| Logs |
2010 September 12
| Neverneverwhere |
| Realms |
Retired
| Reality Fault |
General Info
 |
| Realms: Taps Logs |
Speaking of Cyrano
Alg grunts rather wetly, making smacking noises as he gets back into his position at point. He stays nearly quadrupedal, sniffing from side to side. Suraksha smiles, and when the goblin brushes past her at one point she pats his furry side and murmurs, "Well done, Alg. Thank you." She continues strolling along the pathway to the city, looking absolutely unruffled. Clearly she has no concern at all for her safety with such assiduous guards. Chanticleer follows along with the two ladies, keeping a very careful watch on their surroundings -- particularly their rear, since Alg has point. When they reach the palace gates, there's some rumbling from the guards there about the fact that Alg is covered in blood. The gate guards try to question him, but Alg just snaps and snarls, "King wants pretty lady safe. Get 'way."
Suraksha smiles relaxedly at the guards, "No worries, please. They were just doing their job," as she walks through the gates with her companions. Chanticleer nods to the guards, explaining what happened only tersely and in passing. The guards nod and one of them takes off at something not quite a run to let the king know the party is back. Alg just continues on down the hallway, leading them back toward the quarter set aside for Suraksha, across from Roy's own apartments. Chanticleer acknowledges Alg is like a force of nature: simply, contentedly following along his path of grumpiness -- though Chanti does suspect the goblin is a bit less cantankerous after the meeting with the caravan folk. Suraksha coughs politely, then murmurs, "Alg? Perhaps a barn first, so we can leave our llama safely indoors for the night?"
Alg looks thoughtful about that, then says, "We go barn." He detours around the building and takes them not just to a barn, but to a stable. All the rest of the animals in there are horses -- very well-bred horses. Chanticleer knows this is Roy's personal stable. He comfortably greets the mounts within, as is his wont, and helps to prepare a stall for the llama.
Suraksha makes a small, happy sound and hands the llama over to Gramma Marcie's care. She pads down the aisle, checking to see if any of the horses are well-trained enough to not shy away at her scent, and murmurs with pleasure, "What lovely horses!" Some of the horses are spooky at Suraksha's approach, but one of them is simply curious about her and nuzzles at her when she approaches. Suraksha beams and strokes the long profile and soft nose with pleasure, murmuring quiet endearments, "Aren't you a lovely boy, then?" The goblin snorts; the horses don't seem a bit put off by Alg. Suraksha sighs happily, turning to the others to say, "These are beautiful, well-cared-for horses. Are they Roy's breeding?"
Chanticleer nods, "Well... more specifically, Roy finances their breeding and care. They are trappings of royalty, of course, but he's actually quite particular about them." Alg prowls the stable; the horses seem used to him, though they're a little wary, as they might well be.
Suraksha pats the horse one last time, then heads back towards the other three, still smiling with quiet happiness, "They're beautiful. I would like to bring Del to see them. I think she'd enjoy meeting them all." She sighs with soft pleasure, then lightly pats Chanticleer's arm, "Well, enough of that right now. Would you be so kind as to help Gramma Marcie with the bags, please?" She herself picks up the small box and calls to Alg, "Thank you, Alg. We're ready to return to the house now, please."
Chanticleer nods, "Certainly, lady." He doesn't mind; he can drop them and draw his sword fairly quickly if need be.
Alg grunts, but he looks out the door carefully before staring to lead the way. Suraksha tucks the small box under her arm and paces calmly after the quadrupedal goblin. She can't help but wonder if the poor thing is treated as a fellow sapient by the other guards -- or not. She knows hierarchy breeds hierarchy, and contempt produces more contempt, after all. Gramma Marcie hands Chanticleer nearly all of the bags, mischief showing in her eyes. She also makes sure he can tell her hand doesn't feel the same as it looks. Chanticleer arches a brow at the touch, realizing "Gramma" is not quite what she appears. [Interesting. Another sidhe? It would make sense. I wonder if she's from a court?] He does manage to carry the bags easily -- they're only for one evening, after all -- and follows along.
Alg doesn't let them be stopped by anyone along the way. He growls and snaps when someone tries to detain them to question him about the blood, "Go 'way. Not hurt." One of the guards mutters something lascivious about Suraksha and nearly loses a finger for his efforts. Suraksha smiles quietly at that, and after they've passed the offending guard she runs her hand lightly along one furred shoulder and murmurs a soft, "Thank you, Alg." She continues walking serenely. Chanticleer sighs inwardly as the guard makes that comment. Perhaps it really is time to find less banal pastures.
When they reach the apartments set aside for Suraksha, they find Roy waiting for them in the front room. He surges to his feet the moment the door opens, his eyes blazing. Chanticleer inwardly si-i-ighs as he sets the baggage down: leave it to RoiRoy to overreact. He braces for the storm. Suraksha looks faintly surprised, "Roy? Is everything all right?" Her calm gaze swiftly sweeps the room to check for her requested additions, before returning in inquiry to the excited looking man. The room has indeed been furnished in the way Suraksha requested.
Roy snaps to Chanticleer, "Please tell me that the idiot guard that just interrupted my bath-" indeed, he is damp and his hair is slicked back against his head, "doesn't know what he's talking about."
Chanticleer resists the urge to arch a brow as he parses Roy's words and his anger. "On our way back from the caravan," he says carefully, "four of Moynahan's boys tried to waylay us -- either shake us down or shank us. Doesn't matter, either way. Alg took the leader out. The other three -- wisely -- bolted."
Suraksha raises an amused eyebrow as her courteous inquiry is ignored. She, in turn, turns away from Roy and murmurs to Gramma Marcie, "Shall we set things up nicely?" She puts the box on the bed, then turns to Alg and asks politely, "Alg, could you ask the right person to start heating some bathwater for me, please?" Alg peers out the door and snarls at the guard there to get some bathwater for Suraksha. She turns to Chanticleer and Roy, her small smile friendly but something very firm in her eyes, "Boys, it's not polite to stay in a lady's room when she wants a bath. Perhaps you could take this outside?" She steps over to gently push on them both, urging them out of the room.
Roy's nostrils flare as he takes several deep breaths to calm himself, "I beg pardon, lady. I suspected that someone might attack you if you were alone, but I did not expect the hooligans to attack with my personal bodyguard watching you." Chanticleer inclines his head to Suraksha, and steps outside as she gestures.
Suraksha's smile becomes more sincere, and she pats Roy's arm as she continues to gently urge him out of the room, "But it is nothing to worry of, my dear. You sent your bodyguards, and they did precisely the job which they were supposed to do. You are to be congratulated on having such dedicated men." She smiles at Alg and Chanticleer as she adds, "Indeed, should either of you consider travel interesting, I would be delighted to hire you for my caravan." Her eyes twinkle mischievously as she closes the door a bit, adding, "Just tap when the bathwater arrives, please!" She leaves the door slightly ajar, heading back into the room to assist Gramma Marcie.
Outside the room, Roy turns to Chanticleer and asks, "Who is that she brought back with her?" He is still a little agitated and motions the guard to follow him to his personal rooms.
Chanticleer says simply, "Her dresser. Perfectly fitting for a lady of her mien."
Suraksha waits until the door to Roy's personal rooms has closed behind Chanticleer and Roy before she leans out her door again, checking to see if Alg is still there. Her eyes twinkle -- she's impressed with how easily he can fade into the background. Alg is lurking in the hallway just outside Roy's door, nibbling something from a pouch at his belt. He peers at Suraksha as she peeks out of her room, and says, "Lady have bath!"
Suraksha grins and nods, "Bath soon, I hope! Just waiting on the water now." She adds in a soft whisper to the goblin man, "You're very good! Thank you for staying to guard. Here, have a towel so you can wipe off a bit, so people stop hassling you about the blood." She smiles as she adds, "I'm glad you and Chanticleer were there." She She does not look too hard at Alg's little snack; she has a good idea of what it is already, after all. Alg takes the towel and sniffs at it distrustfully before smearing some of the blood off his face and grunting. Suraksha looks a bit surprised, "It's just a towel, Alg. What did you think I'd handed you?"
Alg snorts, "Why put blood on rag? Can jump in river. Wash off blood." He spits at the floor, "Like blood."
Suraksha smiles quietly, accepting the bloody towel back from Alg, "True, about the river. It just seemed to me you were getting annoyed by everyone asking you about the blood, and I thought the towel would help you get some peace from them." She grins ruefully, "Sorry to bother you! I'll leave you be now," and slips back into her room.
Alg eyes Suraksha and says, "No sorry." He thinks hard about that one and says, "Thank." He shifts so he's right in front of her door.
Suraksha's smile is radiant, "You're welcome!" before she vanishes back into her room. She's pleased the goblin man responds well to her.
In his room, Roy's eyes are blazing, "Moynahan is taking it just a little too far. Picking a fight with a guardsman when he's off-duty is one thing. Attacking in the streets is completely another." He pushes his hands through his hair and asks, "Did you recognize the men?"
Chanticleer shakes his head, putting his hands behind his back. "No, I didn't. I just recognized the leader by the way he talked."
Roy scowls, "He didn't actually get his hands on the lady? And why does she need a dresser?"
Chanticleer says, "No, he didn't touch her. Alg saw to that -- and the others saw the wisdom in dropping their weapons and running. As for why she would need a dresser, that's someone most well-born ladies have accompany them."
Roy smirks slightly and says, "I suspect it has less to do with her station and more to do with avoiding spending time alone with me." He's starting to pace his room.
Chanticleer blinks. "Well... they do serve as chaperones."
Roy pauses and smirks at Chanticleer, "She's not a teenaged debutante, nor a blushing virgin." Chanticleer arches a brow, but decides to say nothing. Best that when he leaves, it be relatively amicably. Roy adds, "I think I shall have a talk with Moynahan tomorrow. For tonight, I want you outside the lady's door. After she's had her bath, I want you to make sure she's secure."
It's just a few minutes later there's a rap on Suraksha's door, and two sleepy-eyed maids come in, carrying a heavy cauldron of hot water between them. It's Gramma Marcie who lets them in, directing them to pour the water into the large tub. The wooden folding screens are nearby, ready to be shifted about the tub later, and Suraksha is in a pretty nightgown and robe, attractively and decorously attired. Once the water has been poured, Gramma Marcie tips the two women generously, asking them for a nice tea service with light snacks to be brought to the room as well, please. The maids look surprised at the tip, but they both curtsey and hurry off, avoiding Alg as best they can. The goblin doesn't even seem to notice them.
The maids aren't long with the tea and snacks. Suraksha is in the bath by then, relaxing luxuriously in sweet-scented steam, her long dark hair trailing over the edge of the tub to the rug below. Gramma Marcie has the maid set the tea tray down on the tiny table and thanks her again before showing her out. After that the two women have a small laugh and a bet together, as the four-armed sidhe brushes Suraksha's long, dark hair, and the two of them chat amiably for a while.
In his room, Roy throws himself into his favorite chair, sprawling in it, "How is a man supposed to launch a campaign of flattery and seduction with an old woman hanging around, anyway?"
Chanticleer smiles quietly. If Roy is actually asking for advice rather than asking rhetorically... "That depends entirely on what you want in the long term with her, Sir. If you really are looking to court her, then it is a matter of patience and working with the 'dresser.'" He considers, tapping his chin. "I do not know how to recommend courting her. But I do know finding fault with her bringing her 'dresser' so she is not alone with you would be a breach that she would rightly not countenance. Yes, the dresser is there to keep you from being alone with her. That is, in part, to ensure that your intentions are more than just a tumble in the hay."
He shrugs. "If that -- a tumble -- is what you want, it is best to be honest with her about that sooner rather than later, but it strikes me that you are seeking a more long-term emotional relationship. If so, then this is but one step." He pauses. "And if not, then I apologize if I have spoken out of turn." [I wonder what route he wants to go? He's far too self-centered to want a companion for more than producing a son, I imagine, but perhaps I am wrong....]
Roy looks grudgingly impressed at Chanticleer's advice, "Can't say that a tumble ain't part of what I'm lookin' for, actually. But I'd rather have her on my side. You got any idea just how much information that woman can gather goin' back and forth across this damn continent?"
Chanticleer says wryly, "I imagine quite a lot." [To say nothing of how much information she can spread about you. Sigh. A shame. I'd hoped you would be romantically inclined, but... best you be honest. I can work with this.] He nods. "Then it's best to be honest with her. You want a good, long-term business relationship, and you would like to be -- at least now and then -- lovers. I would daresay being her lover will require work... but on the plus side, the more you work towards that, even if it takes time to achieve it, the more it will bring you closer to her as someone she can trust professionally. I know it is important to separate business from pleasure, but both use the same currency of trust."
Roy peers at Chanticleer with narrowed eyes, thinking hard about this. "Gotta say, she's also a challenge. Beautiful, to boot. Most women get tetchy when you're too honest with them, though." He pushes himself to his feet, "Damned independent harridan."
[And that], Chanti thinks, [is why I need to get out of here sooner rather than later. Not to keep my sanity, but because you are going to not be good to be around when you do not get your way, with an attitude like that.] He smiles quietly. "It is a risk. You know her better than I, admittedly." Meanwhile his inner 'flee' reflex is starting to pack.
Roy snorts and nods, "Probably right." He mutters to himself. Finally, he starts to get himself somewhat straightened up, "You wanna be my messenger in this? Ask the lady if she'll talk with me?" He grins at Chanti, "Be charmin' at her." By now Chanticleer knows Roy doesn't actually make requests of his employees. He makes demands couched as requests.
Chanticleer judges his next words carefully. "I will certainly ask her to speak with you. What message would you like me to convey?"
Roy shrugs, pulling a brush through his hair, "Damned if I know. You're the eloquent one. Be my Cyrano. Use that silver tongue." The king adds, "Might even be some sorta bonus in it for ya if you do a good job."
Chanticleer pauses. [Oh, no], he thinks. [Oh, no no no. I am not getting pulled into a Cyrano gambit -- and yes, the courtiers did call it that, gleefully and merrily and with just the right mixture of derision and admiration that only people who make court intrigue and court gossip their life's work can do -- least of all to an employer vis-a-vis a liege. As adorable and as flattering as it might be, she is far, far too smart to fall for that.] He notes as much, saying, "I think the lady would notice the difference in words. However, I will speak with her and impress upon her that you wish an honest relationship and you want to win her trust professionally and romantically." [And tumble with her in the hay. But at this point I think that goes without saying.] "Using many more words, of course."
Roy grins over his shoulder at Chanticleer, "Diplomacy is the art of sayin' in eighty words what a humble man might say in eight." He tips his head toward the door, "Get to gettin'. I'll be along in a bit."
Chanticleer nods politely and heads outside, albeit feeling stung. Roy is hardly humble. Far, far from it in fact. Chanti is no paragon of humility himself, but that is one of the core knightly virtues he was taught to embody. Besides, he decides, diplomacy is also the art of not putting your godsdamn size-ten foot in your mouth when (however inadvertently) insulting your employees. His inner 'flee' reflex has gone from packing up to considering how to register a change-of-address and is looking to shut off the water.
Chanticleer makes his way across the hallway to where Suraksha's room is, checking to see if Alg is guarding outside it, or if the dresser is preventing entry since she is still taking a bath. Alg is indeed standing guard outside Suraksha's room. He eyes Chanticleer for a moment before stepping aside. Chanticleer nods to Alg, and knocks on the door politely. It is Gramma Marcie who lets Chanticleer in, calling quietly to Suraksha (behind the nice folding screens), "It's that young sidhe guardsman, dear." She smiles at Chanticleer after closing the door, and adds, "What can we do for you, Chanti? Are you ready to join us already?"
Chanticleer smiles to Gramma, inclining his head. "Not just yet, though I imagine in a day or so I will be ready. No, I actually came to deliver a message to the lady from Roi- er, King Roy."
Suraksha calls cheerfully, "How long has it been, Sna'tha?" The four-armed woman has dropped her glamour, and she glances at an hourglass sitting on the bed, then laughs and replies, "Still within the hour -- I win!" Suraksha groans amusedly, then adds, "Oh, fine, show off to the new guy -- see if I care!" It's clear from her light-hearted tone that she doesn't really mind, and she laughs before saying, "Go on, Chanti, we're just joking amongst ourselves. What's the message?" She adds, "There's a fiver in the box, Sna'tha -- help yourself!"
Chanticleer laughs quietly. "Well... I imagine it's not anything you don't already know, lady. King Roy asked me to convey to you that he does indeed wish closer business ties with you... but also to seek to grow closer to you romantically, though he knows it may take some time to earn your trust to such a degree."
Sna'tha chuckles, helping herself to a large coin in the small box sitting on the bed. She grins and flips it easily from hand to hand to hand to hand before it disappears into her clothing. Suraksha's voice is amused, "Did he now. Are those his words or yours, Chanti?"
Chanticleer says dryly, "Mine, of course, though they are his sentiments. He is not the most eloquent of people, Lady. But to his credit, he does -- more often than not -- yield to those who are somewhat more skilled in a thing than he."
Suraksha adds, "Was it just me, Sna'tha, or did he seem more a 'quick tumble' type to you as well?" The older sidhe woman simply snorts amusedly, going over to neatly set up the tea tray on the small table. There's a moment of silence broken only by faint plashings and the small clinks of chinaware being set out... then Suraksha murmurs thoughtfully, "Chanti, dear... may I ask some rather... pointed questions of you? Like... do you think Roy can hold the city, or is Moynahan a creditable threat to bring him down?"
Chanticleer says dryly, "Roy would like a tumble, yes. But he understands that such will not really be satisfying in the long run. Or help to build trust between you and he. As for the city... yes, I believe he can. Moynahan is a thug -- a charismatic thug, but not much more than that. He has some influence over the illegal trade in Baton Rouge, but he does not -- and I do not believe ever will -- control the city even close to the degree that Roy does."
Suraksha hmms thoughtfully. Finally she inquires, "Why do you consider Roy to not be a thug, please? I'm interested in your perspective on him." She adds slowly, "He made a comment earlier tonight about not forcing himself on 'a woman like me.' I found that somewhat... disturbing. Did he mean it to sound like he makes a habit of forcing himself on other types of women, or was that simply a poor choice of words on his part?"
Chanticleer purses his lips. "I did not appreciate that remark either. I do not know if he makes a habit of that, since I have not been in his service for very long. I do not believe that is what was meant, and I think it was but a poor choice of words -- he is, after all, not an eloquent man. A capable man, but not eloquent." His lips quirk a little, remembering Roy's 'diplomat' comment.
Suraksha chuckles at that, then says, "All right then -- perhaps we can do business! Let's see... how's this, Chanti? Can you go back to him and tell him I am indeed interested in a good working business relationship with him? Don't mention the romantic parts at all, please; how he responds to that will show us how much patience he's got -- as well as whether he thinks I'm worth waiting for, or he'd rather just go jump one of his courtiers for some quick and forgettable sex." She chuckles again, then adds, "Tell him, please, he is invited here right now for a bit of a business discussion, with some tea." Chanti can hear the grin in her voice as she adds, "Don't tell him I'm still in the bath, and don't be surprised at how we'll likely set things up if he lets us, all right? Can you do that for us, please?"
Chanticleer nods and bows slightly. "I will do so." Since he knows Roy will ask, he's already trying to come up with how to answer Roy's inevitable question of 'What about the tumbling in the sack bit?'
Suraksha laughs delightedly, her voice lilting as she adds, "Also, should he ask about sex, feel free to tell him you do not feel you can speak for the lady, and he should ask her himself! That's something else you can say, if you feel comfortable doing so: tell him you can see I very much prefer honesty and plain-speaking!"
Chanticleer smiles wryly. "I've made that clear to him, but it certainly can't hurt to make it even more clear. If you will excuse me, lady, I will go and tell him forthwith, and to come with all due haste."
Suraksha beams as she says, "Thank you so much, Chanti! If we can pull this off, I think we'll all be the better for it."
Chanticleer says, "Oh, I certainly hope so, lady, and you are very welcome." He takes his leave then, and makes his way to Roy's chambers -- where he suspects the king is waiting.
Chanticleer nods to the guards, then knocks on the door and enters when Roy says he may. "Sir, I have spoken with the Lady. She is indeed interested in a good working business relationship with you. In fact, she has invited you to her chambers right now for a business discussion, with some tea." He manages to not emphasize 'business' when he says those words; no need to make it seem like he's obviously trying to draw attention away from the romantic ideas Roy has.
Roy has taken the time that Chanticleer was across the hallway getting himself dressed and groomed. He's wearing loose silk trousers and a square-cut blue shirt of the style that manages to emphasize broad shoulders without fitting them like a second skin. The clothes suggest pajamas, without actually looking like them. He's barefoot and is lounging in his favorite chair, sipping at a glass of whiskey when Chanticleer returns. One brow goes up at the wording, "Business, huh?" He sighs and rolls his eyes. "She's doin' her level best to evade my bed, ain't she?" The king swirls the whiskey in his glass and looks down into the amber fluid, "Damn. Still an' all, it'll be good to have her eyes and ears." Knocking back the last of the whiskey, he sets the glass down with a clink and pushes to his feet.
Chanticleer considers for a moment. "As I said, though, Sir: honesty and forthrightness is the basis of any relationship. If you want to know about that... ask her. She is not blind to your desire, and so the worst that happens is that your business relationship can continue."
It is Sna'tha, back in her Gramma Marcie glamour, who opens the door and waves them all in. She gestures Roy to one of the tiny ironwork chairs next to the little table, which has had a colorful cloth thrown over it as a lovely impromptu tablecloth. The tea setting is arranged nicely on the table, with the small sandwiches and crumpets next to it. The two guards, Chanticleer and Alg, are also waved in and asked to stand guard by bracketing each side of the door, which is firmly closed after them -- it would seem Suraksha definitely does not wish to be alone with Roy! The room smells rather nicely of a light sandalwood-musky scent, and is entirely lit by candles, which give a soft, diffused, almost romantic glow to the room.
Suraksha herself is behind one of the light folding screens, and there's a dim lantern back there with her so she can see. She calls out in relaxedly sultry tones, "Gracious, Roy! You've caught me at my bath. Make yourself comfortable at the table and I'll be right out." Gramma Marcie picks up several delicately lacy and silken things, as well as a large and fluffy towel, and heads behind the screen -- and that's when it's suddenly obvious the lantern is casting shadowy silhouettes of the two women on the thin, painted silk of the folding screen. Chanticleer's brows shoot all the way up when he notices the screens. He doesn't recall a lantern being so strategically placed back there. It makes for a remarkably lovely show... but he is certain, based on what he knows of Suraksha, that she did this deliberately.
Gramma Marcie lays the delicate clothing over the screen, partially obscuring her silhouette as Suraksha rises from the tub. The smaller woman's silhouette is also somewhat diffused, half-hidden by Gramma Marcie stepping forward and throwing a towel about her shoulders. The two women murmur quietly together as they move about behind the screen. A bit later the towel is hung over the screen and a lacy silk nightgown is pulled from where it hangs... and a moment after that the soft, plush robe is pulled off the screen as well.
Roy does not miss that the guards are asked to come into the room. He smirks and shakes his head in amusement before settling himself in one of the chair. One thing about him: the man can look relaxed anywhere -- the mark of a man exceedingly comfortable in his own skin. Shadows and silhouettes most certainly do not escape his notice, either. The self-made king watches with lazy appreciation, muttering "Damn," under his breath when the fluffy robe is pulled off the screen. The little shadow-play does cause him to have to shift just a bit in his seat. Brazen and cocky he may be, but he's not entirely stupid when it comes to negotiation. One does not become head of the main port and river crossing on the Big Muddy by being an idiot.
Eventually Suraksha strolls around from behind the screen: barefoot, slightly damp, and still belting on the robe -- and smiles demurely at Roy. Her dark, curling mane of hair is limned by candlelight, falling like a shimmering silken banner to mid-thigh, and her loose-hipped sway makes one think of big cats and sensuality. She settles into the chair across the little table from Roy and holds out a hand, murmuring, "How sweet of you to come visit at this hour, Roy. I'm so pleased to see you feel the same about business as I do." She's watching Roy's reaction intently, even though that intensity is hidden behind her heavily lashed eyes.
Roy smirks, knowing he's being played. Still, he takes her hand and bends his head over it to kiss her knuckles. At the last moment he raises his eyes so they meet hers while his lips are still on her skin. "Lady, you would make the devil himself blush, walkin' the way you do. But yes, I came to talk business." He lets her fingers slip from his grip and leans back in his chair, tipping it enough that the front legs come an inch or so off the floor.
Suraksha chuckles quietly, just as Gramma Marcie comes around the screen with the lantern. She sets it down, making a tc'hing noise, and her cracked voice is chastising, "Child, what have I told you about receiving gentlemen callers with your hair down?!" Suraksha's eyes twinkle mischievously as she murmurs in apparent contrition, "Forgive me, please, Gramma, Roy." The older woman heads over, pulling out a hairbrush and some ribbons, and swiftly plaits a thick braid out of the glorious mane of hair, muttering about children today as she does so. In the meantime Suraksha is very careful to hold her head still as she pours tea for Roy and herself, murmuring, "Cream? Sugar?"
Roy can, when it is needful, keep a straight face. But he knows Suraksha has gone to quite some lengths to create this lovely setting; he lets one corner of his mouth quirk up before drawling, "No thank you, Sulochana. I'll take it just as it comes."
Suraksha laughs softly at that, her eyes dancing! Once she's done braiding, Gramma Marcie murmurs to Suraksha, "You good here, chile?" The smaller woman studies Roy for a thoughtful moment... then she looks up at Marcie and smiles, nodding. The glamoured sidhe smiles calmly back, then turns to the two guards, "Could you two strapping young men give me a hand here getting this big ol' tub out of the room and safely emptied?" She's clearly about to head out of the room with them, leaving Suraksha and Roy alone.
Suraksha doesn't wait; she has a sip of tea, then smiles at Roy, "So, it is obvious how you can assist me, since you control the crossing here. How may I assist you?" Chanticleer arches a brow, glancing to Alg and Ray as he moves to help pick up the tub. [Don't mess this up, RoiRoy], he thinks. [It'll be bad enough excusing myself from your service without you making a bad impression on her...]
Roy's half-smile spreads into a full smile as he realizes Gramma Marcie and the guards will be leaving. Lifting the teacup, he takes a sip and says, "You can assist me by bringing me information. I ain't always been a ruler. Funny thing, though. It's easier to get people to tell you secrets when you ain't the boss a' them sometimes."
Suraksha raises an interested eyebrow, "Indeed? An example, please?" She is quietly pleased; so far, at least, Roy is sticking to business. Hopefully when he tries for more personal goals, he'll do so in a courteous manner. She's starting to think he might be fun to know better, if he's always this careful.
Roy sips his tea and drawls, "Like Moynahan's boys. They steer clear of me an' my men, except when somebody's pickin' a fight. An' I like to know when contraband is moving through my city." His grin is wolfish, "I don't always stop it, of course. But I like to know about it."
Suraksha nods thoughtfully as she sips her tea. She has several folks in her caravan who are adept at being sneaky and alert. She also likes what Roy has said so far -- she's pretty sure he is not someone else's puppet, by this point. She deliberately drops the kittenish behavior and goes into businesswoman mode, and enjoys herself having a wide-ranging, thorough discussion with Roy on what he and his city need, and what she and her caravan need. She's not sure how Roy will take her behavior change, but she suspects he'll handle it just fine -- and maybe, once they're done, he'll gather up his courage and courtesy, and ask her about more personal matters.
The shadowplay from earlier does make it a little difficult for Roy to be completely businesslike, and his eyes do wander a little, but he chuckles when Suraksha slides effortlessly into business mode, leaving the coquette behind. Once he manages to get his eyes to stay above her collarbones, Roy is able to stay on business. He's not willing to give away the whole farm, but it's obvious by the offer he makes that he very much wants to have the caravan on his side, business-wise. Suraksha can't help a small grin; she had in fact deliberately set things up that way, as surmised. She's quite pleased at the final offer, however, and cheerfully shakes Roy's hand at the conclusion of negotiations, "We have a deal, then – excellent, and thank you!"
Roy chuckles and says, "You bargain like a horse-trader, lady -- and you got that all packed into such a lovely little body." He shakes his head and grins, "And now that all that is out of the way, maybe we can go on to less political negotiations, hm?" He looks over his shoulder, checking the door, but doesn't seem to be in any hurry.
Suraksha finishes off one of the little tea sandwiches, unselfconsciously and sensually licking her fingers clean. Her eyes twinkle again as Roy watches, and when she's done she says, "Definitely, especially since I'm quite curious: why so insistent I spend the night here?"
The king watches, as he was meant to watch, and chuckles, "I told you the truth: I like the idea of you under my roof. And you saw that it wa'n't exactly safe on the way to and from the crossin'." The wolfish grin comes back, "Besides, it wouldn't hurt my reputation none to let word get out that you spent the night here."
Suraksha smiles faintly, tilting her head, "But why me? Surely you have a plethora of eager courtiers, all of whom would be thrilled to spend the night in your bed?" She adds in dry amusement, "And would you truly be willing to let a falsehood benefit you so? Especially when it is so easily negated?"
Roy chuckles, "'Course I do. Boys and girls both. But you got a reputation, Sulochana. And who said anythin' 'bout lyin'? The right kinda silence in the right place can be real nice an' effective."
Suraksha smiles lazily from under her lashes at Roy, steam trailing slowly up from her teacup, and murmurs, "I, a reputation? Dare I ask?" She's a bit worried -- what is her rep? She hopes it's for being a good businesswoman -- and not, say, for being supernatural!
Roy chuckles and watches her flirting with him, "That you're sharp. You bargain closely. You're right picky about your... clients."
Suraksha nods in quiet relief, "True enough." She has a slow sip of her tea, thinking, then considers Roy again, a small smile on her face -- she's curious as to how honest he's willing to be with her. "Are you asking to be one? Or are you simply looking for a night with a bit of fluff?" She uses her Sight as she asks the question, curious as to Roy's feelings about her, and his honesty when faced with such bluntness. As she looks, Suraksha can see Roy's Sacral chakra is lit up like a Christmas tree, which is to be expected, as is his Root chakra -- also to be expected when you're talking business. Along with those two, Will and Third Eye are fairly strong. His Heart and his Crown aren't showing a lot of activity. He chuckles quietly, "If I wanted a bit o' fluff, I'd go whisper sweet nothin's in the ear of a singer of my acquaintance."
Suraksha sips her tea as she analyzes a bit. The strong Base is like his "animal" self; no surprise there, any more than the strong Root or Sexual desire. He's clearly got money and sex on the mind, and the strong Will is his personal power -- he's willing to work for this, because it's something he wants. Third Eye is him being business-smart and perceptive just now, right... no Heart chakra is no surprise, since he's been that way before... although it is a bit disappointing to realize he doesn't care for her personally one way or the other. The Crown being dim is no surprise either, since it's clear he's not thinking about either spirituality or enlightenment just now. So he'd likely be a good client for a Hetaera right now. Maybe a few more questions. She murmurs thoughtfully, "Do you have any... long term relationships, Roy?"
Roy shakes his head. "Not now. Used to. She died." He doesn't offer any more information on that -- and from the flat tone of his voice, it's not a topic he relishes.
Suraksha gives Roy a faintly surprised look; she hadn't expected that, but she's glad to hear he has indeed had at least one. She lays a hand lightly on his, murmuring, "I'm so sorry," but no more than that. Instead, with her free hand she pours more tea, giving him a moment if he needs it.
Roy's face goes a little flat in expression, but he says, "I ain't got the sort of life you want to bring a lot of tenderness into. Makes for a big ole target on your back."
Suraksha smiles serenely at him, murmuring, "Ah, but now there I believe you are wrong! I have found tenderness can be discovered in many different places." She releases his hand in order to pick up her teacup, studying it thoughtfully as she chooses her words with care. "As you say, I am picky about my clients. I prefer long-term relationships, in that we are both pleased to meet with each other more than once, and there is always mutual anticipation and enjoyment." She sips her tea slowly, then tilts her head as she regards Roy. Will he court her? Or is he so shy he needs to be led? She would not have guessed that, but she's been surprised on occasion before.
Roy's smile is not the easy, charming grin he normally wears. It's a little strained around the edges. "And I already said that if I just wanted a bit o' fluff, I could get that. I admire your spunk. And I think we'd do each other some good. Ain't gonna lie and say the fact that you could stop a clock don't come into it."
Suraksha laughs softly at that -- a warm laugh, and her eyes are bright as she reaches to pat his hand again. "That's very sweet of you, Roy; thank you! I must ask, so we're both clear: have you been with a Hetaera before, or would I be the first?" Chanticleer returns, stretching his shoulders a little. He's a little surprised, albeit pleasantly so when he enters the room with Alg and Gramma, to find Roy is in fact not laid out flat. Suraksha glances over at the threesome and smiles, waving her fingers in a small greeting before she turns her attention back to Roy.
Roy puts his head on one side, eyes narrowed. Chanticleer's advice about being honest has worked so far. He decides to go forward with it, "Not a Hetaera, so to say, but I have had the pleasure of the company of ladies whose profession was pleasure."
Suraksha nods at that, relieved he's being honest. "Excellent." Her small smile is faintly rueful as she adds, "There are quite a few, ah... shall we say, exaggerations and misconceptions about us. I'd like to take a moment to clear some of those up right now, if you have the time?" She raises an inquiring eyebrow, and smiles when he just nods; she'd thought he'd be willing to stay. She calmly explains the basics, doing her best to draw him out so she can find out what he's looking for as well. Does he simply want an amazing night in bed with her, or is he also looking for an escort for some soiree? Is he comfortable with the salary she ordinarily commands for her services? Does he have any special needs or requests?
When he realizes they are no longer alone, some of Roy's public face comes back and he lounges back in his chair. He's quite up-front now about wanting to have time in her bed, but he'd also be pleased if she'd play arm-candy for him at function or two. The part about the salary obviously irritates him a little, but he agrees to the sum after very little haggling. When it comes to special needs and requests, he turns out to have fairly simple tastes. Suraksha agrees to join him for one of the parties he has in mind, since it's this weekend and she'll still be in town. She gently presses a bit after that, trying to figure out why he's irritated about paying her. Surely he paid the other women whose profession was, as he put it, pleasure?
Roy snorts a little when she presses him on that. "It's a point of pride. I don't mind there bein' an exchange of cash. But a man likes to feel he's charmin' enough to make it pleasant for the lady involved."
Suraksha chuckles quietly, lightly patting his hand, "My dear, I assure you I would not have accepted you as a client did I not believe it would be a pleasure for us both." She tilts her head thoughtfully at him, smiling, "Is it such a surprise to you to hear it is a point of pride for the Hetaera also? We train for over a decade, after all."
Roy's brows go up at that; she certainly doesn't look that old, "Not a bit surprised. You ladies get a reputation for a reason, after all." He looks around at Chanticleer and Alg, smirking roguishly, "Back so soon?"
Chanticleer nods, "All done, yes."
Suraksha smiles faintly, sitting back in her chair and sipping her tea; she can tell there will be no more personal revelations from Roy tonight. She waves Marcie over, very quietly murmuring the slight change of plans to the other woman. Marcie smiles and nods, then goes and packs a few things into one of the bags. Suraksha glances at Chanticleer and smiles. Her eyes are twinkling as she looks at Roy, "Are you almost finished with your tea?"
Roy looks at his cup and says, "Believe I am, ma'am." He tips back the last of it and sets the cup down. "I'll let you go 'head and get some rest. I know it ain't fun gettin' ambushed."
Suraksha smiles relaxedly at Roy, accepting the small ladies' handbag which Gramma Marcie puts in her hand, "How sweet." She rises, offering her hand again, "Shall we?" Her eyes are sparkling with amusement as she does so.
Roy actually looks surprised, then chuckles. He offers his elbow, "I guess we shall." He arches a brow at Chanticleer, "Guess you were right." Chanticleer smiles merrily and inclines his head to Roy and the lady. Alg actually glowers a bit, but doesn't make a sound.
Suraksha tucks her small hand into the crook of Roy's arm, then winks at Chanticleer. She smiles demurely up at Roy, murmuring, "We shall have to discuss the party more tomorrow, if I'm to be at my best." As the two of them head out, she smiles and adds a courteous, "Thank you, gentlemen," to both guardsmen. Gramma Marcie yawns, stretching and eyeing the bed with pleasure -- she's not going to have to share it tonight!
Chanticleer nods politely to Suraksha, then steps out with Alg. Once outside, he stifles a yawn. "I think we're off duty now," he says. "Sleep does sound like a good idea." Alg grunts at Chanticleer, eyes Roy's door suspiciously and then settles in to sleep in the hallway.
The night is, perhaps unsurprisingly, rather pleasant for all parties involved. Cocky though he is, Roy is not selfish when it comes to enjoyment. He's also not as unskilled as might be expected. Suraksha's training is quite well-appreciated, and the self-made king is not stingy in the least with letting that be known. All in all, it looks like the start of a lovely partnership.
[Previous Log] [Index] [Next Log]