Orchestrating a Union

Daraius

Of primary interest to @Sylandra, @Maligorn, and @Irillia, I'm sure. Here I try to arrange my OTP.

In which we drink tea from shot glasses

Daraius says, "I hope I am not giving the impression that this is a clandestine meeting."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu laughingly says, "I have no idea what this is about, but I am happy to do what I am able."

Daraius nods his head at Pejat.

Daraius sits himself down on a crystal bench festooned with white honeysuckle and makes himself comfortable.

Pejat sits himself down on a crystal bench festooned with white honeysuckle and makes himself comfortable.

Pejat takes a sapphirine snowflake tea bottle of glacial hues from a translucent pack sewn with golden lilies.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu asks, "Would you care for tea?"

His eyes bright, Daraius says to Pejat, "Always."

With a look of helplessness, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Do you have a cup or gems?"

Comprehension flashes across Pejat's face.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Uncut gems!"

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu laughingly says, "I have those."

Daraius bares his teeth in an odd canine grin.

Daraius says, "I can forego the tea if you are not quite prepared to serve it."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I am almost prepared."

Pejat crushes the cluster of gems into a fine powder and fashions a set of 6 fine glasses.

Retrieving a small black booklet from his pocket, Daraius says, "My line of questioning is decidedly more focused this time."

Pejat pours honey-laced green tea with mint leaf from a sapphirine snowflake tea bottle of glacial hues into a shot glass.

Pejat gives a shot glass to Daraius.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Understood, Ambassador. I believe we are ready to begin."

Ambassador Daraius Shevat examines the tea-filled shot glass with inscrutable intensity for a long moment, then dips his muzzle politely towards Pejat in thanks.

Pejat puts a sapphirine snowflake tea bottle of glacial hues into a translucent pack sewn with golden lilies.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu politely folds his paws in his lap.

Flipping to a page just past half-way through his booklet, Daraius says to Pejat, "First, a note of clarification for my records. Taking into account the frequency, duration, and quality of our encounters thus far, are we considered friends?"

Daraius looks up at Pejat placidy, his head tilted slightly to the side.

Daraius takes a drink of green tea from a shot glass.

Daraius bares his teeth in what could easily be a cringe or a smile.

Looking upwards in concerned thought, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I have as of yet made no rubic to decide when one is truly friends. I do find calling one friend beneficial to most interactions, and thus I would be willing to improve the already good relation between us."

Daraius issues a quiet growl of assent as he scribes a brief note in his booklet.

Pejat nods his head at Daraius, showing his acceptance.

Snapping the booklet shut and slipping it discreetly back into his pocket, Daraius says, "Not quite as unambiguous as I might have hoped, but moving right along nonetheless."

Pejat ponders for a moment and says "Hrm..."

His lips turning up into something of a grin, Daraius says to Pejat, "We shall see if this next question improves the already good relation between us."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu nods with blatant interest.

Meeting his gaze with untroubled directness, Daraius asks Pejat, "Have you ever considered a partnership with my grandson Maligorn?"

Ambassador Daraius Shevat swivels his ears towards Pejat, listening carefully.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu states, "I have, though I removed that as an option as I observed Soloist Jonai taking an interest in him."

Daraius nods solemnly to Pejat.

Daraius says, "I've heard reports of said interest. It was unclear how far they had progressed."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "They had been rather rare, but it is my hope they will soon have more time to work together. They are both excellent examples of Hallifaxian Citizens."

Daraius says, "Oh yes? I have not seen much of Jonai, myself, but his or her lineage is of some concern."

Suddenly troubled, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu whispers, "I did not know. Will he be alright?"

Ambassador Daraius Shevat examines Pejat's expression carefully, his own displaying some semblance of puzzlement.

His tone even and relaxed, Daraius says, "I mean to say I am not particularly amenable to the possibility of a Trueflight scion entering my family."

His eyes alighting with realization, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Understood, Ambassador."

Daraius says, "Though of course, my grandson's comfort and happiness are of high importance to me. If he is to continue to serve as a productive citizen, he must have some degree of interpersonal harmony with his partner."

Daraius says, "Thus, I can allow my personal preferences to influence his decisions only so much."

His tail swaying languidly off the edge of the bench, Daraius says, "Personally, I would much prefer to pair the two of you together."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu scratches his temple as his head droops to the side.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "It is an exciting prospect, but sadly I feel it is improbable."

Daraius says to Pejat, "You'll forgive my forwardness, I hope. I have long thought it best to address these matters directly, rather than to dance around them."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Agreed. I appreciate forwardness and openness."

A low, contented growl arises within Daraius's chest.

Experimentally, Daraius asks, "You endorse Jonai's suitability, then?"

Puffing up his chest, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Absolutely. When I was to wed Zerif we were quite interested in having him as our son. Though it was not the case, he is still a member of simultaneousness dignity and joy."

Daraius pauses for a second in contemplation.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu twitches his head towards Daraius in a curious fashion.

His voice edged with a low growl, Daraius says, "Duly noted. I will confess I'd hoped this discussion would proceed differently, but I quite appreciate your candor."

Daraius says, "As virtues go, there is little I value more than sincerity."

His eyes brightening, Daraius asks Pejat, "What do you think of Ileein?"

Daraius's tail sways languidly.

Pejat utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I had a very feeble attempt of presenting my interest to him."

Daraius emits a sound somewhere between a chuckle and a growl.

With a slight raise of the eyebrows, Daraius perks up his ears and turns his attention towards Pejat.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Suffice to say it went unnoticed."

Daraius flattens his ears against his head.

Daraius says, "It was a gambit, admittedly."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "As things are in this arena."

Showing that he understands, Daraius nods his head slowly towards Pejat.

Deflating the air from his chest, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "To be entirely forthcoming, I am a bit conflicted in this area."

Ambassador Daraius Shevat nods encouragingly towards Pejat, his attention focused on his every word.

Lost in his recounting, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Zerif quickly saw the error of Gaudiguch for himself and returned to Serenwilde. Thiden of Serenwilde has been making his interests clear to me for some time now. Choices that cause the most good are quickly becoming clouded."

Daraius's brows knit slightly, and only for an instant.

Snapping back to a formal even tone, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thus, I can make no guarantees, until I am sure that I am choosing something that is within everyone's interest."

Amused at his own words, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Best interest, rather."

Daraius says, "I imagine I am only further complicating matters by expressing my own."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu smiles and says, "Truth may appear to complicate things, but it merely gives you insight to what is already present."

Letting his brow droop, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "May I ask for information from you, Ambassador?"

Daraius's whiskers twitch abruptly.

Daraius says to Pejat, "Of course."

Daraius carefully scrutinizes Pejat's expression and movements with unblinking intensity, as if cataloguing every feature.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu asks, "Did you receive any prompts from the two aforementioned individuals?"

Daraius rumbles with a low growl as he gathers his thoughts.

Folding his paws placidly in his lap, Daraius says, "This investigation is purely my own. If I have not made my feelings clear already, allow me to state it plainly: any family would be quite lucky to count you among its members, and I have hoped for a while now that it would eventually be the Shevats."

Daraius hastens to add, "That is not to say I consider you merely a potential acquisition."

Blinking in surprise, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I did not know. I am honoured that someone of your esteem holds that belief."

Daraius gives a single earnest nod, his eyes warmly lambent.

Slowly nodding his head, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I apologize that I cannot commit to anything now, but I am better off for the information you have presented me."

 

Sincerely, Daraius says, "You have nothing to apologize for, I assure you."

Bowing his head, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thank you, Ambassador. You have been most kind to me."

Daraius says to Pejat, "I am, of course, duty-bound as Written Chancellor of my House to be mindful of potential productive partners for my family members. But I have developed a degree of fondness and concern for you in particular, so I must hope that your path leads to a harmonious partnership, whether it is under the Shevat name or another."

Daraius says, "I did approach Maligorn directly on this topic. He is willing to entertain the possibility, but indicated the potential of complications with Jonai."

Baring his teeth in an odd canine grin, Daraius says, "I did not consult Ileein."

Daraius says, "As I said, that was a gambit."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I understand. The Engineer was your first choice."

Raising his head, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu asks, "Were there any other inquiries, Ambassador?"

Daraius says, "No, you have been quite generous with your answers. If you wish, I can assess Ileein's attitude more directly."

Hesitantly, Daraius says, "But I suspect in spite of your many positive qualities, you are.. not.. quite his type?"

Pejat blinks.

In clear honesty, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I would not know."

Daraius says, "Nor would I. His history of entanglements is something of a mystery."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "If I find myself in a position to freely move towards Ileein I will directly ask him."

Daraius nods his head at Pejat.

Daraius says to Pejat, "I quite support that approach."

Daraius says to Pejat, "Thank you for your time, comrade. I hope I have not put you in too uncomfortable a position."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu smiles and says, "Not at all. I am fond of forwardness."

Daraius says, "Bear in mind that your service to the Collective remains paramount; I hope your decision reflects this understanding."

Daraius gets up off a crystal bench festooned with white honeysuckle.

Pejat gets up off a crystal bench festooned with white honeysuckle.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Understood, Ambassador."

Pejat clears his throat.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thank you, and may you be well, Ambassador."

Pejat gives Daraius a respectful salute.

Daraius clasps his paws before him and offers a polite bow, his tail swaying happily.

Daraius says, "Likewise, comrade. May your efforts be fruitful."

Daraius says, "Do let me know if I can be of any service, in this or any other matter."

Ambassador Daraius Shevat bows his head politely to Pejat.

Daraius

A good while later...

In which Pejat doesn't actually drink his tea

Pejat gives Daraius a respectful salute.

Ambassador Daraius Shevat bows his head politely to Pejat.

Gesturing to a low cushioned chair, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "If you would, Ambassador."

Daraius says, "Of course. I can provide the tea this time."

Daraius sits himself down on a low, cushioned chair of beryl-hued cedar and makes himself comfortable.

Pejat sits himself down on a low, cushioned chair of beryl-hued cedar and makes himself comfortable.

Daraius pours harmonious pearl white tea from a crystal bottle emblazoned with the seal of House Shevat into a beryl aerial tea cup.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I apologize for my lack of artistry in my previous cup."

Baring his teeth genteelly, Daraius gives a beryl aerial tea cup to Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu asks, "Do you know which trade crafts tea cups?"

His tail wagging briefly, Daraius says, "It is the purview of bookbinders. We create sorcelglass scrolls that can alter the appearance of vials, bottles, and cups."

Comprehension filling his features, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "That makes sense. As an Artisan I was feeling quite inept."

Holding the cup to his upper torso, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "To the topic at hand, I wished to formally make as much information clear to you as I could."

Ambassador Daraius Shevat's ears twitch slightly and swivel in Pejat's direction.

With a look of concentration, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Perhaps much of this information is already known to you, but none the less, I wish to be sure that it is known."

Assessing Pejat's expressions carefully, Daraius says, "Of course, comrade."

Daraius takes a drink of white tea from an immaculate porcelain tea cup.

Flatly, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu states, "I have been courting your grandson, Engineer Maligorn. It has gone well. The Chairman has observed the time that we have spent together and expressed his intent that we marry into the Onz'Verheu line. The Engineer, however, has expressed his intent to begin the fourth generation of the Shevat family."

Daraius's eyes brighten, but his expression remains unchanged.

Nodding to his own thoughts, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I feel it important that you be aware of what the Chairman knows, so that if it comes to a matter of debate, you may begin on equal footing."

With a gentle growl, Daraius says, "I have been forthcoming with your father about my involvement in this matter."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu puts the teacup to lips, waits, then sets it in his lap.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Most excellent, Ambassador. I did figure you to be aware. I simply wanted to formally make you aware, and remove any doubt from my mind."

Daraius says, "To clarify, I did not know the courtship was proceeding, nor that the Chairman had made his expectations known. But I correctly guessed that you would take a measured approach to the matter, allowing us to decide the best path forward."

By way of correction, Daraius says, "Allowing us -time- to decide, I meant to say. Pardon."

Meeting his gaze, Daraius ask Pejat, "What are your wishes?"

Blinking with a gentle sway of his rounded head, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "In the two outcomes present before me I will still be able to serve the Architect, the Symphonium, and our collective. Further, I will remain with the Engineer. Thus, I personally see it best to trust yours and the Chairman's judgment."

Ambassador Daraius Shevat takes a placid sip from his teacup, gazing over its rim to assess Pejat thoughtfully.

Daraius asks, "Indifference, then?"

Coming out of his sway to meet Daraius's gaze, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Yes, I do suppose that accurately sums it up. Though I more consider it trust."

Daraius nods slowly and sets his cup aside, folding his paws serenely in his lap.

Offering some semblance of a smile, Daraius says, "I will express my thoughts on this scenario."

Daraius says to Pejat, "My interests as Written Chancellor are clear, of course. I must concern myself with the continued growth and longevity of my House, so naturally I would prefer for you join the Shevat family. That said.."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu folds his paws over his cup and drops his head to the side in rapt attention.

His eyes dimming slightly, Daraius says, "It pains me to imagine your father's family short one exemplary member."

Daraius says, "It was much the same when Elayde joined our House. I was made to face the reality that her own family would no longer have her."

His tone touched by a low growl, Daraius says to Pejat, "But we must consider the larger picture. Your father has long claimed that he wishes for Onz'Verheu to pledge to Shevat, assisting our rise to Great House status."

Pejat nods his head emphatically.

Daraius says, "Given the end goal -- a Hallifaxian Great House -- the more efficient path to it would be for you and Maligorn to contribute directly to the growth of Shevat."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu asks, "Though, if that were to happen, would my last name remain Onz'Verheu?"

Daraius tilts his head to the side in a quintessentially canine fashion.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "If Onz'Verheu were to pledge to Shevat, would I remain Pejat Onz'Verheu or would I at that moment, become Pejat Shevat?"

Daraius says, "Ah, perhaps I should clarify."

Daraius says, "A family must claim at least fifteen active members before it is considered a Lesser House. At this point, they may pledge themselves as a Banner House to another."

Daraius says, "Presently, House Pavok is a Banner House of Shevat. They retain their family status, but in this contracted partnership, House Shevat claims a fraction of their family size."

Showing that he understands, Pejat nods his head slowly.

In measured, patient tones, Daraius says, "Your father wishes for Onz'Verheu to pledge to Shevat as well, someday, but the population of your family simply hasn't grown enough to make that a reality."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu looks thoughtful and says, "And we are two members away from being capable of bannering."

Daraius says, "Correct. But given that Banner Houses contribute only a fraction of their membership numbers to their Liege Lords, the swiftest route to raising Shevat to Great House status will be for you to join us directly."

Looking up from his contemplations, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Understood. These negotiations seem quite vital."

Daraius says, "Indeed. And of course I will be entering into them with your father. I am not intending to sway your heart."

His tail sweeping the floor behind his chair, Daraius says, "Merely making my perspective known."

A smile breaking through his lips as he waves a single paw, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thank you, Ambassador. As I have said, I have trust in both your judgment and my father's."

Daraius retrieves his teacup from the table and takes a sip, allowing a soft growl to rumble in his chest as he exhales.

Daraius says to Pejat, "Pejat Shevat has a certain poetry to it, don't you think?"

Dropping his gaze as amusement creeps across his rounded eyes, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "It certainly does. I believe the Engineer has mentioned the same."

Daraius's expression softens and his tail wags briefly.

Glancing briefly at the ceiling, Daraius says, "I trust we will come to an agreeable conclusion for everyone. It will be a taxing discussion for me, I'm sure, as your father is my dearest friend, and I can hardly bear the thought of plucking his son from his family tree."

Daraius says, "But we must approach the matter with reason and an eye towards the future."

Daraius takes a drink of white tea from an immaculate porcelain tea cup.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "That is precisely why I am resistant to allowing myself to lean one way or the other. I want to ensure the two of you have the time to construct an arrangement you are both eager for."

Daraius nods his head at Pejat, showing his acceptance.

Earnestly, Daraius says, "Thank you once again for your candor, Pejat."

Daraius says, "Ah.. if I may ask.."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I do endevor to be, though I will admit. I felt - oh? What can I answer?"

Delicately, Daraius says to Pejat, "With what degree of urgency should your father and I begin negotiating?"

Shifting in his seat, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I will admit the Engineer has already noted an individual he would like to adopt."

Daraius flattens his ears against his head.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Beyond that I believe we are prepared to act with a measured pace. We have not made our intentions known to the individual."

With an understanding nod, Daraius says, "I see. I will steel myself for the discussion, then. Now, what were you saying about your candor?"

Comprehension flashes across Pejat's face.

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I was simply going to note I spoke with the Archmage before I clarified with the Engineer. I did not make the situation known, as I was not sure of the Engineer's thoughts at that time."

Deflating a bit, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I have made things clear to the Archmage know, and feel much more at ease."

Offering an odd kind of grin, Daraius says, "You can feel free to speak their names in front of me."

Daraius asks, "You mean she was amenable to the potential partnership?"

Blinking in mild bewilderment, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Oh. Yes. Their names."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Yes, she was."

Daraius emits a sound somewhere between a chuckle and a growl.

Quietly, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I am quite fond of titles. It feels highly appropriate except under very informal conditions."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu puts the teacup back to his lips and maintains it there.

Daraius says, "I understand, comrade. I will not insist."

Dropping the cup down below his chin, Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thank you for that courtesy."

Eyes bright, Daraius says, "In any event, I'm pleased everyone has been so receptive to my machinations."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu smiles broadly and says, "I am quite pleased with the result of your machinations."

A low, contented growl arises within Daraius's chest.

Showing that he understands, Daraius nods his head slowly towards Pejat.

Daraius says to Pejat, "I will keep you abreast of any developments in my talks with your father. Was there anything else you wished to discuss?"

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "Thank you, Ambassador. I am quite fond of updates, and am delighted you are interested in announcing them to me."

Grand Libretto Pejat Onz'Verheu says, "I had nothing further to discuss. Thank you for your valuable time."

Dipping his muzzle politely, Daraius says, "Do take care, Pejat. I'm sure we will speak again soon enough."

Daraius gets up off a low, cushioned chair of beryl-hued cedar.

Daraius says, "You may keep the teacup, of course."

Daraius serenely clasps his hands and bows.

Daraius

There was a chapter after this where everything kind of fell apart, and I never did have that chat with Maellio. But it all worked out in the end. :x

Sylandra

Omg. You guys are so Hallifaxian it hurts.

Daraius

I didn't even realize what he was doing until I reviewed the log later, but Pejat pretend-drinking his tea killed me. 

Kalnid

I opened this thread with the hope that the title referred to a labor union. I am disappointed.

Luce

I, however, am thoroughly not.

Tylwyth

Kalnid said:

I opened this thread with the hope that the title referred to a labor union. I am disappointed.

Me too....

Ardmore

Kalnid said:

I opened this thread with the hope that the title referred to a labor union. I am disappointed.

I opened this thread with the hope that the title referred to a labour union. I am, however, not disappointed by the log one bit.

Aeldra

I'm just thoroughly impressed at the languidly people manage to express themselves and to create flair. I hope I'll eventually get to the point where lusternian emoting feels natural enough to express such things.

For now, I must say, I really am impressed with what you displayed here and it was a delightful read, thanks for sharing!