675-07-25 - A Night's Dream in the Day
| A Night's Dream in the Day | |||||||
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| Summary: Adara goes looking for more information from an atypical source. | |||||||
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<FS3> Adara rolls Disguise: Good Success.
Slipping through the curtain int the main room of the Night's Dream is a woman in her later thirties dressed in simple, functional attire suitable for what most would expect from a merchant's wife or certain tradesmen/tradeswomen. Having dark black hair done in a simple, practical braid down her back, the woman appears to have a dark pale or light tan completion as she looks about the main room silently. Perhaps waiting for service, though she doesn't appear to be nervous or shy about where she is, perhaps she has been to such establishments before, perhaps even worked at one at some point.
The young handsome tall man with the silver hair till his shoulders approaches the merchant's wife or someone of a rich stance. He is wearing just a skirt made out of leather. The skirt is decorated with some nature-inspired art. He extands the glass of wine to a woman, "You have the beauty and ellegance of the nightingale..." he winks for a stranger and if allowed steps a bit more close. After all, it is his workplace and he expects to get a client.
What is a brothel but a place of adventure and exploration? Sure, it's not the kind of adventure that happens among knights or sellswords, but certainly all sorts of similarities exist - the passing of coins for secrets, bareback riding, the plunging of 'swords,' and certainly much gaining of knowledge. So does this make Ashlyn a spy, a rogue, a thief, a merchant? For now, the first term fits best, as he slowly moves through the open space of the main room in a silvery but simple dress with a false corset sewn in, lacey fabric over the small portion of his smooth chest that is otherwise bare. He has a folding fan clasped between his delicate hands which are covered by soft white gloves. He pauses, once he catches the young man charming the simply-dressed woman, as if waiting for them to shoo him away, if he is interfering.
Adara allows the man to draw closer as she takes the offered wine and gives a simple sip, "I am in the mood for one more skilled with the tongue then the spear. What options do I have here?" in a casual voice.
The young man's cheek blush a bit. He raises his hand to touch the woman's cheek if allowed, "I can offer you a kiss and you can decide yourself, how skilled I am with my tongue..." He chuckles.
The commentary, and the silver-haired male's quick with, draw a giggle out of Ashlyn, the fan splayed, covering his pink-stained lips. His laugh is sweet and feminine, a well-trained actor, perhaps, or maybe just one who enjoys blurring lines.
Adara offers a coy grin and says, "A kiss is a fine test in its ways, though it tells little how well one can stir more then juices now does it? Though I suppose a man of your... Presentation may only be skilled in more physical pursuits of pleasing women." She then reaches up to lightly stroke the side of the man's hair if he allows and asks, "How well can you stimulate this high on a woman's body?"
The man may be good at his job, but he is lack of intelligence, obviosuly. He blinks a few times and sighs, withdrawing a bit, "I have one philosophy here: talk less and do more...If you actually prefer to talk a lot too... You may be interested in Ashlyn," he points at the sweetly laughing one, "When you will be interested into action, find me!" And he moves away.
Ashlyn wears a surprised 'who-me?' expression, though this could be part of his girlish presentation, too - the coy one. The fan flutters and sweet but clever eyes study the woman once over before his head dips, that pretty black hair so neatly combed up into a snug bun shining, glossy, healthy. "Too kind," his feminine voice offers, though for now he does not intrude further into the conversation, simply taking a seat in a large, comfortable chair.
Adara grins slyly and says, "As I thought." as the man makes his departure taking another sip of her wine. She then looks to Ashlyn as they are pointed out Adara then asks, "And are you as skilled in conversation as that walking spear claims?"
Ash gives a curious glance to the man who seems to have deferred a potential client her way, dips her head in thanks for his consideration. "I've found those who brag about skill often say more than they can offer. As for spears, well, anything can be concealed under a large enough dress." She gives a wicked grin, that lace on her bodice matching the lace between the spines of her fan, her mischievous eyes twinkling.
Adara nods and says, "The right clothes can conceal many things. If I desired to be skewered I'm sure that would serve well, as I said however conversation is what I seek, can you deliver on that?"
"Fine, I'll put away my armory for now," Ashlyn teases, leaning to the side in the large seat, crossing his long legs and fanning himself idly. "Please sit, enjoy yourself." He glances to the other man who remains nearby, then checks the room for any others who might be listening in, then his delicate brows lift, hinting he's more curious than his silky and casual tone might imply.
Adara smiles slyly and leans over a bit, this might grant a peek of cleavage, but it is very minor given the high cut of her collar as she asks, "Now what fun is it to have an audience, when so much more can be said in privacy?" her grin widening a bit when she says this and stands back up.
"I suppoooooose," the boy-girl drawls, tilting his head to one side, swaying slightly as if summoning the energy to rise, or perhaps just getting his energy up for other purposes. "But I won't break out the good brandy unless you earn it." With that he makes a soft grunt before rising, then offers a slim arm, the crook of the elbow held out to her. "It's a slow day, we can probably find our pick of rooms. There is one suite with lovely wide windows, and a touch of sunshine might be good for us both." And with that, Ash is ready to lead the potential client upstairs.
Adara accepts the offered arm, and is led to the room of Ashlyn's choosing.
Dolphin Room - The Night's Dream
This is a room of moderate size, lighted by lanterns at the walls, allowing for a cozy flickering light. There is a four poster bed in the center, with drapes of dark blue that can be pulled to allow for a bit more privacy if required. The sheets are clean, the blanket is of a deep blue colour. A wooden bath tub large enough for two can be found in a corner of the room. Tapestries on the walls depict dolphins and other animals of the sea. There is a flagon of red wine and two cups on a small table by the bed.
Leading his guest along, the femme male sighs contently, heading right for a counter with several containers of liquor and wine, choosing something clear and brown like a whiskey. "Hope you don't mind a stiff drink. It helps ease first meetings, I've found," the pretty male says, glancing over his slim shoulder with a teasing smile. "Though wine wine is also here."
Once inside the room with the door closed Adara glances around idly and says, "It also assists in relaxing in tense situations." Finally she stops and looks to Ashlyn and says, "An interesting choice in Whisper, though I can see the advantages. How long have you served under Edris?" she seems to have disregarded the more... Creative talk and has moved to more serious though her voice remains casual for the time being.
Ashlyn's gaze lingers, still looking from over one shoulder, then he turns back and pours two small cups half full, silently moves back to set them down and seats himself once more. Only after a slow sip does he say, "I'm not really sure what you mean about whispering." The keen glimmer in his eyes hints that he isn't as clueless as he puts on, but he isn't obviating anything yet. "I just work where there is work. Edris keeps me relatively safe, understands my unique nature and skills...a girl has to make a living," he teases.
Adara nods and says, "In part why I am here to evaluate how well you are doing, along with your training. I am aware you are a Whisper, you are not in trouble nor have you failed to hide this fact. At least not that I've heard. I am simply here because the Mistress of Whispers wanted random evaluations made of some of the newer Whispers with everything going on to see how well your are adjusting and how your training is progressing. Especially those who were not given formal training, as there is more of an adjustment. Your name was among those listed so do not concern yourself too much I am a Whisper as well."
"Well, nothing gets past you, then, hmm?" He sips again, thoughtful befoer he speaks. "I am just a listener and a catalog of what I have learned. So far there have been no grand tasks or quests set before me. I suppose you could say I am a lifetime student at this point. But at least I have not caused trouble, and, allegedly, you are here for no dark reason." He lifts the cup and smirks. "I guess that means that I shall now relent to questioning, prying of the mind, a bit of verbal sparring and the like? Or did you just come here to see how convincing a girl I make? Tips on makeup?" he playfully jokes.
Adara says, "More an evaluation to make sure your training is suitable and progressing at a suitable pace. Also you do seem perceptive enough draw out information in at least some cases."
"The biggest part of being perceptive," he says with glossy lips, eyeshadow making his gaze that much more intense, "Is just letting others do all the talking. It is like a bed. They will relax further the more comfortable it is. No little coincidence that the beds here are so lovely and soft. But of course, I can dig when need be. It's amazing what a man or woman will say when they are dangling over the edge of a, hmm, critical moment."
Adara nods and says, "The wine can help as well, nice touch suggesting something stronger with me as well. You are taught well in that regard at least."
Ashlyn smirks. "Taught? Miss, whoever you are, I am willing to share a little with you. Most of what I know I learned either by watching others or simply trying it out for myself. A bastard, an orphan, a pickpocket when I had to be, I saw the easy paths and the difficult paths. The difficult paths are the ones people take to preserve ego or legacies outside of their grasp. To chase dreams. I have no future, just this moment, and while some may scorn my lack of vainglorious dreams, I find surcease in the fact that I have survived. I crafted out a space for myself where other people didn't even know there was room. And so long as my patrons and clients find my skills adequate, I will keep surviving." He drinks again. "But do not believe your compliment falls on deaf ears...I just want to be sure you take proper esteem of my actions, and do not presume me smart. I am not. But I am canny." He is also, it seems longwinded with the right company.
Adara nods and says, "Intelligence covers many roads. If what you say is true, and I have no reason to doubt it, my guess is that knowledge is why you were offered the chance to become a Whisper. Are there any limits in the 'services' you provide?"
At the request, Ashlyn gives that charming, obfuscating smile. "I am not the type to turn down interesting work or good coin. Gods know I've seen enough." He peers into his cup and nibbles his bottom lip in thought before answering properly. "I can dance, and sing; I can speak with the deaf using my hands. I've studied how to use blades, but I'm still most comfortable defending myself with my hands. Pressure points, dear, and soft places, vulnerabilities most all of us have. In the body and the mind, for that matter."
Adara nods and says, "A good mix of skills to have for a brothel worker, and also beneficial for a spy trying to conceal their role. Do you have any acting skills?"
"I'll admit I have no training there, nor in disguise. I am quick on my feet, and more importantly, quite quiet and sneaky if I must be, but those skills were more born of a need to survive than to impress." The young man folds his legs opposite, sets aside his cup and resumes fanning himself. "Of course, my specialty remains seduction, though I have also impressed others with my acrobatics."
Adara nods and says, "I have some training in seduction as well, I just have little need for it in my day-to-day affairs. Disguise and acting skills would serve you well. I was given formal training myself so I learned such things, they are valuable for brothel workers, after all if a sailor dreams of bedding a noblewoman, one who knows how to walk and talk like one would be paid more. When they can behave like one on top of that, they would receive regulars quite often I would imagine.”
Ashlyn scrunches up her face in pretend displeasure. "Gilding the lily, hmm? I suppose it makes sense, but for me, every day has a bit of acting." She casts a wink, then asks, "Are there matters afoot that would require a the service of a, hm, woman like me?"
Adara says, "Not that I'm aware of, but then you answer to your Chief Whisper, the Madame of this establishment. This is simply a review. Unless there is reason to doubt the loyalty or judgement of your superior, there isn't need to look to instructions beyond her. I will assume there are no such doubts, if there are I can include them in my report." her tone remains casual as she has been since they entered the room.
Ashlyn smooths out his dress over his thighs, smirking. "Goodness, so formal...I'm unused to this. Will I need to sign something, recite a mandate of allegience, offer blood?" This is all said with an easygoing and good-humored tone, mirth shining in his gaze. "But my bizarre sense of humor aside, I will say for the record that this has been one of the better places I've found myself in, and I'm thankful for the Madame's oversight and commitment to my success. Frankly, I am still learning every day, and that is at times a bigger thrill than, you know, being able to sleep in a bed and eat what I like."
Adara nods and says, "You shall slay twenty virgins and bring me their blood for ink. You have no idea how much ink the nobility needs." one corner of her mouth twisting in a grin before she says in a more serious tone, "One who is practical and understands the value and limits of knowledge. A rarity indeed. Sounds like you will do well and go far. At this rate you'll be a Whisper in no time, then you'll only have to wait a decade to reach your potential."
The boy teases, "Only a decade? Only twenty virgins? We'll be ready in a fortnight, miss!" The fan flutters again, then he asks softly, "Will I be honored with the name of my inquisitor, er, I mean visitor today?"
Adara asks, "Does it really matter? Trust me if I was lying about being a Whisper I'd be in as much trouble as the Princess when she refused to marry if not worse. As I said, you've done nothing wrong, so no need to be concerned. If you are ever suspicious of anything truly major feel free to send a discrete message to the Mistress of Whisper's office, someone will attend to it if there is anything to be concerned about. Do you have any other questions?"
Ashlyn dons a mild pout, but it's gone quickly enough. "I do not, miss. I will consider your advice regarding acting and disguise, however, for I am sure the streets and shadows hold many things I would find interesting...or worth selling. You needed nothing else of me, linguistic or otherwise?" the femme male bawdily jokes.
Adara smiles softly and says, "Not this day, have no fear you will be paid for your services today. After all informal evaluations are hardly something you want people taking an interest in."
Ashlyn switches his expression to one of surprise, feigned innocence. "Heavens and skies, evaluation? Why I was just tending a dusky-skinned client, miss, one who, of course, was quite pleased with my comfort skills and bedside manor." Another wink, then Ashlyn rises, just the tiniest bit wobbly from the quickly ingested liquor, and moves to the door to show his guest out.
Adara smiles softly and says, "Just mind you keep your own tongue when you take in that much drink... Or anything else for that matter." as she allows herself to be escorted back to the main area before departing.
