voice, un: strange

[rehandle]

To whoever might find this useful, I'm now the patron-by-proxy of all Ephes' magic users.

From what I can tell they're all very eager to help in whatever their patron might ask of them, and given how many people that accounts for there's a fair chance that if there's something you need done, I'll have somebody for the task.

What I don't have is a lot of money. [ And doesn't he just sound thrilled and not at all resentful about it. ] Should anyone wish to be so kind, I wouldn't turn down any generous donations made in the interest of the betterment of the citadel's magical community.

[ Public service announcement and desert-dry plea for somebody, anybody to give him some cash aside, that's everything, and he almost cuts it there - but actually, he'll need to get a sense for this sooner or later, so: ]

While I have your attention, it would be useful to know everyone's current stance on Messalina.

Comments

[blackscales]

[ If you thought this wasn't a trap -- ]

You misunderstand, I was hoping you might grace us with your presence personally. Perhaps such an act of kindness would improve the goodwill towards your cause?

[ You aren't an unkind man, surely? You wouldn't neglect children, Stephen Strange? ]

[rehandle]

You missed my performance the other night? I invited all the city's orphans, brought balloon animals and everything. I'm amazed you didn't attend.

[blackscales]

It appears I did! Quite disappointing. I'll have to ask them how they enjoyed it. Perhaps if they did, a repeat performance is worthwhile.

[rehandle]

[ There's nothing quite like two men in a private forum role-playing as their politiciansonas to the death. ]

Of course I'd do what I can to find the time, but as we both know our chief responsibility is to our patrons and the people they represent. I would hate to neglect that responsibility.

I'm sure I could find somebody excellent to send along in my stead. For the orphans.

[ Go away Wrathion (◡‿◡✿) ]

[blackscales]

[ Not So Fast. ]

You don't think the personal touch would improve the sadly lacking opinion when it comes to wizards and magicians here? I'm sure those who missed your balloon animals, as I did, would appreciate another opportunity.

[ You mentioned them, Stephen. You now must Commit To The Balloon Animals. The people want to see Balloon Animals. ]

[rehandle]

[ If that's how you want to play this, buddy... ]

If only I could afford more balloons...

[ You can put your money where your mouth is. ]

[blackscales]

[ Don't bet against Wrathion. ]

Was that the issue? I'll provide the balloons, of course. I'll buy some and tell the children, they will be quite excited by the prospect I am sure!

[rehandle]

Sorry, I wasn't clear. I make my own balloons. They're a personal blend that requires a great deal of time, expertise and expense to get just right, and my ingredient suppliers won't deal with anyone else. Without the right balloons, I can't do the work.

If you'd like to make a cash donation I'd be happy to set it aside for such a time as I can make a new batch and clear an evening for a show. Otherwise you can schedule me in for approximately six months' time.

[blackscales]

Six months? Ah, but I've already told them! They'll be so disappointed. Odd that one I spoke with cannot recall your previous show, too? Of course, they won't question it if you could make another. You know, children talk so much. I'd hate for you to get any kind of reputation as unreliable or disagreeable simply due to this little misunderstanding.

[rehandle]

That would be a shame, wouldn't it? Sadly, the timeline is the timeline.

[blackscales]

[ Wrathion Will Remember This. Cannot wait for the entire of Ephes to know Stephen Strange hates orphans! ]

I will do my best to limit, of course.

[ He will do the opposite. He will make this rumour unbearably common until Stephen's only recourse is to do something to make people stop asking him why he hates orphans. ]

I do hope your cause still gets the attention it deserves.

[ He does not care. ]

[rehandle]

My thanks. And here's hoping our shared goals don't suffer for the misunderstanding.

[ If these rumors screw him for getting in a senator's good books he'll turn you into a balloon animal next.

Also, he's decided real-world retaliation means he wins. Good game. ]

[blackscales]

[ Try it, amateur illusionist. ]