Lotus Blossom

"I find it amusing." Mae said, quite decisively with a smile.

"Nothing in particular. As glad as I am that you've found yourself at home in these rooms, by means I do not know, as I possess one of three keys to this house, I do think it intrusive, if not dangerous for your own wellbeing, if you are to wander about these floors for an undetermined amount of time."

"Excellent, thank you. Did you eat?"

"Why wouldn't I? Please, sit." Mae sat on the velvet couch opposite of the one Envoy was standing by.

"Well," Mae said, after a brief moment of silence once Cedric had excused himself, "I am deeply sorry, Lord John, but I'm afraid I've just realized that I have some quite urgent matters to tend to. Please, make yourself at home here, and take advantage of whatever our servants may have to offer. The desert, I'm told, is very sophisticated and simply divine. Now, I do hope I will be back in just a few moments, but if I do keep you waiting, send for me before you leave. I couldn't bear to miss your exit. Cedric will come out to bid you farewell too, I assume. Until then, I must excuse myself." Mae smiled cheerily at Lord John before turning on her heel and quickly rushing down the hall, taking two right turns followed by a left. She found the door into one of the various studies of their manor. She knocked, and before expecting an answer, let herself in. The room had long dark olive green drapes over a large window, two musty green velvet couches facing each other, wooden bookshelves on two of the walls, and three portraits hanging on the third wall over a desk with an old globe. "I knew I'd find you here," she almost whispered. @The Aspiring Archivist @The Wandering Wizard

"Oh my, thank you, sir. I believe it is quite the opposite, though. I don't know what I'd do having not met your son. I daresay he truly is a gift to this world we live in." She smiled, looking at Cedric once more. @Ookla the Yellow Sock

"Well, that truly is a shame. I would be very willing to... talk to them from time to time. I find it simply repulsive that servants who have the honor to work in an incredibly respectable house such as yours would find it in any way acceptable to behave without perfection and excellence. In this household, the servants must memorize: Cum gratia, excellentia, et decentia hostem superare, nunquam supra locum nostrum ascendentem, et solum reverenter agentem. With grace, excellence, and propriety to overpower the enemy, never rising above our place, and only acting with most respect."

"Oh, that's disappointing," Mae clapped her hands, calling over a butler. After having whispered something into his ear with that sickly syrup voice of hers whenever she makes cool, evil threats, his face turned red and he just nodded, running off immediately. Only moments later, Lord John's dish was replaced with a new, warm platter. Mae smiled. "Yes, I do hope this one is excellent, sir. We have high standards in our household, you see."

She blushed lightly, "Thank you, sir. I do mean what I say. How are you enjoying your dish?"

"Is that so? Why, I disagree. You've raised a strong, capable son who is quick-witted, silver-tongued, and wise yet maintains level-headedness with manners of utmost politeness. I've never laid eyes on a better lord, sir. You've been an impressive father, I imagine. To be fair to Cedric, it is rather hard to fill shoes as large as yours, Lord."

"Of course, Cedric" she smiled, holding his gaze softly for a moment. Then, as if a new idea dawned on her, she spoke again. "Oh! Cedric, dear, I have something I must tell you. It can wait for the meals to arrive, though. We mustn't leave your father unaccompanied and hungry." She chuckled quietly underneath her breath.

"Yes. Well, I believe you've raised your son to be an excellent young lord." Mae smiled lovingly over at Cedric, placing her hand gently on his.

"Indeed. I completely agree. How should they react instead, sir?" Mae continuously smiled, keeping up the conversation.

"Of course." Mae glanced at Cedric, then sat down. She smiled, starting conversation, "How is London, sir? You've heard the rumors of the star, I'm sure. How is the aristocracy reacting?"

"There is much to eat, sir; the kitchen has prepared quite the feast. Please, make yourself comfortable, and be seated. Is there anything the servants of our household could get you?" The Lord's hat and coat had been taken upon entrance.

Mae opened it gracefully. She feigned pleasant surprise, shining through her smile. "Lord John! I am so glad you've graced us with your presence for supper, once again. Please, please, sit, sir!" She gestured welcomingly towards the head of the table, and a nearby servant pulled out the chair. @Ookla the Yellow Sock

"I figured," Mae whispered back to her handmaiden. Smiling radiantly, Mae walked down the staircase with glamor. She was striking, after having put on a new silken violet gown and doing her hair up in a braided brunette bun. Her makeup was flawless and her jewelry was dazzling. She went to the doorway, her hand on the handle, ready to open the front door when Lord John approached.