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earn_your_ink [2021/10/06 09:32] – created blueearn_your_ink [2021/10/11 12:11] (current) – blue
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 ====== Earn Your Ink - 08/23/20 ====== ====== Earn Your Ink - 08/23/20 ======
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 In the shade beneath the trees sat Langston at his table, eager to share his good tidings with Vinalo and Pipino. Sitting in his lap was a baby, quickly closing in on his second year of life. The child, better known as Lorry, was fidgeting, trying to snatch an envelope from his father's hand. "Yes, yes, your uncle sent this." he said to the baby. "We'll see him again next time, okay? Next time!" In the shade beneath the trees sat Langston at his table, eager to share his good tidings with Vinalo and Pipino. Sitting in his lap was a baby, quickly closing in on his second year of life. The child, better known as Lorry, was fidgeting, trying to snatch an envelope from his father's hand. "Yes, yes, your uncle sent this." he said to the baby. "We'll see him again next time, okay? Next time!"
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 "You still have three bells before having to meet with him. That's enough time to eat, perhaps make any changes in clothing. I think you'll both be alright in that department." His eyes shifted between Pipino and Vinalo; a nervous smile crossed his lips. "S-so, do either of you have any questions about my 'lord' brother?" "You still have three bells before having to meet with him. That's enough time to eat, perhaps make any changes in clothing. I think you'll both be alright in that department." His eyes shifted between Pipino and Vinalo; a nervous smile crossed his lips. "S-so, do either of you have any questions about my 'lord' brother?"
  
-*Langston seems to be brimming with hope! He remains open to any inquiries the two may have about their upcoming encounter!*+||Langston seems to be brimming with hope! He remains open to any inquiries the two may have about their upcoming encounter!||
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-**''[Pipino]''**  +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino leaned to the side a bit, full of nervous excitement for a myriad of reasons, wanting to get a little glance at the letter despite knowing the type of document it truly was. She had seen countless letters of invitation before and had even penned quite a few in her own ornate calligraphy, yet there was something exciting and electrifying in the air about having it be her own business that was the subject. It felt strange, not being the one offering services for once, to be on the customer side of the interaction needing to make a successful pitch as opposed to being the one who controlled the interaction.  Pipino leaned to the side a bit, full of nervous excitement for a myriad of reasons, wanting to get a little glance at the letter despite knowing the type of document it truly was. She had seen countless letters of invitation before and had even penned quite a few in her own ornate calligraphy, yet there was something exciting and electrifying in the air about having it be her own business that was the subject. It felt strange, not being the one offering services for once, to be on the customer side of the interaction needing to make a successful pitch as opposed to being the one who controlled the interaction. 
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 "Well, I suppose I would like to know how exclusive the projects he takes on are, and perhaps if they lean to a certain type of writing. For example, does he find fiction favorable over non-fiction, or perhaps appreciates works that are consumed by higher-brow clientele. It would be nice to have a feel of how much of a push we might need to make to boost our project into his scope." She spoke a bit hurriedly, her posture stiff and tense, really, really wanting this to succeed. "Well, I suppose I would like to know how exclusive the projects he takes on are, and perhaps if they lean to a certain type of writing. For example, does he find fiction favorable over non-fiction, or perhaps appreciates works that are consumed by higher-brow clientele. It would be nice to have a feel of how much of a push we might need to make to boost our project into his scope." She spoke a bit hurriedly, her posture stiff and tense, really, really wanting this to succeed.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo look the letter from Langston, taking a moment to look at the seal. Unlike Pipino, they’d never dealt much with business. This was the first time they’d ever had to deal with someone like Langston’s brother so directly, let alone make an actual sales pitch. They were nervous, but between Pipino’s business knowhow and their own confidence in the book itself, Vinalo remained optimistic. Vinalo look the letter from Langston, taking a moment to look at the seal. Unlike Pipino, they’d never dealt much with business. This was the first time they’d ever had to deal with someone like Langston’s brother so directly, let alone make an actual sales pitch. They were nervous, but between Pipino’s business knowhow and their own confidence in the book itself, Vinalo remained optimistic.
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 “Right. Though our book is what it is, we surely could push certain parts of it more if we know what he’s into,” Vinalo followed up with. They shifted a little in their seat, glad that Pipino knew more on how to start things off than they did. “Right. Though our book is what it is, we surely could push certain parts of it more if we know what he’s into,” Vinalo followed up with. They shifted a little in their seat, glad that Pipino knew more on how to start things off than they did.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 Langston nodded, acknowledging the question as a good one. "Totoyito is one to chase trends." he said. "Though it's true that he tends to favor fiction, seeing as **he's been enjoying the arts thoroughly** after ignoring them for his youth, he also tries to follow what is popular. Botany is just knowledge. There's a demand for it, but it's often very niche. If you can convince him, however, that you would be **able to cast a wide net with your work**, he may take to it better." Langston nodded, acknowledging the question as a good one. "Totoyito is one to chase trends." he said. "Though it's true that he tends to favor fiction, seeing as **he's been enjoying the arts thoroughly** after ignoring them for his youth, he also tries to follow what is popular. Botany is just knowledge. There's a demand for it, but it's often very niche. If you can convince him, however, that you would be **able to cast a wide net with your work**, he may take to it better."
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-**''[Pipino]''**  +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino hummed and sat in thought digesting the information, a gloved hand at the end of an arm that was inserted into an impeccably tailored dress resting lightly upon her chin as she hummed. Her concentration distracted only by the cuteness of Lorry, whom she happened to rest her eyes upon, unable to help but smile at his antics.*  Pipino hummed and sat in thought digesting the information, a gloved hand at the end of an arm that was inserted into an impeccably tailored dress resting lightly upon her chin as she hummed. Her concentration distracted only by the cuteness of Lorry, whom she happened to rest her eyes upon, unable to help but smile at his antics.* 
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 "Well, since the book largely requires the images as context, I daresay my illustrations should be detailed enough to knock that dusty old reference tome off his shelf. And we did include information that is not just for adventuring on the road, you know. Several of those plants have novel uses that could be used in an every day home. While designed for an adventurer, I think it might be able to attract a bit of attention from those who might not hit the trail." "Well, since the book largely requires the images as context, I daresay my illustrations should be detailed enough to knock that dusty old reference tome off his shelf. And we did include information that is not just for adventuring on the road, you know. Several of those plants have novel uses that could be used in an every day home. While designed for an adventurer, I think it might be able to attract a bit of attention from those who might not hit the trail."
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo simply tapped their chin in thought as Langston responded to the question. Nothing seemed out of scope. Maybe this won’t be so bad? Again, Pipino took the lead, but their pride in the book’s content demanded expanding on her response. Vinalo simply tapped their chin in thought as Langston responded to the question. Nothing seemed out of scope. Maybe this won’t be so bad? Again, Pipino took the lead, but their pride in the book’s content demanded expanding on her response.
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 “Mhm. I reckon our book is also more accessible to any given person than a big reference book that sits on a shelf, only being touched when you remember to. I know well enough how niche botany seems, but a lean book full of great illustrations, a focus on usable knowledge, and a bit of personal commentary should make it appeal to much more than just enthusiasts. A tome that reads like a dictionary’d be right intimidating even to someone who might need it.” “Mhm. I reckon our book is also more accessible to any given person than a big reference book that sits on a shelf, only being touched when you remember to. I know well enough how niche botany seems, but a lean book full of great illustrations, a focus on usable knowledge, and a bit of personal commentary should make it appeal to much more than just enthusiasts. A tome that reads like a dictionary’d be right intimidating even to someone who might need it.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 "Right, I would say so. Now... I do wonder though, and this is not meant to be a slight on your brother, but... does he actually read the things he prints? Does he read them cover-to-cover, or should we have need of presenting the unique perspectives a little more directly?  I suppose it might also be quite possible that he has others do it for him, and accept projects by their recommendations alone..." she muses, looking to Langston for confirmation. "Right, I would say so. Now... I do wonder though, and this is not meant to be a slight on your brother, but... does he actually read the things he prints? Does he read them cover-to-cover, or should we have need of presenting the unique perspectives a little more directly?  I suppose it might also be quite possible that he has others do it for him, and accept projects by their recommendations alone..." she muses, looking to Langston for confirmation.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "You'd be right about that." he said. "If it isn't a work of fiction, he's not going to read the whole thing. In fact, he does usually leave those books to others, so I don't know how he'd react to actually inspecting your book himself. He can be a little eccentric, and he's expecting you. He could **challenge the content** in some way or another." "You'd be right about that." he said. "If it isn't a work of fiction, he's not going to read the whole thing. In fact, he does usually leave those books to others, so I don't know how he'd react to actually inspecting your book himself. He can be a little eccentric, and he's expecting you. He could **challenge the content** in some way or another."
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 "I wish I could clarify further, but I'm never around him when he's working." His eyes turned to Vinalo now, offering them a smile. "Since you wrote it, you'll have a better grasp of the contents. It's up to you to dazzle him with knowledge. Pino, at least, is a little familiar with him already. Did you want to ask something about him? Be brutal; you won't offend me!" "I wish I could clarify further, but I'm never around him when he's working." His eyes turned to Vinalo now, offering them a smile. "Since you wrote it, you'll have a better grasp of the contents. It's up to you to dazzle him with knowledge. Pino, at least, is a little familiar with him already. Did you want to ask something about him? Be brutal; you won't offend me!"
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo kind of raises an eyebrow at the idea of Totoyito challenging the content, but keeps listening. Vinalo kind of raises an eyebrow at the idea of Totoyito challenging the content, but keeps listening.
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 “Well... you said he might challenge or want to change what he sees in the book. Suppose it’d be a good idea to know how he’d react to being challenged back. How does he take that sort of thing? Get offended, angry? Or just... accept it?" “Well... you said he might challenge or want to change what he sees in the book. Suppose it’d be a good idea to know how he’d react to being challenged back. How does he take that sort of thing? Get offended, angry? Or just... accept it?"
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 Langston tapped his chin. "A very good question." he said. "He enjoys a good argument, but you should play it to your strengths. You don't want to challenge him on something weakly and waste his time. Be strong when you need to be, and know when to just let something go. I doubt he would want to make too many changes as he does respect the vision of the author." Langston tapped his chin. "A very good question." he said. "He enjoys a good argument, but you should play it to your strengths. You don't want to challenge him on something weakly and waste his time. Be strong when you need to be, and know when to just let something go. I doubt he would want to make too many changes as he does respect the vision of the author."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino nodded as she listened, absorbing it all. Her brow furrowed slightly as she ran quick simulations in her mind, picturing the scenes, the possible endings, the true talent of an anxious mind.  Pipino nodded as she listened, absorbing it all. Her brow furrowed slightly as she ran quick simulations in her mind, picturing the scenes, the possible endings, the true talent of an anxious mind. 
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 "Does he respect that vision enough to be willing to take a gamble though? I know in the past he was a bit.. more wild, perhaps accepting of some risk, but I wonder if he might be someone who is a little more averse these days, what with a family and all." "Does he respect that vision enough to be willing to take a gamble though? I know in the past he was a bit.. more wild, perhaps accepting of some risk, but I wonder if he might be someone who is a little more averse these days, what with a family and all."
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
    
 Langston laughed, giving Pino a slight shrug of the shoulders. "You don't have to be so polite about it. He was something of a wild beast in our youth. But, I won't bog you down with the details. You must know at least some of it." Langston laughed, giving Pino a slight shrug of the shoulders. "You don't have to be so polite about it. He was something of a wild beast in our youth. But, I won't bog you down with the details. You must know at least some of it."
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-**''[Vinalo]''**+<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 “Thanks much for all the help, Langston. Should have good news for you later!” “Thanks much for all the help, Langston. Should have good news for you later!”
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 “You think I should head home and change into something... more formal, or somesuch?” “You think I should head home and change into something... more formal, or somesuch?”
  
-**''[Pipino]''**+<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino offered her own special little wave to Lorry and blew him a little kiss, a soft giggle of fondness that wasn't part of her usual, every day mannerisms sounding from her. Pipino offered her own special little wave to Lorry and blew him a little kiss, a soft giggle of fondness that wasn't part of her usual, every day mannerisms sounding from her.
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 "It really is a good chance. Honestly, I think going as we are might hammer home somemod the points we are trying to make about our book. You know, the bit about scope and how broad our audience might be. I think it shows that the art will appeal to those who consume art, and the writing will appeal to a more colloquial reader, perhaps... But.. maybe the other one, that red and white one, with the chains? I think it might tell the same story just a bit... More in his line of expectations.  It I think it is also important we are not too inauthentic. If you will feel I comfortable going on something else, that discomfort could hurt the chances more than the clothing ever would." "It really is a good chance. Honestly, I think going as we are might hammer home somemod the points we are trying to make about our book. You know, the bit about scope and how broad our audience might be. I think it shows that the art will appeal to those who consume art, and the writing will appeal to a more colloquial reader, perhaps... But.. maybe the other one, that red and white one, with the chains? I think it might tell the same story just a bit... More in his line of expectations.  It I think it is also important we are not too inauthentic. If you will feel I comfortable going on something else, that discomfort could hurt the chances more than the clothing ever would."
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo tapped their chin, looking upward at the sky. Comfort versus expectations. They were certainly more comfortable in this outfit. Not as if it was rags by any measure. But... Pipino and them only had one real shot at this. Vinalo tapped their chin, looking upward at the sky. Comfort versus expectations. They were certainly more comfortable in this outfit. Not as if it was rags by any measure. But... Pipino and them only had one real shot at this.
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 “Was thinking about that outfit, too. It’s comfortable enough ever since I had it altered moons ago, but... it doesn’t quite feel right for this. If we’re going to present our work on its own strengths, then I think it’ll be best to go how we feel the most confident.” Vinalo gives a little tug on one of the tassels, grinning. “Besides, I’ve heard from enough people by now that this is actually fancier than I ever felt it was. And it’s... ‘fitting’ for a botanist, color and style and all. Might as well look the part. Maybe he’ll see it that way and it’ll work in our favor.” “Was thinking about that outfit, too. It’s comfortable enough ever since I had it altered moons ago, but... it doesn’t quite feel right for this. If we’re going to present our work on its own strengths, then I think it’ll be best to go how we feel the most confident.” Vinalo gives a little tug on one of the tassels, grinning. “Besides, I’ve heard from enough people by now that this is actually fancier than I ever felt it was. And it’s... ‘fitting’ for a botanist, color and style and all. Might as well look the part. Maybe he’ll see it that way and it’ll work in our favor.”
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 *Meanwhile, in Ul'dah, Totoyito's Manor's Office* *Meanwhile, in Ul'dah, Totoyito's Manor's Office*
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 **You have access to Totoyito's Manor!** **You have access to Totoyito's Manor!**
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino, pushed herself to her feet, taking a deep breath and letting out a little sigh. "Well then you ought to go in that, and I shall go in this, and we shall seal the deal at last!" she said, brimming with optimism, looking off into the middle distance as if she were trying to prove something to someone who wasn't here, or staring at herself in an invisible mirror. She punctuated the statement with balled fists in front of her at chest level, giving a little rallying gesture before smoothing her dress.  Pipino, pushed herself to her feet, taking a deep breath and letting out a little sigh. "Well then you ought to go in that, and I shall go in this, and we shall seal the deal at last!" she said, brimming with optimism, looking off into the middle distance as if she were trying to prove something to someone who wasn't here, or staring at herself in an invisible mirror. She punctuated the statement with balled fists in front of her at chest level, giving a little rallying gesture before smoothing her dress. 
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 "Well then, shall we?" Pipino asked Vinalo with a smile that covered her own nervousness well, that small detail only notable in the way she clutched at the portfolio. "Well then, shall we?" Pipino asked Vinalo with a smile that covered her own nervousness well, that small detail only notable in the way she clutched at the portfolio.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo likewise sat up from their seat, arching their back in a bit of a stretch before turning to Pipino and giving her a confident nod. They were nervous about the meeting but speaking with Langston, and the brief exchange about dress kept them optimistic. Seeing Pipino’s enthusiastic gesture just improved their mood and they couldn’t help but grin their usual wide grin in response. The hours spent drawing and writing, searching the Shroud for just the right samples; it was all going to pay off and they’d have a real symbol of their teamwork. Vinalo likewise sat up from their seat, arching their back in a bit of a stretch before turning to Pipino and giving her a confident nod. They were nervous about the meeting but speaking with Langston, and the brief exchange about dress kept them optimistic. Seeing Pipino’s enthusiastic gesture just improved their mood and they couldn’t help but grin their usual wide grin in response. The hours spent drawing and writing, searching the Shroud for just the right samples; it was all going to pay off and they’d have a real symbol of their teamwork.
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 “We shall!” Vinalo responded enthusiastically. “Let’s show Totoyito the book he didn’t know Eorzea needed.” “We shall!” Vinalo responded enthusiastically. “Let’s show Totoyito the book he didn’t know Eorzea needed.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc> 
    
 Once Pipino and Vinalo stood at the door to the manor, as fine and lavish as any she had ever encountered in her early days, she reached out a hand to knock on the door, but paused, looking at Vinalo. "Are you ready then?" Once Pipino and Vinalo stood at the door to the manor, as fine and lavish as any she had ever encountered in her early days, she reached out a hand to knock on the door, but paused, looking at Vinalo. "Are you ready then?"
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 "Can't imagine being any more ready," they said with a smile. "Let's go." "Can't imagine being any more ready," they said with a smile. "Let's go."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
    
 She finished the motion and rapped on the door with her gloved knuckle after taking a deep, calming breath and smoothing her hair one last time, her posture immediately straightening. She finished the motion and rapped on the door with her gloved knuckle after taking a deep, calming breath and smoothing her hair one last time, her posture immediately straightening.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 The double doors opened slowly, revealing the opening hall of the manor. It was a humble abode; the walls were white and stone while the floors were patterned with finished wood that reflected the bright chandelier lights above. There were two paintings on opposite walls. One pictured a Dunesfolk man with strong, deep blue eyes. He had a neatly kept beard and short, chestnut colored hair. Beside him was a short-haired Dunesfolk woman, shorter than him, with dark green hair and emerald eyes. She was pale in complexion and was resting her head on the man's chest. They were smiling. The double doors opened slowly, revealing the opening hall of the manor. It was a humble abode; the walls were white and stone while the floors were patterned with finished wood that reflected the bright chandelier lights above. There were two paintings on opposite walls. One pictured a Dunesfolk man with strong, deep blue eyes. He had a neatly kept beard and short, chestnut colored hair. Beside him was a short-haired Dunesfolk woman, shorter than him, with dark green hair and emerald eyes. She was pale in complexion and was resting her head on the man's chest. They were smiling.
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-**''[Pipino]''**+<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
    
 Pipino inclined her head politely as the older man approached, deferring to her elders just as she had always been taught. Being in such a place activated those deep-seeded instincts in her, those of deference and quietness, a demeanor of speak only when spoken to. She found herself disappointed in herself, how automatic these things came to her, yet she knew that he would likely expect the behavior, so she did not feel too ashamed of it. Pipino inclined her head politely as the older man approached, deferring to her elders just as she had always been taught. Being in such a place activated those deep-seeded instincts in her, those of deference and quietness, a demeanor of speak only when spoken to. She found herself disappointed in herself, how automatic these things came to her, yet she knew that he would likely expect the behavior, so she did not feel too ashamed of it.
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 "Good day," she greeted politely, meaning to keep the interaction short as she kept a tight hold on her illustrations. "And just one lady," she says with a kind smile, torn as to whether she should simply avoid the correction, but deciding to take the lead for Vinalo simply because this was a world she was a little more familiar with. "Good day," she greeted politely, meaning to keep the interaction short as she kept a tight hold on her illustrations. "And just one lady," she says with a kind smile, torn as to whether she should simply avoid the correction, but deciding to take the lead for Vinalo simply because this was a world she was a little more familiar with.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 The botanical healer gazed around the hall as they walked in. Far fancier than any other private home they'd walked into. The two pictures on the opposite walls caught their eye quickly. The man in both portraits must be Totoyito. At least Vinalo knew what he looked like now. This made obvious that the older man approaching them was someone else entirely. The botanical healer gazed around the hall as they walked in. Far fancier than any other private home they'd walked into. The two pictures on the opposite walls caught their eye quickly. The man in both portraits must be Totoyito. At least Vinalo knew what he looked like now. This made obvious that the older man approaching them was someone else entirely.
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 “Greetings,” they said to the older man, trying to mimic the polite nod that Pipino just performed, though with a bit less grace. “Greetings,” they said to the older man, trying to mimic the polite nod that Pipino just performed, though with a bit less grace.
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
    
 The man tilted his head upward, specifically to point his eyes down upon Pipino. "Perhaps I should count my blessings." he said. "Fortune like yours may elude me, but it seems one loses their sense of sight once the gil piles up past their eyes." He lets out a grumble, looking upon Vinalo once more to confirm what he saw, and not much else. To emphasize his insult, he tapped the cane on the floor loudly with his next few steps, as if to make sure Pipino heard where he was walking. The man tilted his head upward, specifically to point his eyes down upon Pipino. "Perhaps I should count my blessings." he said. "Fortune like yours may elude me, but it seems one loses their sense of sight once the gil piles up past their eyes." He lets out a grumble, looking upon Vinalo once more to confirm what he saw, and not much else. To emphasize his insult, he tapped the cane on the floor loudly with his next few steps, as if to make sure Pipino heard where he was walking.
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-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino looked to Vinalo and rolled her eyes as the man passed her by, taking the insult in stride, feeling quite proud to not take such pitiful attempts to heart. But it was clear the man held distaste for her. She took a moment to look at the man's retreating back, memorizing the details she could before shaking off the unpleasant interaction and turning back forward, only to find another man in their path. Pipino looked to Vinalo and rolled her eyes as the man passed her by, taking the insult in stride, feeling quite proud to not take such pitiful attempts to heart. But it was clear the man held distaste for her. She took a moment to look at the man's retreating back, memorizing the details she could before shaking off the unpleasant interaction and turning back forward, only to find another man in their path.
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 "Yes, actually," she says, looking to Vinalo. "We have a letter of invitation to discuss a book we were aiming to have published by... Lord Totoyito," she said simply, feeling weird attaching a title to the childhood name she once uttered without consequence. But the niceties must be observed. "Yes, actually," she says, looking to Vinalo. "We have a letter of invitation to discuss a book we were aiming to have published by... Lord Totoyito," she said simply, feeling weird attaching a title to the childhood name she once uttered without consequence. But the niceties must be observed.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo gave Pipino a tiny shrug once the older man had gotten out of view, trying not to let his comments weigh on them. The sound of another voice snapped their attention back to the open hall. Despite the size and ruggedness of the man standing before them, his pleasant voice and tone seemed to put Vinalo at ease. A calm smile grew on their face. Vinalo gave Pipino a tiny shrug once the older man had gotten out of view, trying not to let his comments weigh on them. The sound of another voice snapped their attention back to the open hall. Despite the size and ruggedness of the man standing before them, his pleasant voice and tone seemed to put Vinalo at ease. A calm smile grew on their face.
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 “Here it is,” they said, holding it up in clear view of the Highlander, nodding. “Here it is,” they said, holding it up in clear view of the Highlander, nodding.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 The man took the letter, immediately recognizing the marked wax. He didn't even bother opening it; it was clear who these two were. "Very good." he said. "I shall gladly take your coats and set them to hang, if need be. When you are ready, my Lord awaits you both past the door to your right." He smiled, though he looked a touch nervous. It looked like something was on the tip of his tongue, but was afraid that he might lose it if he spoke. The man took the letter, immediately recognizing the marked wax. He didn't even bother opening it; it was clear who these two were. "Very good." he said. "I shall gladly take your coats and set them to hang, if need be. When you are ready, my Lord awaits you both past the door to your right." He smiled, though he looked a touch nervous. It looked like something was on the tip of his tongue, but was afraid that he might lose it if he spoke.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 "Quite fine as I am, but thank you very much!" they said to the man. Vinalo kept their eyes on him for just a moment, noting the odd look on his face. They quickly then turned to Pipino, still smiling. "Quite fine as I am, but thank you very much!" they said to the man. Vinalo kept their eyes on him for just a moment, noting the odd look on his face. They quickly then turned to Pipino, still smiling.
Line 284: Line 284:
 "Well, I suppose this is it." "Well, I suppose this is it."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino raises a hand in a dismissive gesture. "I am afraid I have no coat to trouble you with, sir, but I thank you nonetheless for the hospitality extended toward us." Pipino raises a hand in a dismissive gesture. "I am afraid I have no coat to trouble you with, sir, but I thank you nonetheless for the hospitality extended toward us."
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 "...Is aught amiss? If now is not a good time then...," she started, trailing off intentionally, not wanting to be the one to have cancelled the meeting if it needed to happen, but offering to meet in the middle of it was required. "...Is aught amiss? If now is not a good time then...," she started, trailing off intentionally, not wanting to be the one to have cancelled the meeting if it needed to happen, but offering to meet in the middle of it was required.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 "Ah..." they cut themself off as Pipino voiced concern for the man's tone. Vinalo hadn't wanted to pry, but if there was something wrong it'd be better to know now. They turned back up to face the large man. "Ah..." they cut themself off as Pipino voiced concern for the man's tone. Vinalo hadn't wanted to pry, but if there was something wrong it'd be better to know now. They turned back up to face the large man.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 "O-Oh, well... I wish not to delay your meeting with my Lord. A one word answer will suffice. If you would deign to entertain me later, I would be happy to discuss it further." He turned to the painting of Langston. "Since you are associates of the young Master, I wished to know if he was doing well. That is all." "O-Oh, well... I wish not to delay your meeting with my Lord. A one word answer will suffice. If you would deign to entertain me later, I would be happy to discuss it further." He turned to the painting of Langston. "Since you are associates of the young Master, I wished to know if he was doing well. That is all."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc> 
  
 Pipino smiles warmly, her reception of him growing even kinder as he showed his care.  Pipino smiles warmly, her reception of him growing even kinder as he showed his care. 
Line 310: Line 310:
 "All set? Need any last minute encouragement?" "All set? Need any last minute encouragement?"
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
    
 The large man’s worry for Langston returned the smile to Vinalo’s face. Nothing wrong, just concern for the young man he hadn’t seen in a presumably long time. And they couldn’t imagine Pipino’s response doing anything but giving him assurance that the young ‘master’ was doing fine. Vinalo didn’t care much for titles (it took them a while to get used to being called ‘Ser’ by Luna), but they had stepped into a different world for the moment. The large man’s worry for Langston returned the smile to Vinalo’s face. Nothing wrong, just concern for the young man he hadn’t seen in a presumably long time. And they couldn’t imagine Pipino’s response doing anything but giving him assurance that the young ‘master’ was doing fine. Vinalo didn’t care much for titles (it took them a while to get used to being called ‘Ser’ by Luna), but they had stepped into a different world for the moment.
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 “Anything more’ll just make me more nervous, I reckon. Let’s go in there and do our best, Pipino!” “Anything more’ll just make me more nervous, I reckon. Let’s go in there and do our best, Pipino!”
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 In the background, an orchestrion clicks on. Totoyito's office hummed with an ensemble of brass and subtle strings. Uighur only offered the smallest of smiles, still trying to play the role of stoic butler while hiding his relief as well as he could. He extends an arm that directs the duo to the door. "My Lord believes music beckons people towards him. I believe he has waited long enough." In the background, an orchestrion clicks on. Totoyito's office hummed with an ensemble of brass and subtle strings. Uighur only offered the smallest of smiles, still trying to play the role of stoic butler while hiding his relief as well as he could. He extends an arm that directs the duo to the door. "My Lord believes music beckons people towards him. I believe he has waited long enough."
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 **The Book: 10%** **The Book: 10%**
 ---- ----
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino's cheeks pinkened a shade and she found herself letting out an easy giggle. She moved to the chairs provided and studied his own features. Pipino's cheeks pinkened a shade and she found herself letting out an easy giggle. She moved to the chairs provided and studied his own features.
Line 348: Line 348:
 "This is my good friend, botanist, and author, Vinalo Mabunalo. They and I have been working rather tirelessly on all this, so I think it is safe to say we are quite glad to have received an invitation to meet with you," she said, finding a way to weave Vinalo's preferred pronoun into the conversation, hoping to avoid the need for halting talks to address corrections and keep discussion focused on the project just in case. "This is my good friend, botanist, and author, Vinalo Mabunalo. They and I have been working rather tirelessly on all this, so I think it is safe to say we are quite glad to have received an invitation to meet with you," she said, finding a way to weave Vinalo's preferred pronoun into the conversation, hoping to avoid the need for halting talks to address corrections and keep discussion focused on the project just in case.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''**+<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
    
 The colored tubes caught Vinalo’s eye as they came around to the chairs provided for them and Pipino. What were they? Liquor? Alchemical solutions? ...Odd decoration? Regardless, Vinalo smiled when they were addressed and took a seat right as Pipino did. The colored tubes caught Vinalo’s eye as they came around to the chairs provided for them and Pipino. What were they? Liquor? Alchemical solutions? ...Odd decoration? Regardless, Vinalo smiled when they were addressed and took a seat right as Pipino did.
Line 356: Line 356:
 “Thank you for inviting us here for all this. It’s good to meet you at last,” they said, trying to sound like their normal friendly self. “Like Pipino said, we’ve put a good deal of work into this project and we’re right happy to show you how it’s turned out.” “Thank you for inviting us here for all this. It’s good to meet you at last,” they said, trying to sound like their normal friendly self. “Like Pipino said, we’ve put a good deal of work into this project and we’re right happy to show you how it’s turned out.”
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 Totoyito's gaze turned to Vinalo. He didn't recognize this person from... well, anywhere. He had assumed that a business partner of Pipino's would've at least been from some mutual social circle of theirs. Instead, he was left drawing a blank. "A pleasure to meet you." he said, turning behind him. "I see you glaring at these giant hunks of glass. I keep these here as experimental inks for my more... personalized works." From his desk, he procured an empty inkwell and poured some of the vaguely green ink from the spigot into it. Afterward, he took a clean white quill and dripped it into the inkwell before drawing some patterns on his bare hand. "Aetherial conductivity, strength, these sort of things... mass produced grimoires of quality would be far too expensive and impractical. Thus, a custom-made weapon requires an artisan's touch." He waved his freshly painted hand and the ink began to glow before a brief display of green luminescent petals surrounded his hand, coming together to form a lotus. "My touch." He blew the lotus towards Vinalo, though it was merely a gesture; the construct floated on its own towards the red-haired Lalafell before fading away, stopping short of their face. Totoyito's gaze turned to Vinalo. He didn't recognize this person from... well, anywhere. He had assumed that a business partner of Pipino's would've at least been from some mutual social circle of theirs. Instead, he was left drawing a blank. "A pleasure to meet you." he said, turning behind him. "I see you glaring at these giant hunks of glass. I keep these here as experimental inks for my more... personalized works." From his desk, he procured an empty inkwell and poured some of the vaguely green ink from the spigot into it. Afterward, he took a clean white quill and dripped it into the inkwell before drawing some patterns on his bare hand. "Aetherial conductivity, strength, these sort of things... mass produced grimoires of quality would be far too expensive and impractical. Thus, a custom-made weapon requires an artisan's touch." He waved his freshly painted hand and the ink began to glow before a brief display of green luminescent petals surrounded his hand, coming together to form a lotus. "My touch." He blew the lotus towards Vinalo, though it was merely a gesture; the construct floated on its own towards the red-haired Lalafell before fading away, stopping short of their face.
Line 364: Line 364:
 It was almost possible to see the man's ego inflate in real time. Hard to say if this was a good or bad thing... It was almost possible to see the man's ego inflate in real time. Hard to say if this was a good or bad thing...
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 Vinalo watched the unexpected display of aethereal manipulation, only flinching slightly as the green bloom poofed in front of their face. They weren’t entirely sure what he meant by it but had an idea. They were about to speak again when Totoyito turned his attention back to Pipino and started inflating his own ego. Probably best not to interrupt right away. Vinalo watched the unexpected display of aethereal manipulation, only flinching slightly as the green bloom poofed in front of their face. They weren’t entirely sure what he meant by it but had an idea. They were about to speak again when Totoyito turned his attention back to Pipino and started inflating his own ego. Probably best not to interrupt right away.
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc> 
  
 Pipino actually did find the beauty of the aetherial display quite moving, elegant in a way she did not typically associated with him. It made her wonder if he had grown a bit sentimental after all this time. Pipino actually did find the beauty of the aetherial display quite moving, elegant in a way she did not typically associated with him. It made her wonder if he had grown a bit sentimental after all this time.
Line 374: Line 374:
 "I have no doubt you are, judging from the hospitality we have received so far!" she said, generously glossing over the interaction with the older man in the hallway. "We were all so young back then after all. I think it is safe to say we all had rather... How shall I say it? Narrowly focused goals, perhaps," she said with a dainty laugh, directly contrasted against his hearty one. "I was rather impressed to hear how well you and your business were doing. My father did always say the mark of a man is in the things he creates, being an artisan and all. I daresay it should apply to business as well. But you know, I never took you for the bookish sort though, so it did surprise me, but it seems things have come full circle in the end in that regard. Glad I am to be acquainted with someone who can perhaps help two aspiring artists bring a dream to fruition." "I have no doubt you are, judging from the hospitality we have received so far!" she said, generously glossing over the interaction with the older man in the hallway. "We were all so young back then after all. I think it is safe to say we all had rather... How shall I say it? Narrowly focused goals, perhaps," she said with a dainty laugh, directly contrasted against his hearty one. "I was rather impressed to hear how well you and your business were doing. My father did always say the mark of a man is in the things he creates, being an artisan and all. I daresay it should apply to business as well. But you know, I never took you for the bookish sort though, so it did surprise me, but it seems things have come full circle in the end in that regard. Glad I am to be acquainted with someone who can perhaps help two aspiring artists bring a dream to fruition."
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
    
 Totoyito sighed, though his face deflated into a smile, regardless. "Yes, your goals seemed narrowly focused *inward*." he answered. "Thus, the legend of 'Pipino the Prude' was born. A million apologies, by the by. Given the opportunity, I would visit myself from then and give him a smack in the mouth. I'm sure Mother would have, if she were there to hear it." He cleared his throat, indicating a shift of his energies elsewhere. "Anyway, you're too kind. I switched to the books after making enough from estates and loans to start up my own little thing. My lord Father, who you had the fortune of running into, was a little miffed at the idea, but has since calmed down. He believes I've been taking too much inspiration from little Ilyigu." Totoyito sighed, though his face deflated into a smile, regardless. "Yes, your goals seemed narrowly focused *inward*." he answered. "Thus, the legend of 'Pipino the Prude' was born. A million apologies, by the by. Given the opportunity, I would visit myself from then and give him a smack in the mouth. I'm sure Mother would have, if she were there to hear it." He cleared his throat, indicating a shift of his energies elsewhere. "Anyway, you're too kind. I switched to the books after making enough from estates and loans to start up my own little thing. My lord Father, who you had the fortune of running into, was a little miffed at the idea, but has since calmed down. He believes I've been taking too much inspiration from little Ilyigu."
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 **The Book: 15%** ⬆️ **The Book: 15%** ⬆️
 ---- ----
-**''[Vinalo]''**+<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
    
 Vinalo raised an eyebrow seeing Totoyito’s faux display of sadness through the spinny heart. He was laying it on rather thick now. This was going places they hadn’t quite envisioned, even after everything they’d heard from Langston and Pipino. Trying to ignore the weird display, Vinalo chuckled a bit and responded. Vinalo raised an eyebrow seeing Totoyito’s faux display of sadness through the spinny heart. He was laying it on rather thick now. This was going places they hadn’t quite envisioned, even after everything they’d heard from Langston and Pipino. Trying to ignore the weird display, Vinalo chuckled a bit and responded.
Line 400: Line 400:
 “But, yes. We do have a lot to show you,” Vinalo said, putting on their best face of confidence. “Between Pipino’s art and my writing, the book’s qualities will stand right out!” “But, yes. We do have a lot to show you,” Vinalo said, putting on their best face of confidence. “Between Pipino’s art and my writing, the book’s qualities will stand right out!”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino gave him a little look of teasing mock-frustration as he mentioned her old title before breaking the snooty look and returning to her usual pleasant self, laughing it off with a dismissive hand before letting the conversation drift more toward Vinalo. Pipino listened attentively, gloved hands clasped atop her portfolio. Pipino gave him a little look of teasing mock-frustration as he mentioned her old title before breaking the snooty look and returning to her usual pleasant self, laughing it off with a dismissive hand before letting the conversation drift more toward Vinalo. Pipino listened attentively, gloved hands clasped atop her portfolio.
Line 406: Line 406:
 "Yes, it was quite the melding of talents between the two of us. I am not sure how much you have heard from Ilyigu," she said, switching to his birth name with ease, "but we have created an illustrated botany guide of sorts. I, of course, provided the illustrations, and Vinalo provided the knowledge and the language. While it was primarily conceived as a guide for adventurers about the uses of various plant life within the Shroud, I think you will find the book has rather broad appeal when examined deeper than its trappings." "Yes, it was quite the melding of talents between the two of us. I am not sure how much you have heard from Ilyigu," she said, switching to his birth name with ease, "but we have created an illustrated botany guide of sorts. I, of course, provided the illustrations, and Vinalo provided the knowledge and the language. While it was primarily conceived as a guide for adventurers about the uses of various plant life within the Shroud, I think you will find the book has rather broad appeal when examined deeper than its trappings."
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "It's just a parlor trick." said Totoyito, dismissing his little tricks as no big deal. The heart faded away slowly, spinning away into nothingness. "But, I'm glad you're impressed. I *was* trying to impress you." His eyes shifted to Pipino for a split second before turning back to Vinalo once more. "Our past is not the torrid love affair I am painting it to be. I made at pass at her... oh, once or twice? She turned me down. We were more acquaintances of a sort, being the same age and thus being at the same parties and such on occasion." He gave them a nod. "But, we've grown up to be on good terms. All of us! So, don't spare me your words. Interrupt me if I am being rude." "It's just a parlor trick." said Totoyito, dismissing his little tricks as no big deal. The heart faded away slowly, spinning away into nothingness. "But, I'm glad you're impressed. I *was* trying to impress you." His eyes shifted to Pipino for a split second before turning back to Vinalo once more. "Our past is not the torrid love affair I am painting it to be. I made at pass at her... oh, once or twice? She turned me down. We were more acquaintances of a sort, being the same age and thus being at the same parties and such on occasion." He gave them a nod. "But, we've grown up to be on good terms. All of us! So, don't spare me your words. Interrupt me if I am being rude."
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 **The Book: 15%** ⏺️ **The Book: 15%** ⏺️
 ---- ----
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 “Mistletoe? Well, as you probably know, the Shroud has a few species of mistletoe, the most common being Tinqla and Matron’s mistletoe,” Vinalo starts explaining as they open their satchel to pull out some pages. “Tinqla and some subspecies are used during Starlight, hung all around and such. Matron’s mistletoe, not as much, mainly since it grips trees so tightly that it’s right hard to harvest without ruining it.” “Mistletoe? Well, as you probably know, the Shroud has a few species of mistletoe, the most common being Tinqla and Matron’s mistletoe,” Vinalo starts explaining as they open their satchel to pull out some pages. “Tinqla and some subspecies are used during Starlight, hung all around and such. Matron’s mistletoe, not as much, mainly since it grips trees so tightly that it’s right hard to harvest without ruining it.”
Line 430: Line 430:
 “Of course, the big thing for any mistletoe for a traveler, adventurer, or just someone looking to make some good decoration, is that it’s very toxic. Before they’re dried out for mounting over a doorway or such, the berries look like a good deal of other berries that’re safe to eat. Some’ll even grow right above berry bushes at the base of a tree. The notes here and the paired art’ll make sure *anyone* passing through won’t make a, erm... unfortunate mistake.” “Of course, the big thing for any mistletoe for a traveler, adventurer, or just someone looking to make some good decoration, is that it’s very toxic. Before they’re dried out for mounting over a doorway or such, the berries look like a good deal of other berries that’re safe to eat. Some’ll even grow right above berry bushes at the base of a tree. The notes here and the paired art’ll make sure *anyone* passing through won’t make a, erm... unfortunate mistake.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino smiled to herself as Vinalo became the veritable font of knowledge that they can be about this sort of the thing, rifling through her alphabetically organized artwork to pull out the two larger ink drawings of the plants. Pipino smiled to herself as Vinalo became the veritable font of knowledge that they can be about this sort of the thing, rifling through her alphabetically organized artwork to pull out the two larger ink drawings of the plants.
Line 438: Line 438:
 She stood up and approached his desk, gently and delicately laying the art upon its surface and let it do the rest of the talking. She stood up and approached his desk, gently and delicately laying the art upon its surface and let it do the rest of the talking.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "The Shroud only, huh..." he said drumming his fingers on the notes. "I'll take that into consideration..." Suddenly, his voice boomed. "Uighur! The berries and clothespin!" "The Shroud only, huh..." he said drumming his fingers on the notes. "I'll take that into consideration..." Suddenly, his voice boomed. "Uighur! The berries and clothespin!"
Line 450: Line 450:
 The eccentricity shows its face! He is **testing** the fruits of your labor with a fruit of life or death! Somewhat. The eccentricity shows its face! He is **testing** the fruits of your labor with a fruit of life or death! Somewhat.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''**+<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
    
 The botanist watched the whole process of the berries and the clothespin with somewhat widened eyes. Once Totoyito finished the explanation of his ‘test,’ Vinalo’s smile faded a bit. Again, this was not something they expected to be facing. They looked between Totoyito’s grin, the berries, and the paired notes/art that Pipino and they had just given him. Sitting up straight in their chair, Vinalo looked right at the man and took a calm tone. The botanist watched the whole process of the berries and the clothespin with somewhat widened eyes. Once Totoyito finished the explanation of his ‘test,’ Vinalo’s smile faded a bit. Again, this was not something they expected to be facing. They looked between Totoyito’s grin, the berries, and the paired notes/art that Pipino and they had just given him. Sitting up straight in their chair, Vinalo looked right at the man and took a calm tone.
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 “You’re right that if somehow something went wrong, I’ve medicine on hand to dull the symptoms and the effects of poisoning,” Vinalo said. A confident smile started to slide back onto their face. “But... it won’t be needed. I have total confidence in both the notes and artwork that you or anyone else would be able to correctly identify the toxic berries and not eat them.” “You’re right that if somehow something went wrong, I’ve medicine on hand to dull the symptoms and the effects of poisoning,” Vinalo said. A confident smile started to slide back onto their face. “But... it won’t be needed. I have total confidence in both the notes and artwork that you or anyone else would be able to correctly identify the toxic berries and not eat them.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino was glad Vinalo spoke first. While she had full confidence in Vinalo's knowledge, she herself was not much of a risk taker in this regard. She simply smiled and took a step back from the desk.  Pipino was glad Vinalo spoke first. While she had full confidence in Vinalo's knowledge, she herself was not much of a risk taker in this regard. She simply smiled and took a step back from the desk. 
Line 462: Line 462:
 "Yes, I *do* think Ilyigu might disapprove if we were to harm his dear brother," she says with a little laugh. "I have full faith that my illustrations have aptly captured the distinguishing details of each variety." "Yes, I *do* think Ilyigu might disapprove if we were to harm his dear brother," she says with a little laugh. "I have full faith that my illustrations have aptly captured the distinguishing details of each variety."
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
    
 Totoyito flashed a display of concern at Pipino's words. There was something almost unnatural about how quick it was. A raise of the eyebrows, having his lips hide his teeth once more. But, it was for only a fleeting moment. He, instead, focused back on Vinalo. "Ah, there's the fire!" he said, tapping his desk twice. "That passion, that belief in one's work... I love it!" Totoyito flashed a display of concern at Pipino's words. There was something almost unnatural about how quick it was. A raise of the eyebrows, having his lips hide his teeth once more. But, it was for only a fleeting moment. He, instead, focused back on Vinalo. "Ah, there's the fire!" he said, tapping his desk twice. "That passion, that belief in one's work... I love it!"
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 **The Book: 30%** ⬆️ **The Book: 30%** ⬆️
 ---- ----
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 Vinalo made a quick glance to Pipino, flashing a confident smile. They turned back to Totoyito, glad (but not surprised) that he was able to pick the Blood Currants. They gave an affirming nod, still smiling. Vinalo made a quick glance to Pipino, flashing a confident smile. They turned back to Totoyito, glad (but not surprised) that he was able to pick the Blood Currants. They gave an affirming nod, still smiling.
Line 484: Line 484:
 “We’ve both talked about the book to a good deal of people, right from when the idea first came up. And on my part, I’ve had more than a few people say they’d want to buy a copy as soon as it was done!” Vinalo happily explained. “Most’ve them said it was just the kind of guide they’d want to have around. Really, that’s how I approached this book once we settled on the idea: the guide I wish I had around when I was younger and wandering about.” “We’ve both talked about the book to a good deal of people, right from when the idea first came up. And on my part, I’ve had more than a few people say they’d want to buy a copy as soon as it was done!” Vinalo happily explained. “Most’ve them said it was just the kind of guide they’d want to have around. Really, that’s how I approached this book once we settled on the idea: the guide I wish I had around when I was younger and wandering about.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino nods enthusiastically. "I can vouch for Vinalo's words on our approach. I decided to branch out a bit with my artistic adventures, hoping to venture out to more far-flung places in our realm, yet the prospect of what to do should something go awry vexed me quite a bit. Having something like this... it is beyond helpful as I did not know the first thing about any of it before we ventured to each location. And that seems to be the reception we are getting from others  as well, having had quite a wide scope of interest among all of those we have spoken to. Scholars, adventurers, your every day laborer - It has appealed to quite the range." Pipino nods enthusiastically. "I can vouch for Vinalo's words on our approach. I decided to branch out a bit with my artistic adventures, hoping to venture out to more far-flung places in our realm, yet the prospect of what to do should something go awry vexed me quite a bit. Having something like this... it is beyond helpful as I did not know the first thing about any of it before we ventured to each location. And that seems to be the reception we are getting from others  as well, having had quite a wide scope of interest among all of those we have spoken to. Scholars, adventurers, your every day laborer - It has appealed to quite the range."
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "Yes, so we have buyers among individuals. What I'd like to know is if we would be able to sell multiple copies to a single person." said Totoyito. "For example... have you shown this book to any sort of grocers or florists? What about Lady Fufucha, of the Botanists' Guild?" "Yes, so we have buyers among individuals. What I'd like to know is if we would be able to sell multiple copies to a single person." said Totoyito. "For example... have you shown this book to any sort of grocers or florists? What about Lady Fufucha, of the Botanists' Guild?"
  
-**''[Vinalo]''**  +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>  
  
 “Well, you know it’s right hard to just walk up and talk with Fufucha, of course. She’s usually very busy with everything there. But...” Vinalo thinks for a moment, tapping their chin. “I go to the Growery for supplies often, and last time I happened to chat a bit with... Leonceault, who manages most of the day-to-day happenings with the Guild. I'd mentioned working on the book, and he *did* seem to like the idea of a guide like this. Can’t be sure Fufucha’s heard about it, but I’m sure he’ll be easy enough to follow up on.” “Well, you know it’s right hard to just walk up and talk with Fufucha, of course. She’s usually very busy with everything there. But...” Vinalo thinks for a moment, tapping their chin. “I go to the Growery for supplies often, and last time I happened to chat a bit with... Leonceault, who manages most of the day-to-day happenings with the Guild. I'd mentioned working on the book, and he *did* seem to like the idea of a guide like this. Can’t be sure Fufucha’s heard about it, but I’m sure he’ll be easy enough to follow up on.”
  
-**''[Pipino]''**+<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 "Yes, and I did make sure to mention it to some of the merchants in Ul'dah while I was buying ink and the like. I had to keep stopping buy for specialty nibs and eventually people grew curious as to what it was I was working on. Normally I paint and do calligraphy, after all, so transferring to this medium was an interesting challenge. Nevertheless, I did create quite a bit of interest in the final product, likely more from an artistic perspective, but it would be good business to sell a product that shows off the professional quality of the product they deal in." "Yes, and I did make sure to mention it to some of the merchants in Ul'dah while I was buying ink and the like. I had to keep stopping buy for specialty nibs and eventually people grew curious as to what it was I was working on. Normally I paint and do calligraphy, after all, so transferring to this medium was an interesting challenge. Nevertheless, I did create quite a bit of interest in the final product, likely more from an artistic perspective, but it would be good business to sell a product that shows off the professional quality of the product they deal in."
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 "Okay... so, we have a lot of faceless interest, but no big names to lift us up." Totoyito drummed his fingers rapidly upon his desk, looking off to the wall. "Let us try to tackle this from more angles. We have a book that is big on Shroud knowledge. Therefore, importers may also be interested in this information. I know a few, so I could at least help you there, even if I have to go out of my way to do so." He let out a huff through his nostrils as he began to muse aloud "Or get Ilyigu to do it. His pretty face may let their guards down." "Okay... so, we have a lot of faceless interest, but no big names to lift us up." Totoyito drummed his fingers rapidly upon his desk, looking off to the wall. "Let us try to tackle this from more angles. We have a book that is big on Shroud knowledge. Therefore, importers may also be interested in this information. I know a few, so I could at least help you there, even if I have to go out of my way to do so." He let out a huff through his nostrils as he began to muse aloud "Or get Ilyigu to do it. His pretty face may let their guards down."
Line 508: Line 508:
 **Though his favor remains the same, his interest in the book has only marginally grown to 40%** **Though his favor remains the same, his interest in the book has only marginally grown to 40%**
 ---- ----
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 Vinalo shifted in their chair upon hearing Totoyito’s concerns. Several individual buyers, some broad interest, but now uninterested people? And the very rude man they ran into just outside, specifically? They knew the book wasn’t for everyone, but... Vinalo shifted in their chair upon hearing Totoyito’s concerns. Several individual buyers, some broad interest, but now uninterested people? And the very rude man they ran into just outside, specifically? They knew the book wasn’t for everyone, but...
Line 518: Line 518:
 “There’s some sort of limit to that, right? Someone who never travels on foot, has almost no interest in plants, and doesn’t think they need the knowledge’ll be right hard to convince to just take a *look* at the book. But... you surely know more about your father or your wife’s interests than either of us. You think either of them would take much notice of a new guide that’s trending with adventurers and travelers?” “There’s some sort of limit to that, right? Someone who never travels on foot, has almost no interest in plants, and doesn’t think they need the knowledge’ll be right hard to convince to just take a *look* at the book. But... you surely know more about your father or your wife’s interests than either of us. You think either of them would take much notice of a new guide that’s trending with adventurers and travelers?”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino considers the question, aware of his father's reputation. "Well, try as me might, we cannot change the interests of a reader. However, I will say there is value in a person collecting books the express purpose of appearing to have interests they do not possess, especially if there is business to be done. There is something to be said for having a well-rounded bookshelf, or to perhaps leave an attractive looking guide with appealing artwork out on a tea table. While they might not have interests in the plants themselves, the information within is presented in an accessible way, in plain language that is easy to understand and remember. Surely the opportunity might come about at a dinner or other gathering to impress someone with a bit of quickly learned trivia, yes? What better way to command a room than to be the one who can be conversationally agile?"  Pipino considers the question, aware of his father's reputation. "Well, try as me might, we cannot change the interests of a reader. However, I will say there is value in a person collecting books the express purpose of appearing to have interests they do not possess, especially if there is business to be done. There is something to be said for having a well-rounded bookshelf, or to perhaps leave an attractive looking guide with appealing artwork out on a tea table. While they might not have interests in the plants themselves, the information within is presented in an accessible way, in plain language that is easy to understand and remember. Surely the opportunity might come about at a dinner or other gathering to impress someone with a bit of quickly learned trivia, yes? What better way to command a room than to be the one who can be conversationally agile?" 
Line 526: Line 526:
 "Many of these plants, when you delve into them, have uses that are not what are commonly included in reference books. For example, these, the Rootslake Yellow Bloom and this Glowing Longstalk, they glow for long after they are cut from its source. Surely an impressive bouquet, an ornate centerpiece at a dinner with clients, a most interesting fashionable corsage - this plant could be included to help one seem interesting. The freshness required for them to retain their brilliance would speak to the impressiveness of their ability to gather resources quickly and efficiently, and speak to wealth, should one wish to impress others with such a thing. We could easily title the book in such a way to appeal to these more niche usages." "Many of these plants, when you delve into them, have uses that are not what are commonly included in reference books. For example, these, the Rootslake Yellow Bloom and this Glowing Longstalk, they glow for long after they are cut from its source. Surely an impressive bouquet, an ornate centerpiece at a dinner with clients, a most interesting fashionable corsage - this plant could be included to help one seem interesting. The freshness required for them to retain their brilliance would speak to the impressiveness of their ability to gather resources quickly and efficiently, and speak to wealth, should one wish to impress others with such a thing. We could easily title the book in such a way to appeal to these more niche usages."
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 Totoyito took the illustrations and looked upon them. They were a beautiful pair of flowers and he wasn't even familiar with them at all; the drawings and their description was good enough for him to imagine how they would look if they were before him in the flesh. "Yes... Though I sneer at the idea of someone buying this and letting it sit idly on their shelf, there is something to be said about the presentation of knowledge that if offers, allowing even the most dreadfully dull lords and ladies attempt to color their brains with bits and pieces of knowledge..." he said, feeling his lips curl into a smile. "It seems the heavens have guided you two together on this project. A fiery spirit with the gift of dedication and knowledge, paired with the talent and cool business acumen of Ul'dah's finest." He laughed softly. "It's but a small wonder why my father has a distaste for you. He *seethes* with more envy than distaste." Totoyito took the illustrations and looked upon them. They were a beautiful pair of flowers and he wasn't even familiar with them at all; the drawings and their description was good enough for him to imagine how they would look if they were before him in the flesh. "Yes... Though I sneer at the idea of someone buying this and letting it sit idly on their shelf, there is something to be said about the presentation of knowledge that if offers, allowing even the most dreadfully dull lords and ladies attempt to color their brains with bits and pieces of knowledge..." he said, feeling his lips curl into a smile. "It seems the heavens have guided you two together on this project. A fiery spirit with the gift of dedication and knowledge, paired with the talent and cool business acumen of Ul'dah's finest." He laughed softly. "It's but a small wonder why my father has a distaste for you. He *seethes* with more envy than distaste."
Line 542: Line 542:
 **The Book: 60%** ⬆️ **The Book: 60%** ⬆️
 ---- ----
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo lets out a brief sigh of relief at their companion’s quick thinking. Totoyito’s praise at their pairing did have a strain of truth: Pipino was much better at navigating business deals than they ever would be. And them, a fiery spirit? Well, maybe. Regardless, this meeting was reminding them of how great of a team they were. They shot Pipino a little smile and nod. Vinalo lets out a brief sigh of relief at their companion’s quick thinking. Totoyito’s praise at their pairing did have a strain of truth: Pipino was much better at navigating business deals than they ever would be. And them, a fiery spirit? Well, maybe. Regardless, this meeting was reminding them of how great of a team they were. They shot Pipino a little smile and nod.
Line 552: Line 552:
 Vinalo smiled and rose from their seat, ready to be ushered to the snack table awaiting them. Vinalo smiled and rose from their seat, ready to be ushered to the snack table awaiting them.
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 "Well then, I suppose we ought to leave you to it!" Pipino smiles at the praise given, finding herself unexpectedly proud to be a target of such a wretched man's envy even in her very simple way of living these days. She coordinates with Vinalo and produces the proper artwork, adding them to the ones that already lay in his desk. The more her art could shine, the better the chances, she thought. No point hiding it all away. "Well then, I suppose we ought to leave you to it!" Pipino smiles at the praise given, finding herself unexpectedly proud to be a target of such a wretched man's envy even in her very simple way of living these days. She coordinates with Vinalo and produces the proper artwork, adding them to the ones that already lay in his desk. The more her art could shine, the better the chances, she thought. No point hiding it all away.
Line 560: Line 560:
 "Thank you for this," she said earnestly, her tone a bit more genuine, more heartfelt. "For your honest consideration. It means much and more to have this opportunity." She gave him a soft, parting smile, and a polite little incline of the head before turning back and finding her way out of the room, finding solace in the old familiar snacks. "Thank you for this," she said earnestly, her tone a bit more genuine, more heartfelt. "For your honest consideration. It means much and more to have this opportunity." She gave him a soft, parting smile, and a polite little incline of the head before turning back and finding her way out of the room, finding solace in the old familiar snacks.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 Totoyito happily accepted the notes and artwork, looking them over for a split second before addressing his guests. "Yes, of course." he said. "Please, enjoy yourselves." The doors shut before his eyes and he looked over the notes and art carefully, letting out a sigh in his newfound privacy. A bunch of flowers, a few mushrooms. "Hm. You were always into this stuff, weren't you...?" he said to himself. Totoyito happily accepted the notes and artwork, looking them over for a split second before addressing his guests. "Yes, of course." he said. "Please, enjoy yourselves." The doors shut before his eyes and he looked over the notes and art carefully, letting out a sigh in his newfound privacy. A bunch of flowers, a few mushrooms. "Hm. You were always into this stuff, weren't you...?" he said to himself.
Line 566: Line 566:
 Outside. Uighur offered the two of them a seat, while strangely, taking a seat of his own. The man pinched a pretzel bite between his fingers, observing it carefully from multiple angles before eating it whole. As he continued to chew on it, he poured all three of them a cup of Thanalan tea. "The young master gave me this recipe." said Uighur after swallowing his piece. "He said that his lord grandfather is not one to part with his culinary knowledge, but he still passed this on to me, to make sure my lord has a taste of his childhood replicated." Outside. Uighur offered the two of them a seat, while strangely, taking a seat of his own. The man pinched a pretzel bite between his fingers, observing it carefully from multiple angles before eating it whole. As he continued to chew on it, he poured all three of them a cup of Thanalan tea. "The young master gave me this recipe." said Uighur after swallowing his piece. "He said that his lord grandfather is not one to part with his culinary knowledge, but he still passed this on to me, to make sure my lord has a taste of his childhood replicated."
  
-**''[Vinalo]''**+<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
      
 The green-robed Lalafell made their way to the table waiting for them. Taking the cue from Uighur, Vinalo sat down and looked over the tray of pretzels. All that business dealing **had** worked up a bit of an appetite. They were also never one to turn down some tea. Especially a recipe from the grandfather that Langston mentioned a number of times. The green-robed Lalafell made their way to the table waiting for them. Taking the cue from Uighur, Vinalo sat down and looked over the tray of pretzels. All that business dealing **had** worked up a bit of an appetite. They were also never one to turn down some tea. Especially a recipe from the grandfather that Langston mentioned a number of times.
Line 576: Line 576:
 “Little bit of a rough start, but I think we’re doing well,” Vinalo said happily. They took another bite, making sure to swallow before continuing. “Very good thinking on that last question he had. Playing to novelty and appearance of those blooms was right clever!” “Little bit of a rough start, but I think we’re doing well,” Vinalo said happily. They took another bite, making sure to swallow before continuing. “Very good thinking on that last question he had. Playing to novelty and appearance of those blooms was right clever!”
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino took a seat and laid the portfolio behind her, her straight posture leaving ample room for the file to lean against the back of her chair without her disturbing it. She observed the spread and grinned in delight as Uighur went into more detail.  Pipino took a seat and laid the portfolio behind her, her straight posture leaving ample room for the file to lean against the back of her chair without her disturbing it. She observed the spread and grinned in delight as Uighur went into more detail. 
Line 584: Line 584:
 She turned to Vinalo and waved a humble hand in a dismissive gesture. "Oh, well, I was just repeating things you told me in the end. Had you not put the idea in my head at the first, it never would have come from my lips! But... well, it did seem to play off well, did it not?" she enthused in an excited sort of voice. She turned to Vinalo and waved a humble hand in a dismissive gesture. "Oh, well, I was just repeating things you told me in the end. Had you not put the idea in my head at the first, it never would have come from my lips! But... well, it did seem to play off well, did it not?" she enthused in an excited sort of voice.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. “It really did. We’ll count that as another team effort, then. Glad one of us can think on their feet!” they said, before taking another bite of their pretzel. They looked down to their side and made sure their satchel full of pages was steady against the leg of the chair. A little nod to their self and they turned back to their snacking companions. Vinalo couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. “It really did. We’ll count that as another team effort, then. Glad one of us can think on their feet!” they said, before taking another bite of their pretzel. They looked down to their side and made sure their satchel full of pages was steady against the leg of the chair. A little nod to their self and they turned back to their snacking companions.
Line 590: Line 590:
 “These really are right tasty. Wouldn’t expect any less considering where the recipe came from.” “These really are right tasty. Wouldn’t expect any less considering where the recipe came from.”
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "It seems you are both doing well in reaching your goal for the day." Uighur looked upon the pretzels as he spoke. "My lord loves the young master. He is always brimming with excitement leading up to their meetings. I have only met him a few times... I do not know how the young master feels about my lord, but perhaps these pretzels tell me everything." "It seems you are both doing well in reaching your goal for the day." Uighur looked upon the pretzels as he spoke. "My lord loves the young master. He is always brimming with excitement leading up to their meetings. I have only met him a few times... I do not know how the young master feels about my lord, but perhaps these pretzels tell me everything."
Line 596: Line 596:
 The man hesitated a bit, but these two were polite enough to humor him. Having interactions with his lord's guests had never really happened before, at least not to this extent. "...My lord is often beside himself with grief whenever the young master departs. He values the time spent together, but in his most vulnerable moments, he often blames himself for the master's departure. What if he were a better brother and role model when they were young... things like that. I cannot say I know much more than this, but... they both have a drop of Lord Nanavele in them. Would they drop their facades, they would be more likely to connect on a direct level, rather than indirectly through food and book deals..." The man hesitated a bit, but these two were polite enough to humor him. Having interactions with his lord's guests had never really happened before, at least not to this extent. "...My lord is often beside himself with grief whenever the young master departs. He values the time spent together, but in his most vulnerable moments, he often blames himself for the master's departure. What if he were a better brother and role model when they were young... things like that. I cannot say I know much more than this, but... they both have a drop of Lord Nanavele in them. Would they drop their facades, they would be more likely to connect on a direct level, rather than indirectly through food and book deals..."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
  
 Pipino turned her attention back to Uighur and nodded thoughtfully, feeling a bit privileged to have this view of the both of them from someone who knew them both well.  Pipino turned her attention back to Uighur and nodded thoughtfully, feeling a bit privileged to have this view of the both of them from someone who knew them both well. 
Line 602: Line 602:
 "Well, perhaps food and book deals shall be the foundation for more connections between the two of them - you know, the foundation of a bridge to connect them more strongly. While it would be nice for them to get along perfectly, I think time is working as it does, their priorities falling into line. Small gestures spark reflection, which spark a gesture in return. I feel like there might be an inertia between them as they move through life, especially with La-... with Ilyigu looking into his family a bit more lately." She laughed lightly. "But... well, I cannot pretend to know their inner thoughts. I have not heard that much that would betray feelings of bad blood between them these days. Only that he has sought out advice which... well, I think that speaks as much as the pretzels do," she said as she popped another bite of pretzel into her mouth with a cheery sort of smile. "Well, perhaps food and book deals shall be the foundation for more connections between the two of them - you know, the foundation of a bridge to connect them more strongly. While it would be nice for them to get along perfectly, I think time is working as it does, their priorities falling into line. Small gestures spark reflection, which spark a gesture in return. I feel like there might be an inertia between them as they move through life, especially with La-... with Ilyigu looking into his family a bit more lately." She laughed lightly. "But... well, I cannot pretend to know their inner thoughts. I have not heard that much that would betray feelings of bad blood between them these days. Only that he has sought out advice which... well, I think that speaks as much as the pretzels do," she said as she popped another bite of pretzel into her mouth with a cheery sort of smile.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
  
 Vinalo took another bite of their pretzel while Pipino and Uighur spoke. Having figured it was probably long enough, they took a tiny sip of the tea to help wash down the pretzel. It was still a bit too hot, but that didn’t keep them from letting out a quiet hum of satisfaction. They seemed content at the moment to not interrupt the family discussion. Vinalo took another bite of their pretzel while Pipino and Uighur spoke. Having figured it was probably long enough, they took a tiny sip of the tea to help wash down the pretzel. It was still a bit too hot, but that didn’t keep them from letting out a quiet hum of satisfaction. They seemed content at the moment to not interrupt the family discussion.
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 Before Uighur could add another word, the double doors to Totoyito's office swung open. The Dunesfolk man walked towards them with a faint smile. "Don't let me intrude on your little party." he said, intruding on their party anyway and snatching a pretzel for himself. "I hope you've been enjoying your stay, meager as though the accommodations may be. I was thinking, 'Hm, perhaps a large banquet would do', but then the rest of my mind said 'No, Totoyito, calm your ego. It's just a book deal'. That one seemed more rational..." Before Uighur could add another word, the double doors to Totoyito's office swung open. The Dunesfolk man walked towards them with a faint smile. "Don't let me intrude on your little party." he said, intruding on their party anyway and snatching a pretzel for himself. "I hope you've been enjoying your stay, meager as though the accommodations may be. I was thinking, 'Hm, perhaps a large banquet would do', but then the rest of my mind said 'No, Totoyito, calm your ego. It's just a book deal'. That one seemed more rational..."
Line 624: Line 624:
 This man is floundering to add to the duo's favor! But why!? Should they try to save him!? This man is floundering to add to the duo's favor! But why!? Should they try to save him!?
  
-**''[Pipino]''**+<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc>
    
 Pipino considers the objections, striking her in a way that she had not thought of before.  Pipino considers the objections, striking her in a way that she had not thought of before. 
Line 634: Line 634:
 "And besides, I plan to include a page of my own honest reasons for deciding to work on this project. I cannot change minds I have a desire to fill the lives of more than just those who can afford it with something beautiful to look at. Something that might inspire them to get out in the world and work harder and change their circumstances since those with the power to do so will not assist. I think this book will be an excellent step forward to building a more trusting relationship." "And besides, I plan to include a page of my own honest reasons for deciding to work on this project. I cannot change minds I have a desire to fill the lives of more than just those who can afford it with something beautiful to look at. Something that might inspire them to get out in the world and work harder and change their circumstances since those with the power to do so will not assist. I think this book will be an excellent step forward to building a more trusting relationship."
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Between Uighur’s sudden statement, Totoyito’s objection, and Pipino’s retort, Vinalo had time to think of something to add to this new line of discussion. Making sure to swallow their current bite of pretzel (and wash it down with some more tea), they spoke up. Between Uighur’s sudden statement, Totoyito’s objection, and Pipino’s retort, Vinalo had time to think of something to add to this new line of discussion. Making sure to swallow their current bite of pretzel (and wash it down with some more tea), they spoke up.
Line 640: Line 640:
 “As someone who spent many summers without reliable places to sleep or food to eat, I can’t blame others in the same spot for not being too trusting in something from Ul’dah,” Vinalo said calmly, but with perhaps a determined tone. “The Shroud is where I ended up, and something like this book would’ve made that time much easier. Like Pipino, I also plan to have a statement of my own on why I wrote this book; how it was made to help *anyone* who’d ever find themselves in the Twelveswood without outside help. It surely can’t wipe away all the valid grievances with the city by itself, but if building trust means someone else’ll avoid going hungry, then I’d be proud to have the book play a part in that. And I believe it can.” “As someone who spent many summers without reliable places to sleep or food to eat, I can’t blame others in the same spot for not being too trusting in something from Ul’dah,” Vinalo said calmly, but with perhaps a determined tone. “The Shroud is where I ended up, and something like this book would’ve made that time much easier. Like Pipino, I also plan to have a statement of my own on why I wrote this book; how it was made to help *anyone* who’d ever find themselves in the Twelveswood without outside help. It surely can’t wipe away all the valid grievances with the city by itself, but if building trust means someone else’ll avoid going hungry, then I’d be proud to have the book play a part in that. And I believe it can.”
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 Totoyito shut his eyes and let out a heavy sigh from his nostrils. His brow furrowed in annoyance, his teeth were grit behind his sealed lips, his index finger tapped on his arm after he folded them! "Niceties do you no favors." he said. "Not everyone reads the foreword. However... I see your determination. Your willingness to use your talents for the world instead of people sitting up here with me, Pipino, and your desire to ease the experiences of others who were in your shoes, Vinalo." He looked past the both of them to Uighur. "I don't quite understand *your* sudden involvement, however. Did they shoot you a wink or blow you a kiss when they decided to stroll in?" Totoyito shut his eyes and let out a heavy sigh from his nostrils. His brow furrowed in annoyance, his teeth were grit behind his sealed lips, his index finger tapped on his arm after he folded them! "Niceties do you no favors." he said. "Not everyone reads the foreword. However... I see your determination. Your willingness to use your talents for the world instead of people sitting up here with me, Pipino, and your desire to ease the experiences of others who were in your shoes, Vinalo." He looked past the both of them to Uighur. "I don't quite understand *your* sudden involvement, however. Did they shoot you a wink or blow you a kiss when they decided to stroll in?"
Line 656: Line 656:
 **The Book: 70%** ⬆️ **The Book: 70%** ⬆️
 ---- ----
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc> 
  
 Pipino's expression brightened considerably as Totoyito gave the book his blessing. She could have hugged him. She could have hugged Vinalo. In fact, she even could have hugged Uighur! She wanted to jump up and down, to punch the air, to do anything other than restrain herself in polite company, and yet she did. Her hands were clasped in front of her politely, yet they were holding on to each other in a death grip of nervous energy. Pipino's expression brightened considerably as Totoyito gave the book his blessing. She could have hugged him. She could have hugged Vinalo. In fact, she even could have hugged Uighur! She wanted to jump up and down, to punch the air, to do anything other than restrain herself in polite company, and yet she did. Her hands were clasped in front of her politely, yet they were holding on to each other in a death grip of nervous energy.
Line 666: Line 666:
 She looked to Vinalo for confirmation. She looked to Vinalo for confirmation.
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc> 
    
 Vinalo could’ve dropped their tea if they were still holding it. They did it? It’s going to be published? They had a feeling! Their eyes widened as an enthusiastic grin overtook their face. They normally would be all too happy to let loose a cheer or such, but it probably wasn’t the time for it. Probably. Later, then. Vinalo held back, but their grin could not be denied. They turned to Pipino with this same grin. Vinalo could’ve dropped their tea if they were still holding it. They did it? It’s going to be published? They had a feeling! Their eyes widened as an enthusiastic grin overtook their face. They normally would be all too happy to let loose a cheer or such, but it probably wasn’t the time for it. Probably. Later, then. Vinalo held back, but their grin could not be denied. They turned to Pipino with this same grin.
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 “And I can’t wait to see all that wonderful artwork in color.” “And I can’t wait to see all that wonderful artwork in color.”
  
-**''[Langston]''**+<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc>
  
 "Right. The gil." said Totoyito. "I'll determine the initial costs in the coming days and we'll work from there. You'll receive a notice from me, sooner rather than later." His eyes pointed to Pipino and he scratched the back of his head. "It was good to see you again after all this time. Well, not that we were friends, or anything of the sort. Probably even less than that..." He sucked his teeth in frustration. "I'm no good with this sort of thing. Just pretend I said nothing but 'It was good to see you again'." "Right. The gil." said Totoyito. "I'll determine the initial costs in the coming days and we'll work from there. You'll receive a notice from me, sooner rather than later." His eyes pointed to Pipino and he scratched the back of his head. "It was good to see you again after all this time. Well, not that we were friends, or anything of the sort. Probably even less than that..." He sucked his teeth in frustration. "I'm no good with this sort of thing. Just pretend I said nothing but 'It was good to see you again'."
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 In the midst of this ruckus, Uighur stepped forward and cleared his throat. "When he says he obeyed his rational mind, he is preparing to reject a deal." he said solemnly. "I never interrupted his dealings in the past, but, I simply had to." In the midst of this ruckus, Uighur stepped forward and cleared his throat. "When he says he obeyed his rational mind, he is preparing to reject a deal." he said solemnly. "I never interrupted his dealings in the past, but, I simply had to."
  
-**''[Pipino]''** +<fc #00008b>**''[Pipino]''**</fc> 
  
 Pipino gave Totoyito a gracious smile, a softer, kinder one that seemed a bit more forgiving. She nodded to his request. "It was lovely seeing you again. And I am sure this shall not be our last meeting, given the circumstances of everything," she said, giving him her pleasant little curtsy as he left them. She laughed as she heard the little fight shaking her head in a knowing way. "Something never do change, I suppose, even after all this time." Pipino gave Totoyito a gracious smile, a softer, kinder one that seemed a bit more forgiving. She nodded to his request. "It was lovely seeing you again. And I am sure this shall not be our last meeting, given the circumstances of everything," she said, giving him her pleasant little curtsy as he left them. She laughed as she heard the little fight shaking her head in a knowing way. "Something never do change, I suppose, even after all this time."
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 She looked over her shoulder to Vinalo, then back, blushing a bit as she hid some of her sentiment away, not wanting to bring up their financial state, or how Pipino worried about them finding steady work. Or knowing that they wanted to prove something to their parents especially. "Thank you. You are a Twelvessent." She looked over her shoulder to Vinalo, then back, blushing a bit as she hid some of her sentiment away, not wanting to bring up their financial state, or how Pipino worried about them finding steady work. Or knowing that they wanted to prove something to their parents especially. "Thank you. You are a Twelvessent."
  
-**''[Vinalo]''** +<fc #0A9532>**''[Vinalo]''**</fc>
  
 Vinalo blinked a few times before returning the smile to Totoyito's compliment. "Yes, well... might have to mention it later to him. But, yes! Was good to meet you, too." Vinalo blinked a few times before returning the smile to Totoyito's compliment. "Yes, well... might have to mention it later to him. But, yes! Was good to meet you, too."
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 "If... that's all true, then thank you Uighur, truly. I knew it wasn't a guarantee at all, but... after all that..." they said, letting out a long sigh afterword. "We really were lucky you were here." "If... that's all true, then thank you Uighur, truly. I knew it wasn't a guarantee at all, but... after all that..." they said, letting out a long sigh afterword. "We really were lucky you were here."
  
-**''[Langston]''** +<fc #AF8847>**''[Langston]''**</fc> 
  
 Uighur looked down to Pipino as she grasped his hand. His eyes betrayed a bit of nervousness in his heart, but he still managed a weak smile. "My words still ring true. Everything I do is in service to my Lord Totoyito. In his eyes, connections are just as important as the contents. I merely influenced him to take a bigger risk, and that is all. I could barely hear his words through the door, but he seemed very impressed with your work." Uighur looked down to Pipino as she grasped his hand. His eyes betrayed a bit of nervousness in his heart, but he still managed a weak smile. "My words still ring true. Everything I do is in service to my Lord Totoyito. In his eyes, connections are just as important as the contents. I merely influenced him to take a bigger risk, and that is all. I could barely hear his words through the door, but he seemed very impressed with your work."