AWRR2 Chapter 5
Summary
- Session date: 2025-09-24
Paiza endures and awkward dinner at the Malassar home, and is not impressed by her host. Saiya takes Fritz to a burlesque show, and the couple is bothered briefly by Lord Daven Estor-Maesby Scrye. Mol invites Raveni to tea and they discuss relationships until Norn arives, taking Mol to a forgotten appointment at the Arbor. They chat in the carriage along the way. At the Arbor, he meets with Lord Jeremyn Callais to discuss his work. Trey and Kitty take a trip down mountain to try a new-to-them bar, but don't mix well with the locals. After Kitty's stomach forces her home, Trev gets sucked into a drinking contest with the bartender, and winds up blackout drunk. Meanwhile, Euphrastus has a meeting with a drow named Mr. Erelna, who hires him to find a lost antique chalice.
Session
Paiza come to diner at the Malassar household
* Firrin will have written Paiza to invite her to dinner with a very formal and proper note
* Paiza will have responded likewise in the affirmative, and arrive at the appointed time in a fairly conservative dress.
* Kosiru will have actually gone to some effort to ensure that appearances are properly maintained, setting out the one set of good silver, that kind of thing.
* Firrin is nervous but probably not for exactly the reasons that young men are usually anxious about having their bethrotheds visit
* Firrin will greet her at the door
* Paiza smiles cheerfully to see Firrin.
* Firrin is possibly even more carefully dressed than he usually is
<Firrin> Welcome :)
<Firrin> Please come in, Lady Paiza
<Paiza> Why thank you, Mr. Malassar. :)
<Paiza> I hope I'm finding you well this evening.
<Firrin> (well probably greets her in the parlour after she is announced by a servant but close enough)
<Paiza> (*nod*)
<Firrin> yes, likewise.
<Firrin> My father is just un the drawing room :)
* Paiza will take Firrin's arm and let him lead her.
* Kosiru is probably trying to look much too casual, holding a book with one hand and looking out the window.
<Kosiru> Ah, Firrin, I see our guest has arrived.
<Firrin> Yes, sir.
<Firrin> would, ah, would anyone care for a drink?
<Paiza> That would be lovely, thank you.
<Kosiru> Lady Paiza, welcome to my home.
<Paiza> Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Malassar. It is kind of you to invite me.
* Firrin will busy himself pouring her some wine, and a glass for himself
<Paiza> May I ask what you are reading?
<Kosiru> Not at all. After all, you are soon to be family.
<Paiza> That is the hope. :)
<Kosiru> Oh, ahh ... it's some older poetry. Sometimes it's good to return to the classics.
* Paiza smiles.
<Paiza> I quite agree. We Thantopolitans, of course, have an appreciation for things that have stood the test of time.
* Firrin passes her the wine with no comment
<Paiza> Thank you. :)
<Firrin> Very welcome, of course.
<Firrin> Do you, ah, do you like to read?
<Paiza> To your good health and good fortune, good father.
<Paiza> I do, more than I should, I've been told. A bit of a vocational vice.
<Kosiru> Nothing wrong with that, I say. Compared to all the other vices, anyhow.
<Paiza> I'm sure I have others, as we all do.
<Kosiru> Well, as long as you don't get any of Firrin's, isn't that right, son?
<Firrin> Ah. Yes well. I shall aspire to be a gentleman :)
* Paiza smirks at that and takes another sip of wine.
<Paiza> Ah, this is a lovely vintage. Is it local to Highmark?
<Kosiru> Ah, yes, I believe it is.
<Paiza> Oh, what a poor guest I am. I should have brought you a bottle from our vineyards.
<Kosiru> Well, no matter. Next time I'm sure.
* Paiza smiles and nods graciously.
<Kosiru> So, Lady Paiza, how are you finding the social season so far?
<Paiza> It's been quite lovely, really. I hadn't partaken for a little while, and I didn't realize how much I had enjoyed it previously. Of course, having the right partner has helped immensely.
<Paiza> Have you been enjoying the various festivities?
* Firrin gives a small actual smile at that
<Kosiru> Me? Oh, well, you know. Here and there.
<Kosiru> Really these things are intended for the young.
<Paiza> Surely it's not all wasted on us youth. My great-grandfather enjoys the opera, and he just celebrated his 120th birthday. Also, not coincidentally, his 60th rebirthday.
<Firrin> Oh... I've never been to one
<Kosiru> Are you fond of the opera yourself then, Lady Paiza?
<Paiza> You've never been to the opera?! We *must
* go sometime.
<Kosiru> It would be character-building, Firrin.
* Firrin was starting to say he woudl enjoy that but just kind of :)'s out of the reply
<Paiza> I can't claim to be an aficionado, I don't think, but I do enjoy them.
<Firrin> Of course.
<Paiza> We shall have to make plans, then.
<Firrin> Perhaps your great-grandfather can make a reccomendation.
<Firrin> is he, ah, is he in highmark?
* Paiza nods.
<Paiza> He is seeing to some governmental business while here.
<Firrin> oh, yes, of course
<Paiza> I'm not entirely clear on all the particulars, but I'm given to understand it has something to do with what's going on in Ahkas or somesuch.
<Kosiru> Ah, I see.
<Firrin> oh, in Akhas?
<Firrin> didn'tah, Lord Frederick say something about developments over there?
* Paiza nods.
<Paiza> Whatever the general sentiment, I think my great-grandfather fears we'll be pulled back into Ahkasic affairs whether we like or no.
<Kosiru> Mmmm. Inevitable, perhaps.
<Firrin> Well, apparenlty we already have Sentinels in play. so... he can't wrong.
<Paiza> Well, perhaps wiser heads will prevail and prevent it from coming to outright conflict.
<Paiza> If Fate is merciful.
<Kosiru> She so rarely complies.
<Firrin> :)
* Paiza smiles sadly at that.
<Paiza> Her plans and ours are never guaranteed to align, though She did lead us here, for which I am grateful.
<Kosiru> Well, shall we head to the dining room? Dinner will be served shortly.
<Paiza> That would be lovely.
* Kosiru says, casting a glance in the direction of the kitchen, with the cooks he has hired for this dinner working away.
<Firrin> this way, please
* Firrin offer Paiza his arm
* Paiza takes it with a happier smile.
* Firrin will bring her into the dining room and seat her politely
<Paiza> A gentleman indeed.
* Firrin smiles and will also seat himself
* Kosiru takes the first dish that comes out, and serves himself first.
<Paiza> (What's the house like, out of curiosity?)
<Kosiru> (OK, so have you ever been in a place that looks beautiful but then you can see that every possible corner has been cut? Like, cheap veneer that looks like expensive hardwood, that kind of thing?)
* Kosiru sniffs the first bite critically, then eats it, as if it is the first time he has tasted good food.
* Paiza very specifically does not comment on him serving himself first, but will glance at Firrin for a moment.
<Kosiru> Mmm, very interesting.
* Firrin is very :) and will take the dish and serve her
<Firrin> enjoy :) Please :)
<Kosiru> (and you have to imagine like, hotel-grade art everywhere)
<Paiza> Thank you.
* Paiza says specifically to Firrin.
<Firrin> you are very welcome
* Firrin will then serve himself
<Kosiru> Ah, excuse me for a moment.
<Paiza> Of course.
<Firrin> Of courde, father
* Firrin tries not to eye him warily as he gets up
* Firrin gives Paiza an apologetic look though
* Kosiru gets up and goes into the kitchen. A moment later, if your hearing is good, you can hear unmistakably though muffled, as if someone trying not to be heard yelling but failing, "Beets? I specifically asked for no root vegetables! What do you think, I'm trying to impress a peasant girl? Buffoonery!"
* Firrin gves hr a more apologetic look
<Firrin> ahh.. well... It smells quite nie, doesn't it?
<Firrin> (nice)
* Paiza attempts a smile, though clearly they can both hear Kosiru.
* Firrin winces
<Paiza> Yes, ah, quite nice.
* Paiza will take a bite.
<Paiza> It *is
* quite good, actually.
* Paiza glances towards the direction of the kitchen.
* Firrin seems a little relieved but will try it himself as well
<Firrin> oh that is very nice with the... glaze, I think? And the spices?
<Paiza> Yes. Is that...ginger, I think?
<Paiza> (q) Is this a common thing?
* Paiza nods slightly towards the kitchen.
<Firrin> well... the cook is hired... but....
* Paiza gives Firrin a sympathetic look.
* Firrin looks back to the kitchen as well to make sure that his dad isn't about to wak back in
<Firrin> My father can be very... particular :)
* Paiza nods, frowning with concern.
* Kosiru calls out from the kitchen area.
<Kosiru> FIRRIN? In here, please.
* Firrin flinches
<Firrin> ...excuse me :)
* Firrin will rise and head cautiously to the kitchen
* Paiza will raise a hand as if to protest for a moment, but let's him go with another look of concern.
<Firrin> ...yes sir
<Firrin> ?
<Kosiru> Why are you so intent on ruining this, Firrin? I swear, I work for days, trying to help you, working to make you presentable, and this is what I get? Are you even capable of sentence of more than three words?
* Firrin is flustered
<Firrin> I, oh.
<Firrin> I'll do better, sir.
<Kosiru> Of that, I have the gravest doubt. But get back in there and woo, dammit!
<Kosiru> Shoo, shoo! Go, and then I will return a few moments later.
* Kosiru brushes Firrin away.
* Firrin will be shooed and return to the dining room
<Firrin> :)
<Firrin> My apoloigies :)
<Paiza> Nothing to apologize for.
<Paiza> (q) Are you okay?
<Firrin> have I said how lovely you look this evening? :)
<Paiza> Oh, well, no, but that's very kind of you. You look very handsome yourself.
* Paiza looks a little confused and still concerned.
* Kosiru returns.
<Kosiru> Ah, well, very good to see you two getting along so well.
<Firrin> That's kind of you to say
* Kosiru sits back down and resumes eating, avoiding any nasty root vegetables.
* Firrin was sayign to Paiza, but sits up even straighter when Kosiru reappears
<Paiza> I'm always impressed with how sharply dressed Firrin is. He has quite the eye for it.
<Paiza> And I was just telling him how much I'm enjoying the meal. These beets are quite delicious.
* Firrin says nothing to this because his dad is always tellign him ro change and not dress how he wants to
<Kosiru> Ah, yes, a good tailor does so much for a figure.
<Firrin> Indeed. :)
<Paiza> I don't mean to be too forward, but when the tailor has such a good base upon which to work, I'm sure said work is easier.
<Firrin> Oh, that's...really too kind :x
<Paiza> I'm sure Firrin will cause quite the splash in Thantopolis; we could use more people with a forward-thinking fashion sense.
<Kosiru> Well, certainly, I can imagine ideas there would be very hidebound.
* Firrin blinks
<Paiza> I think the preferred term is 'traditional', but you're quite right.
<Firrin> Yes.
<Firrin> I, ah, look forward to elarning more abotu the traditions
<Paiza> That's kind of you to say. I'm sure we'll have plenty of time for such education.
<Paiza> Though I should like to learn more of Highmark's customs as well.
<Paiza> A bit of cultural exchange. :)
<Kosiru> Are you envisioning a more traditional wedding? Or something more ...
* Kosiru waves at Firrin.
<Kosiru> ... modern?
<Paiza> I'm open to ideas. Did you have anything in mind, Firrin?
<Firrin> Oh. Actaully... I haven't given much though to the ceremony....
<Firrin> Um... the date might have some influence, the weather and all...
<Firrin> and location..
<Paiza> Well, certainly we don't need to figure these things out right this moment.
<Firrin> Of course.
<Firrin> wel could make plans to discuss it, perhaps
<Paiza> Perhaps when we attend the opera? ;)
<Paiza> Not during the performance, of course.
<Firrin> Yes, and, of course
* Paiza smiles.
* Kosiru smiles.
<Kosiru> Good to see the two of you getting along so well.
<Firrin> :)
Saiya and Fritz go to a burlesque show
<Saiya> (is Fritz picking her up, and who if anyone is chaperoning us on this date ;)
<Saiya> (is Fritz picking her up, and who if anyone is chaperoning us on this date ;)
Session Close: Wed Sep 24 21:42:49 2025
<Fritz> (lets say yes and hmmm, someone surely. mom?)
* Lan-home (~Lan-home@lns5-pool7-088.adsl.user.start.ca) has left #awrr
<Saiya> (ok, let me just get another person on)
* Nary (~Curtana_n@d24-57-67-2.home.cgocable.net) has joined #awrr
* Nary is now known as Ioana
* Saiya is waiting in a dress of peach silk with a sparkly little wrap over her shoulders. Her hair is done in curls that probably required several servants to style.
* Fritz is wearing a nice green suit with a pale gold waistcoat with fancy embroidery
<Fritz> Good evening Miss Harrowden! ...Saiya :3
* Fritz brought flowers because he heard that's what you do and his mom said it would be sweet
<Saiya> Good evening, Lord Fritz :) Oh, thank you, these are lovely!
<Fritz> oh good, I'm glad you like them :)
<Fritz> (they are pink and smell nice)
* Saiya will take them in to put them somewhere safe, but will take one of them to put in her hair.
<Fritz> oh that's charming!
* Saiya will accompany you to the carriage, once the flowers are dealt with
* Saiya smiles
* Zari is now known as Trev
<Saiya> They smell so nice, I wanted to bring one with me :)
* Ioana is waiting in the carriage and trying not to interject or bother the young people - she has in fact brought some knitting.
<Fritz> it looks nice with your dress!
<Fritz> so, what is this performance we are seeing?
<Saiya> Well, I've heard it is a DELIGHTFUL variety show - different singers, dancers, and other performers - all on a sort of 'underwater' theme.
<Saiya> But if it turns out we don't enjoy it, we can always leave and go elsewhere :D
<Fritz> I'm sure it will be enjoyable company, regardless
* Saiya nods
<Saiya> I'm sure :) It isn't the sort of performance where you must remain silent and pay close attention all the time, so we can chat as well!
<Fritz> oh, interesting :x
<Saiya> It's rather informal and people will come and go as they please, I'm certain.
<Saiya> I don't usually have the patience for long boring dramas and the like :D
<Fritz> oh, alright then :)
* Kosiru is now known as Euphrastus
<Saiya> Oh, um, what sort of plays or entertainments do you prefer? I don't mean to say that ALL dramas are boring, of course :D
<Fritz> My mother - my other mother - has so many artistic friends I'm surprised she's never brought me to somethign like this :)
<Ioana> I believe it might be a little on the racy side, judging by reviews. But you're old enough for such things by now.
* Ioana says calmly from her seat in the corner.
<Fritz> ooooh :o
* Saiya grins
<Saiya> I do hope so!
<Fritz> well, I have been to some operas and so on but... they*can
* be a bit much, you know. And plays and the like but now I am intrigued :o
* Saiya bounces excitedly in her seat.
* Saiya has some rather interestingly bouncy features, you might note.
* Fritz does notice actually, yes @_@
* Fritz reie not to notice *tooo
* much though
<Fritz> (tries)
* Paiza is now known as Narrator
<Saiya> (we can get to the theatre whenever you want)
<Fritz> (sure let's mpve along :x)
* Saiya has reserved a box for us, not one of the MOST fancy private boxes, but one over to the side of the theatre on the upper level.
<Fritz> Oh, very nice!
<Fritz> should I - I mean, can I get you somethig to drink?
<Fritz> or anything?
<Saiya> Do you like it? I thought it would be fun to have a PRIVATE box :D
<Saiya> Oh, and - a drink would be lovely! Something with bubbles?
<Fritz> I'll see what I can do.
<Saiya> Thank you!
<Fritz> Mother do you want anything?
<Ioana> No thank you, dear, I'll be fine :)
<Fritz> alright!
* Fritz will go and fetch us some drinks
* Narrator is now known as Erelna
<Fritz> here you are!
<Saiya> Thank you SO much :D
<Fritz> I said pink and pizzy and I don't know what it *is
* but the bartender seemed pleased to make it?
* Saiya gives it an experimental sip
<Saiya> Ooh, lovely! It's sort of tingly and sweet :D
<Fritz> Oh good!
<Fritz> so, um, I was so glad you came to my party, you made everything so fun and lively!
* Saiya smiles
<Saiya> It was EVER so much fun :D I had a delightful time! You were a perfect host :D The food was delicious, the games were fun, and everything was just divine!
<Saiya> I hope you enjoyed yourself too - I imagine as host it's more stressful
<Fritz> I had never had a dinner party and now I'm excited to do another one!
<Fritz> Ot wasn't so bad I think except maybe just at the very end?
* Saiya nods sympathetically
<Fritz> I'm still not sure what happened but everyone said they had a lovely time? So I shoudl believe them, yes?
<Saiya> Yes, I think you should! Believe me, if a party went wrong, it would be SO obvious, people would be yelling or hitting one another or challenging one another to duels or I don't know what all sort of nonsense.
<Saiya> A bit of a squabble is nothing :D
<Fritz> oooh Duels :o
<Fritz> well I'm glad that didn't happen at *my
* party
<Fritz> that sounds more like Monty's kind of thing
<Fritz> have you ever seen anyone fight a duel?
<Saiya> Well.... not a real duel, no. I've seen people fight but not quite so formal as all that.
<Fritz> I've seen epopel *spar
* I suppose, and I watched my brother practice, but other than the fooseball I've never seen anything like that
<Fritz> but maybe that *does
* qualify?
<Fritz> I suppose your father is an adventurer!
<Saiya> Yes, and Nachtur can be a bit more.... rough and tumble than Highmark :D
<Fritz> oh yes!
<Fritz> I hear there's still demons in some places :o
<Fritz> have you seen any?
<Saiya> Not as many as there used to be but still SOME I think...
<Fritz> or - is that a rude question?
<Saiya> Oh, no, not at all!
<Fritz> to assime that because you are form nachtur you woudl have seen oen?
* Saiya giggles
<Fritz> oh good
<Saiya> No, it's fine, honestly!
* Fritz says, relieved
<Fritz> I *wouldn
* like to see it, you know I think there's so many things that have been lost over time that we can still learn form, and I've never really seen goblinoid architecture!
<Saiya> I've seen a few but mostly from a safe distance. Although once when I was little our carriage was attacked and my fathers had to defend it, which was exciting because I wasn't old enough to really know it was dangerous.
<Saiya> Oh, well, I would be delighted to show you around if you came to visit one day :D I do know there's a lot of old buildings...
<Fritz> your fathers?
<Saiya> Oh! My father and my ada. I mean, my other father. My mother was there too but she was more busy trying to keep us children settled and out of harm's way.
<Daven> Well well. I thought I saw you downstairs, but I almost couldn't believe my eyes, Fritzy. I couldn't imagine running into you *here*.
<Fritz> Oh I thought it was just mr. Harrowden :o Well that sounds very nice then, I'm glad youbhad them to defend you :)
* Saiya looks up at the new voice
* Daven is at the door to the box, leaning against the frame
* Ioana also turns to the door
* Fritz looks up and then frowns
<Fritz> well - what do you want ... *Davey*
* Daven 's eye twitches at the nickname
* Ioana keeps an eye on the situation but doesn't intervene just yet, letting Fritz handle it rather than having his mom jump to his aid immediately
<Daven> Just to say hello. And you're here with the lovely Miss Harrowden as well! I should have known it would take a pretty girl to get you to take in some more *cultured
* activities.
* Fritz frowns more, not catching the implications
<Fritz> Why, are you jealous? It's unbecoming :V
* Daven scoffs lightly
* Saiya 's eyes dart back and forth between Fritz and this new arrival
<Saiya> Is this a FRIEND of yours, Fritz?
<Daven> Oh, I wouldn't dream of it. No, Miss Harrowden is a little more social than I am, I'm sure it would be a total mismatch of taste.
* Daven bows a little
<Daven> Oh, old Fritzy and I are cousins. We've known each other since we were little and he was falling into mud puddles
<Ioana> It's very good to see you here, Daven. Are your family all doing well?
* Ioana asks calmly.
* Fritz looks flustered and a bit red in the face
<Fritz> you *pushed
* me into that puddle >:|
<Daven> Very well, my lady aunt. My father has recently sealed a deal on some promising land that he plans to build a new estate upon.
<Ioana> How wonderful for him.
* Daven pretends not to hear Fritz's comment
<Fritz> [muttered] I hope it falls down on your head
* Saiya bristles, literally, on Fritz's behalf
<Fritz> well I hope it isn't too far away. what a trial for all your many friends to visit :p
* Daven gives a brittle smile
<Daven> Oh, my friends will be more than happy to spend the time, I'm sure.
<Fritz> pfft.
<Daven> Anyway I'd love to chat but I really must be off - my father has a premium box for the show and I simply can't compare the view to... anywhere else.
<Saiya> OH what a SHAME, enjoy the show, farewell!
* Daven waves dismissively in Fritz's general direction and leaves.
<Fritz> *good*bye, "cousin" :p
<Fritz> [muttered] fare...bad :p
<Saiya> What a RUDE little man.
* Saiya says, not bothering to keep her voice down.
<Saiya> I'm sorry, I shouldn't say such things about your cousin, but I simply couldn't HELP IT :p
<Fritz> no, he *is
* rude, ugh
<Fritz> he's so mean!
<Fritz> And no one like him any better than me, I have never understood :(
<Saiya> You were MUCH nicer to him than he deserved, anyway.
<Saiya> I hope his new house DOES fall over :p
<Saiya> Or perhaps every stair should be just an inch too short so he trips over them all the time.
* Saiya says vindictively
<Saiya> or too tall? which would be more cruel? >:D
<Fritz> oh just... completely uneven!
* Saiya grins
<Fritz> ugh.
<Fritz> I'm sorry you had to meet him but - how did he know you then? I probably don't even want to know!
<Fritz> I mean - not as a reflecgion on *you
* of course... :3
<Saiya> Oh, who knows. I suppose he'd heard of me? I don't recall ever meeting him before, at least not as to be introduced.
<Saiya> People DO gossip... >.>
<Fritz> well - that's rude.
<Saiya> Very in keeping for him, then, it sounds like!
<Fritz> I hate gossip, why do people wnjoy being so mean to strangers?
<Saiya> Yes, there are people one knows who are much better to be mean to, because one knows they deserve it :p
<Saiya> Um... perhaps that sounds a little too malicious, but you know what I mean. If you know someone's character, and that they are badly-behaved, that's different than spreading a rumour where one doesn't know the truth of things at all!
<Fritz> ugh
<Fritz> I suppose
<Fritz> it seems like some people get talked about who *don't
* deserve it and then there are others who are *quite bad
* and no one even knows it at all, or they don't say anything.
* Saiya nods
* Saiya takes your hand and gives it a squeeze
<Saiya> Please don't let him ruin our evening, though! I would much rather talk with you about... really just about anything you like :D
<Fritz> oh, alright! :3
<Saiya> Unless you want to talk about him?
* Saiya offers with a smile
<Fritz> not at all! I was' well, I wasn't even *really
* thinking of him, but Lets atalk about something nice, anyway
<Saiya> For instance if you have a story where he accidentally wet his pants or something, that might be funny.
* Saiya suggests with a more wicked grin
<Fritz> oh! well... I don't but I can think a bout it and it *would
* be quite funny :D
<Saiya> But yes, another subject might be more enjoyable. I expect the show will begind shortly too, and we'll have that to take our minds off things :D
* Saiya doesn't happen to let go of Fritz's hand though, unless he tries to withdraw ;)
* Fritz will not :3
* Ioana smiles to herself and goes back to her knitting
Mol has Raveni for tea, and they talk about Boys
* Molgrin has things ready for a little tea party in the garden
* Raveni arrives precisely on time, having been early and pacing out of sight of the house(?) until it was time to meet. He knocks on the door.
<Molgrin> Hello!
<Molgrin> I'm glad you could make it - I hope you didn't have any trouble finding the place?
<Raveni> I found it easily, thank you.
<Molgrin> Splendid! I thought since it was nice out, we might take tea in the garden.
<Raveni> Lead the way!
* Molgrin does so
* Raveni 's tail is present and twitching nervously as he is anxious about meeting with a friend at their home for the first time
<Molgrin> How have you been lately?
<Raveni> I'm still getting used to the ins and outs of the social season. It's my first one.
<Raveni> You?
<Molgrin> Oh... I've been trying to keep busy.
<Molgrin> I don't want to spend the season cooped up in my room, so I've been trying to get out more.
<Raveni> I'd have thought you would spend a great deal of time "out" with your hobbies
* Raveni teases gently
<Molgrin> Oh, well, yes :) I meant visiting some salons and so forth. Although I don't really know many people there, but I suppose that's how one gets to know new people.
<Raveni> You and I both. It's been quite the whirlwind of introductions, hasn't it?
* Raveni settles into his chair in the garden.
<Molgrin> It's been a bit overwhelming at times. It's nice to have a more quiet chance to talk with a friend :)
<Raveni> I agree. I must admit that I had some ulterior motives to asking to meet with you though.
<Molgrin> Oh?
<Raveni> At the end of the last larger get-together you seemed... upset. I wanted to see if you were alright.
<Molgrin> Oh... yes. It was just an awkward situation.
<Molgrin> I can't imagine Firrin wanted me to kiss his fiancée, and I should have judged the moment better and declined without making a scene.
<Raveni> Would you perhaps like to talk about it? I can't claim to offer any great wisdom but I'm here for you if you would like. If you would prefer not to then I won't bring it up again.
<Raveni> It seemed like there was more to it than that, is all.
<Molgrin> Ah... Firrin and I were friends when we were children. But he moved away with his mother when we were around nine or ten, and only recently ran into each other again here, under very different circumstances than last we met.
<Molgrin> I had been glad to see him again, but... I think I grew overly comfortable and familiar with him, and I misjudged some things, and caused offense.
* Molgrin says kind of vaguely
<Molgrin> It was my own fault. And ... in talking with him later, we have smoothed things over, I think.
* Molgrin puts on a smile
<Raveni> I'm glad you had a chance to speak since then. I consider you both my friends and I felt badly for you both over what happened.
<Molgrin> Thank you, that's kind of you to say.
<Molgrin> I didn't want to cause any trouble.
<Molgrin> I just wasn't sure how to get out of the situation without causing offense to someone.
<Raveni> I... well. Please forgive me if I'm overstepping, but I have this feeling that you perhaps feel more than simple friendship for each other.
* Molgrin blushes at that.
<Molgrin> I ... I don't think he feels like that for me. In any case, he's engaged to Lady Paiza.
<Molgrin> We have agreed to be friends. Just friends.
<Raveni> I'm sorry, for what it's worth.
* Molgrin smiles
<Raveni> Complicated social entanglements are difficult to navigate even when your heart isn't mixed up in them.
<Molgrin> It's all right. I should be concentrating on the season and trying to make connections - I mean, possible employment connections, patrons, and the like.
<Molgrin> Not being distracted with hopeless wishes.
<Raveni> Whereas I should apparently be focusing on finding an *acceptable
* mate.
* Raveni mutters gloomily
<Molgrin> What constitutes acceptable?
* Raveni snorts in an ungentlemanly fashion
<Raveni> A broodmare, apparently.
<Molgrin> Oh.
<Molgrin> That is what your family expects from you?
<Raveni> Not all of them, just the "important" one.
<Molgrin> I had rather the impression that perhaps you and Lord Valacirca were becoming more closely acquainted.
<Raveni> I received a rather incensed letter from my grandfather noting the same thing. He was *not
* pleased.
* Raveni is blushing profusely nonetheless.
<Raveni> Circumstances are on neither of our sides, one might say. Regardless of how anyone actually at the heart of the matter feels about it.
<Molgrin> Oh. I'm sorry. But.... um. Well, it's probably just another instance of my putting my foot in my mouth, but I thought... well, nobles can do what they want, can't they?
<Molgrin> I mean...
<Raveni> I certainly thought so before I happened to become one.
* Molgrin fumbles for words a bit
<Molgrin> Well, like Lord Fritz's brother - he married a gentleman. It isn't impossible.
<Raveni> It is if you're the last of your particular branch of the family tree and the crotchety old bastard at the other end of it wants you to settle down and make new twigs.
<Raveni> ...It's possible I took that metaphor too far.
* Molgrin tries not to smile at that, but fails slightly.
<Molgrin> Well, I admit I don't really understand it all - noble families seem to have so many rules, when I would have thought the point of having more money and titles and land than anyone else would be to follow LESS rules, not more.
<Molgrin> but they made up more! extra rules just for them!
* Molgrin waves his hands in mild dismay
<Raveni> I'm starting to think rich people just like control so much that they try to grab it wherever they can.
<Molgrin> You may be right.
* Molgrin sighs heavily
<Raveni> Well, if all else fails we can always elope with our respective fancies and say damn the consequences.
* Firrin is now known as Fritz
<Molgrin> I feel like you might have better luck with that than I would. Have you and Lord Valacirca talked about anything like that?
* Raveni sputters some of his tea.
<Raveni> We haven't talked about any of it, in all honesty.
<Molgrin> Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to assume...
<Raveni> No, it's alright. I'm not completely blind, I know we probably weren't being very subtle at the party. There's something there, I know there is, but I'm afraid of the consequences of exploring it.
<Molgrin> Well, um, if you do fancy him, you ought to say so - although don't take my advice, because apparently I don't know how to judge such things.
* Molgrin says with a shrug of helplessness
<Raveni> For what it's worth, I think you're wrong.
<Raveni> You haven't seen the way Firrin looks at you sometimes.
* Raveni smiles softly.
<Raveni> I don't even think he knows he's doing it.
* Molgrin looks surprised
<Molgrin> I don't... hm. well.
* Molgrin sips his tea to cover his confusion
<Molgrin> Even if I am wrong - which wouldn't be the first time - it is not something that we could pursue.
* Molgrin says at last
<Raveni> Have you also got a dragon for a relative with a weird obsession with you procreating?
<Molgrin> Oh, no, haha, that's not really... not really an issue.
* Raveni 's eyes widen
<Raveni> I apologize profusely if I just hit a sore spot
<Molgrin> No, no, it's nothing like that!
<Molgrin> I just mean - no one really cares if I have children, I don't think? My mother thinks this whole thing is a bit ridiculous, and all she hopes is that I come out of it with some more money than I started. I have a bunch of younger half-siblings and anyway orcs are not quite so concerned about... about whose baby is whose.
<Molgrin> you see a baby that needs someone to take care of it, that's your baby now.
* Molgrin says with a grin
<Raveni> Sensible of them, unless the baby already has an owner.
* Raveni laughs
<Molgrin> So she wouldn't mind if I didn't have children, uh, physically, so to speak. I'm sure she would like grandchildren eventually but I don't have to grow 'em myself - acquired is fine :)
<Raveni> Let me know if she's taking applications. I wouldn't mind trading my current grandparent for someone more easygoing!
* Raveni sighs
<Molgrin> She's always open for more children I'm sure. I could bring you to meet her if you'd like!
* Zari is now known as Trev
<Raveni> I would honestly love that. I... forgive me for sounding childish but I miss my mother. I haven't been able to see her since this whole thing started.
<Raveni> My grandfather seems to be of the opinion that she's a bad influence. I think he just blames her for his only son walking out of this life to marry her.
<Molgrin> Oh, well, then you have to come meet my mother. She will try to feed you a lot, and if you want a hug, she can do that too.
<Raveni> Thank you, Molgrin. You're a good friend.
* Molgrin smiles
<Molgrin> I'm glad that you came over, Raveni, this has been the nicest part of the past week for me.
* Raveni gives a pointy-toothed grin
<Raveni> I'm glad I came as well. I enjoy spending time with you, my friend.
* Molgrin smiles back at that
* Kosiru is now known as Euphrastus
* Paiza is now known as Narrator
Norn interrupts the tea to take Mol to a forgotten appointment
<Servant> Master Molgrin, you have another visitor waiting.
* Narrator is now known as Erelna
<Molgrin> oh, I do?
* Molgrin looks surprised
<Molgrin> Who is it, please?
<Servant> Lord Valacirca, sir.
<Molgrin> Oh! wait, I thought that was tomorrow :o
* Molgrin looks flustered, getting up
* Raveni looks surprised and mildly alarmed
<Molgrin> Can you please, um, show him here, and let him know I'll only be a few minutes getting ready?
<Molgrin> Sorry, sorry
* Molgrin says hastily to Raveni
<Molgrin> I asked him to introduce me to his boss and he said yes, but I must have gotten the date wrong
<Molgrin> I need to get my sketchbooks and change my jacket, I'll be right back!
* Servant will leave and return shortly with Norn in tow.
* Servant is now known as Norn
* Raveni is still a little taken aback
* Norn freezes for a moment when he sees Raveni, but smiles.
<Raveni> Good afternoon, Norn. I wasn’t expecting to run into you here!
<Norn> Likewise, though I will celebrate my good fortune. Am I interrupting? Did I get my appointment mixed up?
<Raveni> No, I think our friend Molgrin got his dates confused and double-booked himself. He should be back in a moment.
<Norn> Well, still, I hate to interrupt. You were having tea, it looks like?
<Raveni> We were indeed, and having a good conversation. I think there may still be a spot of tea left if you'd like some
<Norn> I wouldn't want to impose, but I wouldn't say no to a cup. :)
<Norn> May I ask what you were talking about? Perhaps we can continue this good conversation.
* Raveni colours immediately
<Raveni> Ah, you know, just the usual. Bugs and art, that kind of thing.
* Raveni stammers
* Norn smiles.
<Norn> That's rather what we're to discuss as well, more or less. I'm taking Molgrin to a meeting with my patron, Lord Jeremyn.
<Raveni> Yes, he said something of the sort. Does your patron like to sponsor artists like our friend?
<Norn> Now and again. He and his father have published a number of books on Nerathi plants, and thus require good artists like our friend.
* Raveni smiles
<Raveni> I hope it becomes a promising partnership for them both!
* Molgrin dashes back downstairs, a bundle of sketchbooks under his arm.
<Norn> Do you need help there, Molgrin?
<Molgrin> Sorry again, Raveni!
<Molgrin> Oh, well, I think I have everything, but if you could just hold them for a second while I fix my coat...
* Molgrin pushes the pile of books into Norn's hands to straighten and button his jacket
<Norn> Sorry again to have imposed upon your tea.
<Molgrin> It's my own fault, I thought it was tomorrow
<Molgrin> I suppose I see why nobles have personal secretaries and the like
* Molgrin says, embarrassed
<Norn> Perhaps you can hire one if things go well. :)
* Raveni helps Molgrin fix his coat so it hangs properly.
<Molgrin> Thank you...
<Raveni> Absolutely no trouble, Molgrin. I hope everything works out well!
<Molgrin> All right - I think I'm ready. Or as ready as I can be, anyway.
<Norn> I suppose we must take our leave of you, Raveni, but it was pleasant to see you as always.
<Norn> Unless we can give you a ride somewhere on our way?
<Raveni> And you as well.
<Raveni> Oh, not to worry, my horse is tied outside. Thank you for the offer.
* Raveni wishes he'd not brought the horse so he could accept the offer of a ride
* Norn nods and smiles.
<Norn> Alright, Molgrin, shall we?
<Molgrin> Yes, thanks!
<Molgrin> I'll see you later, Raveni, sorry again for cutting things short!
<Raveni> No apologies necessary. Good luck!
* Raveni takes his leave
* Norn will have a small coach waiting to take them up to the Arbor.
* Molgrin breathes deep, calming breaths
<Norn> I really am sorry for interrupting. Raveni said you were having a good conversation.
<Molgrin> Oh, yes, we were. But it's all right.
<Norn> He seemed to be doing well.
* Norn says, attempting nonchalance.
<Molgrin> Yes, well, I think he's all right - but having some difficulties with his family, I think. His grandfather in particular, as I understand...
* Norn frowns.
<Norn> He doesn't sound like the most, hmm, pleasant of relatives.
<Norn> I don't mean to gossip, but is Raveni having some particular trouble with him?
<Molgrin> Oh, I think, um, his grandfather is pressuring him to marry and have children.
<Molgrin> Something about twigs on a branch of the family tree....
<Norn> Oh! Oh...
<Norn> I'm sorry to hear he's having to deal with that pressure.
<Molgrin> Yes, it sounds quite unpleasant.
<Molgrin> I don't have that problem at least!
* Norn nods.
<Molgrin> What about yourself? Is your family encouraging you to make a match this season?
<Norn> I think my parents would welcome the news, but luckily my eldest sister has the heir situation handled.
* Molgrin nods
<Norn> I have somewhat more leeway in finding a match, but my father has made no secret he'd like me to secure an advantageous match. We're still establishing our place in the broader nobility.
<Molgrin> Establishing your place?
<Norn> Back home in Vanilorra, House Yosk have been members of the Arandur for centuries. Here in Highmark and the Confederacy as a whole, we've been a 'marked House for about a decade.
<Molgrin> Oh, I see. That must be a challenge, then.
<Norn> It's, well, both an ongoing issue, and not entirely my responsibility.
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> That's a bit of a relief I imagine!
<Norn> Somewhat. It would behoove me to find a good match, like, say...
* Norn looks aside.
<Norn> Another shifter noble from a prominent family.
<Molgrin> Oh, yes. That would make sense.
<Norn> But I know my father would prefer trueborn scions and we are not a wealthy House to afford alternate options.
<Molgrin> oh... alternate options like...
* Molgrin considers for a moment
<Molgrin> Like someone such as Miss Harrowden who is not precisely noble but certainly well-connected?
<Norn> Oh, ah...
* Norn blushes as much as his complexion allows.
<Molgrin> oh, sorry if that was too indelicate
<Norn> No, no, it's all right.
<Molgrin> I only thought, well, she's a shifter from a prominent family, as you mentioned
<Norn> I more meant magical intervention. I know the Duchess Harcourt's family have made it *less
* expensive, but not *inexpensive*. I'm not, ah, inclined to produce progeny in the normal course.
<Molgrin> oh, right, I see
<Norn> But, hmm, perhaps not being the heir may be something of a boon in that sense. Surrogacy is more an option in such a case.
<Norn> Not that I should like to thing of Miss Harrowden as some brood mare any more than I would like to be considered solely as a stud.
<Molgrin> It's worth considering! I would think it a shame if you had found someone you liked and didn't think you could pursue it because of such reasons...
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> No, certainly
<Molgrin> Such arrangements are probably quite delicate
<Norn> I take it this isn't necessarily as big a concern for you? Your aims this season seem more inclined to the professional than the matrimonial.
<Norn> Unless I'm mistaken, in which case I beg your pardon, of course.
<Molgrin> Well, my family are not concerned with my making a match. At least, I don't imagine they would object, but they have no expectations in that regard.
* Norn nods.
<Norn> It must be nice not to have that additional complication for such matters.
<Molgrin> I'd like to find some patrons or other source of reliable income in order to help them out, but beyond that... well, it's not so much pressure I suppose.
<Norn> Certainly you can't be hurting for options, though, should you choose to pursue something. :)
<Molgrin> Oh, I don't know about that...
* Molgrin says, blushing somewhat
<Norn> Is it possible you're already pursuing something?
<Norn> ;)
<Molgrin> No, nothing like that. I'm just concentrating on my work right now, as much as I can anyway.
* Molgrin says, trying not to sound like he's hiding anything
<Norn> Well, hopefully I can at least help with that with this introduction.
<Molgrin> Thank you, it's very much appreciated!
* Norn will let it slide for now, but clearly notices Mol is not saying something.
<Norn> Speaking of which, I believe that's the Arbor just there.
* Norn nods out the window of the carriage.
* Molgrin looks out, admiring the view
<Molgrin> It's lovely...
<Norn> I'm honestly still impressed every time I see it. I don't mean to insult your home, but Highmark is very...urban; it's amazing Lord Jesseryn has been able to create such a refuge.
<Molgrin> Oh, it's not an insult, you're very correct.
* Molgrin tries to mentally prepare himself to be Professional and Serious
<Norn> You'll do great, I'm sure of it.
* Norn tries to give Mol a fortifying look.
<Molgrin> Thanks, I hope so....
* Norn will step down from the carriage as it comes to a stop, and help Mol with his stuff as necessary.
Mol and Norm meet with Jeremyn Callais
<Norn> (I'm assuming a servant will be on hand to greet us.)
* Molgrin will follow Norn's lead
<Jeremyn> (yeah servant on hand, especially if you have an appointment)
* Norn will follow the servant back to Jeremyn's office/study, presumably overlooking the gardens on some level.
<Molgrin> <w> What should I call him?
* Molgrin whispers as we approach the door
<Norn> <w> Lord Callais to start with, and he'll say if he'd prefer something different.
* Molgrin nods, relieved
* Norn will wait for the servant to knock and announce them.
* Jeremyn is now known as A-Servant
* A-Servant will knock
<A-Servant> Lord Valancirca and Mr. Braalk, my lord
* A-Servant is now known as Jeremyn
<Jeremyn> Thank you Amieris.
* Norn gives a moderate but precise bow.
* Jeremyn will stand from his desk
* Molgrin bows as well, not as precisely
* Jeremyn will bow in retrun to Norn and nod politely to Mol
<Jeremyn> welcome, please be seated.
* Molgrin will nervously be seated
* Jeremyn gestures to the chairs in front of his desk, and then resettles himself
<Jeremyn> I have looked through your work, Mr. Braalk. You are young, yet your talents bloom.
<Molgrin> Thank you, Lord Callais.
* Norn takes a seat, giving the slightest smile at Jeremyn's remark.
<Jeremyn> are you self-taught?
<Molgrin> I had some lessons in watercolours for a few years when I was younger, from a woman in our neighbourhood who painted things like teacups and little decorative figurines. But apart from that, mostly self-taught, Lord Callais.
<Norn> Fertile soil for further growth, my lord.
* Jeremyn glances at Norn, then nods and looks back to Mol
<Jeremyn> Tell me - when you are working on your illustrations, what is your goal?
<Molgrin> I try to be as accurate as I can, while still conveying some of the creature's ... living essense. That is to say, I don't prefer to draw from a mounted specimen or a cut flower in a vase, even if that might be easier to capture the fine details. I think there's something about seeing it in its natural surroundings that is vital.
<Molgrin> My Lord.
* Molgrin adds hastily.
* Jeremyn looks at one of the sketches consideringly for a bit, then nods
<Molgrin> Perhaps it's the difference between a formal portrait where a sitter poses, and a drawing done while a person is going about their business and not aware they're being drawn - it conveys something more natural, less frozen.
* Molgrin adds, talking a bit more because he's nervous
<Jeremyn> I can see that, yes.
<Jeremyn> It is an approach that has value in some contexts, where one may wish to convey that 'natural essence' as you call it
* Molgrin nods nervously
<Molgrin> I certainly *could* draw from a specimen, though, if that was what was required, my lord.
<Jeremyn> are you capable of producing the other kind, the more, hmm, documentary illustrations?
* Molgrin adds in case he was just talking himself out of a job
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> Yes, I could.
<Jeremyn> I'm less interested in the stare of the specimen, but for some contexts, the small details are important
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> If you had any examples you wanted me to demonstrate my skills on, I'd be happy to try, my lord.
<Jeremyn> The differences in appearance of certain insects, for instance, can be quite minute, but their impact within a system significantly variable
<Jeremyn> I would like to see it, yes.
* Molgrin will get out his drawing supplies then
* Jeremyn waves a hand
<Jeremyn> I dn't require you to produce for me on the spot
<Molgrin> Oh, right.
<Jeremyn> I would rather your best work
<Molgrin> Yes, my lord.
<Jeremyn> Would you prefer an insect or a botanical sample?
<Molgrin> perhaps one of each? if that's all right, my lord.
<Jeremyn> Of course
<Jeremyn> can you return them within, hmm... two weeks?
* Norn gives Mol the tiniest of encouraging smiles and nods.
<Molgrin> Yes, my lord.
<Jeremyn> very well. Norn, could you take him to the laboratory to make a selection?
<Norn> As you wish, my lord.
* Jeremyn nods
<Jeremyn> And Mr. Braalk - would you care to provide campanion pieces in your usual style, to, hmmm, illustrate the merits of the approach?
<Molgrin> Oh! Yes, I could do that. Thank you for your consideration, my lord.
<Jeremyn> Of course. I will see you in two weeks, then.
<Molgrin> Thank you very much for your time, Lord Callais.
* Jeremyn nods. "Good day, Mr. Braalk."
* Norn will stand and give another precise bow before exiting with Mol.
* Jeremyn says ia a more 'stop thanking me and get out of my office' kind of tone
* Molgrin withdraws anxiously
* Jeremyn probably has another meeting scheduled -_-
<Molgrin> <w> was that okay? was that ... normal for him?
* Molgrin asks Norn quietly once they are safely away
* Norn nods.
<Norn> <w> Entirely so. If anything, that was quite encouraging. He *is* asking to see more of your work.
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I'll rely on you to help me pick specimens that would be interesting to him, then.
* Norn smiles.
<Norn> I'd be happy to do so, and we can be sure to find the truly interesting ones.
* Molgrin grins
<Molgrin> Wonderful!
<Kitty_O> aTREEEEEEyVin!
<Trev> Kitty!!!
* Trev goes in for the double cheek kisses
<Kitty_O> mwa!
<Kitty_O> Are we headed down the mountain tonight?
<Trev> oh absoLUTEly!
<Kitty_O> I think we should, I need to cut loose a little while I still can!
<Kitty_O> faaaabulous ^-^
<Trev> I've heard marvellous things about this little bar just north of the [COUGHCOUGH] district!
<Kitty_O> sounds divine ^-^
<Kitty_O> my carriage awaits!
<Kitty_O> and I *do* have pregame waiting ^-^
<Trev> you're a SAINT, have I told you that lately?
* Kitty_O giggles
<Kitty_O> I'm really just an acolyte still but i have BIG aspirations :D
<Trev> Let's go get you so drunk your baby is born with an iron liver
<Kitty_O> oh perfect!
<Kitty_O> then we can take it out clubbing early and it won't be bothered :V
<Kitty_O> though really the servants can take care of it I think
<Kitty_O> maybe not *all* the time
<Trev> oh I'm sure
<Kitty_O> you know I *am* looking forwrd to being a mother some? Just so I can be better than *my* mother, you know?
<Kitty_O> but
* Kitty_O waves her hand
<Trev> well, I'm not saying it would be *easy*, but I do think you'll be *fantastic* at it
<Kitty_O> you don't care about that, lets break into the rice wine :D
<Trev> Woo!
<Kitty_O> ohh that's sweet though, Trev, thank you :3
* Kitty_O *will* break into the rice wine though
<Trev> And when the little one is ready to be corrupted, you can always call on Uncle Trev
<Kitty_O> cheers to that then ^-^
* Kitty_O giggles again
* Kosiru is now known as Euphrastus
* Trev proceeds to get moderately sloshed on the ride to the bar
* Kitty_O also
<Kitty_O> Is this the place?
<Trev> Oooh, looks like it!
<Kitty_O> excellent - well I brought the pregame so you can buy the first round. Time to make some new friends ^-^
<Trev> Fair enough!
* Kitty_O will follow you into the bar, lookign around
* Trev strolls up to the bar and climbs some little steps to make him tall enough to be seen
* Kitty_O will look around for someplace to sit
* Paiza is now known as Narrator
<Trev> My good man! A pair of margaritas, if you would please!
* Trev comes back to the table with a couple of human-sized drinks
<Trev> I love going to bigfolk bars, their glasses are so huge
<Kitty_O> oh ho! yes, I shoduln't be abe top see my drinking partner around it, I say :D
* Trev takes a big drink and settles down
* Kitty_O grips her drink two nanded and taks a swig
<Kitty_O> oooh that's, well, its big ^-^
<Trev> and the drink's not half bad either, eh?
<Kitty_O> hah
<Trev> do you know, I had a fantastic time the other night, I wonder if I could get a season started up in Shom?
<Kitty_O> you could get *something
* going, surely
<Kitty_O> Highmark draws everyone here for the politics
<Kitty_O> but surely Shom could become a destination
<Kitty_O> its such an interesting place!
<Trev> Mmm, the architecture here is certainly better, though
<Trev> all of the buildings in Shom are so boring and square
<Kitty_O> really?
<Kitty_O> hum
<Kitty_O> how strange
<Kitty_O> not enough Elduar influence I suppose, I wonder why!
<Trev> I say, barkeep, let's liven up the evening some, send a bottle of something strong our way, eh?
* Kitty_O giggles
<Kitty_O> Trev! I don't think it works that way here?
* Kitty_O is now known as barkeep
* barkeep glares Trev's way, and turns her back to serve someone else who looks maybe a bit more local
* barkeep is now known as Kitty_O
<Trev> What, do they not have bottles? Don't be silly
* Trev rolls his eyes theatrically and walks back up to the bar
* Kitty_O is now known as barkeep
* barkeep continues to ignore Trev and serve other patrons who clearly came after him
* barkeep finally looks over
<barkeep> What.
* Trev gives a charming smile, and puts down an ostentacious number of coins
<Trev> Could I trouble you for a bottle of spirits, my fine lady?
* barkeep eyes your outfit
<barkeep> sure.
* barkeep pulls a bottle of something questionable out from under the bar.
<barkeep> ten gold
<Trev> You are a gentlewoman and a scholar!
* Trev blows her a kiss on his way back to the table
<Trev> I think she likes me, Kitty dear
<barkeep> pfft
* barkeep is now known as Kitty_O
* Kitty_O looks bemused
<Kitty_O> now... what *is* this, Trev?
<Trev> It is...
* Trev sniffs the opening
<Trev> ... strong!
<Kitty_O> oh well! good enough then!
* Kitty_O powers back the rest of her margarita
<Kitty_O> whew!
<Trev> We should get another before we go, slip it into one of the fancy punchbowls at the next party
* Kitty_O giggles at that
<Kitty_O> well, let's try it!
* Kitty_O holds out her glass for trev
* Trev pours a generous amount
<Trev> Bottoms up, eh?
<Kitty_O> I think you mean - Whitbottoms up :V
* Trev will laugh, and then drink in her honor
* Kitty_O tosses most of it back and then immediately covers her mouth and looks a bit green
<Trev> Oh. *oh*. Perhaps.... hmm, perhaps not a second bottle of that one.
<Trev> unless we want to make it a truly memorable party
<Kitty_O> Oh.. trev I think that was.... bad
* Kitty_O says weakly
<Kitty_O> I think... excuse me :<
<Trev> Oh, darling, do I need to call the carriage for you?
* Kitty_O will get up from the table and nod, covering her mouth again
<Kitty_O> I just need.... outside :x
* Trev will escort her to the door, flagging down the coachman
* Kitty_O leans on you and then will promptly retch by the door outside
<Trev> There you go, there you go, dear. Better out than in, eh?
* Kitty_O nods
<Kitty_O> you're a good friend Trev...
* Trev rubs her back soothingly
* Kitty_O says, then retches again
* Trev makes sure to hold her hair out of the way
<Trev> We'll get you settled, then I'll go have a word with the bartender, she shouldn't be serving anything that makes people sick
<Kitty_O> thank you
* Kitty_O says meekly, and settles back into her carriage once she thinks its safe
<Trev> There you are, love, there you are. You just head right home, I'll have a word with the bartender and then be right behind you.
* Kitty_O will let the driver take her home
* Kitty_O is now known as barkeep
* Trev approaches the bar looking determined
<Trev> Madam, have I wronged you, that you would poison my friend like that?
<barkeep> what, your little posh bit can't hold her liquor and that's my fault?
<Trev> That woman can drink more and stronger than anyone I know, thank you very much!
<barkeep> bet?
* barkeep says smugly, pulling out another bottle and two glasses
<Trev> ... I mean, she's already left, I can hardly run after her to give her more of your swill, now can I?
<barkeep> you're not talking up your fancy copmany as much as you think, you tosser
* barkeep pours herself a glass and takes a biiiig drink with no ill effects
* Trev blinks in surprise, then narrows his eyes in suspicion
<Trev> This must be a different drink than what you gave us
<barkeep> sure
* barkeep pours another glass and pushes it at him
* Trev downs it, then coughs wildly
<barkeep> weak
<Trev> No, that appears to be the same stuff
* Trev glares at the barkeep then pushes his glass forward.
<Trev> Another.
<barkeep> too soft, pretty boy
<barkeep> ten gold, you made me break into a fresh bottle
<Trev> I assure you, I'm plenty hard where it counts.
* barkeep looks down at you againn
* Trev debates internally, then puts another 10 gold on the counter.
<barkeep> I'me sure I wouldn't notice
* barkeep pours him another glass and makes the money disappear, then pours another drink for herseld1
<Trev> Finish this bottle with me, and we'll see if you change your mind, eh?
* barkeep chuckles, as do several of the other patrons, getting interested in this little contest
* barkeep just pours you another drink
* Trev salutes, and winces as he drinks
* barkeep smiles and pours herself the next
* barkeep slams it back
<barkeep> what now little man - can hyou keep it up?
* barkeep puors you another
<Trev> I've never had complaints
* barkeep scoffs
<barkeep> not with the way you flash that coin, I bet you haven't
* Trev puts his hand to his chest theatrically
<Trev> I've *never* had to *pay* for company!
<barkeep> sure. not directly.
<barkeep> you gonna drink that ot you a weak little quitter?
* Trev glares and downs his drink, a little unsteadily
<Trev> HA! What do you think.... about THAT!
* Trev falls off his barstool
* barkeep laughs, as do the other patrons, some with cheers
<Trev> (from the floor) Kitty, I failed you
<Trev> Imma bad frien
<Trev> I'll havva.... havva join a church
<Trev> not ev'n on th' fun ones
* Trev garbles a bit more, then blacks out
<barkeep> get 'im >:D
* barkeep chugs back the resh of the hooch to roars of approval, as somoene else empties Trev's pockets
<barkeep> drinks for the rest of the night are on our friend here :V
Euphrastus meet a drow with a totally legit business proposal
<Narrator> Euphrastus, you'll receive a letter from a Mr. Erelna inquiring about your services, asking you to meet him at the Worker's Respite in Fallsedge.
<Euphrastus> (OK, have I heard of this person or this place?)
<Narrator> (You wouldn't have heard of Erelna. The tavern and inn is mostly a drinking establishment for factory workers, but also a fair number of travelers end up there coming down from the sky docks, so it's up to you if Euphrastus would know of it.)
<Narrator> (He might have met some dealers there at one point or another.)
* Euphrastus will dress relatively plainly (for him, which is to say, only modestly flashy, with his third-best monocle and a stout oak cane that is well-made and antique, but looks like it could double as a weapon if needed), and head down there, then.
* Narrator is now known as Erelna
* Erelna will wave Euphrastus down as he enters, being fairly recognizable. For his own part, Erelna is a drow man of medium height and build, dressed in fine travelling clothes.
<Euphrastus> Ahh, Mr. Erelna?
* Erelna nods.
<Erelna> Mr. Tinnane, I take it?
<Euphrastus> Yes, that's right. Ahh ... I don't think I've ever been in this establishment.
<Erelna> I've found its hospitality more than adequate. Please, sit. Would you care for something to drink?
* Euphrastus sits, straddling the seat as comfortably as he can.
<Euphrastus> Hmm ... white wine?
* Erelna will signal for a server and ask for that.
<Erelna> I'm given to understand you trade in antiquities and artifacts, Mr. Tinnane. Is that correct?
<Euphrastus> Yes, that's right. I appraise them, research them, where needed, and work to match buyers and sellers, that sort of thing.
<Euphrastus> While my specialty is in jewelry, by no means am I limited to that field.
<Erelna> That's something of a relief. I'm looking to acquire a particular piece, which doesn't fall under that category.
<Euphrastus> All right - tell me about that.
<Erelna> It's a silver chalice, a cup, really, about this high (he indicates maybe six or seven inches), a small stem, and a crest of a stylized dragon face on it, with onyx set in the eyes.
<Euphrastus> Hmm, interesting ... where and when was it made, if you know? And - is it magical, to your knowledge?
<Erelna> It's roughly twelve hundred years old. It, hmm. It wasn't magical when it was made, but may radiate some now.
* Euphrastus nods.
<Erelna> It's something of a family heirloom, and last we know of its whereabouts it was in Highmark.
<Euphrastus> But you don't know who owns it now, precisely?
* Erelna shakes his head.
<Erelna> It was...seized by a Lord Falkirk during the second Ahkasic War, but he passed away some time ago and much of his estate was sold off to pay debts in the meantime.
<Euphrastus> Hmm, I see. And he was in Highmark? So you're suspecting it's still here somewhere?
<Euphrastus> Or do you have any other reason to think that? It's a big world, Mr. Erelna.
* Erelna nods.
<Erelna> He was a Highmarkan, and his debts were largely here.
<Erelna> (You'll note he said 'Highmarkan', rather than 'Highmarker' like a local would. There's also a bit of a strange accent to his Nerathi Common.)
<Erelna> I know it may take some time and effort, but my family can pay whatever expenses are necessary.
<Euphrastus> If I may inquire, how did you hear about my work? Not that I object! I just would want to thank whoever referred you.
<Erelna> Athanasius Kircher recommended you.
* Euphrastus smiles.
<Euphrastus> M. Kircher is very good with books, but I can see how this would not be suited for his talents.
<Euphrastus> It may take some time to find it with just the information you have given me. It's a big city and a lot of buyers.
<Euphrastus> The good news is that it's silver, not gold, and onyx, not something more precious, so it's unlikely to have been melted down or refashioned into something more popular.
<Euphrastus> Its value to the average buyer would be strictly based on its historical interest.
<Euphrastus> Of course, I can understand that to you, it would be an heirloom and thus valuable for other reasons.
* Erelna nods.
<Erelna> It was previously in the treasure room of Shah Hal-Sherai of Hazzaren, if that helps. That was where Lord Falkirk acquired it.
<Euphrastus> Hmm, that is a notable treasure, then.
<Euphrastus> So, Mr. Erelna, you have given me an interesting puzzle, one that I am happy to take on. But the search itself will take some time, you understand. I cannot promise you this will be inexpensive.
<Erelna> I knew that would be a risk. I'll be conducting business in Highmark for some time, and can be reached here as necessary.
<Euphrastus> I do need to be indiscrete, then, and ask, what is your budget for this endeavour, including my finder's fee?
<Erelna> What would be normal for this sort of endeavor? A few hundred gold? A few thousand?
<Euphrastus> I propose one hundred up front for me, with four hundred more to be paid upon the successful location of the item. As for the price of the item itself, well, part of what you will get from me is a promise that I will do nothing that will suggest to the seller how much you want it.
* Erelna nods.
<Euphrastus> I value repeat business, which entails great discretion.
<Erelna> I appreciate that. This will mean a lot to my family.
<Euphrastus> Anything else I need to know, or that might help with my search?
<Erelna> I believe that's all, but I will let you know if I think of anything.
<Euphrastus> All right, then. The initial payment will be enough to get me started, then.
* Erelna will produce a small bag of platinum coins.
<Euphrastus> All right, I'll be in touch as soon as I have found the item, or have reason to think it can't be found here in the city.
<Erelna> Thank you, Mr. Tinnane. I look forward to hearing from you.
