She handed the note to the guard on duty, who was eyeing the odd-looking crew of three young women and a large grey dog with some curiosity.
"I'm sorry, but I need this note to get to an officer , at least I think he's an officer, maybe he's a cadet, but I don't think so somehow - I'm not sure of his full name however..." she realized that this was beginning to soud more and more ridiculous as she went on. Doggedly, she continued.
"I know his name is Gwenn, and he's new... Short - about this tall, light hair, mountain accent...?" She hoped that the guard on duty would know who she was talking about. She looked up at him hopefully, as she described Kay's Bredu as best she could.
MacKallister nodded, "Yes, Domna. I know who you mean. Gwenn MacConal.... he's one of the enlisted men.... He's on patrol at the moment, I think. I'm not sure when his shift will be over, but it probably won't be long. Do you want to wait for him, Domna?"
Melissa shook her head. "no, thank you. We really must be going. Can you please see that he gets the note as soon as possible howver? it is quite important."
MacKallister nodded, "Yes, Domna. I'll give it to him when he reports back", and he took the note from her and pocketed it.
As the guard assured her that he would see to it, Melissa smiled and thanked him. Turning to Katie and Dani, she sighed. "Well, let's go then." They walked on, following Dani at a quick pace.
Melissa glanced at Katie as they walked. "Katie, I'm glad you were able to come. I'm sorry it's been so mysterious so far. It's just that, well, I have a breda who is in a bit of trouble, and she needs someone to help her who has some experience with birds - I guess she's got a pet now, or something. And..."
Melissa hesitated "...she's got some laran problems as well, but she is frightened of Comyn folk, and even moreso of tower workers -who are traditional Darkovans...I thought you might be able to talk to her, without her getting nervous - as you're terran, she'll be more at ease with you..." she trailed off, realizing just how lame it all sounded out loud.
Katie looked at Melissa with thoughtful curiosity. She knew for certain that there was more going on than Melissa was saying, but she also knew with the same clarity that there was nothing sinister or dangerous going on.
She finally decided, looking at the girl - young woman, she corrected herself. Was I ever that self-posessed when I was that age? - that it was best just to go along for the ride, and see how things transpired.
She nodded. "Well, I'll be happy to try my best. I can't promise anything."
As Melissa smiled in genuine relief and thanks, Katie grinned. It seemed that she was never to be out of interesting situations here on Darkover...something she was starting to enjoy.
After a few minutes of winding through streets that looked more and more residential and quiet, Katie began to wonder just exactly where they were going.
Almost as if echoing her thoughts, Melissa looked at Dani. "Is it much further?"
Danette smiled at them. "No. Just a few paces more". She led them to Leaves and knocked on the door.