheep' of a Noble family walks into an Irish Pub, where there's some traditional session of Irish music/singing going on.
Mood Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSWRv0XAhcg
The Irish Pub is 'close' to closing time. They close at 9pm for some silly reason! Who does that?! Anyway, it's close to closing time. It would seem that one of the patrons has brought a flute, and another has brought a lyre? A guitar? Something like that. But that's not the most impressive sight. They appear to be playing for a songstress. Or at least, someone who loves to sing folk songs (even if the current song in question is NOT an Irish folk song). Her Irish lilts laces the syllables of her words.
~ Tell him to find an acre of land
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Between the salt water and the sea strand
Then he'll be a true love of mine ... ~
The redhead, who is singing, is dressed casually. Leather jacket, cute top, skinny jeans. She does wear a pair of sunglasses, though they serve more as a hair band rather than visual aid. Next to her, there's a blonde with long straight hair. She sways in time to the music being played.
+ROLL/+DICE> Saoirse: Charisma + Performance vs. 6 -> 3 successes. (10 6 6 5 2 2)
What self respecting Englishman doesn't love a pub? Itish ones tend to have the prettiest lasses too and Ramsay is not disappointed as he headsnin off the street. He had on a coat of his own that he shakes off and throws over his arm as he looks around the place. Immediately he is drawn to the music though, so much that he doean't even notice the hostess offering him a seat. He just aort of wanders over to where the singing is happening, lipping the words and offering some humming in harmony to what the red-haired girl is singing. He just picks a table, as close as he can get and sits without checking if its ok first, coat abandoned off to one of the chairs.
~ Are you going to Scarborough Fair?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Remember me to one who lives there
He once was a true love of mine...~
Saoirse finishes out the song. Though the musicians finish out the music, some of the pub goers are already clapping and hollering. People raise their glasses. The blonde that's with Saoirse raises her IPA in cheers. Saoirse looks down, perhaps not really wanting all that attention. Demurely, she says, "Thank you." She nods her head, holding up her hand to acknowledge the various thanks. The blonde steals a glance to the new arrival, and then gives a look towards the redhead. And with some unspoken Bestie language, Saoirse looks over to Ramsay and gives a smile as well.
He's engrossed through the entirety of it, humming along and letting his fingers and feet play out the percussion section softly. As the singing draws to a close he is among the patrons giving applause, and even puts his fingers to his mouth to whistle as well. If anything he seems sad that he missed part of the performance. With his eyes on Saoirse its easy to see when she looks to the blonde, and he makes the connection as he approaches, the smile enough to make him take the chance. "You have a lovely voice." he offers as he walks up, "And a lovely friend as well." he says looking to the other girl. His own accent is faint, but to those that are good at placing them it's Northern English with Scottish influence. Highly Americanized now.
The Irish lasses certainly would have an ear for anything that's from the Emerald Isle, or there abouts. The blonde blushes at the compliment, but she seems to scoot a little as she finds another patron to start conversing. She's a wing girl, not one to play competitive games. Saoirse nods her head, "Thank you. You are much too kind." She picks up her own long neck of Galway Hooker, an Irish label for a pale ale. She looks around at the gathering, and then back to Ramsay, "I just like singing in these small settings. Reminds me of home and the lock-ins in Galway."
Ramsay doesn't seem to mind as he's left with Saoirse herself. A gentleman never leaves a lady out is all. He does finally flag down someone to order a drink himself, but he's so eager to get back to the lady that he doesn't even tell the poor server what he wants. He doesn't seem worried about what he gets either. "I've been accused of that once or twice." he admits, but he shakes his head. "I wouldn't be by anyone that heard you sing though. Modest and beautiful is a very charming mixture." he says to her with a dashing smile. He offers his hand to her, "Where are my manners. I'm Ramsay. Kensington." he says, the last part an afterthought but still with the presence that it must be something he was taught is important to include.
Saoirse can't help but laugh a little, tilting her head to one side, "Oh, I'd probably get a serious case of stage freight if it was anything more than this." She again looks down at the mere mention of her singing. Once the introductions are made, though, she looks up. She squeezes the man's hand in a dainty fashion. "I'm Saoirse Dunbar." SUR-sha. However, it's the blonde that looks towards the two with wide eyes, gasping. She recognizes the name. She puts a hand to her mouth and then quickly whispers something to the patron that's sharing this weekly bit of gossip.
Yes, the infamous Ramsay Kensington, at least infamous to anyone that gets their news from certain parts of the UK. Anyone keeping up with him would probably think he was still living in Miami. He takes the offered hand and leans down to kiss it, "Well Miss Saoirse Dunbar, it is truly an honor to meet you." His pronunciation of her name is pretty spot on, though he has a bit more of the gruff sound typical to the Scottish when he strays from the more Posh English. "With a voice like that? It's a shame. I'd love to have you sing with me in front of an audience. Duets can be so powerful you know? If this is the venue size that suits you though... then maybe I can convince you to sing with me here, or someplace similar." he turns to take the bottle of beer that the server brought back, a Killian's. "No pressure... but I've been singing since I was a babe and I love it." he says, that sort of intense smile that someone gets when they're talking about something they really are passionate about.
Nisha wasn't expecting to spot Saoirse here, and certainly not with company. However, the Asian doesn't immediately go up and bother them either. Instead making her way to a podium to pickup food, "Hey... I got a postmates order. Rack of lamb, the shepherd's pie and duck fries for pickup.", apparently on shift for the food delivery company.
As they got the menu order squared away, Nisha turned back and gave Saoirse a friendly little finger wave from a distance, totally not wanting to interrupt the potential date. Rocking on her heels and waiting.
Deirdre (the blonde) of course gasps when the man kisses Saoirse's hand, which only spurs on another round of gossip. The two friends do exchange a glance. It's as if they have their own form of communication, even if unspoken. It's that look that suggests someone should 'play it cool' and the other responding with 'I'm trying but this is so cool'. Saoirse quickly breaks from that telepathic exchange and returns her attention to Ramsay, "Oh, a duet?" She shakes her head, "Uh..." She's trying to hard to think of something. "Um..." Yes, the singer with the voice is not stumbling and stammering, completely caught off guard and perhaps hint at said follies that would come with too much attention. It's as if she's trying to speak or at least come up with a response that doesn't make her sound stupid. Too late.
NISHA! Saoirse lifts her hand and waves to the Asian woman. "Hello." Yes, that was subtle. No one noticed the complete change in subject. I mean, it was totally smooth and everything. Deirdre just gives her friend one of those smirks that would be accompanied with a phrase like 'Smooth move there, Ex-Lax'.
Ramsay sees the exchange, of course. He doesn't comment on it though. Hard to say if it is that he gets it all the time, or just has the grace to not make things worse for the poor girl. As she stammers to try and think of something though his own mouth turns to a much more crooked grin. He's enjoying it. She does change the subject though, and he reaches out to put a hand on hers briefly, whispering to her before smiling and turning to look at the Asian girl that saved her!
He offers her a polite wave as well as a smile, "Hello there." Short and simple, but he seems open and welcoming enough as he takes a long swig of his beer. He turns it around, looking at the label as if he were curious of something as he does.
Ramsay whispers "It doesn't have to be tonight, don't worry."
Nisha covers her mouth and giggles at her friends response, a completely normal and stereotypical thing to do for Asian women. "Three ciders please...", then pointing out Saoirse, Ramsay and Deirdre - paying out for a free round on her, just to be polite. Nisha then gives her friend a fun and respectful wink, before thumbing to Ramsay twice with a knowing nod. Perhaps trying to play wingwoman but not interrupt the 'date'.
She goes back to waiting, because she was early and mistakes in the online order often occurred. Poking at her teeth with a toothbrush.
Saoirse can't help but lean in to the whisper. Whatever was said certainly calms her down. She gives a thankful smile, showing her gratitude. "But you are a singer?" Saoirse looks rather curiously at the man. She then looks to Deirdre, furrowing her brow. It's as if she's asking her if she knew this without saying anything. Deirdre just tries to offer a subtle gesture to not talk to her, talk to him! Some people are so dense and socially awkward when it comes to certain things. Once again, Nisha gets noticed for her friendly offer and returns the wink in acknowledgement.
Saoirse returns her attention to Ramsay, "You should sing something!" She tilts her head, then gets a bit mischievous, "The Scotsman, perhaps?" Ok, that makes the blonde spit take her drink, giggling. She can't help but wait to see if Ramsay would oblige.
+ROLL/+DICE> Ramsay: Charisma + Performance vs. 4 -> 7 successes. (10 10 8 7 7 6 4 4 1)
Ramsay also offers a mouthed 'thank you' to Nisha, and even goes so far as to call out to her, "Next time they're on me." to her with an appreciative smile. Saoirse is then asking him about singing and he nods, "I am. My father..." very specifically father and not dad, "He had me working out my pipes in church all growing up. Added in all manner of other things by the time I was in primary. Now a days I sing pretty much anything though. I hated it for a while because I was forced to... but now its something that really makes me feel good and grounded." he explained. He keeps looking back over to her blonde friend as she tries to help the poor dear, and he seems to only get more amused as she keeps struggling.
The Scotsman is suggested. Ramsay looks at the little lass and gives her an accusatory look, "Are you sure that'll satisfy you without me in a kilt?" he asks with a playful wink. He does call out to the people with the instruments though before they start another song, "Hey lads, do you know the Scotsman?" he asks them, handing his beer to Saoirse as he blows her a playful kiss and heads to the stage. He takes the microphone as the band starts to play, and before the lyrics offers a little introduction.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. My name's Ramsay, and that darling lass over there has asked me to sing a song for you all. I hope you like it." He smiles to them, and then begins with the catchy, if a little lewd, tune:
~ Well a Scotsman clad in kilt left a bar one evening fair.
And one could tell, by how he walked that he'd drunk more than his share.
He stumbled round until he could no longer keep his feet.
Then he stumbled off into the grass to sleep beside the street.
Ring ding diddle iddle i-dee oh, ring die diddly i-o,
Well he stumbled off into the grass to sleep beside the street. ~
His voice has taken the Scottish brogue like it was a natural thing for him, and something about his voice transforms the playful song into something much, much more sensual and fantastic, his movements on the stage emphasizing the lyrics of the song.
Saoirse and Deirdre both start giggling at the fact that the man is going to sing the song. Saoirse retreats to sit, so she can watch the performance. Though, when he starts to sing, she starts to clap in time to the song. It's a steady beat. It's certainly not hard. But both girls immediately chime in when the 'Ring Ding diddle idle i-de oh' part comes (as it will come with every stanza). Some people start stomping their feet as the song picks up gusto, as well as encourage the fine singer to knock this out of the park!
Nisha picks up her Postmates order, she'd probably be late on the delivery due to sticking around - but she makes her way over to Saoirse to give an affectionate hug and kiss on top of her head.
"Holy shit.... your boy can sing. Bloke has the voice of an angle. Be careful my friend, he can likely drop panties with those vocal cords.", Nisha stated in a stage-whisper. Laughing and enjoying the song. "I'll take off once he's done. Don't want to be rude.", smirking and enjoying the pub song she was unfamiliar with.
Calla slips into the club, moving with her gentle graze. She hears the singing and her brown eyes widen in surprise. She then ohhs softly and does a few quiet spins s she steps further inside. She doesn't seem to know Ramsay though, but Nisha and Saoirse get a smile.
Ramsay plays to the crowd as they clap and stomp their feet to him. He picks out a different lady in the crowd for each verse, as if they were the young lass to find him lying there and taking that forbidden but of curiosity and making it very real for them in the performance.
~ About that time two young and lovely girls just happened by.
One says to the other with a twinkle in her eye.
See yon sleeping Scotsman so strong and handsome built?
I wonder if its true what they don't wear beneath the kilt ~
The Ring dye's carry on and he holds the mic out to the audience to have them join in with him, calling out and clapping himself as they join in and help him with the song. He has a genuine smile on his face as he connects with the people in the pub, and the following two verses go to Nisha and Dierdre, the flirting taken up as the song's raunchy references become apparent to anyone that wouldn't know it. For the final verse he looks back to Saoirse though, and sings it directly to her.
~ Now the Scotsman woke to nature's call and stumbled toward the trees
Behind a bush, he lifts his kilt and gawks at what he sees
And in a startled voice he says to what's before his eyes.
"Ach, lad I don't know where you been but I see you won first prize." ~
As the final verse is repeated for the last he is stepping down off the stage, walking out among the crowd as he finishes the last of it in a loud, pure belt, "Ach, lad I don't know where you been... but I see you won first prize!!!!" He is breathing a little harder from the dancing and singing he has been doing, but he looks so alive with the crowd around him. He lays the mic back down on the stage for the next person and then turns back to look at Saoirse, offering a slight bow.
Oh, there's laughter and joy from the two Irish lasses. When the lines come for the girls to speak, Deirdre and Saoirse each take a particular line as if they were sharing that conversation. Clapping and singing. This is what an Irish lock-in is all about. They are certainly loving it up. When the song finishes, they hoot and holler. She's certainly not going to take the mic, though. Even when she sung earlier, she did it from where she was sitting. As if she was just one of the crowd. When another person enters, Saoirse gives Calla a warm smile. Nisha's hug gets a return hug of her own. The redhead then smiles back to Ramsay, "That was brilliant!"
Nisha gives a closed mouth smile and claps for Ramsay. Her attention even drawn to Calla and waving the girl over. Unfortunately, the post mates driver had to go - carrying her to go boxes in some plastic bags. "I got to go deliver this, I'm sorry. Have a fun time.", giving the crowd a small chin nod. "They're having a blast Calla, you should join them.", Nisha states while making her way to the exit after saying her goodbyes.
Calla looks over to Nisha and then draws closer as she is waved over. She has a gentle smile for the woman that reaches her dark eyes. "Oh, take care.." She murmurs softly in her direction. She looks over to Saoirse and Ramsay at the talk about joining them as well uncertainly steps closer to them.
Ramsay is beaming. Sure the applause is nice, but the atmosphere is just something so wholesome. He reaches out and claps a few people on their shoulders as he walks back towards the girls, soft spoken thank yous given as they tell him well done and all that. He looks to Nisha and offers her another wave, "Hopefully next time you can stay longer. What company? I could always put in a large order later to give you an excuse to swing by." he says with that same chamring smile.
To Saoirse she says simply, "Thank you. I'm glad you liked it." This was, after all for her. Or because of her. One of the two. "Think of a song you want to sing and we can knock it out of the park together. I don't even care if it's just on the beach singing to the waves." he admits, settling in at the table and regaining his beer. He does offer Calla a welcoming smile as well as she is ushered towards the three.
The blonde that's with Saoirse speaks in her Irish tongue, saying a single word. "Dulaman." One of the patrons who had brought his flute (earlier when Saoirse sang earlier) chimes in, "Aye!" Saoirse looks to Deirdre, muttering, "But I didn't bring a bohd-" She's about to finish the word when someone behind the bar produces the Irish drum and appears to be ready to play, perhaps encouraging a true Irish folk song to be sung at the pub. The musicians are already starting up the song, resigning the redhead to her fate.
~ Dulaman na binne bui, dulaman Gaelach
Dulaman na farraige, be'fhearr a bhi in Eirinn ~
She then sings some dah's that match to the music as if she were actually singing lyrics. She then repeats the chorus to the song. For those that speak Irish Gaelic, the words spoken are the 'old tongue'. And she'd sing the entire song, though I'm saving on spam. For those listening at home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLJmyUkJquU
"Postmates for now, but I'd probably decline any really large orders. Because I deliver using a motorcycle.", waving to Ramsay, as Saoirse began singing. "Hey, Calla you can probably have one of those hard ciders if you want.", pointing out the fresh alcohol at the table. It was a new round recently delivered. Nisha didn't know Calla's age, but assumed she was 21 and it wouldn't be a problem. Sneaking on out.
Calla is near the table now and she reaches for one of the hard ciders at Nisha's words, taking a sip of such. She then peeks over to Saoirse as she starts to sing, having a gentle and dimpled framed smile for her. She cradles the mug with ne hand and waves to Nisha with her other hand.
Ramsay laughs and nods as Nisha mentions the motorcycle, "I can make it a small order really far away too. If you get an order for Mr. Garfunkle message Saoirse and see where we are." Always trying to subvert authority and get people the chance to enjoy themselves. With her dparting and Calla settling in he looks to the musicians as they begin to play. Not being Irish Ramsay can't join in the singing, at least not the words, but he sure as hell offers some humming harmonies, and is drumming the table with the band. Never pushes forward though, never even trying to outshine the red-haired girl but instead supporting her in the beautiful song. As the song ends he again is clapping for her. "I've always loved Gaelic. I know a bit of Scottish Gaelic from my family but never had the chance to learn Irish." he says with a smile. He finishes the beer he had ordered, and offers the remaining two ciders Nisha had bought for them to Saoirse and Dierdre.
Saoirse refuses the cider, holding up her IPA which she apparently is nursing; however, Deirdre - the blonde - is more than happy to take up a cider. Deirdre looks over to Ramsey, "I think she was a little nervous, she usually dances with that song." Saoirse just gives Deirdre one of those looks like she's going to kill her, but then turns to Ramsay and stammers a bit, "I... I just... well, I wasn't mentally prepared." She laughs nervously, finding that the label on her IPA needs to be peeled or something. Meanwhile, the blonde shifts her attention towards Calla, "Hi. You a singer, too?" She asks this as if she's worried she might be the odd ball out.
Calla looks over to Saorise and then to Ramsay. "Me a singer?" She murmors softly. "I mean, not really, but I can try. I was a dancer, but am not the best one ever anymore and I d love music, but sometimes I can get very off key." She murmurs softly. She has the cider cradled in her small hands and takes a small sip of such.
Ramsay happily takes the last and toasts Deirdre as they take their first sips. He gives Saoirse a sideways look as if to emphasize that the blond and he are conspiring. "I wonder what she could be nervous about." he says, certainly teasing her as he licks his lips through a smile. The look is the punctuation on it as he can't help but a soft chuckle. He shakes his head as she tries to make excuses and he's having none of it. "No. It was lovely. Letting your nerves show is nothing to be embarrassed about. I'll just assume it's because of me and then it can be taken as a compliment and no fault of yours." he offers her, both taking the blame and hinting that he's flustering her at the same time.
He listens to Calla as she describer her love of music, but that she isn't always great. "That's the beauty of it. You're never wrong if you feel it, if you enjoy it." he says witha smile to her. He picks up on the dancing part, "Now dancing I was never very good at. Dreadful really. I do the snap and scoot." he says, demonstrating as he sort of bounces as if to the beat, his arms at his side as he snaps, moves slightly, then snaps again. By the way he smiles through it he may be exagerating a little.
Saoirse shakes her head, "Oh, you don't want me dancing." Deirdre is just having a ball at tormenting her friend. Even the dancing aspect, Deirdre knows that people will need to run for the hills if Saoirse starts dancing. A lot of spilled drinks, people getting bumped into and such. One of the things about Saoirse and her singing, she takes up an inconspicuous sitting position and just sings. There's no risk of a trip to the ER. Deidre continues to engage Calla, "Oh, a dancer? What kind of dance?" She looks back to those with instruments, and then back to Calla, "I'm sure they'd be more than happy to spin up a rightful reel, unless you want a jig?"
"I used to be a ballerina." Calla says in Deidre's direction, giving her a gentle smile. She then looks over to Ramsay. "Oh, I am sure that you can dance better than you say. Well at least I thik so. I guess that I am not really sure." She murmurs softly. She then takes a sip of her drink before putting it down. "Oh, I don't know if I could jig or reel.." She murmurs softly. "I guess they jig and reel a lot in Ireland."
Ramsay seems to take that as a challenge from the Redhead. "Oh is that so? Now I definitely do. How many drinks does it take till you stop worrying about what the rest of the people are thinking and just care about what the cute guy asking you to dance thinks?" he asks, sipping his cider with a grin. He's not excluding the others, of course, and when Calla catches him on his fib he nods, "You're right. I just feel awkward dancing by myself. I learned how to ballroom dance as a child and since then I never felt right dancing unless I had a lady with me." he explains. He raises a brow as Calla mentions the kind of dance she does, though. "Really? That's fantastic. Classical arts are so beautiful to experience."
Deirdre has more or less tossed Saoirse into the deep end of the pool and is now letting her flounder about. No, Deirdre is trying to get the musicians in the crowd to strike up a song, but then turns back to Calla, "Reels and jigs are two different dance forms, really. You dance accordingly, as one is a wee bit faster than the other." And yes, they are much obliged to start playing. This is what you do at an Irish pub! Whether or not people get up to dance, the musicians start playing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auGVnRwrjak (and this might be a little staged, but not by much). Saoirse gasps, "Oh, well... I..." She looks to her friend for help. Yep, Deidre is more or less engaged with Calla and then the musicians to give any Saoirse any relief what so ever. Saoirse looks back to Ramsay, wrinkling her nose which causes all of her freckles to congregate at the bridge of her nose. "You're really asking me to dance?"
Calla has the drink set aside and she looks over to Ramsay with a smile when he speaks about ballet. She then smiles as the music starts up. "That is very lovely." She murmurs softly. "I should get going tough, I have to meet with someone, but thank you, all three for welcoming me." She murmurs softly.
Dierdre certainly is a Hell of a wing-woman, though for poor Saoirse it may not be the direction she was hoping. Ramsay hears the music pick up and he smiles deeper, taking one last drink from his cider. He sets the bottle on the table as he leans in to Saoirse, as if waiting to see the crack in her resistance. The scrunched nose and adorable way her freckles play from the expression is enough to make him break into a full smile, teeth and all. He stands up and holds his hand out to the redhaired girl, "Miss Saoirse Dunbar, would you give me the pleasure of this dance?" he asks her, very sweetly answering her question. "I promise if you break anything you can blame me." He adds, as if anticipating an objection. Calla is saying goodbye though, so he does pause long enough to wish her well, "It was good to meet you. Hope to see you again."
Calla smiles and quietly slips out, leaving the half finished cider behind. "Good to meet you as well."
Saoirse gives Deirdre a death glare. SOMEBODY is so dead when they get back to their flat. Deirdre just grins like a Cheshire Cat, and then blows a kiss. Saoirse takes the offered hand and stands. She mutters to herself, "At least it's a reel." Given the pace of THAT song, a jig must be even faster. She winces a little to Ramsay, "Um... do you know how to dance to this?" (OOC: Pulling out a better video that has some dancing pairs, though it'll be mostly twirling and such. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64Akaz43fgY) Yes, the redhead has resigned her fate to sending this poor man to the hospital, and he won't ever be able to walk properly again.
Ramsay, for his part, gives Dierdre a wink and a mouthed 'thanks' instead. His hand is warm and he easily helps Saoirse stand. He listens to the song playing, and while he seems to like it he has to really think on it. The pace of the music has him nodding, his foot tapping and he seems to catch a spark of recognition. "I think I know enough to get us in trouble." he finally admits, raising her hand above her head and giving her a slow twirl to test the waters.
Yeah, the violin is just racing across the strings, and the bodhrain is definitely beating out a rapid beat. Those in the crowd that aren't getting up to dance are clapping to the beat. You may get a younger lass doing some 'riverdance' moves or whatever as this song is definitely one to get people up and going. Saoirse must be under a spell or something. Not once does she step on anyone's toes. Not once does she trip over her own feet while being twirled about. That 'worry' about being made a fool? Well, it's lifted for a short while. She's just enjoying the dance, as if she's back home in Galway! Of course, school dances were with awkward boys who don't know how to lead - if they really danced at all. Deirdre, of course, is beaming with pride at seeing her friend stop being a nerd for once and having fun with a guy.
Ramsay seems comfortable enough leading, but as the two of them dance it is certainly a partnership. Where he forgets what to do he is able to follow along and catch the steps, when she is feeling nervous he is there, steady and smiling as they twirl and dance. He's fit, and easy to hold on to as they move and move to the song. His smile never stops and his eyes are on her the entire time. For him it may not be a taste of home, but rather all the reasons he left. As easy as it would be for him to be a certain way with his status and money, he is just a guy dancing with a girl he likes right now, and it shows in how he looks at her and how he just moves and gives himself up to the music.
When the music is really going, and when one might expect a singer to now be included in the song... there's a pause from the redhead. Well, maybe. If one is watching her, she is indeed singing. But one would have to understand Irish Gaelic to be able to read lips. It's as if she's waiting for a perfect spot, especially when one can sing in English - since her true audience this time only understands English. When that time comes, she takes a step back from his grasp so that she can indeed sing.
~ Tell me that the night is long
Tell me that the moon is glowing
Fill my glass I'll sing a song
And will start the music flowing
Never mind the rising light
There's no sign of day or dawning
In my heart it's still the night
And we'll stay here till the morning ~
He watches her as her lips move, and while he has no idea what she's saying, he leans in to whisper to her, "Don't be shy. It's beautiful." as an encouragement. Then she finds her spot though, the words in English coming out as she sings to the song and he too pauses, giving her all the time she needs to sing the song for him. He does still tap his foot to the beat of the song, but his attention is on her and he is smiling ear to ear. As the verse comes to a close he reaches for her to pull her close again, whether they dance or not. Seems he likes being close.
Oh, there is much more to the song. The player is just sparing a spamming of the screen. Still, she'd sing the entire song which switches from Gaelic to English and then back again. When she does indeed finish the song, she's taken into the grasp of the man. She just smiles, staying in close proximity to him. Her eyes search his features, tilting her head to one side as if this will help her get a view. Deirdre is kind, sort of. She doesn't break out the cellphone and take a picture of this moment, but she is basking in the moment of watching her friend like this.
Ramsay is enthralled through it all, and as she searches his face he reaches up to brush back some of her hair. Spinning isn't usually kind to pretty locks like she has. He lets himself look at her as intently as she is him, and as the silence stretches between them he speaks softly, likely not heard by anyone but her, "You're really something special. I'm glad I met you tonight Saoirse." He smiles softly, his arms holding her as if they were slow dancing, even so far as to sway slightly even if the music has stopped. Then decides to take the chance. He leans in, most of the way as if to kiss her, but giving her the last say on whether they do.
3... 2... 1... Saoirse ruins the moment. She looks down and away, avoiding the kiss. Deirdre looks as if she's going to break out a baseball bat and knock her over the head! She doesn't even know what's being said, but the move was a 'dick move' Saoirse! The kiss should have happened. She worked so hard to orchestrate it. Thanks a lot, Ginger! Once the moment is gone, Saoirse looks back up and says softly, "You've taken me back to Galway, more than you will know." She then reaches up so that she can stroke the man's cheek with the back of her finger, "But I don't know if this is real. Perhaps one evening, you will be able to steal a kiss." She does her best to smile, "But it will not be tonight. Let us just bask in revelry and each other's company." There is some emotion behind all this. She's just not being a cold hearted bitch. "Please?"
The man is nothing if not charming, and so even though he is left hanging in that moment he simply opens his yes again, a smile still there though one that is clearly hiding the emotions the moment brought. He takes a deep breath though, and as she reaches up to stroke his cheek his eyes close again and he lets out a little sigh, the rumble of it just between them. "I'd never ask you to do something you didn't want to do. Not if I really thought you didn't want to." He smiles then, more confidently. "You're not the kind of girl I would want to waste on something that wasn't real, so thank you for not kissing me if you weren't feeling it." He smiles at last and then asks, "Are you afraid for a round two on the dancing or will you give me the pleasure of one more?"
"Oh, now I know you're just stupid," laughs the redhead, trying to bring levity to things. But she pauses. It's as if she realizes that levity might not be appropriate quite yet. "You have taken me home, Ramsay. Tonight will be one that I remember." She then looks over to see Deirdre. Yea, there's a death glare. There could be a throw down. Or a sudden drag to the ladies room so that there can be some words exchanged. She then looks back to Ramsay, "And all I'm saying is that you're taking your life into your hands." The musicians then shift to a song that doesn't include any singing, and more designed for step dancing - but hey, this is an Irish pub. The floors are designed for that! Not that Saoirse is going to attempt this by any means, still... it's a lively tune. (and one of the player's favorite reels) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHNZuj6U8jo
Ramsay doesn't seem to mind the joking bit. As she gives him something a little more serious though he nods, "Well I'd be lying if I told you it wasn't an immense pleasure to see you like you've been tonight. Hopefully I can do that for you again." he says. Then back to the jokes about taking his life into his hands and he gives a perfect leading man smolder as he retorts, "Running from danger leads to a boring life." This song, and the type of dancing that accompanies it seems to be less comfortable for Ramsay, or a better way of putting it is that he is less graceful at it. He's still a pretty man dancing with a pretty Lass, but maybe a screenshot of the dance would be better for branding purposes. Doesn't reduce the fun he's having though, as he tries to keep up with the music and keep Saoirse from stumbling as he also tries his best not to. Near the end he admits, "I remember why I always stuck to singing and playing..." By now there is a thin sheen of sweat on him, and he couldn't look happier.
Despite all this activity, there's no sweat from the lass. After all, they make commercials about never letting them see you sweat or something like that. "You're still walking, so we will chalk this one up to the Lord watching over you." She then starts walking back to her table/seat with Deirdre. There is a dark cloud fuming over a certain blonde. They again share a look between one another that speaks volumes between besties. Oh Lucy! You have some explaining to do! Saoirse picks up her IPA and takes another swig of it. The blonde then chimes in. She's not going to give up without a fight! "So, aside from sweeping young lasses off their feet, even if they're a bookworm and don't know their head from a hole in the ground..." She looks back to Ramsay, "What do you... do?" Deirdre catches herself. It's as if she doesn't want to let up that she's aware of the nobility thing. Even though she totally is. "I mean, surely, you do more than find feckin' eejits..." Yes, there's another glare at Saoirse, "... and make their hearts skip a beat."
Ramsay thinks on that, and then shrugs, "Well, the good Lord knows when it's my time. Death by a red haired beauty would be at the top of my list of ways to go." he jokes, following her back to the table. He undoes his shirt a bit to let the cooling off begin, but otherwise seems non-plussed by the heat he worked up. He sees the way Dierdre gives her that look, and he stays out of the best friend fight. It's always good to have the best friend on your side after all. Instead he just grins at her knowingly.
He does finish off the cider as Dierdre talks, the dancing working up a thirst for him. "I have you know I don't make it a habit of sweeping young lasses off their feet." he corrects her, though it is playful. He is quiet a long moment though as he thinks about how to answer that question. He finally speaks to at least not make it awkward, "I don't talk about what I do usually. It has a way of changing how people view me." he says to her, and he even looks up at her so that she can see the genuine worry there as he says it. He reaches up and rubs his forehead, letting out a held breath. "But... I trust you." he says, turning from Dierdre to Saoirse. "I don't think it will you." he adds, and while he says it like its a conviction he does still have that hint of worry.
"My father is The Most Honorable Marquess of Northumbria. When he dies I will be." he explains, using the full title with a hint of derision. "So while I'm still free I have been traveling. Playing music. Learning what the world is really like."
Saoirse looks on with curiosity, but not in the same sense that Deirdre does. Deirdre has that starry eyed 'Keeping up with the Kardashians' look to her, but doing her best to keep things on the down low. After all, he's confiding in them. And hey, if things work out... her best friend will become royalty! Ok, slow your roll there, Dee. No, Saoirse seems to be more scrutinizing. Perhaps picking up on the derision. She inquires, "Are you not wanting the responsibility that comes with that title? Or the scrutiny?"
Ramsay leans back in his chair after spilling the beans, not looking at either girl but focusing on the center of their table instead as he waits for it. The question that comes is enough to make him look up though. Not what he was expecting, probably not as bad. He shakes his head, "Scrutiny never bothered me. You get used to everyone knowing what you're doing, and eventually get used to not worrying about it. It does make finding true friendships hard. Real relationships. I'm sure I don't have to tell you how many people would do anything to get a piece of that fortune, or the title." he admits.
"The whole system is just a rigged one. The responsibilities come without any real power to change anything. The expectations are there. You act a certain way, do what you're told, support what they want you to. Doesn't matter what you actually think." He sits up a bit straighter and takes on a rather effective representation of the proper Queen's English, "A future Marquess does not act in ways unbecoming." He slouches back down and shakes his head. "It's so much easier to make changes out here. Like this. I can walk down the street and nobody knows who I am. When I talk to someone I get to see who they really are, and if I see a place struggling, or trying to do some good, I don't have to sift through the shyte they want to spoon feed me to get my money. I can just look. Listen.
Deirdre looks a little bashful, knowing that if she were in Saoirse's place - she might be a bit of a gold digger. Or at least, the money and title and wealth and fame would be in the equation of things. But for Saoirse? It doesn't seem to register, or rather, she's listening on with intrigue and fascination. "And what would they say about a Marquess hanging out with a Irish nationalist?" She then offers as an aside, "True, there hasn't been any squabbles for a while." She does appear curious to the answer, or at least his reaction. Deirdre doesn't quite get the question, giving her friend a confused look.
If Ramsay has caught on to any of that with Dierdre he doesn't let on. How could she have possibly known who he was, after all. He chuckles when Saoirse asks about what they would think of him hanging out with an Irish Nationalist. "I can save you several questions along that line. I haven't done a single thing since I was 18 that my family, or the nobility would approve of. If I wasn't the only male heir I'm pretty sure I would have been disowned by now." he admits. He pulls his shirt apart slightly, showing the tattoos on his chest, the ones on his arms. "All of these? They threatened to send an agent and 'collect' me." he says, smiling at that memory.
"The real question isn't what they would think of it. As long as they have anything to say it will be all done to keep me quiet. What do I think though? My family is the result of one Kingdom being quelled for the sake of another. The worst of the fighting happened with my ancestors along that bloody border. So many atrocities commited so that a man could claim land for himself, and lord himself over the people. As far as I'm concerned if the people of Ireland want to be independent than they should be. Same as Scotland and Wales. Most people just want to be free. I understand that all too well.
Saoirse nods her head, listening so as to make sure she understands. "So a part of your worry is that you feel like you'd be labeled as a hypocrite, at least in your own mind if you were to become the Marquess. Nobility ruling over the working class. Something that goes against your principles." She tilts her head, considering that. She then smiles, "Well, I certainly won't attempt to change your views on allowing Ireland to claim their complete freedom from the Queen." Deirdre rolls her eyes a little at this political talk. Obviously, her own views don't go that deep. She scoots a bit, engaging with another patron about who knows what. She keeps her eye on the two. Saoirse grins, "So that is why you're in America? To get away from all the pompous noise in England?"
Ramsay thinks about it some, and he nods, "At least in part, yeah. I know there's going to come a day when I have to choose between my family and my beliefs. I think I'm sort of wandering, hoping that I'll find the wisdom to be able to sort it out when the time comes. Is it better to be too proud to bend your ideals and lose out on the ability to make some change? Stay 'pure' but not be able to do anything? Or do you let yourself lose a part of your soul and use the power you got for the price to make a difference, however small?"
Even though he asks her he is as much asking himself, or maybe God, or the Universe... He smiles though, focusing more on his time in America, "I'll admit at first it was to piss off my father. He thought it was gauche fraternizing with the rebels. That reasoning didn't last long though. Now I'm here because I really believe it's where I should be.
Saoirse doesn't try to provide an answer. Some questions are not meant to be answered. As much as some people 'try to sound wise', it's sophomoric at best. She then feels compelled, almost as if a song is now stuck in her head and must be released.
~Home you'll go and it's there you'll stay
And yo've work to do in the morning
Give up your dream of going away
Forget your sailors in Galway...~
Saoirse clears her throat, doing her best to contain her singing. Though, it would seem that those lyrics may touch on the topic. Maybe a little. At least in her mind. She then says, as if explaining a bit of the song, "Eventually, the lass realizes that all her dream chasing will only lead her where she needs to be..."
~Listen to the music flow
I'm falling for the flow of home
I'm home to dance til dawning...~
He seems content to let the questions remain unanswered too. There is a lifetime of soul searching to come to the answers to those questions, and even then it will be a 50 50 shot if he chooses 'right'. She starts singing though, and it draws him back in. He smiles, listening to her as she lets those words expand their meaning. He looks deep in thought as he listens. "Music is magic." he says as if it's the only thing in this world he knows is true. "Breathes meaning and life into words and makes them fit." He laughs as he realizes how deep their conversation has gotten. "How did you get me baring my soul like that? I definitely haven't had enough to drink to normally be doing all this. I don't mean to vent at you like that."
Saoirse grins, "Music is passion. Music is desire." She then looks down for a moment, perhaps bitten by the deep bug as well. "But songs come to an end." She then looks up, "Some songs are used to elicit emotion, not neces..." She then stops herself mid-syllable. She smiles gently, moving past her own thoughts to answer the questions posed to her. "It's all right, really. A night at an Irish pub has a way of bringing a lot of things to light. For me, it brings me home. Probably the one true thing that I know is real."
He is nodding, agreeing with her. "You're right. Music is all of that." But even though she tells him its okay how he has opened up he doesn't seem sure. "Well... tonight was definitely real. I didn't know how much I needed it either. I'm not convinced you aren't one of the Fae though. Beautiful, charming, elusive... wise." He smiles at the thought, considering a few moments. "If you are I think the bargain would be worth it." He smiles softly at that, but has to ask, "Why did you leave home? It seems like you miss it like crazy. Is there something stopping you from going back?"
Saoirse shakes her head, laughing at the thought of being called Fae. "No, I'm fairly certain that I'm not Fae." As for the rest of the compliments, she simply lets all of that slide off of her. She then goes to answer the question. The answer seems to require her to look at Deirdre, there's a fond smile and then looks back to Ramsay, "Me and Deirdre are enrolled at the University." She then quickly adds, "University of Southern California. I'm enrolled in their school of biological sciences." She tilts her head, "She doesn't know what she wants to do yet. She's in General Studies, I think they called it." She then lowers her voice as if she doesn't want Deirdre to hear, "She wanted to get off the island. She wanted to go on adventures." She shrugs helplessly, "So we are." She smiles gently again, "And don't get me wrong. Every adventure out here leads to experiences that will forever be remembered for all eternity. I don't regret a single one..." She then wrinkles her nose, "Ok, maybe the one with the food truck and..." She makes a face, "... Vietnamese BBQ?" She uses her hand to make the 'kill gesture' across the neck.
Ramsay doesn't seem convinced. "You know that is what a Fae would say." Flawless logic, that. He seems interested as she explains they are in school though, "Aha... a future scientist then. You certainly seem to have the smarts for it. I'm afraid you might give all those poor boys a heart attack though." He points that part out with a little bit of mirth as he imagines it. He looks over to Dierdre too as she is labeled as the reason they are on an adventure. "It's good you have her then. Adventures make your life meaningful when you're too old to live it anymore. Or so I've been told. I still have many, many years to go before all that happens to me." He does take out his phone and open a note in it. He doesn't hide what he is writing 'No food truck... no Vietnamese BBQ...' He almost seems like he's waiting for her to give him more tips before he finally sits the phone down, finished with the note. "I went to school in New York while I was living there. Music Performance and Composition at NYU."
Saoirse smiles and nods, "Well, it makes sense. You're a terrific singer." She looks around the pub, "This is just a ..." She purses her lips as if she's trying to figure out the right words, "... just a hobby. I'm not looking to make a career out of this. That's not my dream." She then turns her attention back to Ramsay, "I'm studying botany, though I'm not sure I would go so far to say I'm a scientist. I just want to have a beautiful garden." She then starts counting on her fingers, "A beautiful garden, a lovely pond, and the feel of a cool breeze on a summer evening." She nods her head, "The Triquerta. Land, Sea, and Sky."
"Well, thank you. Music is a passion, but not much more than a hobby. I have been thinking of maybe seeing if I can get some people together to play in a band, but it's never going to be a career for me either. I like writing music, I love performing for people. Seeing smiles and tears in an audience is just so fulfilling."When she says she is studying Botany so she can have a nice garden he raises a brow, "I don't think gardens have a degree requirement." The tease is softened by the fact he has just admitted to being in a similar situation though. "Land sea and air? That sounds nice. I've heard that word before. It's a symbol isn't it?"
Saoirse takes the man's hand so that she can draw the infinity knot on his hand. Think Venn diagram but only 'overlapping' parts of three circles joining together. "The Triquerta." She grins, "The power of 3 is more than a symbol. There is strength to be found there." In the background, you can hear Deirdre say to no one in particular, "Here we go..." She looks away as Saoirse continues, "Life, Death, Rebirth. Land, Sea, and Sky. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The Mother, the Maiden, and the Crone. The Past, the Present, and the Future."
He gives his hand easily, and as she draws the symbol there with her own finger it almost sends a chill through his body, and it brings that smile back. "Hmmm... interesting." He leans in closer, watching her with his hand in hers. "So all of these powerful forces were formed because of the power of three? I've heard of a few of those but never put them together." He hears Dierdre and smirks, glancing over to her briefly as he asks, "Don't mind her. Speaking about something your passionate about is very attractive." he says, though he keeps it quiet so it can be their own little conspiracy.
Ah, the love of friendship. She conspires, not caring if Deirdre hears her or not, "Don't get her talking about food." She then shields her mouth so Deirdre can't read her lips, "She's the one who wanted Vietnamese BBQ." She then says mockingly, "Try it. You'll like it." She just smirks, making a face. "But yes, there is power in the Triquerta. I center a lot of myself into the center of the three quarters." Deirdre then makes herself known to the couple, not that she was truly hiding. "Give him your number, hoor. We have to go." Saoirse looks up at Deirdre momentarily. Deirdre doesn't wait and rattles off a number for Ramsay's benefit. Deirdre starts pulling the lass towards the door. It's then that there's a final song - well, a portion of a song as she's out the door before the main chorus strikes.
~High is the moon tonight
Ya da de da dee da
Hiding its guiding light high
Heaven and earth do sleep
Still in the dark so deep
I will the darkness sweep
I will the moon to flight
I will the heavens bright
I will the Earth's delight
Open your eyes with me
See paradise with me
Awake and arise with me...~
