video ∞ both courts, dated to Dec 2nd

[depicted]

[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]

Comments

video;

[liven]

We will be playing through lockets. You will presumably have the side with the board. I do not have any such thing. How could I knock them over from so far away?

video;

[depicted]

Oh! Yes. I suppose that's so. [And there goes the blush.] Then whenever you like, I should be happy to help.

video;

[liven]

Oh, I pick the time? Whenever, I guess. It isn't as though I have many plans.

[ she just got here and has no interest in signing away her loyalty so ]

video;

[depicted]

Of course you may pick. You may call on me whenever you should like. [if only there were calling cards though]

video;

[liven]

I could pick a ridiculous hour give that carte blanche, you realize. But very well, Dorian. I shall do just that.

[ And then, very belatedly: ]

Shijima.

video;

[depicted]

[It's clear that he didn't even think about her doing that, from the way his eyes widen for a moment and he flushes. But it is still with all of youth's candour that he answers,] I look forward to playing with you, Miss Shijima. [When he smiles, it is with youth's purity.] I will trust in your courtesy for the selection of the hour.

[It's ridiculous because he means it.]

video;

[liven]

[ DORIAN...THAT JUST MAKES CHOOSING A STUPID HOUR ALL THE MORE TEMPTING... ]

Later, then. I look forward to it, as well.

[depicted]

[aye. he is the sucker. the sucker is him.]

[liven]

[ see you at 3 in the morning one of these days, dorian. ]