eachdraidh | video ∞ both courts, dated to Dec 2nd

[A youth appears across the screen. He isn't quite comfortable with the device, holding it low and a little away from himself as one might a snuffbox or cigarette case when admiring the work in its design. Also, the image might be just a little shaky, but it's rude to comment on that. The boy musters a smile, an expression that seems to flicker in its uncertainty.] How do you do? I'm Dorian Gray—is that—is that how these are used? I'm so sorry, I can't tell if it is better to use one's manners for introductions or for telegrams.

[There's a fluttering laugh as Dorian tries to inexpertly use humour to diffuse the point. Of course, for lack of a person before him, the strategy doesn't actually make him feel any less awkward, so he tries to move to his reason for talking.]

I was wondering if there were any players here of chess? I mean to say, I'd like to play chess—not that I'm much good, of course, but I'm very much fond of the game—if there are players already and a third would interfere with things, I'd be very happy to just watch. If it isn't trouble. It is only with all of this talk of competing factions, I can't help but think of a game of chess, and it has made me crave the sport.

[Dorian's face falls as he turns the locket away, not in misery but in an awkward embarrassment, and there is the faintest start of a mutter at himself as he accidentally shuts it before he is finished his message.

Smooth move, Dorian Gray.]

[ooc: + permissions for fourth walling for any characters who would know the name]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Possibly so. At the least, either way, it is nothing to be sorry for.

[He smiles at her again, that sweet expression that hasn't yet lost its innocence.] May I ask your name, Miss?

[He was kind of a weird guy...]

Kara Beckworth.

Well, Miss Beckworth, it is a pleasure to meet you properly. I hope—[a pause and a frown]—I hope the problem of, of your wolf, won't trouble you again.

My wolf is always there. But since you know, maybe you won't be so scared next time. She's calmer when there aren't scared humans around.

I promise not to be frightened. [And he means it, with all his childish sincerity.] I wouldn't want to cause you or her any more distress.

[He was so weird.]

Okay. Um. Cool.