[Bêthberry]

A figure came skipping over the hilltop, a brown cloak fluttering in the breeze, with arms cradled over something held in front of her. She looked up at the sky and noted the clouds. They had been moving lazily eastwards, streaked by sunlight, but now were billowing into larger masses and moving faster. The figure moved with more purpose towards the Barrow door where she noted some sort of movement amongst the gathered group. Whether it was dancing or an effort to get some of the blood flowing in the old bones, she could not yet determine.

As she approached, she picked out one or two familiar faces and could even see that Esty had engaged an impromptu Downs Philharmonic--well, it was not quite an Orchestra, more like an Ensemble. The figure began an impromptu dance.

"Halloa, Esty," Bethberry called out as she neared. "And the Resties," she added, seeing Lhuna, Legate, Gwathagor, and Rumil. "I hear there's one other thing besides death and taxes that can be relied upon."

"Welcome, Bethberry," greeted Esty. "What's that?"

"A Barrow Downs Birthday party. Except this one seems to be living up to its title, being rather an Unparty." With this comment, Bethberry nodded towards the reclining Gwathagor and Rumil.

"Well," said Esty, "you know how I love parody..."

Bethberry grinned widely. "I've just come from the movies thread. Would anyone like some popcorn?" At that point, Bethberry opened her arms to reveal what she held: several red and white striped boxes of popcorn.

Just at that moment, the sky broke with what sounded like the clashing of cymbals and pounding of bass drums.

"oooh," noted Bethberry. "It sounds like Mum might be preparing for a washing day. I hope she doesn't rain on our party."