It was a good thing Boorgrub had not completely put up the nonchalant mien he was trying to project, for as soon as he saw Eleni coming down the stairs it was utterly undone.

Eleni wasn't tall, not for a human anyway, but the way the paladin carried herself down the stairs made her the biggest thing in the room, at least in Boorgrub's mind. Regal, haughty, untouchable, all with just that hint of availability that turned men into fools. He was captivated by the way the loose strands of auburn hair danced around her smile with her movements, the serpentine flex of her braid. The brilliant gleam of her pale blue eyes, sparking brighter even than the rubies at her ears and around her slender throat. The pale expanse of skin above the dress...

And the dress! Tight everywhere a dress should be, flowing everywhere it should not. There were acclaimed artists, famous in their field, who would have wept at the sheer magnitude of trying to encompass the perfection coming down the stairs towards him. It wasn't often that Boorgrub felt small, rarer still that he felt helpless, but he was a rabbit in front of a serpent before the vision that was Eleni, coming to a stop before him, full lips moving as she spoke, a flash of pointed teeth, too sharp for a human, but perfect on her.

A blink and instinct took over, the goblin bowing his head respectfully, the tiny break in eye contact enough to get his brain running again. "I could not be more delighted that you approve, my lady." He brought his gaze back up to hers, a smile on his face. "You look..." Boorgrub faltered for a moment, then laughed softly. "Poets and artists could spend a lifetime trying to describe how amazing you look tonight and fail, and I am neither. You are simply stunning, Eleni."

The smile spread into a grin, and Eleni could see a bit of the swagger coming back into Boorgrub. "Dinner awaits milady, and I could not hope for better company. I have but one request." He chuckled gently. "I ask that you not sully your hands with a single door tonight. Every gate should be thrown wide in welcome for you, and I will make it so." Were they of a height, he would have offered an arm for her to take, but a hand would do for now. "Shall we be off?"

Hand in hand with the pale beauty, feeling at least ten feet tall as he caught some of the envious glances in their direction, Boorgrub led the way out of the Ruby Hearth, true to his word, making sure every door was open for his partner to pass through without hindrance or thought. Stepping to the curb outside the gardens, Boorgrub raised a hand and a sharp whistle, hailing a carriage to take them to The Spiced Kraken rather than dirty Eleni's sandals with walking.

That it meant he didn't have to ask directions was surely just a benefit.

Boorgrub had been a royal, in a small backwater country granted, but a royal nonetheless, and he made certain that the empress at his side felt like one as he gently helped her up into the carriage before boarding himself, taking a seat close beside her where they could talk as the horse and buggy made its way through Selenius' streets.

"Tell me about..." Boorgrub waited until Eleni was comfortably settled before starting to talk, but he spent the entire carriage ride trying to learn more about his companion, sharing his own stories as freely as he asked questions.

Eleni responded to his request for the doors with a polite "If that is what you desire, then I will surrender to your lead." She climbed into the carriage, not having expected to be able to get transportation to their venue. She answered all of his questions, not having any concerns about oversharing or being judged for her responses. She described some of her childhood, and the difficulties it presented. Losing a friend because you munched on a rabbit in front of her is devastating for a young girl of 8, even if it was needed. She talked of time on the waves, learning to run the sails and even operate the helm on occasion. She explained how Maestran remembered her 'birthday' even if she forgot, and how she owed Maestran more than she could ever repay. She also asked questions of her own, asking about his siblings and what having those was like, what having a true family was like, and what prompted him to choose adventuring.

Arriving at the Spiced Kraken, the scene was perfect. The sun wasn't set yet, though it would be past the horizon within the hour. There was soft music playing from somewhere, though where was tough to pinpoint. Subtle hints of magic were present all over the establishment, the candles offered the perfect amount of light, the plates were easy to hold and kept the meals warm, the tables cleaned themselves with a simple word. There was a nautical theme to all of the furniture, some being shaped like coral formations, some being of aquatic creatures, all carved in a vibrant wood. The craftsmanship was exquisite, even the table edges were works of art, and they even gave the impression of being alive. As they approached the front, the hostess got wide-eyed as she surveyed the two of them. She stammered out an "Excuse me, someone will be right with you." as she bolted for the back, and frantic talking ensued.

[Private to GM: I figured this would be a good time for Maestran's touch to enter, what with her prophetic powers. She'd easily be able to ensure the hostess knew to grab the owner of the Kraken.]

Step into the enchanting world of the Spiced Kraken, a culinary haven nestled upon an outcrop of rock, mere meters from the harbor, in the illustrious city of Selinus. Crafted from the weathered remnants of seafaring vessels, this architectural marvel beckons with the allure of the open sea.

The nautical essence permeates every corner, with mystical ship lanterns casting their ethereal glow both inside and out, while enchanted candles dance, mimicking the gentle play of moonlight upon the ocean's surface.

As the hostess returns, her smile a beacon of warmth, she presents the esteemed chef and owner, Bridget Do'mar, a radiant Aasimar Ranger whose journey from renowned ranger to culinary maestro is as captivating as the tides themselves. Draped in a gown of shimmering blues and greens, a tribute to the sea that fuels her creativity, Bridget extends a hearty welcome to Eleni and Boorgrub.

"Welcome, dear guests!" Bridget's voice is as melodious as the lapping waves. "Your timing is impeccable, and Head Priestess Maestran has ensured that your evening will be nothing short of divine. If you would follow me to your table?"

Upon reaching their secluded enclave, the chairs, masterfully carved with scenes of sea hunts, subtly accommodate the unique stature of Eleni and Boorgrub, ensuring their comfort and delight.

"As your personal chef this evening," Bridget announces with a flourish, "I invite you to indulge in our culinary treasures, while Tiffany attends to your every need. When you're ready to embark on your gastronomic voyage, simply signal, and our journey shall commence."

With Tiffany's arrival, a young half-orc brimming with enthusiasm, the stage is set for an epicurean adventure. Surrounded by the artistry of carved driftwood and the delicate fragrance of blood lilies, Eleni and Boorgrub find themselves ensconced in a cocoon of tranquility, awaiting the culinary delights that await.

Eleni knew this place was a good choice both from the way people talked about it, and the other was from Maestran herself. She often commented on food in relation to Bridget's cooking. To have things prepared by her was going to be a delight.

Eleni began by ordering some Mulled Wine, spiced with cinnamon, tangarine, and pineapple. The mix of fruits and spice yield a flavor that Eleni found heavenly. She ordered  Muffa T'qua, a dish of raw minced beef, garlic, onions, chives, olive oil, chili powder, and sweet paprika powder.

To her companion for the evening she says "They can make just about anything, but Maestran told me to try this one if I ever came here. Now it feels like she saw this coming and was ensuring I have a good time. Do not worry, I am."

With rapt attention and hanging on every word, Boorgrub followed the conversation during the carriage ride, holding up his end with the same frank openness Eleni offered, talking about his four siblings, of whom he was eldest by all of five minutes, of tutors and nannies, fencing classes and lessons in deportment, for his childhood had not precisely been normal either. He'd had few friends, only his siblings, being isolated by his family's noble status, and many of the tales were of the competitiveness of growing up goblin. Kitterquiq's chasing him into the hunting hounds kennels when they were six, and the resulting matching scars they both bore from the dogs, of getting stuck in the top of one of the oak trees for four hours because Gorsnab had bet him he couldn't climb it.

He talked too of the betrayal, of Fawani the half-elven advisor to his court, of the night of fire and slaughter that had run him from his barony. Of living on the streets, and the halfling cleric Tobias who'd dragged him out of the pit of self-pity and despair he'd fallen into, the decision to become an adventurer, to follow Haigha's will and see where Chance took him.

All too soon, they arrived at their destination, and after chivalrously helping his stunning companion down from the carriage, Boorgrub settled up with the driver, tipping him generously and letting the man know that if he were here again in a few hours, there might be another fare to earn before taking in the nautical splendor of The Spiced Kraken. His smile was broad, genuine, and tinged with a hint of wonder at the fascinating architecture and woodwork of the establishment, and it spread into a becoming grin as the owner herself returned to greet them. He dipped into a bow to the woman, a servant of protocol and politesse down to his core. "Our thanks for the warmth with which you, and your entire city have welcomed us Mistress Do'mar. I know now why so many are fortunate enough to call it home, for every person we have had the pleasure to meet has made it feel like one."

As the city's hospitality continued in abundance and they were guided to their table, Boorgrub's attention was once more firmly upon his companion for the evening. He assured she was seated and comfortable before taking his own place at the table, not missing the subtle nod to his stature that put them at eye level for the first time as he looked across at Eleni, losing himself in her cerulean gaze again for a moment. A soft shake of the head and he composed himself once more, focusing on the food and the menu for a moment.

"She may well have," the swashbuckler chuckled lightly. "High priestesses and mothers are famed for their ability to discern things that the layman does not see and subtly arrange affairs to ensure the unfolding of their grand design." He continued to look at the menu. "And if I am ensnared in one of Maestran's plans, it is most certainly with absolute pleasure."

He shot a playful wink across the table at his companion, setting the menu aside and looking at Tiffany. "The Morel Moscato for me if you would be so kind, and I think I will start with the mushroom risotto sampler. It has been a while since I've been able to truly enjoy the fruits of the soil, and what better time? I think though, despite Maestran's glowing recommendation, I will have the Filet and Lobster, rare."

Eleni was enjoying their date. She couldn't remember the last time she focused on her own happiness, let alone a meaningful relationship. Sure, she had tried to date once in a while, but generally was not able to do so for fear of her secret. "She always finds a way to help out. I am truly blessed."

As their drinks arrived she enjoys the wine, having little regard for the amount consumed. She rarely cut loose, and alcohol generally hit her less than the average person. She offers some to her companion, the sweet and warm wine a stark contrast to the typical cold beverage.

"How do you balance life on the road with your home and personal obligations? I always seem to make it back here, so it seems like I have solved that problem by accident." she asks.

Boorgrub gladly shared the mulled wine, letting the complex alchemy of flavors explode across his tongue, but only a sip, enjoying more the smile it was bringing to Eleni's face than the taste, though the taste was indeed heavenly. For a moment, he just closed his eyes as the alcohol and spices combined in a symphony on his tongue. "That is... Divine." A contented sigh and a broad smile. "Another of Maestran's recommendations? I am beginning to see from whence you acquired your excellent taste."

The goblin gladly reciprocated in sharing his wine, a dry, sharp vintage with a peaty, earthen undertone that practically cried for meat to go with it. It was certainly not an every-meal wine, but it was ideal for pairing with the buttery cut of beef he had ordered.

When the question came, Boorgrub's smile grew a little wan, but he answered honestly, just a hint of the pain of it peeking through. "I don't, or at least I haven't Eleni." He took another sip of his wine, looked heavenward. "I haven't been back in the Morres since I took up adventuring four years ago, haven't been home since Gorsnab's coup the year before. Life on the road, living hand to mouth, appealed more than being publically drawn and quartered for the crime of surviving." There was a bitter undertone to his voice as he explained, but he forced the smile to remain. "Another five years by my planning and I would have been ready to return, reclaim my home and throne, and set things right."

More wine, and he speared one of the mushrooms out of the risotto with a fork, slowly turning it before his crimson eyes for a moment. "Events have conspired to move that timetable up, and..." His gaze fell back to his companion, and the bitterness flowed out of his face. "I'm not ready yet, but that's not about to stop me. Things have to be set right, and if Chance has decided that now is the time, then now is the time." He grinned and popped the mushroom into his mouth.

Chewing quietly, he let the last of the bitterness go, tonight was not the night for it. This was a night to savor and to enjoy. Bitterness could wait. Swallowing, he turned the conversation to happier topics, to the wonders they'd encountered. "What was the Other Side like? You mentioned briefly that you had an audience with Hades? Was he like you expected?"

She listens as Boorgrub describes the events of his past, concern on her face. She did not know how siblings interacted not having any herself, but from what she had been told to be betrayed by one was not an easy thing to deal with. "I am sorry that you have had to endure such hardship. I am sure the full gravity of what was done to you is not something I can grasp but know that anyone who has wronged you has earned my ire. When the time comes to reclaim your birthright, my spear will be there to aid you." she explains. She had a conviction behind her words that left no doubt that the fire river Pyriphlegethon would freeze over before she would go back on her words.

Her meal comes in at that point, a delightfully prepared dish with all of the dazzlements needed to enhance the nearly raw meat. The smell of the life-giving juices were intoxicating, especially for one of the paladin's make. She eats with all of the grace and poise one would expect of someone with formal training in state dinners. Each fork had a purpose, each movement fluid yet reserved. Proper holding of each utensil, and even proper use of the two napkins.

Answering Boorgrub's last question, she explains: "Describing it is hard but I will do my best. Crossing the Veil is an exhaustive experience when it goes well, lethal when not. I think my unique biology allows for it to be easier, but even I still feel the weight of the Underworld when my spirit is there. Everything has a shadowy afterimage, whips of where things were or are going to be, almost like a preceding and anteceding fog. The only exceptions to this are the rivers themselves and anyone directly working for Lord Hades. Each river has a unique look to it as well as an effect it can impart. Oceanus is the boundary river, and looks like a deep blue sea with a slow eddy current. Stepping in conjures up strong feelings of fear, death, and strife to ensure the living do not accidentally push onward to the Underworld. Styx is the second crossing to reach my Lord's domain. It is called the river of oaths due to the tie it has to the fates. If an oath sworn on Styx is broken, the fates will bring woe and strife to the oathbreaker. Acheron is the river and lake, called the river of misery that keeps the spirits in the underworld. A ferryman is the only way across it, and he operates his small boat at the direction of Lord Hades. It is designed to keep the spirits inside my Lord's domain. Pyriphlegethon is the river of fire, and what most religions seem to associate with the underworld. It is so hot that it flows like water, but in reality is molten earth. It flows in to Acheron as does Styx. Cocytus is known as the river of wailing as the flowing of the river sounds similar to the cries of a mother that has lost a child. It surrounds a portion of the Underworld and drains into Tartarus, where the worst of the souls are sent for their penance. Finally Lethe is the river of forgetfulness. Normally, mortals who go into the Underworld leave by wading through this shallow river to forget their time below, but I was spared this labor."
She pauses for a moment, eating a bite of her meal and taking a drink before continuing.
"Meeting Lord Hades was a wonderful experience. He was nurturing, kind, and supportive. Rather than be upset at my lack of confidence and my worries about myself, he explained everything to me. He told me that he made me what I am to better carry out his needs on the material plane, and to understand my foe better. He said I was one of his Chosen, of which there is usually only one at a time. He also said we are on the right path with taking down the Maelstrom, and that the gods would provide whatever assistance they can. I am very confident in our ability to succeed, as my Lord would not give me an insurmountable task."

The smile on Boorgrub's face somehow transformed, becoming more warm and natural as Eleni voiced her support for him. A part of him, something brittle and delicate that he'd long ago buried sang out at the affirmation of his struggle, the show of support.

It had been a long time since he'd had family to count on.

There weren't words for it, not really, but he tried anyway. "I..." He spoke haltingly at first, his throat thick with emotion. "I knew... Trusted your hand and spear at my side already, but to hear it from you means everything. Thank you, Eleni. I... I do not know if Gorsnab's reckoning and our mission will overlap, but if they do not, I know which is the more important."

Dinner arrived at that point, the plate steaming as it was placed before him. Boorgrub didn't eat at first, just savoring the rich melange of aromas—butter, garlic, and rosemary —that had accompanied the succulent meats he'd ordered. Hands folded beneath his chin, he instead watched Eleni begin her meal, eyes tracking the small movements of her hands, the tip of the fork as it lifted, the curve of her lips as they enveloped that first bite, the small shiver as the juices exploded across her tongue. Pure pleasure; his partner was obviously satisfied with her dinner.

Now he could eat.

The former baron had not forgotten his court manners, nimble hands working with the implements to carve off one small, red, dripping slice of the thick filet, bringing it neatly to his own lips, the butter and beef fat mixing in a symphony as he took that first bite. Mistress Do'mar had provided sauces for the meal, clarified butter and lemon to go with the lobster, and a thick dark sauce redolent of whiskey to accompany the steak, but in Boorgrub's opinion, a steak should stand on its own merits. And this one certainly did, a look of sheer exultation spreading across the swashbuckler's face as the blood and meat and butter blended in his mouth.

When she began to explain her trip across the Veil, the goblin paused in his dining, sitting back with his wine, not wishing to miss a single detail of the journey. He knew some of it already, for Boorgrub was a student of a great many fields, religion among them, but the way she described the trip made it real, personal.

Visceral.

A sober nod, and a sip of wine. "It is a heady thing we do Eleni, the will of the gods." He smiled. "And your certainty is well founded, for I, too, have been in their presence recently. Haigha came to me last night in the gardens of the Ruby Hearth, charged me as Hades charged you to undo the Maelstrom, to aid us in whatever manner they could." He chuckled, letting it build into a soft cackle. "Though they could have picked bigger shoulders to lay the burden of saving the world on."

The laugh was fleeting, a light and self-deprecating bit of humor that passed in a moment. What replaced it was sober and serious, a touch hungry, though Boorgrub's smile remained in place. "If, however, saving the world means seeing the expression Mistress Do'mar's culinary skills put on your face more often, then I would be a fool indeed to refuse my part." He chuckled darkly, saluted the stunning woman sharing dinner with him with his wine, and sat forward to eat his own dinner with gusto, though never without every bit of manners he had been taught.

Eleni savors her meal, enjoying it slowly and pausing to listen to Boorgrub as he explains his encounter with Haigha and his delight at observing her. "First, your shoulders are plenty big. If not, I'll help you with it. Second, that expression is easy to find. All it takes is to make me very happy. You can do that, right?" she says with a healthy helping of mischief in her voice.

She gets another refill of her spiced wine and wraps up her meal. She continues to talk about a few times she was in this part of the city for her old job, specifically as a local bounty hunter. It was only a few years but it seemed a lifetime ago. Finally settling on something, she finishes her drink and asks "How does courting work with your position? Do you have an assigned marriage or do you have to engage with people of certain station? Most of the nobles I have seen have been human, elf, or half-elf and have mostly kept to themselves for romantic partners. I assumed politics played heavily into it. So, who can you court? she asks. The wine has put a deep rose hue on her cheeks and the small motions she makes are relaxed and fluid, a combination of natural grace and the drinks she has consumed.

Boorgrub laughed merrily at the way mischief made Eleni's eyes sparkle and the wry turn of the corner of her mouth, letting the paladin's mood infect him without hesitation. "I can. And will." He stated boldly, gesturing with his wine before he drank some more himself. "Though I will suggest an in-depth and likely repeated period of research to learn everything that makes you happy." The candlelight glinted off his teeth as he grinned at her.

He followed gladly as she led him through tales of her exploits, contributing a few of his own. He'd never been directly a man-hunter, not the way she had, but in the course of his adventures had taken a few small gangs down more indirectly. The swashbuckler was nodding and smiling, head bobbing along with the discussion when she asked her question, giving him pause. "My position?" He'd been so wrapped up in finding common ground with her that he'd forgotten for a moment that, at least on some level, he was still a noble.

It was a sobering thought. "It's... complicated. Which is understandable, given gnomes in government. I have yet to meet a gnome that couldn't take something complicated and make it more so." He chuckled a little and drank a bit more wine. Sitting forward, Boorgrub put his wine aside for a moment. "And it is complicated, as much by the three races philosophies as by the differences in biology. Were I still Baron, and if I become so again, the Electorate Counts will have a say in who I court as Baroness."

He chuckled softly. "There is a certain spirit among the people of the West Morres though. "Make it work." and that applies as much to noble pairings as any other aspect of our lives."

Boorgrub stopped for a moment, turning to Tiffany. "Could you bring us a pair," He glanced over at Eleni, remembering the night before. "No, better make it a tray of Friggates. Include some Sobeli Dark's please." He thought a bit more. "And a bottle of Narsharab Cognac."

He turned his attention back to Eleni once their hostess had departed. "If, for example, I were to court... Let us use you as an example." The smile on his face left little question that Boorgrub was intending just that. "The Electorate would almost assuredly sanction the pairing. You would bring honor, beauty, and elegance to the Baronial Assembly, along with strong ties to the Church, all of which are distinctly positive. So I have little doubt they would approve me courting you as Baroness."

Boorgrub waited for the cognac and sweets to be delivered before he continued, taking up the snifter of brandy and letting his hand warm it. "As I am not Baron at the moment though, I can court whomever I desire. I would very much like to court you Eleni, and if someday Chance conspires to make me Baron again, you would make a stunning Baroness. It is ever so convenient when life dovetails together like that."

Eleni lets out a genuine giggle, Boorgrubs research joke hitting home just right. Tonight was going perfectly.

She continued to listen intently despite the alcohol she had imbibed as he explained some of the difficulties of his station. She had assumed there would be something, and it was better to be prepared vice caught off-guard.

"I am glad the tradition that has one out is one of reason. 'Make it work' is a great ethos for such an industrious people."

Her eyes widened a bit as he ordered some of her favorite treats, both at the realization she could easily get them here and that they were already on the way. She LOVED the pastry delights.

"Oh, points for you tonight." she says in a sultry voice.

With his continued discussion on his peoples' courting practice, she listened and tried to find a reason she would not be able to do so. She did this out of a sense of preservation, so as not to be disappointed later for not noticing it, but no reason came. This made her excited, it could happen.

"Dovetail indeed. It is convenient there are effectively no rules right now. I would enjoy that too. Should we let the others know or keep it a secret for now? How does it work if we were already together and you reclaimed your title?" she considered another thought. "Have you decided what you are going to do about your brother when you do finally reclaim that title?" she asks, the words falling out before she realized they might be insensitive.

Boorgrub's steady efforts to appear cavalier and nonchalant around Eleni were being challenged at almost every turn, from the very girlish and utterly enticing giggle to the sultry purr as she approved his choice of after-dinner treats. A shiver ran up his spine as her voice teased through him, and the swashbuckler took a long drink of the amethyst liquor, as much to steady his nerves as for the flavor. How could the gods allow such an amazing creation loose upon the world? "If you've never tried them, the Sobeli's are a personal favorite." He leaned forward to pluck one of the dark pastries from the platter, admiring the sanguine color of the rich custard for a moment before he took a bite, letting the coppery tang of blood and bitterness of the chocolate blend on his tongue. Salty, savory, and with just a hint of sweetness to balance the richness. "Not quite as good as fresh, but they are a wonderful substitute."

He sat back, fastidiously making sure none of the rye had crumbed his shirt and vest, just taking in the divinity of his dining partner. "Have we anything to hide? Will we have something to hide?" A small, hungry smile crossed his face. "While I would gladly shout from every rooftop that you have deigned to bestow your attentions on me, I am neither braggart nor fool. If there are questions about our budding relationship, we answer them, of course, but otherwise, it is not truly their business with whom you or I find happiness."

His head tilted to the side as he considered her questions, the latter certainly dampening the salacious mood that was growing between them, but they were good and valid questions that deserved answering up front. "I should like to do a bit more research about the formal rules on the matter, but if I recall correctly, this would not be the first time one of the gentry was named to their holding whilst already being partnered." A slightly teasing smile spread across his face. "It would mandate a State-endorsed wedding, but I am sure between the two of us, we can convince the Triumvir and Electorate to see reason. Neither of us would settle for less, and I would not see you sullied with being a royal consort."

The smile faded a little. "As for my brother... He tried to have me killed, conspired with the elves of the Ebon Hopentaur to overthrow me, and somehow managed to convince the Electorate to let him keep the throne." The goblin's voice had grown hard. "I would see the situation on the ground before I decide, but I do not expect to be either charitable or merciful in my judgment when I take back the Barony. Good people died because of him, and Gorsnab will answer for that. Most likely with his life."

Boorgrub paused there, taking a deep breath, and lifting his snifter of cognac again to sip at it. "I am sorry, Eleni, tonight should be only about pleasure, and I have allowed it to turn to politics. I would have it return to happier topics, but before we do, I should ask. What about your side of this equation? You are a servant of Hades and the Church. How much say do they have in who you choose to court?"

Today: Sir Boorgrub Pandilk the 7th rolled 16,3 using d20+8,d6 with rolls of 8,3. Knowledge (Nobility) Rules? We have Rules?!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:17, Fri 08 Mar.

Eleni nods along as he talks. "That seems reasonable. I did not want to put you in a hard spot with your station, if it was easier for you to conceal things I was going to tell you I would be okay with that, but since it is not needed we do not need to worry."

When he describes the desires he has regarding his brother, she offers support, placing a hand on his hand and offering a soft squeeze. "Based on what I know so far, that may be the appropriate course of action. Whatever you decide, you need not worry. I have faith you will make the choices best for yourself and your people."

When he asks about her potential conflicts she giggles a bit. She gets ahold of herself and replies with a wide grin. "OH, You have nothing to worry about. This whole experience tonight has Maestran's hands all over it. Further, as a Chosen One I have a large amount of latitude on how I execute my charge, and finally..." she pauses for a second to add to the drama... "Hades and his siblings are known for promiscuity, to put it politely. Celebrating life with another is a great way to respect the inevitably of death too. Fear not, my obligations to the divine will not prevent a romantic partner."

She devoured one of the pastries with only two bites, her pointed claim to monstrous heritage fully displayed. Even with the shift from polite dining to barely contained ravenous consumption, she was able to maintain herself clean and failed to wear any of her dessert.

"I think," Boorgrub said, as he continued to carefully consume his own Friggate. "It will be a harder position to conceal my affections for you than it will be to deal with the repercussions of them, not that I expect many." He smiled broadly taking a small bite and letting the custard melt in his mouth for a moment. "You stir something within me Eleni, something that does not skulk about in the shadows. A fierce and uncompromising desire, and I, for one, would not try to leash that."

As one by one, the friggates disappeared, and the sun outside sank into the sea, a barely acknowledged, if stunning display of reds, oranges, purples, and golds, Boorgrub continued to eat lightly and drink more than moderately, for his admission that his companion undid his control was no lie, the goblin basking in the attention of the most beautiful woman he had ever had the pleasure of sharing company with. He grinned, a fierce and borderline savage thing as Eleni bared her fangs, putting her true self on display and stirring the beast within Boorgrub to new and passionate heights. Finishing his cognac, and giving a glance to the now empty platter of friggates, the swashbuckler turned his attention once more to the woman across from him. "Should we get another tray? Or would milady prefer to save some of her hunger for more... Sanguine desserts?" He winked flirtatiously, making it abundantly clear what he was offering.

Boorgrub slid from his seat, around the table to offer Eleni a hand, the alcohol he'd consumed barely showing in his graceful movements. "Would you do me the honor of joining me for a moment on the patio Eleni? This has been a magical evening, and if I may, I would like to add one last note to the symphony of wonders."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:53, Sat 09 Mar.

Eleni considers for a minute. "Understand if we go down the sanguine path, that it will mean some lethargy for you tomorrow. I am willing, but I want to make sure you fully understand what you are offering before we do anything like that." she explains. While it seemed a fun way to double dip on indulgences, she had to ensure he understood what the aftermath was going to be like.

She gracefully rises to her sandaled feet at his request and took his extended hand. Continuing the metaphor she says "With a conductor such as yourself, the only possible outcome was perfection."

Boorgrub was all smiles at the compliment, pleased beyond words that the date was going so well. Gently guiding Eleni from their dining table out towards the small patio area with a light hand on the small of her back, he brought them to a stop in the growing darkness, the first stars just starting to peek out from behind the veil of night. A shiver ran down his spine as the evening breeze caressed them, a poignant counterpoint to the heat of their evening so far. "Wait here... Just for a moment."

Boorgrub withdrew, finding Tiffany near the door and whispering something to her before he returned. As he did, there was a soft clink of glass on glass, and the gentle music that had been accompanying their evening changed, into something slower, more melodic. The goblin placed his hand on the small of Eleni's back again, but when his voice came again it was different, behind her ear instead of rising from below. "I have just enough magic for one dance like this, Eleni..." He stepped around in front of her, his proportions unchanged, but Boorgrub was perhaps half a head taller than Eleni now. "And I would lose myself in the unending sky of your eyes if you would do me the honor of sharing it with me."

Eleni took the moment he stepped away to let the sounds and view wash over her. The music tempo changed and she found she liked it. As he spoke, she let out a small gasp of surprise which melted into a delighted smile as she turned around and found herself looking slightly up at her companion. "Of course I will, how could I pass on such a wonderful treat? she holds her hands out slightly to allow him to choose their positioning as she was unsure of which dance he was going to choose. Either way, her gesture was one that indicated her dance partner should lead.

Boorgrub stepped closer, one arm coiling around Eleni into the small of her back again, skin rasping across the silk of her dress as the other gently cupped her shoulder, holding her a finger breadth distant, which at this point was the breadth of the goblin's control. He met her eyes again, sinking into the brilliant blue of them with a contented sigh as he took the lead.

Knowing more about her upbringing now, Boorgrub could have taken them into a complex waltz or any of a dozen other dances, trusting that she could keep up, but the goblin didn't. He just moved in harmony with her, letting their bodies find the rhythm of the music and each other. It was never a formal dance; it was just two bodies moving together.

This close she could see the heat in his gaze, the hunger there the noble was keeping a tight rein on. "I do understand there will be consequences for offering myself to you Eleni." He closed that last slim separation between them, gracefully pressing their bodies together and bringing his lips close enough to her ear that she could feel the heat of his breath as he whispered into it. "And I offer myself freely to you. I trust you in every way I can imagine Eleni, and I want to give you every pleasure you crave. Be my baroness, my queen, my empress. No matter what path our lives take, be at my side as I hunger to be at yours."

Forever long, and far too soon the magic began to wane, the music stopping even as Boorgrub shrank back to his usual size, leaving him holding her hands in his. "The choice as ever is yours, Eleni. But know that I do not fear you, or your needs. They are my needs now, without hesitation or regret."

Eleni enjoyed the dance. Even without being rehearsed it felt right. Each of them was in tune and stride with the other. "As long as you are sure, then okay. We'll need a more private setting for that particular activity."

She enjoyed the music while it played and watched her partner shrink down back to his normal size. His final endorsement of her was a perfect end to the dance. "And yours shall be mine as well. Where shall we go next?" she asks, suddenly full from the meal settling and starving for something else.

There was a storm building behind those perfect cerulean eyes, a heat and hunger at least as large as his own. Boorgrub could see it, could feel it in the heat of her hands clasped in his, could smell it on the cool evening air. A fierce grin spread across his face at the dawning realization that he had but a few minutes before that hunger consumed them both, right here, and damn the spectators.

"I am sure. In every possible way, I am certain. No more holding back, no more distance between us." He moved in beside her, sliding an arm around Eleni's waist and starting the towards the exit. "Let us find our privacy, sate the hunger that aches within us both."

Despite every fiber of his being screaming out to take her here, now, Boorgrub remained a gentleman and a noble, holding to his word that every door be held wide for his companion, his touch chaste. Settling up with Mistress Do'mar took a brief moment, and entirely too long before they were once more outside in the evening air, the carriage from before awaiting them. Chivalrously assisting the stunning redhead into the cabin, Boorgrub smiled up at the driver. "The Ruby Hearth if you please, and announce when we arrive."

Following Eleni into the carriage, Boorgrub paused, hungry eyes roaming over her, drinking in every inch of the sensual display, from the barely there straps of her sandals, up along the alabaster pillars of her slender calves across the dress and to her face, rosy and flushed with drink and desire.

It was a tableau fit for the gods themselves.

The swashbuckler slid onto the seat next to her, his leg against hers as it had not been on the ride there. Whatever distance etiquette had demanded of him before was drowned under the surging desire Eleni stirred in his body. He touched now, too, fingers running lightly across the silk sheathing her thigh, teasing the slippery fabric over sensitive skin. His voice was soft, husky, and thick with desire. "I dare no more, Eleni, not yet. Soon, though, soon."

Gods above how he wanted to kiss her, to take her head in hand and feel those perfect cupids-bow lips pressed to his. Wanted to feel them against his neck, parting as her fangs pressed into him. "And not soon enough."

Eleni enjoyed being swept up in the moment. She barely registered getting into their ride, her focus elsewhere. Her hands began to wander even as his started their journey. She pressed only hard enough to feel his body through his shirt, tracing muscle after muscle as she continued to explore without going beneath fabric. "I will endeavor to restrain myself, you are just delectable." she says with a playful dance of her tongue across her lips.

Encouraged and enflamed by the caresses of Eleni's hands across his muscles, Boorgrub's nimble fingers went further, a touch at the hip, gliding caresses across her taut stomach, higher still, daring to trace across the bare skin exposed above the crimson flame of her dress, arms and shoulders, collarbone and neck. His breath was coming in short pants now, and the animal within was straining at the chain, his hand sliding higher, behind her head, tangling in that glorious auburn hair, closing the distance...

"We've arrived milord." The driver's voice wasn't quite neutral, a note of amusement in his tone. He knew full well what had been happening in his carriage, and the low, hungry snarl from Boorgrub only made him smirk.

The wild look in the goblin's eyes danced and strained to break free, and only the azure pools of Eleni's eyes, inches away and mirroring his hunger let Boorgrub tame the beast for a moment. "Thank you my good man..." The swashbuckler slipped to his feet with liquid grace, offering a hand to his paramour to assist her in exiting the small cab, though in truth no help was needed. He just hungered for her touch.

Stepping down from the carriage, Boorgrub paid the fare, a generous tip, and sent the man on his way before returning to Eleni's side, his clothing a bit rumpled, and not a bit of care in his mind at the state of it. The garden and common room passed in a blur for Boorgrub, only years of training allowing him to maintain his decorum and proper behavior. It seemed a blink, and they were standing outside Eleni's door, the last threshold. The swashbuckler looked up at her, his voice thick with desire. "From here, I am in your hands, dear Eleni. I would follow wherever you lead."

She slowly opens the door, revealing her room to him for the first time. It is neatly kept up, her armor, spear, and shield curiously absent. Candles are arranged near the small desk in the corner, all alight with soft greenish radiance. She saunters inside, reaching towards her companion as she wordlessly beckons him inside. She drops one strap from her shoulder, leaving only the few threads that make the other one to defy gravity. Her sandals left her feet at some point during the walk to her bed, easy to miss with the view. She looks over her shoulder at him and says "I might need some help here." as she raised the shoulder with the offending strap, causing it to shift slightly down towards falling. It didn't need help, but she clearly wanted him to be the one to take it off.

He understood as he followed the beckoning gesture into Eleni's room. Understood how sirens took their prey, for Boorgrub could not imagine a single thing that would keep him from following Eleni toward her bed. Nimble fingers worked a dance all their own as he crossed the distance, his vest laid neatly over the footboard of the bed, and the laces of his shirt undone by the time he reached her back.

Boorgrub could have, hungered to, simply move the offending strap, let the dress fall as it would, but this was the last step of a dance. One that would lead into the first steps of a new dance, and so, as his thumb slipped beneath the strap, lifted it that inch that would let it fall, Boorgrub didn't let the dress fall. The goblin removed it, letting his hands caress every inch of her body as he and the dress descended it, leaving her standing in a ring of crimson she was able to step out of.

The swashbuckler took that same slow time in rising with the dress, lips and fingers worshiping every inch of pale flesh presented to him as he stood, fastidiously folding Eleni's dress and laying it across his vest to protect it. His own silken shirt followed, leaving the lithe expanse of his torso exposed as he turned back to the pale goddess gleaming in the candlelight. Two short steps and Boorgrub was mere inches from touching Eleni when he stopped, the hungry fire in his eyes matched by hers.

Wordlessly, without hesitation, Boorgrub tilted his head to the side, laid his long ear back, and exposed the slim line of his neck to his lover. Eyes closed, trusting utterly that he was safe, he offered himself entirely to the paladin.

As ruby red lips parted, and a flash of overlong canines glinted in the candlelight, unseen and unnoticed by either of them, an invisible four-winged raven quietly shut the door.

And with that, we fade to black.