AWRR2 Chapter 2

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Summary

Session date: 2025-07-30

Visitations Firrin} visits Molgrin at Brenn Aelincdar's place. They make plans to go shopping. Trev has Euphrastus over to look at some of the objects his father has uncovered in Shom, and to discus their emotional resonances. Kosiru Malassar checks in with his adopted son about his social progress and plans. Mol asks his friend Nezva to come to Fritz's party. Saiya and Mitula are out shopping when they are joined by Fritz, Galatea, and Macen Callais. Fritz stops Saiya form making an unfortunate purchase, and they all leave to go to Hauzen's for coffee, where Fritz invites them to his upcoming dinner party. Norn stops by the Pesha residence to visit Raveni and gives him wood. For carving!!! Mshauri, Raveni's emotional support dog, stops in, and is there when Raveni proposes an outing to the zoo. Norn suggests expanding the party before he leaves. Firrin and Mol go shopping!!!

Session

Session Start: Wed Jul 30 18:54:13 2025

Firrin goes to visit with Mol and Brenn's house, they make plans to go shopping

* Firrin knows *in theory* the way one goes about calling on a friend but has not ever done it on his own
* Firrin will present his card? to whoever answers? and say he's been invited to visit Mr. Braalk
<Narrator> An officious, if young and attractive, servant will show Firrin into the parlor, then go inform Molgrin of his arrival.
* Firrin coulda been an officious, but young (and attractive?) servant....
* Molgrin will of course hurry down to see his visitor.
<Molgrin> Hi! I'm so glad you could come :D
* Firrin smiles
<Firrin> Thank you again for inviting me!
* Molgrin is dressed more casually, in a light linen shirt with a bit of a paint stain on the cuff, and some trousers that look like he might have been out in the garden earlier (a few grass stains and dirt)
* Firrin is dressed in clothes that are technically pretty simple but manage to have flair to them somehow anyway, though it might be hard for Mol to identify
<Molgrin> Please have a seat, someone will bring the tea in a little bit I think??
<Firrin> Oh thank you - I've never done this before really...
<Firrin> well
<Firrin> not on this side of things.
* Molgrin smiles warmly
<Molgrin> They're really very nice here, it's not super formal all the time.
* Raveni is now known as Lark
<Firrin> that...must be a relief?
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I don't know what I would do if they insisted on proper titles and etiquette all the time. Not stay here, I suppose. Although I don't know where else I would go.
<Molgrin> Well, apart from back home.
* Molgrin says with a shrug and a smile
<Firrin> yes... that would make it hard to find patrons for your work, I suppose
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> What is it like with your ... living situation?
* Molgrin doesn't say 'family'
<Firrin> Oh well. It is more formal a lot of the time.... for practice.
<Molgrin> Practice for bigger events?
<Firrin> well, also just for.... life, I suppose.
<Molgrin> Oh.
<Firrin> Thantopolis can be a very formal place, I understand
<Molgrin> Are you going to be moving there eventually?
<Firrin> well, that's where Lady Paiza's family is.... and of course necromancy is a lot more controlled in Highmark so....
<Molgrin> so... you will go there after you get married? is that the case?
<Firrin> Yes
<Molgrin> Is there a date set for the marriage yet?
* Firrin says with somewhat forced certainty
* Firrin shakes his head at that one, though
<Firrin> I believe my father is working through the detail with her parents....
<Molgrin> Ah, I see.
<Molgrin> Firrin.... are you happy about this? I don't mean to pry and of course you can tell me to shove off, but it just seems like... like perhaps you aren't?
<Firrin> :)
<Firrin> It's an opportunity I'd never imagined.
* Molgrin nods but looks a bit sad
<Firrin> Of course, I'm very grateful...
<Firrin> ....is that... not right?
<Molgrin> I understand that part. I mean... I also feel like this is an opportunity I can't afford to pass up. But no one is asking me to marry someone or making me move to another city where I don't know people. It seems like .... like they're asking a lot of you.
<Firrin> well... I'm asking a lot in return, too.
<Firrin> I mean - no one is making me.
<Molgrin> I hope you're getting something very worthwhile out of it.
* Firrin glances around, unsure really what the situation is here in this house, who might be listening, who might care, etc
<Narrator> There's a knock at the door, which quickly opens to reveal a handsome half-elf in his mid-thirties.
* Narrator is now known as Brenn
* Brenn comes in carrying a tray with tea and biscuits.
* Firrin closes his mouth and smiles instead of answering, then
<Brenn> Hey, sorry to interrupt. Ylera is attending to the mistress of the house at the moment, so I thought I'd bring you guys some refreshments.
* Brenn flashes a disarming smile.
<Molgrin> oh, good afternoon, Dovah Aelindar! This is my friend, Mr. Firrin Li... Malassar.
* Brenn will set the tray down on a table near them.
<Firrin> oh, goodness, thank you, that's very kind
<Brenn> A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Malassar. Any friend of Molgrin's and all that.
* Firrin seems startled that Brenn would bring stuff in like that
<Molgrin> We knew each other growing up, but I haven't seen him in a long time, until we ran into one another at the masquerade :)
<Brenn> Oh, well that's got to be nice, having an old friend around.
<Firrin> Yes, it was a pleasant surprise, but a surprise, for certain
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> We have so much to catch up on :)
<Brenn> Well, I don't want to impose, then. You're welcome any time, Mr. Malassar, and I should get back to...prior business.
<Firrin> yes of course, it was nice to meet you, Dovah.
<Molgrin> Thank you for being so welcoming, I appreciate it.
* Brenn nods, gives Mol an encouraging smile, and will see himself out.
* Molgrin settles back in his chair once Brenn leaves
<Molgrin> see, he's really nice
* Firrin also relaxes just a little
<Firrin> yes - he really just invited you to stay?
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> well, you did always have a way with people
<Firrin> I shouldn't be surprised
* Firrin smiles
<Molgrin> I think... even though he decided I wasn't his son, because the timing and everything didn't work out, he felt like he wanted to help me out. I don't know what I can possibly do to repay him but it's been very generous of him, to put me up here and make introductions to society.
<Firrin> It's certainly not an offer many would make
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> But I think you'll make the most of it :)
* Firrin will pour us both some tea
<Molgrin> well I imagine if I don't make a good showing this season, probably I won't get another chance. If I can find a patron or ... or something, then that will be really good.
<Firrin> how do you take it?
<Molgrin> oh, uh... black, two sugar :)
* Firrin can dole that out quite expertly - one sugar and a splash of milk for himself
<Molgrin> thank you
<Firrin> Do you have a sense of what you are looking for?
* Firrin smiles when you thank him, but he freezes for a second, realizing that maybe that was not the right thing to do at someone else's house, even if you don't know that, he should.
<Molgrin> I suppose someone who is interested in my art, and wants to support me generously to make more of it. Failing that, though... I would be happy with some added clients - making connections with people who are the kind of people who buy art, you know?
* Firrin nods
<Molgrin> That way even if I don't wind up staying here - I mean, in this world, not in the Aelindar house specifically - then maybe I have some ties to help me make a living going forward.
<Firrin> we should definitely attend the salons. I'm sure there must be ways to have your art shown at them too, but I don't know how it all works
<Firrin> but attentding them seems like a good first step?
* Firrin frowns slightly, though
<Firrin> I'm not sure how exclusive they are, though
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> I know they're happening.... I suppose I could ask my father
* Firrin says with barely a hesitation before the word
<Molgrin> That would be helpful, if it isn't any trouble for you.
<Firrin> well, I think he wants me to attend a number of these things...
<Firrin> But possibly he would like me to attend them with Lady Paiza.
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> still, I can find out, and let you know....
<Molgrin> Well, if I was there, you would have some other company to talk to as well :) Oh, and I wanted to invite you to Mr. Allard's house, he's hosting a get-together and said it was fine for people to bring friends. If you'd like to, anyway.
<Molgrin> (I assume I know what date that's supposed to be happening and can tell you)
<Firrin> sorry, who is that?
<Molgrin> Fritz Allard - he was at the masquerade and he seems nice. The human fellow who was out in the garden there, if you remember?
<Firrin> oh!
<Molgrin> He invited all of us who were there to come over and see the house - well really it's his brother's house I think, but his brother isn't home so he can use it.
<Firrin> Oh, I see....
<Firrin> I wouldn't want to impose on a stranger...
<Molgrin> oh, but he wanted us to bring others, I think?
<Molgrin> well, he said girls, but I mean, surely it wouldn't have to be ONLY girls.
<Firrin> oh, hmm, you'd want to balance things I expect
<Molgrin> After all, you are just as worthwhile as a girl :)
* Firrin runs through the etiquette in his head
* Firrin blinks at that
<Molgrin> and I was going to bring a girl, but I would like to bring you too if I could :) I mean, if you wanted. I suppose... you could bring Lady Paiza if you wished?
* Molgrin says uncertainly
* Firrin also looks uncertain
<Firrin> I feel like.... I don't know her or the party well enough to judge.
<Firrin> maybe you could write to Mr Allard?
<Molgrin> I think it is quite informal, or at least, they didn't speak of it like a big party like the ball or anything. I think it was just going to be some people perhaps ... card games? other conversation?
<Molgrin> But yes, certainly, I could write to him and ask.
<Firrin> I'm probably being silly.
<Molgrin> well I would much prefer that you are comfortable, and if it would make you comfortable for me to ask, then I shall :)
<Firrin> I think your host is wearing off on you already
* Molgrin smiles
<Molgrin> Do you think... you always look so well put-together. Perhaps if it wasn't too much trouble, sometime, you could show me where you get your clothing?
<Firrin> oh! Thank you for saying so :3
<Firrin> I would love to dress you. I mean - to help you find things that would suit
<Molgrin> I think that would be very good - I have only a few suits of clothing and some of them are just NOT the thing. After all, I'm not going to a masquerade every day!
<Firrin> well, then we should make plans for that. Are you looking to have things made? or altered?
<Molgrin> Well, I suppose made is more expensive, but I do have a small allowance, and perhaps if I sell a few paintings I can buy more. Would it make sense to have one nice outfit made for affairs that are.... not casual, but not formal? and then perhaps alter some other things in order to .... mix and match them?
<Firrin> oh yes, of course - so much of it comes down to accessories, really, and one suits and a few nice waistcoats will get you quite far
* Molgrin nods, looking rather relieved that Firrin understands all of this
<Molgrin> Thank you so much, that would be a huge help :)
<Molgrin> Now, if you are done your tea, would you like to see the rest of the house? the garden is very nice :)
<Firrin> you cna even just style things a little differently and it changes the whole thing. though of course there is dress for differnt occasions and such but we can see whst you do have and go from there :)
<Firrin> and yes that woudl be lovely, thank you.
* Molgrin can escort you around and point out all the interesting things (naked statues? idk what Brenn and Kallista have for decor ;)
<Firrin> @_@

Trev has Euphrastus over to discuss mysterious objects form Shom

* Trev finishes fussing around with his sitting room, adjusting and re-adjusting things for best effect
* Euphrastus comes over to Trev's residence for a consultation.
* Euphrastus is wearing a long stylish grey jacket, a white shirt with a high collar, and a tall grey hat. He's carrying a silver and ebony cane with fine engraving along the length of it.
<Trev> *Everett shows Euphrastus in to the sitting room*
* Narrator is now known as Brenn
* Euphrastus scans the room, as if looking for anything of interest.
<Euphrastus> Ah, good morning, Mr. Marceador.
<Trev> Ah, Lord Euphrastus! Welcome, welcome. Can I get you anything to drink?
<Euphrastus> Well, it's probably too early for whiskey. Wine, then.
<Trev> [Mr. Tinnane, not Lord Euphrastus, for the logs]
<Trev> Excellent, I've a rather nice red I brought up from Nachtur I can recommend, they're doing just fascinating things with grapes up there.
<Trev> *gestures for a servant to bring wine*
<Euphrastus> You have a lovely home. Has your family held it long?
<Trev> Oh, this? No no, I'm just staying with a friend here, the family is all in Shom, though we *are
* from Highmark originally, at least on my mother's side. My father was from Yonden, of course, he came to Highmark to follow his passions and become an Artificer.
<Euphrastus> Ah, I see. I only ask because inevitably, the places that have been held by one House for centuries end up with the most fascinating stories, and objects.
<Trev> Oh, most certainly, most certainly. I hope that what small trinkets I've brought over for your perusal today can be half as interesting.
<Euphrastus> I'm looking forward to it.
<Trev> he can be Iago :V
<Euphrastus> I've never met your father, but he is well-known, certainly. I've never been to Shom, though.
<Trev> Iago make me lose my mind, up in here, up in here
<Euphrastus> (ww)
<Trev> Oh, you really must come by some time, I'd be most interested to see what you could glean.
<Euphrastus> I would like that very much. Although not every consultation ends with a result satisfactory to the owners.
<Trev> Hah, I'm sure. Here, let's see what you can make of this little mystery, shall we?
* Trev hands over an ancient cell phone
<Euphrastus> Fascinating! Where did it come from, and what do you suppose it is?
<Euphrastus> I always like to start with your stories, before colouring it with my own perceptions.
* Vess (vess@pool-174-113-181-62.cpe.net.cable.rogers.com) has joined #awrr
<Trev> Well, we seem to find them in private homes, at least as many as there are bedrooms. They're not *terribly
* reflective, and often have cracks in the outer surface, but oftentimes that's merely a clear layer stuck over the black glass, as is the case with this one. There's the lenses on the back, which would imply they're used for viewing things, but they're chock full of metals and such so they
<Trev> can't be seen through.
* Vess is now known as Mitula
* Euphrastus handles the object with care, bringing it up to his eye, and pulling out his monocle to examine it.
<Euphrastus> Whoever once owned this valued it enormously. It was used both for the keeping of secrets and disseminating them.
<Trev> Fascinating
<Euphrastus> It seems like ... also ... hmm.
<Euphrastus> Well, that is strange.
<Trev> What is?
* Euphrastus tries to see if it can be folded, or compressed somehow
<Euphrastus> Well ... this is a bit awkward.
<Euphrastus> Whatever it was doing, it served, for its owner, an ... erotic function.
* Trev 's eyebrows shoot up
<Euphrastus> But it does not seem to be phallic or yonic in nature. By its shape, I mean.
<Trev> Yes, rather. I wonder how they managed it?
<Euphrastus> I will say that one learns and sees the most amazing feats of creativity.
<Euphrastus> But, it turns out, not everything is a dildo.
<Euphrastus> That is the word, isn't it?
<Euphrastus> I apologize, while I have learned several languages, the finer nuances sometimes escape me.
<Trev> Ha, yes, it is. Shame, really, I would have loved to know how it was used for that.
* Euphrastus considers it.
<Euphrastus> It is the emotion, rather than the details, that reveals that function to me.
<Euphrastus> I think in terms of its materials, what we can see is not precious in any way, but the innards, well, it clearly has innards, judging from these small holes and joinings.
<Trev> Yes, my father has taken several apart to sort the components. It's largely small amounts of valuable metals, and plates of shomite.
<Euphrastus> In that respect, his expertise would of course far exceed my own.
<Trev> The metals are arranged in what are clearly some form of magical diagram, but he's said they don't respond to any form of magic he's used thus far.
<Euphrastus> It is rare when I can identify passwords or keywords for items - that sort of word doesn't have the emotional resonance necessary to survive in the object.
<Euphrastus> It's ... fascinating.
<Euphrastus> What else do you have?
<Trev> Well, I have what is *likely
* some form of musical instrument, though not like one I've seen before
<Euphrastus> I'd love to take a look.
* Trev hands over a large, flat rectangle almost as tall as Trev himself, with black and white keys arranged like a pianoforte. On one side, a projection leads to a strap that connects to the bottom.
<Trev> I thought it might be for practicing without noise, but you'd have to remember what all the notes sounded like in relation to the others, and if you can do *that* you likely don't need to practice
<Euphrastus> Perhaps. Though true mastery in any art requires constant practice, and inevitably, failure.
<Euphrastus> But I think that this is too large, and too complex, to serve noiselessly.
* Brenn is now known as Galatea
<Euphrastus> This could be an instrument simply for music. But its size suggests to me that it more likely served in war.
<Euphrastus> As a bugle is used to signal.
<Trev> That *would* fit with it being portable
<Trev> Dashed hard to carry an entire piano with you
* Euphrastus holds the object in his hands, as he supposes it might have been held.
<Euphrastus> Oh ... oh.
<Euphrastus> Was this found on a battlefield?
<Trev> No, in a box in a carriage-house
<Euphrastus> Mmm.
<Euphrastus> Well ... it has violence associated with it.
<Trev> It may well have been someone's old war memento, gods know there's enough of those running around
* Euphrastus nods.
<Euphrastus> I think, if I were to guess, it may have been taken as spoils after someone killed its user.
* Trev brightens up
<Trev> Ooh, a trophy!
<Euphrastus> Yes, I imagine so.
<Euphrastus> Now ... again, none of this is my expertise. The materials and the manufacture are all strange to me, although presumably your father would know more.
<Trev> Eh, he cares more about documenting what is there, and how it can be used going forward. He *hates
* it when I conjecture about things.
<Euphrastus> This is not conjecture; it is prediction. Quite a lot of difference there.
<Euphrastus> If I drop a pebble into a river, I predict that it will flow downstream. One can call it 'conjecture' to say that perhaps it will reach the sea - but that is hardly fair.
<Euphrastus> Will it? I don't know. But it surely will not reach the mountaintop.
<Euphrastus> So tell me more about yourself, Mr. Marceador. What is your interest in all this? I can't imagine you merely wish to be your father's intermediary.
<Trev> Oh, no, I'm afraid not. I do find all of this *interesting*, of course, but not as much as my dear father would wish. I'm afraid my talents lay more in enjoying all the delights the world has to offer, rather than documenting them.
* Euphrastus nods.
<Euphrastus> There's nothing wrong with that.
<Euphrastus> These objects are meant to be enjoyed and used.
<Trev> Hah! Just so, just so. I've nothing against museums, of course, but you can't have the entire world in one.
<Euphrastus> For me - and this is of course unique to my mark, and my situation - understanding emotion requires that I spend time with actual people.
<Euphrastus> Otherwise, the objects' resonances mean nothing, because I can't empathize.
<Euphrastus> So, while I have rather few prospects, I think, for the social season, I am having quite a marvelous time meeting new friends.
<Trev> Ah, don't be so glum, I'm sure you've got tons of prospects!
<Trev> In my experience, women *love
* big, one-eyed fellow!
* Trev laughs at his own joke
<Euphrastus> Big one of something, no doubt. Their parents tend to be more dubious.
<Trev> Yes, that does tend to be a problem. But what is the season about, if not trying to sneak away with a handsome someone?
* Euphrastus laughs.
<Euphrastus> You may find this hard to believe, but sneaking is not high in my repertoire. A flamboyant giant tends to be seen.
<Trev> Hmm. Well, I'll just have to be a big enough distraction that nobody notices you, then, shall I?
* Euphrastus chuckles.
<Euphrastus> I may take you up on that. Have you heard of any parties coming up, in that vein?
<Trev> I believe some folks were planning a trip to the zoo, if you'd be interested?
<Euphrastus> I was planning on it, yes.
<Trev> Well, there we go then, my good man! We'll have a night on the town, and see what we can get away with, shall we?

Kosiru checks in on his son's social progress

* Kosiru has instructed Firrin to come to the house for dinner, in order to give a progress report.
<Firrin> (I think he is living with you, but 'dinner be more formal, Be Home' I think is valid!)
* Kosiru has laid out a dinner of small fowl, along with a middling wine.
* Firrin will dress well, and mostly with the conservatism that Kosiru seems to prefer
<Kosiru> Well then. Out with it.
<Firrin> Yes sir.
<Firrin> Um.
<Firrin> I, well, I visited with someone that I, ah, ran into at the masquerade...
<Kosiru> Go on.
<Firrin> it was at, um, at, um, at Doveh Aelindar's house.
<Firrin> And I did meet him, briefly. He was a very, ahh, a very personable host
<Kosiru> All right. What was your goal in doing so?
<Firrin> oh. yes sir, my goal...
<Firrin> well, sir, I wanted to.... to, ahh, take advantage of the connection? And to... gain more confidence with social visitation...
<Firrin> but ah, also, to make more plans...for the season?
* Firrin hopes that all sounds correct
* Kosiru nods.
<Kosiru> What sorts of plans have you been making?
<Firrin> Oh well. We talked about going to some of the salons, maybe> And I was invited to a party? Maybe...
* Kosiru considers.
<Kosiru> All right, I will permit it, despite the risk.
<Firrin> ....the risk, sir?
<Kosiru> Because you are rather inept at these things, anytime you attend one, you run the risk of bringing the whole thing down.
<Kosiru> It is of course, most important, that you not lose sight of the main goal.
<Firrin> ...I'm trying my best, sir.
* Firrin says, hanging his head
<Kosiru> House Nykona does not want *your* best. They want *the* best. And we are going to give it to them.
<Kosiru> At least an apparition of the best.
<Kosiru> I am not supporting you through all this merely to have you bumble your way into becoming a laughingstock.
<Firrin> Yes sir.
<Kosiru> You will go to this party. You will impress. And in doing so, you will reassure our nervous partners that you are not nearly the risk they imagine you to be.
* Firrin swallows
<Firrin> Are...are they still nervous?
<Firrin> I thought, with the engagement announced...
<Firrin> that things were more certain...
* Kosiru shakes his head as if to suggest that you are the world's dumbest boy.
<Kosiru> It's after the thing is announced that the risk is the greatest.
<Firrin> ...oh.
<Kosiru> Because after that, everything you do redounds not only to your respectability, but also to theirs.
<Kosiru> If you were more fluid in your manner of speech and your bodily comportment, it would not be an issue.
* Firrin frowns, not having really considered that
* Firrin stands a little taller
<Firrin> yes, sir.
<Kosiru> You should be looking for opportunities that, presuming the marriage does go forward, will be financially to our advantage.
<Firrin> Yes, sir.
<Kosiru> So Aelindar, what did you talk to him about?
<Firrin> oh. Just very briefly about, ah, family, and business, sir.
* Firrin exaggerates >.>
<Kosiru> All right, well, of course you will need to have the right frame for whatever you say. And take notes afterwards, so that you don't forget your story.
<Kosiru> Your memory isn't strong enough to keep it all straight.
<Firrin> Yes sir. I'll go do that now, sir.
<Kosiru> And remember that you'll need different outfits. Now there isn't money for too much of that, but just enough for some clever tailoring.
<Kosiru> A little cleverness can make a suit look new, or a pigeon look like guineafowl.
* Kosiru takes a healthy bite of his ... bird.
<Firrin> Oh, yes, sir, I can take care of that.
<Kosiru> There isn't enough marrow in these for my taste. But still, we'll make do. Something I remind myself when it comes to you, every day.
* Firrin says, with much more confidence
<Kosiru> Be the noblest pigeon possible, and we just may get through this to the other side.
<Firrin> yes sir.
<Kosiru> Here. Make this suffice for your needs.
* Kosiru hands you a too-small bag of coins.
* Firrin looks at it
<Firrin> ...
<Firrin> May I go, sir?
<Kosiru> You may.
<Firrin> thank you, sir.

Mol invites Nezva to Fritz's party

* Firrin knows *in theory* the way one goes about calling on a friend but has not ever done it on his own
* Firrin will present his card? to whoever answers? and say he's been invited to visit Mr. Braalk
<Narrator> An officious, if young and attractive, servant will show Firrin into the parlor, then go inform Molgrin of his arrival.
* Firrin coulda been an officious, but young (and attractive?) servant....
* Molgrin will of course hurry down to see his visitor.
<Molgrin> Hi! I'm so glad you could come :D
* Firrin smiles
<Firrin> Thank you again for inviting me!
* Molgrin is dressed more casually, in a light linen shirt with a bit of a paint stain on the cuff, and some trousers that look like he might have been out in the garden earlier (a few grass stains and dirt)
* Firrin is dressed in clothes that are technically pretty simple but manage to have flair to them somehow anyway, though it might be hard for Mol to identify
<Molgrin> Please have a seat, someone will bring the tea in a little bit I think??
<Firrin> Oh thank you - I've never done this before really...
<Firrin> well
<Firrin> not on this side of things.
* Molgrin smiles warmly
<Molgrin> They're really very nice here, it's not super formal all the time.
* Raveni is now known as Lark
<Firrin> that...must be a relief?
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I don't know what I would do if they insisted on proper titles and etiquette all the time. Not stay here, I suppose. Although I don't know where else I would go.
<Molgrin> Well, apart from back home.
* Molgrin says with a shrug and a smile
<Firrin> yes... that would make it hard to find patrons for your work, I suppose
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> What is it like with your ... living situation?
* Molgrin doesn't say 'family'
<Firrin> Oh well. It is more formal a lot of the time.... for practice.
<Molgrin> Practice for bigger events?
<Firrin> well, also just for.... life, I suppose.
<Molgrin> Oh.
<Firrin> Thantopolis can be a very formal place, I understand
<Molgrin> Are you going to be moving there eventually?
<Firrin> well, that's where Lady Paiza's family is.... and of course necromancy is a lot more controlled in Highmark so....
<Molgrin> so... you will go there after you get married? is that the case?
<Firrin> Yes
<Molgrin> Is there a date set for the marriage yet?
* Firrin says with somewhat forced certainty
* Firrin shakes his head at that one, though
<Firrin> I believe my father is working through the detail with her parents....
<Molgrin> Ah, I see.
<Molgrin> Firrin.... are you happy about this? I don't mean to pry and of course you can tell me to shove off, but it just seems like... like perhaps you aren't?
<Firrin> :)
<Firrin> It's an opportunity I'd never imagined.
* Molgrin nods but looks a bit sad
<Firrin> Of course, I'm very grateful...
<Firrin> ....is that... not right?
<Molgrin> I understand that part. I mean... I also feel like this is an opportunity I can't afford to pass up. But no one is asking me to marry someone or making me move to another city where I don't know people. It seems like .... like they're asking a lot of you.
<Firrin> well... I'm asking a lot in return, too.
<Firrin> I mean - no one is making me.
<Molgrin> I hope you're getting something very worthwhile out of it.
* Firrin glances around, unsure really what the situation is here in this house, who might be listening, who might care, etc
<Narrator> There's a knock at the door, which quickly opens to reveal a handsome half-elf in his mid-thirties.
* Narrator is now known as Brenn
* Brenn comes in carrying a tray with tea and biscuits.
* Firrin closes his mouth and smiles instead of answering, then
<Brenn> Hey, sorry to interrupt. Ylera is attending to the mistress of the house at the moment, so I thought I'd bring you guys some refreshments.
* Brenn flashes a disarming smile.
<Molgrin> oh, good afternoon, Dovah Aelindar! This is my friend, Mr. Firrin Li... Malassar.
* Brenn will set the tray down on a table near them.
<Firrin> oh, goodness, thank you, that's very kind
<Brenn> A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Malassar. Any friend of Molgrin's and all that.
* Firrin seems startled that Brenn would bring stuff in like that
<Molgrin> We knew each other growing up, but I haven't seen him in a long time, until we ran into one another at the masquerade :)
<Brenn> Oh, well that's got to be nice, having an old friend around.
<Firrin> Yes, it was a pleasant surprise, but a surprise, for certain
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> We have so much to catch up on :)
<Brenn> Well, I don't want to impose, then. You're welcome any time, Mr. Malassar, and I should get back to...prior business.
<Firrin> yes of course, it was nice to meet you, Dovah.
<Molgrin> Thank you for being so welcoming, I appreciate it.
* Brenn nods, gives Mol an encouraging smile, and will see himself out.
* Molgrin settles back in his chair once Brenn leaves
<Molgrin> see, he's really nice
* Firrin also relaxes just a little
<Firrin> yes - he really just invited you to stay?
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> well, you did always have a way with people
<Firrin> I shouldn't be surprised
* Firrin smiles
<Molgrin> I think... even though he decided I wasn't his son, because the timing and everything didn't work out, he felt like he wanted to help me out. I don't know what I can possibly do to repay him but it's been very generous of him, to put me up here and make introductions to society.
<Firrin> It's certainly not an offer many would make
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> But I think you'll make the most of it :)
* Firrin will pour us both some tea
<Molgrin> well I imagine if I don't make a good showing this season, probably I won't get another chance. If I can find a patron or ... or something, then that will be really good.
<Firrin> how do you take it?
<Molgrin> oh, uh... black, two sugar :)
* Firrin can dole that out quite expertly - one sugar and a splash of milk for himself
<Molgrin> thank you
<Firrin> Do you have a sense of what you are looking for?
* Firrin smiles when you thank him, but he freezes for a second, realizing that maybe that was not the right thing to do at someone else's house, even if you don't know that, he should.
<Molgrin> I suppose someone who is interested in my art, and wants to support me generously to make more of it. Failing that, though... I would be happy with some added clients - making connections with people who are the kind of people who buy art, you know?
* Firrin nods
<Molgrin> That way even if I don't wind up staying here - I mean, in this world, not in the Aelindar house specifically - then maybe I have some ties to help me make a living going forward.
<Firrin> we should definitely attend the salons. I'm sure there must be ways to have your art shown at them too, but I don't know how it all works
<Firrin> but attentding them seems like a good first step?
* Firrin frowns slightly, though
<Firrin> I'm not sure how exclusive they are, though
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> I know they're happening.... I suppose I could ask my father
* Firrin says with barely a hesitation before the word
<Molgrin> That would be helpful, if it isn't any trouble for you.
<Firrin> well, I think he wants me to attend a number of these things...
<Firrin> But possibly he would like me to attend them with Lady Paiza.
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> still, I can find out, and let you know....
<Molgrin> Well, if I was there, you would have some other company to talk to as well :) Oh, and I wanted to invite you to Mr. Allard's house, he's hosting a get-together and said it was fine for people to bring friends. If you'd like to, anyway.
<Molgrin> (I assume I know what date that's supposed to be happening and can tell you)
<Firrin> sorry, who is that?
<Molgrin> Fritz Allard - he was at the masquerade and he seems nice. The human fellow who was out in the garden there, if you remember?
<Firrin> oh!
<Molgrin> He invited all of us who were there to come over and see the house - well really it's his brother's house I think, but his brother isn't home so he can use it.
<Firrin> Oh, I see....
<Firrin> I wouldn't want to impose on a stranger...
<Molgrin> oh, but he wanted us to bring others, I think?
<Molgrin> well, he said girls, but I mean, surely it wouldn't have to be ONLY girls.
<Firrin> oh, hmm, you'd want to balance things I expect
<Molgrin> After all, you are just as worthwhile as a girl :)
* Firrin runs through the etiquette in his head
* Firrin blinks at that
<Molgrin> and I was going to bring a girl, but I would like to bring you too if I could :) I mean, if you wanted. I suppose... you could bring Lady Paiza if you wished?
* Molgrin says uncertainly
* Firrin also looks uncertain
<Firrin> I feel like.... I don't know her or the party well enough to judge.
<Firrin> maybe you could write to Mr Allard?
<Molgrin> I think it is quite informal, or at least, they didn't speak of it like a big party like the ball or anything. I think it was just going to be some people perhaps ... card games? other conversation?
<Molgrin> But yes, certainly, I could write to him and ask.
<Firrin> I'm probably being silly.
<Molgrin> well I would much prefer that you are comfortable, and if it would make you comfortable for me to ask, then I shall :)
<Firrin> I think your host is wearing off on you already
* Molgrin smiles
<Molgrin> Do you think... you always look so well put-together. Perhaps if it wasn't too much trouble, sometime, you could show me where you get your clothing?
<Firrin> oh! Thank you for saying so :3
<Firrin> I would love to dress you. I mean - to help you find things that would suit
<Molgrin> I think that would be very good - I have only a few suits of clothing and some of them are just NOT the thing. After all, I'm not going to a masquerade every day!
<Firrin> well, then we should make plans for that. Are you looking to have things made? or altered?
<Molgrin> Well, I suppose made is more expensive, but I do have a small allowance, and perhaps if I sell a few paintings I can buy more. Would it make sense to have one nice outfit made for affairs that are.... not casual, but not formal? and then perhaps alter some other things in order to .... mix and match them?
<Firrin> oh yes, of course - so much of it comes down to accessories, really, and one suits and a few nice waistcoats will get you quite far
* Molgrin nods, looking rather relieved that Firrin understands all of this
<Molgrin> Thank you so much, that would be a huge help :)
<Molgrin> Now, if you are done your tea, would you like to see the rest of the house? the garden is very nice :)
<Firrin> you cna even just style things a little differently and it changes the whole thing. though of course there is dress for differnt occasions and such but we can see whst you do have and go from there :)
<Firrin> and yes that woudl be lovely, thank you.
* Molgrin can escort you around and point out all the interesting things (naked statues? idk what Brenn and Kallista have for decor ;)
<Firrin> @_@

Mol talks to Nezva and asks her to come to Fritz' party

* Molgrin will go talk to Nezva at some point, maybe at her family's home?
* Nezva is just finishing up her breakfast and tea.
<Molgrin> oh, I hope I'm not interrupting! Are you busy?
<Nezva> Oh, no, not at all! I'm sorry, though, I don't think there are any leftovers of this. There's probably some chicken around, though, if you wanted some.
<Molgrin> Well, if it's no trouble...
* Molgrin looks too skinny for a proper orc I'm sure ;)
<Nezva> Well you know, you could stand to eat an extra chicken or three.
* Nezva teases.
<Molgrin> (he is only a half-orc and the other half is presumably some kind of elduar so....)
* Nezva gets a servant to put something together for you.
<Molgrin> Oh, you are too kind :) Thank you!
* Nezva smiles.
<Nezva> How have you been?
<Molgrin> I've been so busy lately, it's been one thing after another since the start of the social season. I didn't realize it would be so much work :o
<Nezva> It seems like a miracle sometimes that anyone ever manages to get married.
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I suppose sometimes their parents just arrange everything, maybe that makes it easier.
<Molgrin> Although perhaps not... depending who they pick >.>
* Molgrin says, thinking about Firrin and his fiancee
<Nezva> Oh, I imagine half the point of the season is for the parents to shop around for who best to pick. Sitting, watching, judging.
* Molgrin nods a bit more slowly, considering that
<Molgrin> I suppose it's fortunate that my parents aren't here, then. I mean, they *are*, they're in Highmark, but not here-here.
<Molgrin> Because goodness knows what they would say about all of this!
<Nezva> Well, we're really outsiders to all the games and nonsense, still.
* Molgrin nods
<Nezva> I wonder about the ancient times, my ancestors and how they did it.
<Molgrin> How do you mean?
<Molgrin> You mean how they found people to marry?
<Nezva> Right. Like, were they arranged? Did they marry their attractive cousins from another tribe?
<Nezva> Sometimes I do think it was probably easier than ... whatever this is.
* Molgrin laughs a bit
<Molgrin> Well, people do still do that now, of course, too :)
* Nezva laughs.
<Nezva> I wouldn't know.
<Molgrin> But you have quite a few cousins, I should think :) maybe none of them are attractive?
<Nezva> Well I can bring them out if you like. You never know!
* Molgrin chuckles at that
<Molgrin> Oh, that reminds me - I have been invited to a dinner party and wondered if you would like to go too?
<Nezva> Ooh, a party? Where? When?
<Nezva> Who's holding it?
<Molgrin> Well, it's being hosted by Fritz Allard - or I think he's Lord Frederick Allard, properly? He said to call him Fritz, though. At his house. Or his brother's house.
<Molgrin> His brother won't be there though.
<Nezva> Oh, that is fancy. I can never remember though, which of the Allards are all right. I think some of them are strange.
<Molgrin> Strange in what way?
<Nezva> I know there have been some scandals.
<Nezva> I don't remember all the details.
<Molgrin> oh, yes, he did say something about his uncle? I mean he sort of made light of it, but it seemed a rather sore spot.
* Molgrin shrugs
<Molgrin> he didn't get into all of that, though
<Nezva> Well, no, naturally.
<Nezva> Probably if it's an Allard party though, it will be well-attended and the food will be excellent.
<Molgrin> So is that a yes? :)
<Nezva> Well ... yes!
* Nezva smiles.
<Molgrin> ok, good!
<Molgrin> I don't know most of the people very well, even if they seem friendly enough, and it would be nice to have a few people there I know better.
<Nezva> Did you get a sense of how fancy it was meant to be? I mean, I need to figure out what to wear.
<Nezva> Any of these things, you know, it's about being seen.
<Molgrin> Oh... I'm really not the best person to ask :o But I have to write to Fritz anyway so I suppose I can ask him.
<Nezva> No, don't do that!
<Nezva> You don't want to seem like you don't know the rules of the game.
<Molgrin> oh... right.
<Molgrin> but I am supposed to ask him if I can bring a friend. I mean other than you. I know I can bring you :)
<Nezva> Did you have a friend you wanted to bring?
<Molgrin> my friend Firrin! I don't think I told you about him?
<Nezva> No, who is that?
<Molgrin> He's from my old neighbourhood but he moved away when we were only nine or ten or so, and then I met up with him again at the masquerade because he's been adopted by some noble family and it was such a surprise to see him there, but it was nice too, like old times, and then I had him over for tea, and I asked if he would like to go, but he said I ought to ask first to make sure it was all right.
* Molgrin says in one very long breath.
<Nezva> Probably he meant men and women, don't you think?
<Molgrin> oh! right.
<Molgrin> that makes more sense I suppose.
<Molgrin> Fritz did say we ought to make sure there were more girls, which was why I knew it would be fine to invite you :)
<Molgrin> I don't mean to make it sound as if I'm only inviting you because you're a girl though
* Molgrin adds hastily
* Nezva giggles.
<Molgrin> I mean I would like to have you there as a friend, of course, regardless of whether you're a girl!
<Nezva> You men will need something to look at! As long as you don't make us bus the tables afterwards or wait on you!
<Molgrin> Oh no :o
<Molgrin> I don't think they would do that
* Nezva smiles.
<Nezva> I was just teasing, silly.
<Molgrin> oh, okay, good
<Molgrin> I don't know what happens at these sorts of things
<Nezva> Well, neither do I, exactly.
<Nezva> We'll find out together!
<Molgrin> That sounds good to me :)

Saiya and Mitula are out shopping when they are joined by Fritz, Galatea, and Macen

* Saiya and Mitula are out shopping, probably mostly clothes but browsing for anything fun and interesting I imagine
<Mitula> Thank you again for inviting me on this excursion. Pedlers would come to Endless Sky from time to time, but Highmark is just a whole different experience.
<Saiya> Oh, of course! it's nice to have someone who enjoys shopping - it's always a struggle to drag my brothers with me :)
* Mitula is in loose fitting blue robes, with a navy sash, and similar coloured scarf on her head.
<Mitula> It is his loss. These fabrics are wonderful... the pattern.
* Saiya wears a pink dress with some frills at the hem, and puffy sleeves that gather at the elbows.
<Saiya> There's something for everyone here - if you like clothes, anyway :)
* Mitula holds up a vibrant green silk.
<Mitula> My style is rather simple, but it doesn't mean I can't enjoy looking.
<Saiya> I think it makes you look very elegant!
<Saiya> But I like floof :D
<Saiya> Maybe it's silly, but when I was very little, I had a doll who had a frilly dress, and I thought it was just the most BEAUTIFUL thing.
<Saiya> Anyway, I lost it, but I didn't forget the dress.
<Mitula> objects are transitor. Its the memories and emotions that they leave us that matters.
* Saiya nods
<Mitula> and I'm making so many memories and emotions today
* Mitula smiles broadly
<Saiya> You always say such WISE and SENSIBLE things, Mitula :)
* Saiya picks a lace shawl out and examines it
<Saiya> What do you think, is this too old lady-ish?
* Saiya tries draping it around her shoulders
<Mitula> not too wise and sensible I hope. I'd be horrified for you to think I'm lecturing you.
<Saiya> NO not at ALL. I mean only that... you are older and you know so many things :)
<Saiya> not too old though! I mean not old lady-ish at all.
<Saiya> more like.. a big sister :)
<Mitula> I'm glad you see me like that. The lace needs to be paired with something. Maybe a broach. That will definetely make it less "old lady"
<Saiya> You're so right, well, I'll get it and we can keep an eye out for some suitable SPARKLY thing to go with it :D
<Mitula> That will definitely make it your own.
* Galatea will be perusing jewelry nearby.
* Saiya pays for the shawl and will wander in the direction of the jewelry.
* Mitula glides beside Saiya, pointing out sparkly pieces
* Galatea is wearing a pale blue, empire-waist dress with several Ioun stones floating around her.
<Saiya> Oh, look at this one ---
* Saiya reaches out to pick something up and bumps into Galatea
<Saiya> oh, excuse me!
<Galatea> Oh!
<Galatea> I'm terribly sorry, I didn't see you there.
* Fritz follows his cousin into the store with an apologetic look at Macen
<Galatea> Please accept my sincerest apologies.
<Mitula> Oh my, are the two of you ok?
<Galatea> Was I in your way?
<Saiya> oh, it was ENTIRELY my fault, I'm very sorry, I wasn't paying attention
<Galatea> Likewise, I'm sure.
<Galatea> I was caught up examining these fantastic pieces.
<Saiya> Aren't they lovely? I was just looking at them as well.
* Fritz is wearing a charcoal suit with a green waistcoat that bring out his eyes
<Macen> Saiya?
* Galatea looks over when she hears Macen.
<Saiya> oh, Macen! Hello there!
* Saiya waves to her little brother
<Galatea> Oh, you know Lord Laekseid?
<Saiya> Oh, but of course - he's my brother :D
* Macen is dressed in highmarkian style, but has his dark red hair up in a more traditional elven topknot
* Macen blinks
* Saiya of course looks nothing like him and is in fact a shifter and not an elf so this is perhaps not obvious :)
<Galatea> Oh!
* Fritz looks between the groups and just smiles
<Fritz> Oh does everyint know each other?
<Galatea> I'm terribly sorry, Miss...?
* Galatea looks to Macen expectantly.
<Macen> This is my sister, Miss Siaya Harrowden
<Saiya> And this is my friend Miss Mitula!
* Saiya continues the introductions
<Macen> and this is lady Galatea Klytotekhnes, And Lord Frederick Allard.
<Galatea> A pleasure to meet you both.
<Mitula> It is a pleasure to meet you all. I am visiting from the Ioun monastary of Endless Sky.
<Fritz> oh how wonderful, to meet you, yes :)
<Galatea> Oh, I've heard of Endless Sky. It's supposed to be terribly remote, is it not?
<Mitula> It is, but that remoteness allows for the charting of the movement of the stars with most ease.
<Galatea> How fascinating!
<Fritz> oooh, yes! You must have some fascinating equipment up there.
<Macen>
<w> school friends
* Macen whispers to Saiya while the others are nerding out
* Saiya nods to him
<Saiya> Were you shopping for anything in particular? or just browsing?
* Saiya asks Galatea
<Mitula> It is, but astrology is not the only study at the monastary. There is inner enlightenment, religous philosophy...
* Mitula excitely continues to describe more the areas of study from her home.
<Galatea> Just browsing, but everything is so *pretty*.
<Galatea> Yourself? Were you in the market for anything specific?
<Saiya> Well, I got a DARLING shawl and I wanted something to go with it - a brooch or pin or something, you know?
<Mitula> Oh my, my appologies Saiya, I got carried away talking of home. I do miss it at times, but I am here now for shopping.
<Fritz> oh that's all so interesting! I've been at school in Mythragal any my mother is from there but I've always foudn the Iounites so inspiring.
<Galatea> Oh, hmm. Certainly we can find something suitable. :)
<Fritz> I don't know if I could do the isolation though
<Saiya> oh no it's fine! you must talk about CLEVER things with Macen and his friends, because I am not clever like them :D
<Galatea> What a terrible thing to say of yourself! I'm sure you're perfectly clever.
* Macen manages not to roll his eyes
<Saiya> I am cunning but that's a very different thing altogether :D I don't get on with books very well.
* Galatea laughs.
<Galatea> Cunning is altogether more dangerous, I should think.
<Fritz> Much more.
* Saiya grins and shows a hint of sharp teeth
<Galatea> What about...this one?
* Galatea will hold up a piece for Saiya to look at.
* Saiya examines it
<Mitula> cunning is best used as a means to avoid violence. It can be very effective.
<Galatea> Were you looking for anything in particular, Miss Mitula?
<Galatea> Oh, well said.
<Saiya> It's charming! Let me pair it with the shawl and you can tell me if it sets it off well ...
* Saiya gets the shawl out of its wrapping to try things on together
<Mitula> I'm just enjoying the experience and helping Saiya find what she likes.
* Macen sighs quietly
* Lark is now known as Raveni
* Fritz frowns slightly as Saiya models the pairing
<Saiya> Does it suit me? Or is it maybe not quite big enough?
* Mitula helps Saiya model the pair
<Fritz> oh no, it looks lovely!
<Fritz> I just think, hmmm....
<Fritz> perhaps... may I see the broach?
* Saiya passes it over to him
<Galatea> Something the matter?
* Fritz takes it, and will turn around to take off one of his gloves
<Fritz> Well, maybe?
<Fritz> I suppose it depends...
<Fritz> I mean, its plated tin and glass which I wouldn't have thought would be the sort of things a shop on this tier would be selling?
* Galatea raises an eyebrow.
<Galatea> That *is
* strange.
<Saiya> OH! well, you're quite right, that won't do then. I mean... it's very pretty but I do think, at these PRICES...!
<Galatea> It's a good thing my cousin was here to catch it.
<Galatea> Quite seredipitous.
<Galatea> (ugh, sp)
<Saiya> It's absolute ROBBERY if they think they can charge that much for something made of glass.
<Fritz> Sorry - just somethign about it didn't look right...
<Saiya> oh, but maybe they didn't know? Like maybe some clever thief came along and SWAPPED the real thing for this and then walked away!!
<Galatea> Cunning indeed. ;)
* Fritz 's fingers, if you managed to catch his when he'd turned away to check the broach, look like they are all stained black with ink
<Galatea> Perhaps we should bring it to their attention?
<Saiya> well it's what I would do if I was a thief :p
<Fritz> that would be very cunning :D
* Saiya preens a little at that
<Saiya> yes it would, wouldn't it :D
<Macen> here, Saiya, give it to me and I'll talk to the clerk
* Saiya hands it over
<Saiya> I would of course NOT steal things, but sometimes it's fun to imagine how one WOULD, if it was a SITUATION where one had to....
<Mitula> It did look pretty, even if it was tin and glass
* Macen will go and inform them of the issue, since he'd the one here with the title and can channel on his mom's 'let me speak to your manager' powers if necessary
<Galatea> It was at that, but charging what they were for it was, hmm, suspect?
<Fritz> oh yes that's always fun to thihnk about how one *could
* do a thing
* Saiya nods enthusiastically
<Galatea> And what sorts of things were you pondering, dear Fritz?
* Galatea asks innocently.
<Fritz> oh I just think I could make a more convincing fake, mostly
* Euphrastus is now known as Nezva
<Galatea> How devious! Or cunning, I suppose we should say.
* Galatea gives Saiya a mischievous glance at that.
<Fritz> :D
<Fritz> of course I say that but I've bnever tried to make a broach... maybe its harder than I think even to make a tin one
<Mitula> What you say could be true, but consider, with enough effort, your fake itself becomes a work of craftmanship, and no longer needs to be a fake.
* Saiya giggles
<Galatea> That's an interesting conundrum, Mitula. When does the imitation become art in and of itself? Hmm.
<Fritz> oh I suppose so! It's not just about the materials.
<Fritz> That is just the sort of thing Mother would ask -_-
<Saiya> Well clearly, when you can charge just a RIDICULOUS amount for it :D
<Fritz> well someone seemed to think that oen was art, then!
* Galatea laughs.
* Mitula giggles
* Macen comes back over
<Mitula> do we need to find you a new broach? Another shop?
<Macen> ugh. we should go. Keep the shawl though, Saiya.
* Saiya nods
<Macen> but we definitely won't be shopping here again
* Macen scowls
<Galatea> Oh dear. I hope everything is all right?
<Macen> It will be betteer once we're out of here.
* Saiya flounces out then, with a 'GOOD DAY'
<Macen> Come on. Can we just go to Hauzen's?
<Mitula> Lets go.
<Macen> they really have the best coffee on this tier
<Fritz> oh no, I didn't mean to cause so much trouble :(
* Fritz follows the others out
<Macen> It's not you. the owner was... really rude >:|
* Galatea does likewise.
<Saiya> I would love a coffee!
<Galatea> Well, fie on them, then, and we shall patron them no more.
<Mitula> you would have thought they would have appreciated you identifying the fraudulent merchandise.
<Fritz> yes that sounds lovely!
<Galatea> And coffee sounds a delight. The least repayment for subjecting you gentlemen to that store.
<Macen> you'd think, but... ugh >:/
<Mitula> You made the best decision to have us leave then.
* Macen nods
<Macen> You can find something better than that anyway Sai
<Saiya> Oh no doubt... I might have something at home that would do, anyway. But that defeats the fun of shopping :D
<Mitula> the seeking is the fun :)
* Mitula agrees
<Fritz> oh!
<Fritz> you know I was goign to say that I prefer seeking other thinsg about, oh, I don't know, answers or designs or something but that did remind me!
<Fritz> Would you like to come to a party? :D
<Saiya> oh, yes! what sort of party!
* Saiya accepts before actually determining that ;)
* Mitula glances at Macen's reaction to the invitation.
<Fritz> oh well, a dinner one I *think* - I made some friens at the masquerade but we need some girls to round out the numbers
<Saiya> ooh, that sounds fun!
<Mitula> It does sound fun...
<Galatea> Oh, yes! You must come.
<Mitula> When is this dinner party?
<Saiya> Yes, and where is it to be held?
<Fritz> oh well it will be at my, well, my brother's place, at Griffin's Crest. I haven't 100% set the date, but I'm thinkgin [date]?
<Saiya> It sounds LOVELY, of course we would attend :)
* Mitula ponders
<Mitula> I may have obligations that coincide with the party. I will try to attend if I can.
<Fritz> oh well I hope you can!
<Fritz> if not maybe I'll have to have another one :D
<Fritz> well if this one goes well, I've never hosted anything before but mother did say it sounded like a good idea, to meet people and make friends :3
<Mitula> It does sound fun.
<Galatea> Exactly. The more the merrier. :D
<Mitula> As to this coffee... do they grow it in Highmark?
<Mitula> I hope to experience a variety so I can appreciate the differences.
<Galatea> Then we must do our best to accommodate you, of course. :)
<Saiya> Oh, they make it with all kinds of different flavours too, like caramel and chocolate and vanilla and so many things... you'll LOVE it I'm sure :D
<Macen> it's imported, but they process it here
<Macen> if you haven't had it before - it can keep you awake
<Macen> they have tea and other things too
<Macen> really nice scones
<Saiya> I can drink it and go RIGHT to sleep, I don't know what you mean :D but yes, the scones are lovely too!
<Fritz> oooh I love a good scone :D
* Macen gives Saiya a dubious look
<Macen> that is not true :p
<Saiya> Everything is true sometimes :D
<Mitula> Fear not Macen, I can help ease the effects on Saiya, if it truely is a concern.
* Saiya giggles
* Macen sighs
* Galatea chuckles.
<Macen> good luck ¬_¬
<Mitula> have faith
<Saiya> :D :D :D
* Mitula smiles
<Galatea> Of to coffee and scones!
* Macen will lead people on to the café

Norn stops in to visit Raveni. Mshauri comes in to provide 'support' and he and Reveni speak after Norn leaves

* Norn will call upon Raveni at the Pesha household soon after the masquerade.
* Raveni is currently trying to read a book in their rooms but keeps getting distracted by memories of the masquerade. Eventually they give up and begin pacing anxiously, hoping they didn't make a fool of themself. Dark cheetah spots begin to appear and disappear on his skin.
* Norn is now known as Narrator
<Narrator> A servant will inform Raveni that Lord Valacirca has arrived.
* Narrator is now known as Norn
* Euphrastus is now known as Nezva
* Raveni asks the servant to see him in to Raveni's small parlour room and immediately grows a tail. He swears under his breath and hides it under his clothing and zipping into the parlour moments before Norn is shown in
* Norn will enter, holding a small box. He smiles when he sees Raveni.
<Norn> I hope I'm not being presumptuous stopping in.
<Raveni> Absotutly not, it's good to see you again!
* Raveni he grins awkwardly at the accidental combination of words and moves quickly past it
<Norn> I brought you some samples of a few of our more uncommon woods from the Arbor, for your whittling.
<Raveni> That's very kind of you! Would you like to sit down? I could request some tea if that appeals
<Raveni> I'd like it very much if you'd tell me about what each of these is, if you've the time. I'm afraid my experience with plants is mostly relegated to crops and common tree species around where I grew up
* Raveni says, unaware that his tail is no longer hidden and is twitching excitedly, akin to a cat stalking prey
<Norn> Well, some of these are, admittedly, simply Changed versions of more common trees, but I did try for a variety.
<Norn> There's, let's see...thornwood, from Yondon. It has this nice red hue that I thought would look nice.
<Norn> And this is an ebony, originally from the Sword Coast.
<Norn> I'm told it's a bit difficult to work, but it *is* quite lovely.
<Raveni> It's beautiful
<Norn> Are you feeling quite all right?
* Norn glancing at Raveni's tail, then politely away.
* Raveni freezes, eyes wide
<Raveni> Um. That's-- Well I mean it...
<Norn> It's nothing to be concerned about. It happens to the best of us.
<Norn> If I'm imposing, or causing stress, I can go...
<Raveni> No, please, I was enjoying our discussion. I'm admittedly embarrassed, but your reaction is by far one of the more kind I've experienced. Please forgive my lack of control.
<Raveni> If you aren't put off by it, that is.
<Norn> Not at all, and nothing to forgive.
* Norn looks for a moment as though he's about to pat Raveni's hand, but refrains.
<Norn> It is certainly a...period of adjustment for our people right now. And I believe even moreso for you, you mentioned?
* Raveni grimaces
<Raveni> Hah. Well, thank you.
* Raveni is blushing, but feeling a great easing of his anxiety
<Raveni> What does your dragonmark grant you, if you don't mind me asking?
<Norn> More than a few headaches, if I'm being quite honest.
* Norn shakes his head.
<Norn> That's unfair; it *is* a gift. It is merely occasionally burdensome.
* Raveni grins
<Raveni> Well, I think you understand well enough how well I understand *that* feeling.
<Norn> It's tied into the seasons. I am a bit quicker in spring, stronger in summer, and so on. It also affects my magic.
<Norn> It's useful, and at least predictable at this point, but still...annoying at times.
* Raveni nods sympathetically.
<Norn> For instance, I'm rarely this gregarious at most time, but in spring...
* Norn shrugs.
<Norn> And the company is quite pleasant.
<Raveni> I've found my tail to be quite pleasant company sometimes too, when it isn't tripping me up
* Raveni laughs
* Norn laughs at that.
<Raveni> But more seriously, you do have my sympathy. It must be disconcerting at the best of times to have your own nature change with the seasons, no matter the -probably - useful benefits
<Norn> It helps keep me in tune with nature's rhythms, which is at least valuable in my chosen vocation.
<Raveni> Then I'm not the only one who could be said to have recaptured some of our ancestral magic
* Norn blushes as much as he is able with his complexion.
<Norn> You flatter me.
* Mshauri slinks into the parlour and will come and flop at Raveni's feet
* Mshauri eyes Norn
<Mshauri> woof.
* Raveni smiles and scritches behind his ears.
<Norn> Aww, who's this then?
* Mshauri does a big doggy grin at that
<Norn> Wait...
<Norn> Did he just...?
<Raveni> This is Mshauri. He's bad at introductions and gets a little jealous every time I'm paying attention to other people.
<Raveni> Just what?
* Raveni looks innocent
* Mshauri also looks innocent :V
<Norn> Oh, well, I don't mean to impose, Master Mshauri.
<Norn> What sort of hound is he?
<Raveni> A little imposition is good for him, I think. He gives himself airs otherwise.
* Mshauri sniffs
<Raveni> He's a mixed breed
<Raveni> His dam was a good-natured street mutt and his sire was a nobleman's hunting hound.
* Mshauri looks offended that you are discussing his pedigree in these terms
* Raveni ignores him, giving a shit-eating grin when he's sure Norn isn't looking at him.
* Mshauri sniffs at Norn
<Raveni> The nobleman was *most* upset when he learned about his hound's rather salacious adventures in the countryside.
<Mshauri> >:|
<Mshauri> Grrr.....
* Norn chuckles.
<Norn> Oh, no, have I offended in some manner?
<Raveni> No, no, he's just a little bit grumpy at times. As I said, he's a little bit jealous when I'm not actively doting on him at all times.
<Raveni> He won't harm you though, not to worry.
* Mshauri will get up and go sit by Norn insytead, who isn't degrading his parentage
<Norn> Well, I should hate to cause a rift.
* Norn will offer his hand to sniff.
<Raveni> I think as long as he resists challenging you to a duel for my honour there is no harm done
* Raveni chuckles.
* Norn scowls at that.
* Mshauri sniffs Norn's hand and give's Raveni a dirty look
<Norn> I truly don't want to overstay my welcome, of course.
<Norn> Perhaps I should take my leave.
<Raveni> Do not worry in the least, you've rather brightened up my day. I was mostly trying and failing to read a book before you arrived.
* Raveni looks hesitant
* Norn pauses a moment, trying to read Raveni's intent.
* Mshauri huffs, settlign down where he can watch hyou both
<Norn> Might I inquire as to what you were failing to read?
* Norn asks somewhat hesitantly, after a moment.
* Raveni immediately blushes. Spots appear on his temples and fade away slowly.
<Raveni> It was a book on magical horticultural experiments. You piqued my interest in the subject and I was curious to learn more
<Norn> Oh!
* Norn seems slightly abashed.
<Norn> Was it Abrocale's Digest? It can be tedious.
<Raveni> Yes, that's the one. I was making decent progress for a while but I've gathered the impression that it's best attempted in small doses.
<Raveni> After about an hour my eyes started crossing a little.
* Raveni chuckles good naturedly.
<Norn> It *can
* be used as an effective sedative.
<Raveni> I hope it isn't too forward of me to ask, w-would (he stammers) you do me the honour of accompanying me on an outing? At some point? I'm rather eager to visit that menagerie that was mentioned at the masquerade and I was hoping that you might care to visit it with me?
<Norn> Oh. Uh, yes, of course, I would be quite delighted to do so.
<Norn> Merely name the date. :)
* Raveni smiles a bit shyly.
<Raveni> What are your plans for this afternoon?
<Norn> Well, now I believe they are an excursion to the menagerie.
<Raveni> Wonderful! Shall we invite some of the others as well? I believe most, if not all, of us were interested in the prospect.
<Norn> In that case, why don't we set it for, hmm, tomorrow or the next day? To make sure people have time to arrange it, I mean.
<Raveni> A good thought! I do get a little ahead of myself sometimes, I apologize.
* Mshauri 's head swings to Raveni when he realize what is being planned here
<Mshauri> woof?
<Norn> I suppose it would be uncouth to say something on the order of your 'mark perhaps lending itself to haste?
* Norn makes an attempt at a joke.
* Raveni giggles and promptly slaps a hand over his mouth.
* Norn smiles.
<Norn> With that, I should take my leave, lest I truly do overstay my welcome, but I will be sure to write immediately upon my return home to arrange matters for the excursion.
<Raveni> I look forward to receiving it.
* Raveni walks Norn to the door and sees him out, then spins around to look at Mshauri.
<Raveni> You might try being a *little
* less obvious. My grandfather will have both our heads if the truth about you gets out.
<Mshauri> Street mutt? *Street mutt*? Rude!
<Mshauri> *I* was being a perfectly good boy.
* Mshauri huffs
<Raveni> And I wasn't? You didn't need to intrude on a private conversation, Mshauri.
<Mshauri> You smelled nervous
<Mshauri> I was just making sure you were alright with that stranger
* Raveni sits down heavily on a chair, suddenly morose.
<Raveni> I'm *always
* nervous. Always afraid of saying the wrong thing, and with good reason.
<Mshauri> are you okay? Who is that guy?
<Raveni> Norn Yosk, Cano Valacirca. We met at the masquerade, in the garden.
<Raveni> I was having another one of my... attacks. He was very kind.
* Raveni looks at Mshauri.
<Mshauri> see, that's why I came in
<Raveni> I'm sorry for saying those things about you. You were right, it was unkind of me.
<Mshauri> guy smelled like weird plants
<Mshauri> you gonna be okay at the zoo?
<Mshauri> Need me to come?
<Raveni> I'm not sure they'd let you in, but I'd rather you chaperone than Actashi. I know you said she doesn't hate me but I'm still not convinced. I'm nervous enough about making new friends and meeting potential matches without her breathing down my neck the whole time.
<Raveni> I never actually caught her at it but I would swear that she was stalking me through the garden at the ball.
<Mshauri> Why wodulnt' they let me in?
<Mshauri> Anyway don't worry about her
<Mshauri> I'm supposed to be here to help, right?
<Mshauri> I'm not a pet, I'm like servant
<Mshauri> right?
<Mshauri> a servant dog
<Raveni> I'm not sure what the protocol is about bringing an animal to a menagerie. I admit I'm slightly worried they'd kidnap you to add you to the collection.
<Raveni> You know that and I know that but no one else does.
<Raveni> In their eyes you aren't a person, and we aren't allowed to convince them otherwise.
<Mshauri> well myabe... *just this once*
<Mshauri> I'd let you put me on a leash
<Mshauri> wear a little vest thats says 'good boy' or 'pet in case of emergency'
<Mshauri> who could say no to that?
* Raveni is holding back a wide grin with only moderate success.
* Raveni his expression gentles into fondness
<Raveni> I'm so glad my grandfather assigned you to me. I don't know if I've ever said that before, but I am.
<Mshauri> woof :3
* Mshauri 's tail wags
* Raveni gives him an affectionate ear ruffle.
<Raveni> We'll figure out the leash situation. I can rig a collar that sits more loosely around your neck and that you can take off yourself. Will that help with the indignity? I'd prefer if you retained your autonomy over keeping up appearances.
<Mshauri> Well, I know its my job and all
<Mshauri> I'll do what it takes, its no good to put you at somethign liek that ball and I can't even be there
<Mshauri> you get all stressed out, you might not be so lucky fo have some nice guy who smells like weird plants around, you know?
<Raveni> Well he *is
* supposed to be there this time, but I get your point.
<Mshauri> just because a guy gives you wood, don't mean you can always rely on him, Raveni
* Raveni blushes and stammers profusely. Their shapeshifting magic takes hold more than they've experienced before, leaving them on the floor and struggling to balance on hands and cheetah hind legs.
<Mshauri> woah!
* Raveni collapses with a heartfelt *oomph* to lie flat on the floor.
<Raveni> ...This is your fault.
* Mshauri shoves his cold nose in your face
<Mshauri> how is it my fault?
* Raveni play-bites at his nose
* Mshauri licks him
<Mshauri> come on, get ahold of yourself
<Raveni> You know exactly what you did, you incorrigible pest.
* Raveni says fondly
<Raveni> Now help me up, I need to figure out how to change back before anyone comes looking for me.

Firrin takes Mol Shopping

* Firrin will have sent you a note to meet at Hauzen's, a coffee shop near some of the higher end tailor shops
* Molgrin will meet you there, at the appointed time
* Molgrin is at least not wearing paint-stained clothes today, just a regular (if somewhat imperfectly-fitting) suit
* Firrin is having a cofee and trying not to be nervous or too excited
* Firrin waves you over when you come in
<Molgrin> oh, there you are! hi :)
<Firrin> hello :)
<Molgrin> how's it going?
<Firrin> oh, pretty well I think - you?
* Firrin seems to be in a good mood at least
* Molgrin seems a bit cheerful but nervous
<Molgrin> I'm fine - I hope this will go all right!
<Firrin> it should :)
* Molgrin nods, smiling
<Molgrin> Well, I put myself in your hands :)
<Firrin> My father gave me a little clothes money so, it should be fun - I have so many ideas...
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> did you want a drink or anythign first?
<Molgrin> oh, sure, that would be nice
<Firrin> and we can talk a bit about, well... clothes :D
<Molgrin> What do you recommend here?
<Firrin> or , whatever you like I suppose..
<Firrin> they do have excellent coffee
<Molgrin> I'll have that, then!
* Molgrin will order a coffee.
<Molgrin> For the clothes, I have a little money from my allowance that I can use on this, plus I have a bit of savings of my own. I guess maybe it's one of those things where you spend money to make money? If I look the part, then perhaps it makes people more likely to think I'm a posh artist, you know?
* Firrin takes a mental note of your coffee preferences just.. out of habit, or something >.>
* Firrin nods
<Firrin> Can I ask... how much money?
<Firrin> It will give me a sense of options
* Molgrin will tell you (I assume it's sort of a mid-range amount - not a huge sum but like, a respectable amount that could buy maybe one really good ensemble, or a few less good ones)
<Molgrin> (like, idk, 100 gp or whatever? idk what's sensible for how much clothes cost ;)
* Firrin looks nicely dressed today as well, though again his suit is really fairly plain if you look at it, but he has a nice waistcoat, a colourful cravat, and a few other things that make the whole thing come together nicely
* Firrin nods
<Molgrin> Is that going to be enough?
<Firrin> so, my suggestion is, we shoudl get yout one or, hmmm, maaaybe two, we'll see, tailored suits. not bespoke, though, that's probablytoo much for our standing anyway, and then some accent pieces so you can mix things up :3
<Firrin> it shoudl be okay
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> if you want things for just general wear we can get two, but if you want one that's more, hmm, for social events, then maybe just the one?
<Firrin> but I can show you how I do it, and you can, hmm, maybe get some of your other things more tailored too... that's not very expensive if you know where to go.
<Molgrin> Well, I guess if I have something good for social events, and then some things like you said, that can make it look different for different occasions?
<Firrin> yes :)
<Firrin> okay
<Molgrin> Dovah Aelindar did give me a couple of hand-me-down things, but of course they don't quite fit well, so maybe having those tailored would be a good idea too?
<Firrin> do you have anything in particular that you like?
<Firrin> oh yes, perfect!
<Molgrin> I imagine they are probably a few seasons out of style or else he wouldn't be ridding himself of them, but I don't really know.
<Molgrin> And as for things I like... I do admire the way you tie your cravat :) I don't really know how to get it so elegant.
<Firrin> oh, that's just... something I'm trying :x
<Firrin> I can show you though!
<Molgrin> it looks so ... sophisticated :)
* Molgrin nods eagerly
<Molgrin> I'd like that!
<Firrin> I know a lot of different ways that can work for different settings
<Firrin> if you want to appear more or less reserved, for exmple, there's different ways you can do it
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> or to look a little more mature. or less!
<Firrin> as an atist you can probably get away with more
* Firrin says a bit wistfully
<Molgrin> What do you think? I feel like I must come across very young and uncouth, so I suppose trying to appear a bit older might be good?
<Firrin> I think it depends who you are with and what you are doing. Or what kind of clients you are tryign to approach, I suppose
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> Well, I had hopes that perhaps Lord Callais would be a possible patron. Since he seems to like plants.... but I don't know if I could approach him, unless someone was to introduce me. Norn might be able to, though.
<Firrin> Cano Valacirca?
<Firrin> that woudl be a wonderful connectuon. I'm sure he'd know others, at least
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> He did offer to show me around the Arbor sometime when it's less busy.
<Molgrin> So I hoped to bring the subject up then....
* Firrin nods
<Molgrin> oh! that reminds me
<Firrin> oh?
<Molgrin> I did write to Fritz and he said it was fine if you want to attend the party at his house. With your fiancée as well, of course.
<Firrin> Oh. Well.. thank you.
<Firrin> I'll write to her, then, I suppose...
<Molgrin> Do you not see her very frequently?
* Molgrin asks, wondering why you have to write to her
<Firrin> she has a lot of friends and aquaintances who are here for the season...
<Firrin> at least, so I understand....
<Firrin> and, my father is...very anxious that I continue to make a good impression.
* Molgrin looks a bit quizzical
<Molgrin> A good impression on her?
<Firrin> on her family
<Molgrin> Oh, I see.
* Molgrin doesn't entirely see.
<Firrin> I don't know, he said that things are some how more uncertain now that the engagement has been announced, and that now I have to take extra care, because any scandal may reflect poorly on her as well as myself, and they might withdraw...
<Molgrin> Oh...
<Molgrin> that seems strange, but I suppose I don't really understand how these things work. I would have thought once the engagement was set, it was less of a concern that they might withdraw.
<Firrin> That's what I thought too .
<Firrin> but what its meant is that really we've still only met a few times and almost always with some kind of chaperone or supervision.
<Molgrin> Oh... right.
<Molgrin> Well, it would be good to get to know her a bit better - and of course, if my friend is going to marry her, I shall need to be better acquainted with her too :)
<Molgrin> so perhaps a smaller dinner party is a good opportunity for such conversation?
* Firrin smiles, but his nerves and anxiety are probably showing
* Molgrin reaches over to take your hand across the table.
<Molgrin> Hey...are you all right?
* Firrin was about to say something but is completely caught off guard, and just looking at your hand on his
<Firrin> what? Oh....
<Molgrin> you just seem.... I don't know. concerned?
<Firrin> Oh I'm...just....nervous...
<Molgrin> About what?
<Firrin> just....all of it.
<Molgrin> :(
* Firrin is still just looking at your hand on his
* Molgrin realizes you're looking at his hand and draws it back, feeling a bit awkward and like he overstepped
<Firrin> oh.
* Firrin looks up and smiles
<Molgrin> I am sorry if I'm prying... it's not my business. I just... I wish I could help somehow, set you more at ease.
<Firrin> I just need to get used to the idea, that's all
<Firrin> it all sounds like something out of a story. It should all be wonderful.
<Firrin> But I'm... just me. I don't belong in it.
<Firrin> It feels like I'm just waiting for everyone else to figure this out.
* Molgrin nods sympathetically
<Firrin> but even if they did, I don't know what I'd do, then.
<Molgrin> Would you not be able to go back to your mother's, if things fell through here?
<Firrin> she's quite ill. *Quite* ill. She needs special care, and my father had helped arrange all of that
<Molgrin> Oh, I see.
<Molgrin> That is rough, I'm sorry.
<Molgrin> I know that even if I think we know one another well, it's been a long time since I've really been acquainted with you. I don't know all of what has gone on in your life, or what is weighing on your mind. But I think you belong here as much as I do, at least, and if we can help one another to make our way in this environment, I'd like that.
<Firrin> yes well... I just remind myself what things were like before... before my father took us in.
<Firrin> Thanks Mol.
<Firrin> I'm very glad you're here
<Molgrin> And... you can tell me anything, you know. I can keep a confidence.
<Firrin> That's very kind of you.
<Firrin> But I believe *I*'m supposed to be helping *you* today :)
* Molgrin smiles
<Firrin> and it will brng me great pleasure to do so!
<Molgrin> Yes, that's right. We should probably get on to our task of trying to make me presentable :)
<Firrin> alright well. let me know when you;re ready to get going!
* Molgrin finishes up his coffee and smiles
<Molgrin> All right, let's go :)
<Firrin> great!
* Firrin will take you out to look at some of the high fashion bespoke tailors and ask you a bunch of questions about what you like/ but also to get a sense of where things are for fashion in the moment
* Molgrin has nebulous ideas of fashion but can point out things he likes the look of, at least. probably mainly things that tend 'artistic', a bit romantic, luxurious fabrics.
* Firrin will then circle back to some places with more off the rack options and look at their offerings
<Firrin> don't worry too much about anything other than the fabrics right now, we're just looking at the suits.
<Firrin> well, you are >.>
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> find, hmm, three that hyou like, and then come show me
* Molgrin will go and try to do that. He picks out a russet velvet ensemble, a forest green brocade, and a teal silk.
<Molgrin> Are these okay? I like the colours anyway, and the fabrics...
<Firrin> hmmm
<Firrin> not the teal, its too much fo a statement
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> The russet really suits you, I think we can make that work
<Molgrin> okay :)
<Firrin> the green is.. hmm, it has to be just the *right*green, I thnk that onew will make hyou look too yellow.
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> but I do like the brocade
<Molgrin> I suppose with my skin also being green, green is hard to pull off.
<Firrin> Oh don't worry, I'll find you a good one :)
* Molgrin smiles
<Firrin> So - velvet can be both very warm and difficult to clean
<Firrin> do you want to deal with that?
<Molgrin> hm, maybe not... I do like the colour but maybe if it's likely to be worn several times, I don't want to have to worry about it being difficult to clean. Especially if I'm sweating in it, heh.
* Firrin smiles
<Firrin> okay! I'm getting some good ideas
<Firrin> hold on for one moment
* Molgrin waits patiently
* Firrin will go and talk to the clerk for a few minutes and wait while they go into the back to find somethign for him
<Firrin> what do you think of these?
* Firrin will pull you over to look at some waistcoats meanwhile
<Firrin> hmm
* Firrin will pull out a dark gold silk one and hold it up against your skin
* Molgrin takes a look at the various patterns and styles
<Molgrin> what about... something like this?
* Molgrin asks, pointing to a floral pattern
<Firrin> its bold... i like it :)
<Molgrin> not too much of a statement? :)
<Firrin> we're gettign this one too, though
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> no - itds fine for a waistcoat, we can control it a little more and you won'r be wearing it as often
<Molgrin> that makes sense :)
<Molgrin> how did you learn all of this? You seem to know exactly how to put everything together.
<Firrin> oh. Well. I was training to be a valet....
<Firrin> for a young society gentleman
<Molgrin> oh! I see, that makes sense. But you didn't end up doing that?
<Firrin> no.
<Molgrin> because of... all this?
<Firrin> my mother was getting worse, and then, the family thought it wasn't ap[propriate for me to keep working there, if I was dragonmarked but my master was not.
<Molgrin> :/
<Firrin> it was a little awkward, but.
* Firrin shrugs
<Molgrin> did you like doing that, though?
<Firrin> parts of it!
<Firrin> a valet has so much responsibility
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> you liked the parts with clothes? :)
* Molgrin guesses
<Firrin> yes :)
<Firrin> I never got to do any of the dressing in practice, but I could have enjoyed that too, i think
<Firrin> at least, for the right person.
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> frankly the gentleman I worked for did not make it an enjoyable prospect
* Molgrin laughs lightly at that
<Firrin> I liked seeing him well dressed but was glad I dind't have to deal woth him directly
<Firrin> anyway, we'll get these here. I think I know where to go next.
<Molgrin> Well, you're probably better off out of his employ, then :)
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> all right, lead the way :)
* Firrin will get you to pay for your waistcoats, and himself will pay for what looks like some fabric scraps
* Molgrin looks curious about that
<Molgrin> What are those for?
* Molgrin asks once we're out of the shop
<Firrin> oh, I want to see what I can do with them, to add some contrast to some things I alrady have.
<Molgrin> ooh, okay :)
<Firrin> covering some buttoms maybe, or some piping, maybe pocket flaps, plus pocket *squares* and things like that
<Firrin> a lot of the time they will have scraps that they can't realy do much with
<Firrin> its worth asking about
<Molgrin> That's good to know!
* Firrin will take you to another shop which has a wider array of brocades, but maybe slightly more boring cuts
* Molgrin admires all the different brocades
<Firrin> here
* Firrin will pull out two - a dark teal, and a russet
<Firrin> what do you think?
<Molgrin> oh! it's sort of like the colour I liked at the other shop, but it seems a bit more... sedate? mature? is that right? less flashy :)
<Firrin> yes :)
<Firrin> plus look
* Firrin takes the floral waistcoat out and holds it up to the dark teal
<Firrin> see?
* Molgrin 's eyes widen
<Molgrin> oh, it goes together! :D
<Firrin> but then look at this?
* Firrin holds it against the russet
<Firrin> it still works but the red stands out more, see?
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> so it looks bolder
<Molgrin> that's so impressive! you found them just like that :D
<Firrin> anyway, I liek these colours but lets see if thay have one of them in a different weave
<Molgrin> you have a really good eye for this
<Firrin> oh, thank you :3
<Firrin> I just... I like to look at what peoplare wearing and think about what they *could* be wearing....
<Molgrin> I might be an artist, but I'm usually just looking at what is in front of me - whatever nature put together. I don't usually think about matching or coordinating things in my clothing. But you can do it perfectly :)
<Firrin> well, men's fashions anyway, i'm hopless at women
* Molgrin smiles a bit at that
<Molgrin> I suppose you haven't trained on women, after all :)
<Firrin> true, and I don't have any idea what will catch on with them
<Firrin> not that men's fashion is any less faddish I suppose
<Firrin> but usually if I'm in a crowd I can pick out the ment that everyone will be tring to imitate
<Molgrin> well, you said at the masquerade that you weren't an artist, but I think this is an art too :) you have a talent for making people look handsome!
<Molgrin> I mean.. not that I think I look handsome, that sounds arrogant. But with your help I could be passable :)
<Firrin> oh you're definitely handsome, we'll just make sure everyone notices :)
* Molgrin blushes at that
<Molgrin> it's okay if not everyone notices... :)
<Firrin> oh - do you want something more demure?
<Molgrin> well... no, I don't know... I just mean, I am hoping to impress a patron, not a paramour :)
<Firrin> oh. Right, yes....
<Firrin> okay
<Molgrin> they don't need to think I'm handsome, do they?
* Molgrin asks, a bit uncertainly
* Firrin puts back the patterned brocade teal suit, but passes you the russet
* Molgrin looks a little wistful at the teal going away
<Firrin> I suppose not.
<Molgrin> But...
* Molgrin looks torn
<Molgrin> which one do *you* like better?
<Firrin> hmm?
<Firrin> for what?
<Molgrin> for me....
<Molgrin> which one makes me look better?
<Firrin> right but, better for what?
<Firrin> just to look handsome in?
* Molgrin shrugs, uncertain
<Molgrin> yes, I suppose
<Firrin> I meanI'm not going to let you buy anything I don't like
* Molgrin smiles a little at that
<Firrin> ...I men
<Molgrin> all right
<Firrin> you can do what you like but I will *advise* against it >.>
<Firrin> we're *not* done with the teal though, don't worry
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I said I was putting myself in your hands, and I meant it :)
<Firrin> but you don't want to just have all the same pattern in different colours anyway, so I think what we want is a textured silk.
<Firrin> do you know your size?
* Molgrin shakes his head
<Firrin> okay
<Molgrin> smaller than Dovah Aelindar?
<Firrin> we'll buy larger anyway
<Molgrin> he's got big shoulders >.>
* Firrin will find a version of the russet that looks to be at least a size too big
<Firrin> oh I noticed @_@
* Molgrin has definitely not thought about Brenn's shoulders :p
<Molgrin> mmh.
* Molgrin clears his throat, looking at some detail on the jacket
<Firrin> oh, I now the cut is a litte off, but we;re havign it altered anyway
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> yes, um, quite
<Firrin> I think just two more places for shopping if you can put up with that?
<Molgrin> Yes, I think I have it in me :)
<Firrin> and then we'll go to a tailor I know who can take care of all the rest
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> great :)
<Molgrin> And then.. you'll show me how to put it all together? tie the cravat and all that?
* Firrin will next drag you to a place which seems to specialize in imported silks
<Molgrin> ooh
<Firrin> oh, yes, Hmm...
<Firrin> I think we can do that there...
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> for now, we are after three things:
<Firrin> Your teal suit, I hope, cravats, and stockings
<Molgrin> Okay!
* Firrin will get us both a few rhings there, including the suit, and some more fabric scraps. The final store is actually a re-sale shop, which he will take time going through, and find a number of key accent pieces which are somewhat dated but he assures you will be fine 'once we are through with them'
* Molgrin trusts your judgement and will pay for the pieces you recommend
<Firrin> okay.
<Firrin> now, off to see Reglar!
<Molgrin> Reglar?
<Firrin> yes, he's my tailor
<Molgrin> oh, wonderful :)
<Firrin> not oen of the big names but he has an excellent eye and he works *with* you
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> well, thank you for letting me in on your secret :D
<Firrin> I only met him by chance last year, I actually ran into him at [name of store we were just at]
* Firrin will bring you to a shop a few streets away that has a very basic lookign sign
<Firrin> it doesn't look like much but I promise the results will pay!
* Molgrin follows you inside
<Firrin> hello?
* Reglar is a middle-aged looking goblin, looking sharply dressed, who comes out fo the back looking grumpy
<Reglar> ahh!
<Reglar> Mr. Malassar - what, or who, have hyou brought me today?
* Molgrin bows politely
<Firrin> This is my friend, Mr. Braalk. I've promised to help him dress for society, and we've been out shopping, and bought some things, and now, we need your magic :)
<Molgrin> good day, Mr. Reglar, I have heard about your wonderful skill :)
<Firrin> Mol - this is, ahh, Halstaaz Mygrum Reglar
<Molgrin> it's an honour to meet you
* Reglar nods, and seems to be sizing you up
<Reglar> A tall one, hmm
* Molgrin stands up straighter
<Reglar> well, show me what you broght and tell me what you're thinking
<Firrin> right.
* Firrin will explain the brief, so to speak, and bring out the goods
* Reglar shakes his head.
<Reglar> he's got quite an eye, hasn't he?
* Reglar says to Mol
<Molgrin> He's amazing! I don't know how he does it.
* Reglar holds the floral wasitcoat against the teal suit again
<Reglar> too much time oggling men, that's how >.>
* Firrin makes a sound and turns his face
* Reglar chuckles
* Molgrin makes a little choking noise and gets very interested in the buttons of this jacket
<Reglar> I can make this work
<Reglar> Mr. Braalk, is it? Did he take you up to look at what the high fancy nobs are doing?
<Molgrin> Oh, well, I have been ... coming out this season? Is that how you say it?
<Molgrin> I'm not really a high fancy nob but I hope I can at least mingle appropriately among them and maybe one of them will decide to engage my services.
<Reglar> mmmm, right
<Reglar> you see anything you like up there though?
<Molgrin> Oh... I really admire Dovah Aelindar. But I don't know that I have the, uh, build to pull off his style.
<Firrin> He's an artist, so I think he can be a little bit more free
<Firrin> he *is* quite stylish
<Reglar> hmmm. right, well, let's get you measured. get that coat off, and the waistcoat
* Molgrin removes his outer layers as instructed
* Firrin will talk a bit about differnt thing he thinks would work well
* Molgrin stands there holding his arms out and feeling a bit ridiculous, but doing as he's told
* Reglar nods and will make a few comments, getting out a measuring tape and a stool, and will take a few measurements that way
<Reglar> now we need to get a bit more intimate, Mr. Braalk, for those close fitted clothes your friend here wants to squeeze you into
<Firrin> that's just the style :x
* Molgrin swallows and nods
<Firrin> do you, ahh, want me to... turn around? step outside?
* Reglar sniffs
<Molgrin> oh, no, you don't have to
<Firrin> okay....
<Molgrin> after all it's nothing you haven't seen before! although, I suppose not in a while...
<Firrin> anyway they can't be *too* tight, he's dressing himself :x
* Reglar nods and gestures at Mol to disrobe further so he can get those closer measurements
* Molgrin will get undressed as far as is necessary
* Firrin has been told not to look away but will trey not to oggle too much....
* Molgrin has a cute butt ;)
* Firrin knows :x
* Firrin 's tail flicks a little in agitation, and he tries to keep talking about the clothes and nnot get distracted but he's struggling!
* Molgrin is just very quiet and still as he can be
<Reglar> there. That'll do.
<Firrin> Thank you, Reglar
* Molgrin gets his clothes back on, a bit awkwardly
* Firrin says with some relief, once Mol is released to get dressed again
<Molgrin> Yes, thank you
<Reglar> you want me to have him strip down too? I hear he's gonna need to be fitted for a wedding suit, after all
<Molgrin> Oh.... ha, I imagine he'll let you know when he needs that!
<Molgrin> isn't that right, Firrin?
* Reglar chuckles, possibly enjoying teasing Firrin a little, though it seems good natured
<Firrin> Yes... I don't knwo what the arrangements will me
<Firrin> maybe it will be Thantopolitan style and all in togas :) :) :)
<Firrin> anyway, Reglar, can I borrow your shop just a little while longer? I wanted to show him some dressing tips
<Reglar> Yes lad - let me go through this great haul of clothes you borght anso i can see if i have any questions, and you go ahead
* Reglar will take all the purchases into the back, leaving you two in the store front alone
<Firrin> He'll work magic, I promise :)
<Molgrin> I'm sure he will
<Molgrin> um... what was it you wanted to show me?
<Molgrin> the... the cravat thing, or...?
<Firrin> oh, yes, and a few other things...
<Firrin> do you want me to show you on you or on me?
<Molgrin> Can you show me on me, or is it too hard to do it backwards?
<Firrin> oh no, i can do that :)
* Firrin will come and stand in front of you
* Firrin is a bit taller than Mol, but not a whole lot
<Firrin> so, it does take a little bit of a longer tie than most people wear but I think yours will be okay, and if not we can just use mine
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> and then, here
* Molgrin looks up at you, realizing just how close you are
* Firrin reaches behind to tuck it under your collar
<Molgrin> thank you...
<Molgrin> for all of this, I mean
<Firrin> well, its my pleasure, really....
<Molgrin> is there anything I could do to make it up to you?
* Firrin says, not meanign to have looked down into your eyes at quite that moemnt but...
* Molgrin has nice eyelashes
<Firrin> Oh, um, you'll just have to give me the pleasure of seeing you all dressed up.
* Firrin smiles
<Molgrin> well, if you say so. but I'll be thinking about some way to repay you for all your efforts :)
<Molgrin> I'm sure something will come to me.
<Firrin> its really no trouble
<Firrin> anyway, um, here
<Firrin> you cross it like this....
* Firrin will show you how he ties it, plus a few variations for more and less formal occasions
* Molgrin tries to pay attention
<Firrin> but i can show you anytime
<Firrin> and then here is the other thing I wanted to show you..
* Firrin shows you a few different ways to style a waistcoat so it sits at slightly different angles for different effects, and a few other little things liek that
<Molgrin> I'll probably have to ask for help again, I'll be bound to forget some of this before the next party :)
<Firrin> sorry, I know not everyoen is as interested in these sorts of things...
<Firrin> you'll be fine if you just wear the clothes :)
<Molgrin> oh, I'm interested! it's just a lot to take in all at once :) I do appreciate it.
<Firrin> okay :3
<Molgrin> then there's my hair, too... no idea what to do with that, properly
* Molgrin says, tugging it out of the loose ponytail he was wearing
<Firrin> ooo...
* Firrin bites his lip
<Firrin> umm, well.
<Firrin> Let me... think about that....
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> no rush :)
* Firrin nods
* Reglar will come back out with a few things pinned to have Mol try as well, and then he and firrin can haggle over the bill
* Molgrin will pay up and, if he can, slip a couple extra coins to Reglar when Firrin isn't looking, for some little extra things for him (maybe some ribbon or trim or whatever he has that might be nice)
* Reglar gives you a knowing look, but will accept them
* Molgrin will press them into Firrin's hands before we part so that you don't have time to protest ;)
<Molgrin> (but do have time to use them before the next party if you want ;)

Rumor and Scandal

• Raveni is the engineer of a con to fool his elderly grandparent into thinking he is truly the child of their deceased son and steal their wealth - Spread
• Molgrin is actually Brenn Ailendar's illegitimate son - Spread
• Norn Yosk killed someone in a duel back in Vanilorra and was sent to Highmark to escape reprisal. - Spread
• Trev is being sued by a Wargforged Rghts group after his costume at the ball - New
• Trev has an illigitimate child he refuses to recognise. - New
• Trev has gambling debts that have eaten up his entire inheritance and more. - New
• Fritz and Galatea's family are trying to set them up, but they aren't interested. - New