Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588 
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Post by Ivory on May 3, 2021 17:35:29 GMT -8
There was a slight smile as Riley accepted the need for secrecy until things become more clear. They were a Darkling, Ivory assumed they understood her need.
A slight nod followed as the conversation moved to her and Archie being on speaking terms.
"I reached out and invited him to brunch. My little attempt of an olive branch, though I am uncertain of its success," she said, "He has very strong opinions about how I am choosing to approach the politics of our company. He suggested I follow the two of you to attain the attentions of the same manager, as he feels the alternative is medocrity. I told him I would consider his words... and I have."
There was a sigh at the comment of Nimbus' ineffectiveness.
"I have found similar concerns," the Pale Dragon admitted, "Chiefly, I do not desire to work for his paramour, as I assume she is fulfilling a number of duties due to his complacency. I am told she can be a jealous sort and I have little interest in continuously offering assurances that my interest in her partner is one of business rather than romance."
Another drink is taken as the Darkling speaks of the current events influencing their position on whom to seek vassalage with.
"I understand your position," she said, "He is a safe choice in that regard. So long as you can rise above the rest seeking his favor."
With power and longevity came a long line of potential proteges. The reality was that Riley and Archie would be competing with many if they sought to become a favored vassal of the Knight of Coin.
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Riley Sorsa
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Presence (3) Captivating | SL(1) Stylish Mantle (2)Spring | Status(1) Entertainment
Posts: 913
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 3, 2021 17:50:16 GMT -8
"He would have been a good choice if I was considering my career," Riley remarks regarding Nimbus.
"But at this time, that's not something I need more support in. And I heard similar regardin' her. I reckon we wouldn't rub shoulders well. But that's neither here nor there. "
Riley nodded, regarding Ivory for a moment, curious where the Pale Dragon was landing regarding the two knights.
"Your not wrong; it won't be no cakewalk. And some aspects of that arrangement and the culture around it can be...undesirable to some. But I have been those waters once or twice before."
The moth smiled for a moment considering the choices coming. Perhaps Ivory was considering Chugunkin as well. It would mean the two would work closer together, something the darkling didn't mind, but also could lead to some competition as Ivory had noted. Riley couldn't quite tell if that was stressful or exciting. Taking a sip of their drink, they turn to Ivory.
"You could always skip the leaves of the flower and go straight for the Blossom. I am not sure what that would look like in a business sense, as she doesn't make many appearances. But perhaps that level of discreteness might be to your benefit? "
Vassal straight to the Queen was an option Riley had considered. But there was always the problem that could draw unwanted attention.
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 3, 2021 20:04:11 GMT -8
Ivory listened, nodding slightly as the Darkling outlined her reasons for shifting from Chugunkin. Riley didn't need to explain themself to Ivory, but she appreciated the sentiment.
"Contrary to what some might believe, I do have some understanding in what I choose to speak about," Ivory offered as Riley agreed to her assessment. Archie's talk with her evidenced his distrust of her vision. It was endearing in a way, but also irritating. She was more than just Pendragon's paramour. She was his student. "Which is why my course remains somewhat unchanged. I still will not be following you two in your journey for sponsorship."
The Pale Dragon put it plainly enough. Despite her misgivings regarding Nimbus, it was not enough to sway her to Chugunkin's camp.
"It is wholly undesirable for me, unfortunately," she said as Riley spoke of the coming difficulties they felt they would need to endure, "I recognize many don't have a choice in the matter. Given the need for paperwork and the like... but the reality is that the state of my affairs allows me certain freedoms. And I choose to remain apart from his affairs."
"I bear no judgement to those who do," she reiterated, lest she be seen as less-than-empathetic, "but there is no reason for me to put my assets at risk when other options beyond him and Neil are available."
Alexandrite had been knighted. She doubted he would be taking vassals so early on, but he would be pushed to do so eventually. The question was whether or not she could endure in her independence before then. Whether or not they were a good match for one another would also need to be explored.
"Mmm, I would need to learn more of her before I committed to such a thing," Ivory offered, "For now, I will remain independent. Though I doubt the powers that be will allow that for long."
News of her growth in Spring was bound to spread, if it had not done so already. Eventually, Ivory would be pressured.
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Riley Sorsa
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 3, 2021 20:47:22 GMT -8
The corner of their lips tilted upward in a slight smirk as Ivory stated that she planned to remain independent.
"Those freedoms are your privilege and right. I don't blame you for taking advantage of em' Hell I would probably do the same"
Ivory had Pendragon's name and enough resources to bank her own ventures. Churgunkin could be a stain on that public face if handled wrong, the Darkling figured. Despite understanding this, the Moth felt couldn't help but feel a tinge of envy in their gut.
"Perhaps." Riley remarks at the idea that Spring officials might come knocking.
"But it might give you time to establish something for yourself within all of this. If you wanted it"
Riley gave a light shrug. They wanted similar things as far as they had figured, security and protection of the things that mattered to them.
"Archie has strong opinions and sticks to him. Something I like about him. We don't always agree, mind you. I am not sure what he said to you, but."
They set the drink down on the bar running their finger along its crystal lip in slow, thoughtful circles.
"I ain't one to tell ya what to do either. But use that freedom and time you've got to set whatever path is your making. Before circumstances say otherwise. Ya gotta make those choices for yourself"
Tensions were mounting between the low seasons and high seasons since the fall, and it felt every day like the screw was being tightened. With the recent announcement from the Queen, Riley's anxiety about the future sat heavily on their shoulders. Realizing they gave unsolicited advice, the Bright One frowned slightly, waving their hand as if to disregard the comment.
"Sorry, politics been on the brain a lot these days"
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 4, 2021 6:35:36 GMT -8
There was a thankful nod at Riley's supportive words of her choosing to make use of her privileges. Ivory had earned the ability to pick and choose. She would be foolish not to do so.
"That means more than you know," she offered, "I understand my good fortune is not shared by others. Things have not always been this way, but I need to do what's best for me given recent developments."
There was a slight shrug at the notion that she had time to prepare before recruitment became too frequent to ignore.
"I have time for now," she says, "If I am blessed yet again I am certain I will have far less time to make a decision."
A light laugh sounded as Riley confirmed their knowledge of how headstrong their motley mate could be, the advice is met with an appreciative nod.
"I'd be worried if it wasn't," the Pale Dragon replied, speaking of politics, "Your rise is inevitable and it is good to know you wish to be prepared."
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Riley Sorsa
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Posts: 913
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 4, 2021 14:32:57 GMT -8
"Inevitable?" Riley shook their head. They weren't so confident as the Fairest on that account.
"I Don't know about that, but I am trying."
Their own growth in the mantle was something the moth was adjusting to. The soft motes of dust refracting their own inner light into gentle rays. Leaving the Bright one in a timeless light.
They knew it would give them some leverage in the workings of the court and seeking vassalage, but the experience of it was still new.
While they had just tried to pull away from politics, the Darkling found themself with a further question for their night's companion.
"If I may. Have you put much thought into what you want from within the society?" Riley raised an eyebrow. They figured Ivory had plans or goals but was curious to see what she wanted from or the role she wanted to play within the court. Not everyone had lofty goals, some were content with their station, but Riley figured the Dragon was not easily satisfied.
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 4, 2021 19:22:24 GMT -8
Ivory smirked as Riley sought to unseat themself from her proclamation.
"You are too modest, but... if you don't trust my opinion ask yourself this," Ivory began, "Do you believe Mr. Hartman would have attached himself to you so heavily if he didn't believe so? His opinion is one you trust, isn't it?"
Whether Riley was blind to their own appeal or not was ultimately unimportant, but Ivory treasured their conversations due to the candor within them. At best, it was true and Riley did not understand their coming fate, in which case Ivory was all too happy to help their vision be corrected. At worst, Riley was downplaying their talents and place in the Verdant Court for Ivory's benefit due to her recent stagnation. Ivory did not desire to be coddled.
"You will bloom," the Pale Dragon gently assured.
There was a light laugh at the question of what Ivory wanted from this life as she pulled another drink from her class.
"I want it to be understood what I'm capable of," Ivory answered, "I want our society to understand I am more than a widowed trophy-wife. I created much of my wealth on my own, you know, though I'll agree that Arthur's tutelage helped. Few choose to see that and, in time, I will see them corrected."
The halo that was an extension of the dragon's mantle flared at the words. The gilded gaze shifted back Riley's back orbs.
"More than that? I want people to understand they can come to me if they need assistance in this life we lead," she continued, "I want them to know I will assist, if their need is genuine. Finally, I want people to understand that my family is not a toy or a political tool. If someone attempts to manipulate or use my son? I want them to know there are consequences and that those consequences are best left avoided."
Golden eyes remained locked on Riley as a pause stagnated in the air.
"And you?" she asked, finally breaking the silence.
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Riley Sorsa
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 5, 2021 6:20:12 GMT -8
"Thanks," Riley said with a soft smile. They appreciated Ivory's opinion of them and the trust that Riley eventually had a place. The Darkling, however, was never quite sure how to handle compliments like that.
The dragon's mantle leads weight to her determined words. The anticipation of each word drew the Darkling in as Ivory expressed her desires for where she belonged.
To be seen, respected, and valued for her talents and not to be fucked with.
Boiled down like that, they felt like simple desires, but to manifest those was no simple act. The Bright One found the desires to be wholly relatable.
Maybe we all just want the same things in the end. Mused the Moth.
They let the pause linger for a moment, processing the stated and powerful wants of the Pale Dragon. Once the silence was broken, the-wisp smiled.
Before answering in turn, Riley lifted their glass off the bar in an informal toast to the Pale Dragons' desires.
"I hope spring will gift you those desires. And for the ones it doesn't, here's to having the strength to carve em' out for yer self. "
They took a sip and smiled, taking a moment to think how to word their own wants.
"I want to contribute more than just being a pretty little thang. I want a name."
A name is Power.
"When I first came out, both in sexuality and eventually my gender. It felt like I had pulled a knife out of my gut: that pain, shame, guilt. I reckon we all have it. Stoppin' us, tricking' us from admitin' the thangs we want."
The Darkling paused, trying to find the words.
"I want to destroy that shame, give folk a place find themself and their desires. Lackin' that I want to inspire what could be."
The moth waves their hand slightly in a small fluttering motion. The moth wasn't as forward as the Fairest regarding how they wanted others to perceive them, the security or Power that came with a purpose.
"But with recent events. I wonder if perhaps another path is needed. What I ain't sure. But given it all... well, I wanna make sure I ain't just another piece on someone else's board. "
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 6, 2021 15:54:39 GMT -8
There was a a slight chuckle at the Moth's toast, but the Dragon raised her glass all the same and took a drink.
"It won't," she offered, "Those wants are too expansive to fit within the brevity of a season, unfortunately, but... we will see what else the season holds."
The lives of the lost were full of trials and tribulations, Ivory had no reason to suspect that such things had waned for her. The Game never ends.
As more of the Darkling's twang dripped into their words Ivory would smile.
"A foundation sounds like a good start," she offered, "Like a show where door fees contribute to funds for LGBTQIA college tuition scholarship or the formation of a group home for people struggling. Little things that show that everyone deserves an equal field of opportunity."
There was a slow nod as Riley spoke of an errant thought of whether or not a divergence in their path might be necessary.
"I... won't speak too much on the matter, I've made my stance on it plain," she said, referring to CHugunkin as a potential sponsor and her desire to keep her affairs rooted in legitimate means, "What I will say is that a chance to become a cog in someone else's machine will be a frequent danger whichever path you choose. There will always be someone seeking to take advantage of your talents. It is the nature of things."
As her words near their end, the Pale Dragon would pivot her body.
"At the end of the day, this is why we seek the company of those we trust, no? True friends who have little to gain from hampering one another," she said, "It sounds like you've already done so. In so doing, you're already proving to be more than beautiful, Riley. Those who abide strictly by their looks in order to carry on through life rarely consider their obstacles. You are far different."
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Riley Sorsa
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 6, 2021 17:40:14 GMT -8
Riley listened, giving a slight nod in time. At the talk of foundations or a show. The Moth considered it for a moment before Ivory moved to speak about Chungkin and the role of being another person's cog.
The Moth gave a slightly weary smile. Others taking advantage of their talents were almost half their work, be it a stripper, burlesque performer, escort, or otherwise. It was a push and pull of their career. They needed no reminding, sadly.
" I know this all to well. I have found that half of it is knowin' when others are taking advantage of you or when you're allowin' them to benefit from your talents. Knowin', when which, is which, and when they are in your benefit...has been..an important life lesson."
For a moment Rileys mood seemed to waiver at the thought. But quickly they recovered. The Moth smiled softly. Luckily these days, the balance had shifted, and they were finding they were deciding how their talents were being used, more often than not.
Suddenly a sparkle shimmered in the Moth's eye, and their mantle seemed to bloom like an over-exposed retro photograph. A wicked smile crossed their face as they placed down their glass again.
"Wait, let's go back. So you were talking about a show or a fundraiser as such? " The Wisp beamed, obviously thought was brewing in their mind.
" That...that is an excellent idea Abigail"
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 8, 2021 11:41:34 GMT -8
Ivory granted the Moth an understanding glance. Lessons of this nature were usually hard-learned.
"Arthur used to say 'Always give people a chance, but always at least consider the worst.'" Ivory mused, "When one lives strictly along the lines of optimism and forced positivity, the only path they will tread upon eventually is delusion. And that can be a dangerous thing for us... I'm glad to hear you agree. Our suspicions and bad feelings exist for a reason. Sometimes it helps to listen to them rather than ignore them."
This wasn't a lesson, but Riley and others had commented that Ivory had come off as condescending before. The last words were her attempt to show she understood what this was: A conversation between likeminded individuals.
The Pale Dragon's free hand would drift over to the weary Bright One's shoulder, her expression offering a reassuring smile. After a moment it would be removed. It was becoming apparent to Ivory over their interactions that Riley disliked portraying their vulnerability, so she saw little need to discomfort the Moth.
At the compliment, the Pale Dragon grinned.
"Abigail Cartwright knows more than just parties and spending money?" she said, her tone one of sarcastic sass, "No that can't be right. Say it ain't so."
Ivory was thankful for the compliment, but clearly elements of recent events and feelings of being snubbed still had their effects. Ivory was well aware of how she was considered. She doubted her growth in the Mantle changed much in the way of attitudes.
In time they would see.
"Do you have a venue in mind?" she asked, "Dani works at a bar that could be receptive to such an event, does she not? The foundation is there, all that remains is working with an existing scholarship or non-profit to whom you can donate the proceeds. Well, that and gathering performers who are willing to part with tips received. You could even create your own foundation with the same goal, though it may be simpler to work with an organization that is already established. It gives your event more prestige and clout, though you will have less control of where the money goes."
Riley's slight desire was noted and Ivory was happy to assist them in fulfilling it. The aftertaste would be better than Whitney at any rate.
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Riley Sorsa
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 9, 2021 8:33:40 GMT -8
Riley gave a small smile at the reassuring touch. It was a short moment, but the conversation soon moved towards fundraisers and events. The Bright one rolled their eyes playfully at Ivory's sarcastic sass.
"Venue? hardly," Riley admitted. "Honestly, hadn't thought about an event till you mentioned it"
The moth gave an appreciative nod. A fundraiser might be the answer to some of their current dilemmas. They tapped their fingers idly on the bar in thought.
"Dani's bar could work, dependin' on the event size" Riley gave a smile to Ivory.
"I am not very good with the whole organizin' of people. Don't really know any foundations. But performers? Entertainers? That I can pull together. But an event raising money for either supporting LGBTQAI or sex workers. Well, It feels right. "
Riley waved to get the bartender's attention, looking to the Pale dragon as they awaited to put in a second drink order.
"Would you be interested in helping attach a foundation? Of course you would receive a percentage of the earnings. I have some cash right now that I can use to help cover costs"
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
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Post by Ivory on May 9, 2021 18:33:10 GMT -8
Ivory liked this. Seeing the wheels turn in Riley's eye was fulfilling in it's own way. The Darkling was beginning to think about what they could do to help the community going forward.
It was good to see.
"Small events aren't always the worst way to go," Ivory offers as Riley muses what size of the event might take, "Sometimes they're good for getting your feet wet. Getting you comfortable."
Blowing oodles of money on a large event didn't always go well if it was mishandled.
Can you say Fire Festival?
However, at the question of whether or not she would help them, there was a marked hesitance in Ivory's features. As the bartender arrived she would quietly order a second Cosmopolitan and muse over her response for some moments before speaking.
"I'll admit I'm surprised you would ask me to assist," Ivory said, "Mr. Hartman and I have discussed charity work on occasion and he seems well-informed. I wouldn't want to impose on your partnership... Why ask me over him?"
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Riley Sorsa
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Presence (3) Captivating | SL(1) Stylish Mantle (2)Spring | Status(1) Entertainment
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Post by Riley Sorsa on May 10, 2021 17:14:06 GMT -8
The bright one gave an affirming nod at the mention that smaller events could be an excellent place to start.
"That's true. Starting small allows for mistakes to be lessons instead of setbacks."
The moth collected their drink, turning back to Ivory.
The Pale dragon showed hesitation at the question, which caused the Twilight Dancers antenna to flick cautiously. Then, the darkling's mind began to jump to conclusions before Ivory broke the moment by expressing her concerns.
"I can understand that. We are close, but no one person can be everything for you. " One of the moths many philosophies on relations.
" Recently, Archie has challenged me to find success on my own two feet. A lesson of sorts. That aside, I also trust your judgment, and I reckon it plays to both of our ambitions. And shares common interests, particularly in the LGBTQ community."
Riley takes a sip and adds with a smile.
"it's ah'rite to say no as well. Or think about the offer. I understand such a project may be inconvenient with other plans. "
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Ivory
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Pres 4 (Regal) - SL 1 (Noble) Fairest Hunterheart
Posts: 588
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Post by Ivory on May 15, 2021 16:09:16 GMT -8
There was a smile as Riley began to see the benefits of starting small before going big.
"Ah, but you don't have one. You have two," she offered, referencing the Moth's new motley.
Their was a slight roll of the Pale Dragon's eyes as Riley explained Archie was trying to teach them to stand alone. It was an interesting viewpoint, but Ivory felt the Bright One already knew how to survive. Ivory had to wonder if Archie felt little about his motley mate.
"I see..." she said, "It's not that I don't want to, Riley, but their is a dance to these things. Mr. Hartman and I do not have the best history, thus I do not believe my help is in your interests. There is a chance my involvement could irk your ally and I have no desire to see those bonds grow tense."
It wasn't a 'no' necessarily, but Ivory didn't want to risk Archie thinking less of the Moth for seeking her assistance. She was not entirely convinced Archie would take the situation as it was. The bond of a motley pledge needed to be respected and Ivory didn't feel particularly assured that her presence in Riley's plans would not affect them.
"Discuss it with your friends, if they are receptive then I am more than willing to help," she said, "Otherwise, I am afraid you will need to ask someone else. Danica. Or maybe our favorite unicorn."
Danica made sense considering she worked at the joint. The inclusion of Agrippa was a given to the dragon. They were quite sociable and disarming, which were two great qualities to have when one was seeking funding.
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