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

so sad that we're two years too early for Dorian to go crazy about THE AUTHOR OF TREASURE ISLAND

[depicted]

A writer of adventure tales! One who disguises himself, too, as if he were an adventurer? Oh, I should love to meet him very much! I would appeal to the king and queen of my own court to bring him here straightaway if such a plea could be met. What marvellous company he must be!

[EXCITED CHILD]

ME TOO I was so sad when I realised it's just a bit too late

[cagedinflesh]

Yes, precisely! He always had some fantastic disguise to fool us by, or else to entertain. He would have made a fine actor, but instead that creativity lent well to written stories. I'm certain you would love him well, and likewise! Perhaps I should be able at least to acquire a few of those stories for you.

[depicted]

I would appreciate that indeed, Henry. Thank you.

[cagedinflesh]

Think nothing of it! It's a point of pride for myself as well, being one of his great admirers! We'll see what can be done.

[Treasure Island would definitely be the best, but any work would surely make a good impression. Except Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Stick to the adventure and detective stories....]

Have you managed to find some familiar face, Dorian?

[depicted]

[Dorian shakes his head, but it isn't particularly mournful. It's nice to be away from London and its wagging tongues.] None, and yet I am happy to gain familiarity with the faces here. There is such an interesting variety of people among us, Henry! It is truly an opportunity I would not have had in London, or even abroad in Europe!

[cagedinflesh]

Absolutely, it's all very exciting, isn't it? New and different experiences and people - all truly interesting, so far as I have seen. Their worlds are all so different.