[Jan MP prep] A winter Night's Eve (Artur)

The home of the German Fashion designer was a far cry from its usual state of showcase perfection. The deep violet couches in the large, high ceilinged parlor had been almost carelessly pushed to the sides, though the elves had tried to arrange them in nice little sitting areas as best they possibly could. They were probably off in some corner weeping from the stress as their mistress’s near Manic state had them up at strange hours, preparing meals in the middle of the night, and waiting, panicked, for her to simply pass out on one of her couches so they could throw a blanket over her and desperately try to clean. The center of the room had been commandeered by an overflow of fabric, leather and metal, adorning fifteen mannequins arranged in a large circle, all facing the center coffee table, which was covered in scraps, thread, bolt cutters, and other tools foreign to silk and chiffon. Because Nikola was not crafting a collection of fairies. No, her muse for this collection had been warriors; even for the gowns. Though anyone who knew her shouldn’t have been surprised. 

But for the moment, the house was quiet, save for the patterning of nails on the hardwood floor as Ludolf made his way through the room, nosing the pile of blanket and woman draped across one of the couches before scampering off again to sit by the door. It was as if the dog knew whenever his other best friend was due to arrive, probably because the Ukranian Swordmaster’s name started being spoken far more often in the days preceding his arrival, and this morning the elves had completely cleaned the upstairs bedroom that was done up in pale blues and dark woods, fluffed pillows and turned down the sheets. He’d been sitting by the door for half the day, except for when his mistress or the elves took him outside to run for a bit, though the cold had usually sent them back inside rather quickly.

The Designer, for her part, had been sleeping almost the entire afternoon, having sat down to take just a short break, and simply dropped onto the comfortable furnishings. And true to form, the elves had dimmed the lights slowly, before throwing some blankets over her and going about their work. Now that they were cooking, the little dog had been bouncing back and forth between the kitchens and the front door, occasionally going over to check on the twisted mass of limbs and blankets haphazardly draped across a couch.

Seemingly bored with this, since the elves were giving him nothing, he eagerly bounded up the steps to the landing and collected his favorite toy from the sitting area that sat above the foyer, peering through the chilled glass and holding the toy hopefully, before carrying it back downstairs and simply laying on the rug in front of it, wagging his split tail fiercely and watching the dimming light outside on the circular drive for the flash of movement that meant Artur’s arrival, before finally having his wish granted. Hopping up from his flopped over position, he pawed quietly at the window, not barking, but eager to greet the man who usually had some kind of treat for him, braided rope still hanging from his mouth as though he expected to be played with that very instant.

The sun which hung close to the horizon, edge the outskirts of the deep gray purple clouds with brilliant shades of red and orange. The conflict between the cool reserved colors and the valent passionate hues seemed to cause the sky to blush a color shade of peach and pink before fading to ever increasing deeper blue. Yet this dermatic sunset hung unnoticed above the sleeping white house which stood silently waiting for his arrival in a sea of snow.

Although laden with a bag of deadly weapons, a few necessities he needed for this weekend and exhausted after a long final day of term, the Professor still sprung lively up to the door.  He was about to knock but instead he hesitated when he heard the scratching from the other side.

“Ludolf ?” He asked as if the dog would not only be able to answer him, but tell him just why he wasn’t yipping happily like normal. Concern flooded the swordsman and his reach for the doorknob to the door that by now usually stood open revealing his little apprentice within. The house's wards must have recognized him for it gave a soft click as he turned the knob.

The moment he opened the door he was assaulted by a wiggling vibrating ball of fur. The magical beast seem to not be able to decide between sniffing his boot, jumping up his leg or presenting Artur with his toy to throw. So as always when one was left with such a predicament, Ludolf exuberantly attempted to perform each task every three seconds. The swordsman was relieved that the curp did not seem in any state of distress, which he would assume would be the case if something did happen to his mistress.

“Ludolf, where is Nikola?” he asked while petting the beast, before he scooped up the pint-sized magical beast and it's toy. He entered the dimly lit house and looked for a feeling he got when something was off. It was like a six sense that you start to recognize when you get in as many scrapes as he has. But he did not feel anything. Still it was not like Nikola to not be here waiting for him. He known her to almost always be punctual and if she ever did get held up by her client, she would normally send a owl.

He turned the corner with his one free hand on his hilt ready what he thought was for anything… but when he saw the state of the room his jaw dropped. It looked a quite effective multiply spell was applied to every object in her work room and as a result the contents had exploded all over her livinspace. It took him five minutes to find the outline of a figure under a black and purple velvet blanket on the couch set hidden in the corner.  Relieved, Artur perched himself on the armrest, before letting the squirming Luduolf down. He tossed the the beast's toy deep into the chaotic room, so he could have a uninterrupted second to put his hand on the witches chest to check that she was breathing. She was. He let out another sigh of relief before he attempted to wake her with a gentle shake of her shoulder.  “Nikola? Are you okay? Did you work all night again?”

Like a sudden spring released, Nikola sat up, eyes wide. “...stained blue…. ---‘s ruined now what have you…. Artur...” she blinked, half incoherent as she finally recognised the face in front of her, the lights brightening in the room slowly as though someone hoped she wouldn’t notice they’d been dimmed. But of course Nikola had, though it was the last thing on her mind. She shook her head and tried to clear it once again, the fog of a good sleep sinking its claws in deep and not wanting to let go as she swung her legs over the side of the couch and was sitting up properly.

A hand went to her head, running her fingers through her straggly hair in an attempt to calm it before she smiled a little, fixing her ponytail as she worked out in her head what all was going on. “It's the 20th already?” she asked slowly, looking outside and realizing she must have slept the entire afternoon, especially as her darling Ludolf pawed at her legs, tail wagging and looking between the two of them and holding his rope toy. There was a faint smile on her lips as she grabbed the end of the toy, letting the dog tug tightly on it, tail wagging violently and acting like he stood a chance. But even groggy still, his mistress was an athletic woman who took good care of herself, and he was only about twenty or thirty pounds. She leaned down and growled playfully back at him, before she managed to wrest the toy from his grip and toss it towards the far side of the room, the little white dog diving under furniture to beat it there.

“I had a thought…. And I didn’t think the collection was cohesive enough, so I dragged them all out here where I could look at them together… I think my issues are mostly fixed now...” she gave a little sheepish shrug, now that her brain was processing things more clearly and she’d finally processed the question he asked her. “I must have… worked all night that is.” when she had first started, and was using creating clothing to deal with her own issues, Nikola had a habit of staying up all night. But anymore she’d gotten away from that. Still, once in a while when she’d gotten herself worked up into a bit of a frenzy, she would loose track of time. But to work all night, into the morning and clear to the afternoon…

“How was the end of term?” she asked as the dog brought his toy back over, scratching him between the ears. She could smell the food her elves were cooking, and knew they had to have left her sleeping. But she wasn’t overly upset with them. They’d obviously been trying to just take care of her, even if they really should have gotten her up before he got here. But the food smelled really good, and she was hungrier then she’d realized. “I have a sneaking suspicion the elves are trying to make up for letting me sleep… they’re cooking Lamb.” this was said hushed, as though she didn’t want them to hear her, before she stood and let the blanket fall back, wearing a loose black lace vest overtop a violet long sleaved shirt and her usual tight black pants.

He turned his head, worried  that she seemed incoherent but then she recognized him and he relaxed a little. He watch her shake her head from the corner of his eye, why he played with Ludolf to give her some space to wake up and make herself presentable. Not that she needed to be. He quite liked her 'just woke up from a nap' look.  But it was rude to stare so he gave the little dog a treat he had in his pocket. The pup practically inhaled before licking Artur’s fingers and returning to play with its toy, before noticing his mistress was awake and wanted attention from her too.
 
“Yes. The twentieth.” He said eyeing her as she played with her dog. He jokingly added,  “You have not been using a time turner to get your project done, have you?”

When she played with her dog, he took the opportunity to set all his stuff down in an empty corner. Unstrapping the bags and his swords, leaving only one dagger on his belt. The skilled-well-trained house elves made the items disappear when he glanced away for a second to see Nikola growling at Ludolf. When he noticed they were missing, he figured the items were likely brought up into his room. For it didn't look like their would be any room for him in the living room.

I had a thought

“Oh?” for a second, he was thinking she was going to say something about him. I had a thought about you staying here.  I had a thought, and was worried you weren’t going to come. I had a thought, and want to talk about us…  But the next work that came out was about her collection. Artur dropped his head and had to give himself a weary smile over his own stupidity. He had worried he had gone too far last time. He had practically held her and patted her to comfort her on that couch.  Although she needed it, at time he was worried in retrospective she might feel off about it and it would affect their teacher student relationship. But it did look like it. She instead was still consumed with her fashion and he was just still her sword teacher, she liked to talk to.

Which is the way it should be.

“That is good.” He said not really playing attention to her fashion exploits, for he did not understand just how the pieces wouldn't go good together. Everything he seen her make all look good to him.  Instead he watched the dog trying to wiggle his butt out from under something. He nodded as she confirmed what he expected,  “Up all night? You sure you are not half vampire?” He said jokingly. Before realizing that she could be for the patrilineal lineage was still up in the air. He glance at her to see if she took it the wrong way.

“We still have issues with the Klyk Vampira common room…. Stupid students have been using it as their personal make out... errr party room. I wanted to enchant some armor to cut off any student’s head that tried to go in there but faculty rejected it.” He gave a laugh as if she would know he was not really going to enchant it to cut off any student heads, but a little nick or finger that needed to be reattached was a good deterrent.

“Lamb? One of mine too. If you don’t mind, I want to cleanup for dinner. You got one of the rooms upstairs for me? Shall I meet you in the dining room?” He asked as she stood up and the blanket fell. He was worried that she was not wearing something appropriate for a second, but was relieved to find she was wearing one of her standard weird mix of modern-medieval wizard attire.

“Believe me if I had a timeturner, I wouldn’t be in the paternal predicament I am now.” Nikola snorted a little, looking back at her collection momentarily before deciding that any remaining final adjustments could wait. Of course that meant her livingroom was almost completely taken over until she packed them for the venue. She felt a little guilty with how much Ludolf was begging for attention. With the show only a week or two out at this point, she’d been pouring much of her time in that, and didn’t have as much time for him. But she knew he was going to get plenty of it during his week with her grandparents. They loved the little dog’s visits almost as much as they loved her. In fact, sometimes she teased them that the only reason they invited her for dinner three or four times a month was because they wanted to see Ludolf and not her. She knew of course, that this was far from the truth.

At his teasing suggestion of what that Paternal heritage might be, the dark haired woman couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m pale as snow, with jet black hair and burn if the sun so much as looks at me… despite having been rubbish at most everything in necromancy i have an affinity towards blood magic, I panic when traveling over deep water, I’m up all night, I enjoy rare meat… I think you might be onto something there.” she replied flippantly, but with her usual grace and a bit of a smirk, finally standing up from the couch. She left out the other way that she enjoyed blood. Her former professor didn’t need to know that. She doubted it however and didn’t spare it more than an amusing thought.

“Oh yes I’d heard about that entire mess...” she murmured. “I hope they get it fixed soon; I can’t imagine the Krovs are happy about having to share their common room with the Klyks...” nor would her own house have been happy about losing their space. But the winter break would give them time to fix it, she hoped, though his suggestion had her smiling again. “Oh come now Artur, surely you weren’t a goody two shoes when you attended school...” she had been, but for entirely different reasons. But as much as he had no interest in discussing fashion, she really didn’t want to talk about work with him either, and was glad when both their thoughts turned to the dinner her elves were preparing.

“That sounds like an excellent idea. Though i thought since it's just the two of us we could just eat in the breakfast nook.” there was really only seating for three in there, she didn’t really use her dining room except for entertaining, and Artur was hardly the sort of man she was striving to impress. They were too comfortable together to put on such airs. “Yours is the first room across the balcony.” she gestured to the railing that circled the living room about halfway up the high ceilings, save for where the massive windows faced her back yard. Her bedroom was at the top of the stairs, followed by a more intimate sitting room above the foyer and two doors on the far side. “And I suppose I should probably freshen up as well.”

Although Artur exploded laughter did not carry across the room as it normally did due to the unusual clutter, it did not display any less of his  boisterous exuberance.  What made his joy reach it peak was the fact, his jokes were never un-retorted by Nikola and that was the way he loved it. Her spunk and cleverness often pulled  the youngerman from his dark teaching prosoma. It was one that could rival even the most exuberant of professors. Except his humor might not always be in the best taste and not quite age appropriate in certain company. 

It was only when she mentioned his own school years that his smile closed slightly. He’s final three years were the best and worst year of accomplishments at Durmstrang, for him both in love and academics. None of which he wished to share with his little innocence (or not so innocence) flower. “Well, things were different in my day, especially for my family. We were typically betrothed before we got our wand.”

 He realized this contradict the fact he was not married now but he was sure rumors of his exploits would serve as an unspoken answer to that question.   

He looked up at the railing and noted the position of the room relative to the staircase. “Great. Will it be alright that I meet you in the nook in about twenty-five to thirty minutes? “ He put his large palm on her narrow shoulder of her violet long sleeve shirt initially as a friendly farewell gesture. His hand remained there as he listened to claim her own need to freshen up. Using his hand to tilt her this way and that before he proclaimed. "No I like your hair better this way."

He then tried to control his growing smile, as he turned and stepped away, before he walked up the stairs across the balcony to his room. Truthfully there was nothing wrong with her hair. But just the Idea that she might run to the closest mirror made his boy hood prank worth it. He refused to look back, knowing as soon as she saw his practical joke, displayed smile she would know he was pulling her leg.

Upstairs he opened the door to his temporary room, and found it draped in his favorite color, from his bed spread to the curtains. He things magicked up by the house elves, were already put away in drawers and his swords magically displayed on the wall. He got out a his simple native dinner robe and a towel and found a shared bathroom. After a five-minute shower and a fifteen minute shave, he was already making his way downstairs. He was so looking forward to her shock face which would no doubt be surprised by his considerably less facial hair. Although he was destined to be disappointed for Nikola had yet to make an appearance. Instead four candles and a small bouquet of evergreens and winter blooms decorated the table. A sudden snap behind the table let him to believe that the house elves just finished setting it for two with a plate on the floor for Ludolf.

As always, he chose the most defensive position that faced the window and the entry and picked up the wine glass that had filled with wine as if a spring filled it. He was in the middle of taking a long swig of the quite excellent alcohol when Nikola appeared. She floating in in a red dress and hair braided rapping around her head in the tradition of Russian Bride. She just needed the crown to be placed on her head. He was so startled, he sputtered a bit, choking for a second on his wine. Instead of ruining his sleeve, he used his table napkin to mop up his nonexistent mustache before he said, “Nikola, you look nice.”

Nikola was a little surprised when he took the time to teasingly examine her messy hair, before rolling her eyes a little, though she did smile. “Of course you would. It looks like I spent the past twelve hours fighting off armed men, rather then tossing and turning on a couch not designed for sleeping.” she retorted, amused. She nodded in agreement with his timetable, shaking her head with another little knowing smile as she watched him head for the stairs. He was laughing, she was pretty sure of it. But before she could follow him, she drew her wand and summoned her coat and boots from the hall, striding towards the door as she put them on. “Come on Ludolf.” she smiled down at her little dog, before opening the back door and stepping out onto the cleared off area.

The bite of the cold helped wake her up further as the crup ran around playfully in the back yard for a few minutes. Nikola enjoying a cigarette while she let him do so. She wasn’t the sort to smoke near her work, and with it occupying much of her house, she herself had been pushed outside. Stamping it out, she called to her dog to encourage him to finish his business so they could go back inside, holding the door open for him before dropping her coat in the arms of her waiting elf before heading upstairs to her own room, the sound of the shower in her guest room already going. It didn’t take her long to clean herself up, though she paused in her wardrobe once she finished drying and braiding her hair up into a crown of sorts on top of her head. She’d done it up that way for several reasons, both to keep it out of her way, and because it could be released down her back if the two of them decided to not wait for the morrow before doing a more complex runthrough of their routine for the festival.

But as for what to wear… it was only then that Nikola remembered that he had mentioned once that his family always dressed up for dinner. While this was nowhere near a formal affair, Nikola pulled on her usual black leggings, and reached for a deep violet dress that came down to her knees, though was more of a slip then anything else. She’d made it to go under the various sheer tunics she’d made for herself, layering a deep purplish-red embroidered tunic over herself as well. After all, they were having a nice dinner, so she could look nice.

Not bothering with shoes, as she was almost always barefoot at home, Nikola headed down the stairs to her little breakfast nook. She stopped upon entering the room, the two of them looking at each other, almost startled, though for different reasons. They really hadn’t seen each other in anything but work out gear before, or working. This was a first for them. “Surprised that I actually clean up nice?” she asked playfully, sliding into the seat across from him, not realizing the cultural implications of where he’d grown up.

“You on the other hand appear to have misplaced the furry creature that lives on your upper lip. Perhaps Ludolf can help you track it down?” she smirked, sitting back comfortably and sipping her own wine. “I see Oma has convinced my elves to try to get me to drink ‘proper’ alcohol again...” she shook her head a little. But this red wasn’t horrible. She couldn’t stand white wine, but some reds she could see drinking. Champagne was a different story; as she did enjoy it when it was served at a celebration. But really all she wanted was a good beer.

She had with her a package, long and thin and wrapped in silver paper, with a bluish violet bow adorning one end of it, though she left this leaning against the wall. “Speaking of, my grandparents had a good laugh at my expense over my client last time you visited, but she assures me that the woman has been set straight.” she shook her head. she hated the way old rich women needed to create drama where there was none. If they’d bothered with a career instead of leeching off their husbands, perhaps they’d have something better to talk about.

He was too consumed with studying her attire as she entered the small room to notice she teased him for his reaction. He let her believe it was just she "cleaned up well" instead of bringing to light what she was wearing.  A moment later, relief flooded the Ukrainian as he realized what he thought was his wizard family traditional wedding dress was instead a red sheer dress over one of her typically ensembles of purple top over a black leggings. Although it did have embroidery edge, he noticed the style was wrong once Artur could get a closer look.

What was wrong with him? How could he have been so mistaken? Why would it matter if she walked around in something akin to a traditional Ottoman wedding dress? She was a fashion designer. They would walk around with a set of bat wings on their back if it makes sense to them. Even if it might have been a trick of the light he really should not overreacted.

"Ludolf should find my what?" he said as his brain was catching up to the conversation. He noticed that her eyes were on his chin not his eyes. He self-consciously ran his hand across the freshly shaved skin of his chin and lip."Oh, yes I shaved it. I was hoping you wouldn't notice. I'm kidding. No , I thought it would work better on stage and under the mask. If it did not work, I still have time to grow it back."

He followed her lead and picked up back up his glass of wine and was just about to compliment her on the vintage when she complained about it. Artur was used to having wine with dinner… well the more formal ones with family. Personally he preferred other alcohol too. The glass hung an inch from his lips as conspiratory half closed eyes slide across and found her, before he asked.  "Are you in the mood for Beer?"

Artur knew elves and their affinity to please their wizard family and  master. They were likely listening and would be dusting off down crates in the basement in no time. Just in case they disappeared his wine he downed it anyways. Which turned out to be a blessing for he would have choked again on his wine if he had not just swallowed the last of it and  been pulling the empty glass from his lips. Even if he was not spraying the table, his wide grey eyes shown with concerned rimmed with a thinnest rim of fear. "They set her straight, your grandparents? Exactly what did they…. What do they think we do?"

He suddenly realized he was here alone in her house, a scandalous situation in the best of light. Why had he not been considered this before? It had started off by just practicing extra time on school weekends. He did it with only the most highest potential students and Nikola was one of them. It became no question he would help her keep swords skills after she graduated. He visited her during that summer and soon after she graduated she got her own place and set up a perfect practice room. At the time he thought she would go pro… so it was his best interest to see to his portege so that she would carry on a sword skill. It would be his legacy. A lineage of swordsmans paying homage to his name. Nikola was to be the first. Somewhere along the way fashion took over her life and he had to accept she was more happy holding sharp pair of scissors and a needle than a pair of  swords or daggers.

His old remorseful thoughts were thankfully interrupted by the sudden appearance of Ona, a soft spoken elf that Artur glimpsed on occasion. Artur’s family had a few elves, but they were never meant to be seen nor would you want to talk to them. They would only pop up if they had a need to be nasty to someone who was disrespectful of their master or the house. Nikola kept Ona nearly as a wizard servant. It was the house elf natural instinct to appease their master so Artur did not blame the elf. Still he worried for Nikola who other than Ludolf and her two elves was alone in the house. Still he curiously watched was Ona presented the steaming onion soup to Nikola and then served it both of them. Then topped it with a fresh sprinkle with chives, emmentaler cheese and a few croutons. Artur used his spoon to pierce the cheese and found the stock rich and recognized the sweet thang of beer. "It is excellent" he said to Nikola ..although fully knowing Ona would take it as a compliment too.

Nikola chuckled when he finally realized what she had been teasing him about, but nodded as he explained why. “I think it suits you.” she also thought it shaved a good five or ten years off his appearance, not that it mattered too much. She’d never mentioned before that the moustache made him look older than he actually was. Partly because it wasn’t her place to critique his appearance, and partly because she liked her men older. Not that Artur was the sort of man she’d be into… even if he was. Not him. She was definitely not into her former professor. She didn’t even know why her mind had gone there.

Fortunately Artur was already asking if she was in the mood for beer, and she smiled, before drinking what was in her glass as well. “This one isn’t bad. I just prefer beer to wine. Unless its white wine. Then it goes down the drain. But Oma insists that wine is a much more respectable drink.” she wasn’t so much complaining as a little exasperated that, though the elves lived with her, in her home, and were technically her elves, they still listened to her grandmother over her at times. But that was to be expected, she supposed. But the flicker of fear on his face, at the mention of the woman from the previous month and her family brought a sly smile to her lips. But she’d not tease him about that. “They know that you and I continued my swordsmanship after Durmstrang.” she answered with a shrug. “And they know that I consider you a good friend. They also know that I’m incredibly picky about who gets into my bed, and I'm quite certain they’re afraid I’m just going to remain single my entire life...” the smile faded slightly at that. Unless she found out who her father was… that was the most likely of scenarios.

It was becoming habit tonight for her to trail into unpleasant thoughts or conversations. She really needed to do something about that. Twice now she’d been lucky and there had been a quick distraction to draw them away from it. But the German designer didn’t think her fortune would hold out in that regard. “Ona. I’ve been a good girl and drank Grandmother’s wine. If you would bring beer for myself and Artur, Stout?” she looked to Artur to see if he agreed with her choice, adding. “There should also be Porter as well, and unless they’ve used it all in cooking, a few ales and lagers.” she didn’t drink the last two really, preferring a good thick dark beer she could almost chew. But she also wasn’t the sort to judge someone else on their tastes. Except maybe in fashion. But she did have to admit he looked quite nice tonight. And the lack of moustache, though it was taking a bit to get used to, was starting to grow on her.

“I think my family is just happy that i didn’t completely isolate myself. They’re always so worried about me.” she didn’t see why they needed to be… after all she was doing much better. But she’d always been good at concealing her problems behind a mask of confidence. Closing her eyes a little, Nikola inhaled deeply, before doing the same as Artur and sampling the soup, knowing that her elf would be back soon with their beer. Of course now that she was more alert, her mind drifted off to the other thing they’d met up for this weekend. Not just to try on their costumes for their event, or do a final few rehearsals in full garb, but this was their little christmas. And she was curious to see what he got her this time. Of course she could flip a coin and have a fifty fifty chance of guessing correctly. A sword or a knife, she expected, but they were always lovely weapons.

It suits you. Her words pulled the corner of his lips showing a smile that were normally half hidden. It was not that he needed her approval but a compliment from a witch, even a student helped stroke the already cocky man's ego. It was the same ego that believe the moment he saw the long purple bow topped present, it was meant for him. Well that and it was long enough to contain a sword gave it away. It did seem a bit large, looking to contain either one massive full length sword, or even a small set. He now worried that she might have gone to far.

He know her fashion business was doing quite well but the swords he preferred were not toys and certainly did not come cheap. To have her buy a quality sword would have cleared her coin purse out, and if she got him a set of them would have likely cost equivalent to the her profits from a number of her projects. It was true, her parents had power and money even more than Artur's own family but last he heard she was trying to live independently. it was something the swordsman approved, and was in fact tempting to do himself. All through grudgingly not as successful. For all of Durmstrang's pride, working there did not make you rich beyond measure. He hoped the one small gift for her he currently has hidden him he breast pocket where he normally keeps his extra dagger would not be dwarf by comparison. Some say that it is not the size or cost of the gift counts, but he knew from personal experience that it does impress.

He was surprised that she smiled when he expressed concern regarding her parents. He wondered for a second if she was one of the witches who would use her parents power to manipulate others… 'if you don't I will tell Daddy…' type of them. Goodness knows he had gotten entangled by a few, back in his early days. But this was Nikola, his Perovskia, she wouldn't. Well, maybe, she might allude to it in jest. Still, relief showed in his face when she said that they knew they continued their practice, and they knew she considered him a good friend. He felt honored by the words and realized that he considered her much the same way. Which was quite unusual for her being not only a witch but a former student. This all of a suddenly the conversation turned. He held onto his emotions until the meaning of words became apparent. He was not sure what to say, he knew there were layers of sorrow, pain, and bitter regret burried within the last sentence or two. He was afraid of what would happen if he pierce the surface of those words.

Ona had provided the short intermission between her laced words, where he smiled like the polite guest and agreed a "A tall stout sounds good." Yet as soon as the elf edgerly slipped away for the beer and likely the next course, he could tell his flower was trying not to be swayed by the same melicoly breeze. Wishing to be her shield against any of the unfavorable winds he stated. "It is nice that they are worried, but I have a feeling it would be in vain. I seemed to me that your company has you traveling a lot more lately. Socializing with wizards and witches in new circles. With you in the show I have no doubt that you will have to keep a window open for the constant flow of owls baring invitations to dinners, parties and other art events..."  He paused his soup spoon to glance off in the distance a second before adding.  "I remember when my name started to break the ranks in the sword and dueling circlet. Oh, my calendar, dance cards" and bed "was full for months until I realized I needed to focus on my skill more than the enjoyment of all the attention."

He stopped himself there for he knew this might turn into a lecture and they were at a dinner table and he was not his father. He turned back to his blooming Perovskia knowing she had a better head than he did when he was her age. "But I know you will not so swayed. Still with the conclusion of your current search and this I am sure you will have suitors lining up that door." Nodding to the direction of the front door. Artur who had been sipping his soup in between sentences now place his spoon down for he finished. "Just for now, get some beau from a decent family to escort you around. It will buy some time to track down your potentially fathers then you can make a decision. "

Something occurred to Artur, and he patted a few of  his pockets before he found the parchment with the information he promised her. He handed the tightly wrapped photo and information while explaining, "Here is the photo you gave me, his name and address at that time. I confirm with my father, my brother and his wife. You are right he was from Wales and he was a Bane."

He could tell her just what else he had worked hard to pry out if his father and brothers, but in the end it was little of consequence. None of them had bedded her Meer mother that night or any date near it. Still, even if she might never know, Artur felt like he had to know. The knowledge proved both a let down and strange relief to him.

Nikola had considered that more exposure like the Neroli festival would get her more clients, but she’d not considered the peripheral effects. In school she’d always been a loner, the untouchable Ice Queen. And even after, she’d isolated herself save for a few close friends, and her grandparents. Perhaps, thinking about it, they were right to be worried. And perhaps their concern was less about her finding a husband and more about her not ending up som closeted anti-social hermit. Perhaps this would be a good thing. Perhaps she should try to be more social… and then Artur had to go and suggest that she find herself a patsy.

“I like the way my life is, and I don’t feel the need to insert someone into it would would beg like Ludolf for my attention. I already have a dog.” she hadn’t meant for it to come out so harsh sounding, and took a moment to finish off her soup before speaking again. “I’m Sorry. I just… I’m not looking for my father so I can find the right kind of husband. I’m doing it for me. Because I need to know. I want to know.” she sighed, hoping he wouldn’t be too taken aback by her behavior. It was unlike Nikola to show much emotion at all, save for the occasions when she was alone with one of her trusted. But that was out of character for her, even with those few people. But she did not repeat her apology, willing to move on, especially when he offered her the picture back, taking it from him with some trepidation.

But that would have to wait, as Ona returned with the two beers, followed by Inez carrying plates of roasted lamb, potatoes au gratin, and Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce. She smiled as the bowls disappeared and the plates were placed in front of them, though there was a hint of sheepishness. Once they’d left, that look remained as she turned back to Artur. “They must really think I am angry with them for letting me sleep… they’re bringing all my favorite dishes.” she replied, unable to stop herself from dipping her pinky finger in the sauce and sticking it in her mouth. “But it's always so good...” she laughed a little at her own childish behavior.

Taking a sip of her beer, she turned back to the picture he’d brought her, nodding as she read through the information. “Adonis Bane...” but even if he’d slept with her mother, she didn’t think he could be her father. She didn’t look welsh, or english. She looked too German than anything, and surely that couldn’t be just her Meer blood. She had features that weren’t Meer, but she didn’t know how much of that could be the blending of bloodlines. Genetics were not something that she understood anything about. So he would be investigated along with the others. And the shop in Knockturn Alley would be a good place to start. She dismissed the picture to the drawer where she kept the rest of her information for her research, turning back to her guest and their meal. “Thank you for doing that for me… it makes things so much easier.” but she didn’t want to talk about that tonight.

She wanted to laugh and smile and actually relax after all the hard work she’d been putting into two different events for the festival. Granted they did still have to do the final fittings for their costumes, and run through a rehearsal in costume a couple of times.... But that was later. She took a bite of the lamb and let out a happy little moan of pleasure.

Artur's laugh rang out like a bell within the small room before his words poured out between his outbursts. "You always surprise me Nikola. …. No,.... No, you know what? ….I am sorry. . .. I'm sorry....I should have known. Only you…. Only you…. would say having a boyfriend…. was a kin to keeping….. a dog! " He shook his head and tried to control himself. He wished he had not finished his wine so soon. Yet he pulled himself eventually together to continue,  "Truthfully, I always have admired the fact you were so independent and mature. You behaving like a woman twice your age. You are right, you were denied knowing what most take for granted, who… No. I guess it would be more like what you are. You have a right to seek the truth and you should. Forgive me for thinking your agenda was to appease your parent's marriage desires. I wish I had that notion when I was young." He then ended his sentence in a German cuss word to express how pleased he was with it.

At the moment he wished he had a drink to toast with. On que Ona reappeared with them beer and plate of lamb. As soon as Ona started out of the room, Artur raised his glass and was about to propose a toast. He was planning on something to the effect of 'To doing what we want and getting what we want out of life.' or  'Always enjoy life! You are dead longer than you are alive!' The latter a tad bit morbid, was favored by many of his fellow German swordsman. Yet Nikola was already going on about the food.  He watched her patiently, until she dipped her smallest finger into something on the plate and then slowly bring it to her lips parted. His breath caught in his throat as he saw her eyes closed in anticipation of the sensation of mix ambrosia of flavors which were about to explode on her pink little tongue.

Artur gave up on giving a toast and instead throw the top third of the dark burnett rich beer down his throat. He only just barely stopped himself from downing the whole thing, remember they were still planning to run through routine and he had a strict no sword play while drunk policy. So instead he picked up his knife and fork and tried to not focus on his dinner companion.

He took his first bite of what she claimed was her favorite dish. He realized just what had given her such a blissful reaction. Although his family and Durmstrang often cooks a similar dishes, whatever the recipe was it created richly dedicant version of lamb drenched in it's own au jous laced with rosemary and thyme that was far superior. The next bite revealed the sides complemented it with salt butter potatoes au gratin, and rich creamy hollandaise sauce drizzled on grill Asparagus, completed the euphoric dedicents of the plate.  So engrossed in the food he hardly noticed she opened the parchment and examined the photo and his block uppercase handwritten notes. It was only when she said the wizards name, did he look back at her, noticing she seemed a bit dismissive over his potential as a father and tossed the parchment and it's contents away in a drawer.

He barely got in a "You are welcome…," before  he felt a eagar tapping on his leg. Looking down he saw Ludolf degging eagerly for a sample of the lamb, apparently having already been to his mistress with no luck. He looked over at his host, who was preoccupied by taking in her own bite. Unfortunately what excapted her mouth nearly pushed Artur over the edge. Having a witch purposely being sexual was one thing, but seeing one in the midst of her blissful pleasure was another. He dipped his eyes to his plate pretending not to hear her.

He cut off the smallest sliver of his lamb and was about to slip the dog it when unfortunately Ona re appeared with the dog's dinner. Desperate for a distraction he struck up a conversation regarding anything that was not related to sex, married or food. "So, is our costumes finished?  Are still going to be able to do a dress rehearsals through tonight?"

"I had some ideas of prepping the masks and costumes for the final scene."

That had not been the reaction she was expecting, but artur’s laughter was infectious and banished the awkwardness she’d felt at nearly losing her temper over a simple statement. But she couldn’t help but preen a little as he complimented her independence and unwillingness to give in to how other people might dictate her life. What he didn’t know was that the independence to pursue her dreams and dictate her own path in life had come at a cost. One that had bound her deeper into the family business then she’d ever thought she’d end up. After all, she was just a bastard daughter from the peripherals of the line. But no matter the cost, it had been worth it. 

There was a bit of silence while they ate and she read. She felt a little bad that she hadn’t put as much time into looking at the man he’d learned about as she could have, but right now they were eating, and she wanted to dwell on more pleasant things. But weather it was the extra effort her elves had put into the dinner tonight, or just the fact that she hadn’t eaten save for some crackers, meat and cheese since yesterday, the german witch was too distracted to notice Artur’s reactions to her eating.

It wasn’t until he asked about their costumes that she really dragged her thoughts away from food, realizing that a good third of her meal was gone already. “I guess I was hungrier than I thought...” she smiled a little, taking another bite of the potatoes before nodding. “They are finished, though i will probably want to make a few adjustments, especially once we practice. The scaling on yours was more difficult than I anticipated, considering the range of movement that is required.” she gave a bit of a smile then. “However, I designed both pieces in such a way that the more costume like elements can be removed after the show and we’ll both have a lovely set of dress robes.” Nikola was always a practical person, even when it came to her designs. What did it matter if it was a gorgeous work of art if it was so uncomfortable or difficult to move in, or bulky that no one would ever wear it. She did no advertising, so word of mouth and people seeing her designs on others were how so got new customers. Though she supposed the show could be considered advertising… both shows, actually, if she really thought about it.

When he suggested that he had some ideas for the final scene, Nikola leaned forwards a little, eager to hear what he was going to offer up. “Oh? Do tell. I really want to test them out, that scene in particular, because i’m worried about the more aggressive movements damaging the masks and I need to know what parts of them need reinforcing.”

A short chuckle escaped from Artur before he stated his assumptions, "Knowing you, you likely have eaten next to nothing all day." It had been his concern when he saw how groggy she was when she had arrison from the couch. While swordplay required regular breaks to rest your muscles and the intake of food for energy. Apparently making clothes require neither rest, food nor sleep. It might be a more treacherous profession that he first imagined.

Although he had had a hearty breakfast and a light lunch before he left, he had nearly kept up with her ravenous state of consumption, by making his way through a fourth of his delicious plate. "Still with this being so good, it makes it hard not to over do it. I might even have a hard time fitting in that costume." He paused to leaned back and patted his stomach as to illustrate just where the costume might be tight. Before he took another defiant bite while explaining, "And, it would be a shame to waste such good food and your elf would likely be beside herself if I were to leave anything on the plate."

He gave another chuckle. Normally he was not so concerned with elves feelings, but he knew his Perovskia was. So he entertained efforts of the being and sometimes tried to be considerate of it, for Nikola's sake.

He nodded and sipped his beer as she explained the status of her progress on the costumes. A slight frown formed between his brows on the terms "scaling" and "elements." Was not clothes, clothes? Then his eyes widen with something he did understand. "Dress robes? Nikola, really it is no wonder you haven't been getting a lot of sleep." He shook his head for he was otherwise speechless. Knowing her, they would likely be such a gorgeous set of dress robes that they would  be worthy of their own show. He knew that she would likely insist on giving him the dress robes, following the event. Since they would be fitted to him, so he would have to except them, he doubted she will let him paid for them.  Made during her busiest time ever in her whole career as a designer, they should be worth a fortune. He gave a sigh, accepting the fact that the dress robes were already made and there was no sense in arguing otherwise. "Well do me a favor and put 'made by Nikola Meer' on my back. If there are anything like the other set you made me, there will be no end to the compliments and the question of 'whom made your robes.' "

His last words were said in a bit of a singsong voice which alluded to one of the many women that asked him such a question while he wears his current set.

He was glad to have his little apprentice still interested in his ideas. He leaned back with the last of his beer in his hand, after taking one last bite from his Lamb. "I remembered that you were trying to figure out how we are going to do the family since the dance is just you and me. Something came to me, you know I have to enchant dummies all the time for fighting partners for my students… I thought that I could do the same instead with your manikins. Their are less bulky and more resemble a human form." He paused to take a sip of his beer before continuing. He then leaned forward and dropped his voice as if he was about to share a secret. "The problem is as soon as they see that they are manikins they will lose all fear and passion for the moment. We can easily dress the mannequins in robes mimicking our costumes colors but in slightly dulled and simplified design." He waved a hand alluding that he know  she would take care of it. "But, but it is their faces will be the problem. Then it occurred to me. Masks. I put a mask on a training dummy, one of the years after you graduated. Suddenly the students thought I brought in a real swordsmen for them to fight. You should see how nervous my best students got. Anyway, I thought that the wizards that hired us ....I mean, our characters, they would be wearing similar masked to our own. Like we are part of their family or tribe. Their masks, like the costume they could be similar to ours, simple but expressive. Alluding to we are putting on their attire to fight for them and pretending to be one of their ranks, without saying anything. We can have them, hand us our masks and final outfit. Wand them to step back... then come back in the final fight scene. The audience will think they are people until you start chopping off their limbs."

A dark smile appeared on the swordsman lips. "It would be beautiful."

Nikola didn’t bother arguing that point, he knew her too well, but she also couldn’t resist the jab. “I had a cookie.” the german retorted, as though it justified not eating anything else. “And I think some coffee.” she grinned, slowly enjoying the remnants of her meal. Her elves were good about small servings. She could always have seconds if she wanted, but didn’t feel obligated to eat it all. She listened to his explanation of what he had come up with, amused that he had come up with this idea while preparing for a class. It was a good idea, and well thought out, But Nikola did have much to add. And unfortunately she was going to have to shoot it down.

“For any other point in time, I would think that idea brilliant.” she started slowly, before realizing she was being far more cautious with his feelings then she ever had before. That wasn’t fair to him; he could take it. He knew her, and he wasn’t a child. “I would need costumes for the mannequins, and of course masks… perhaps if we had more time that option would be better.” but there were other issues, and concerns that she had. “...for a different kind of event. The Festival Delle Arti is a family activity. It would be best not to have children think that I am cutting limbs off real men.” she had considered his idea of course, but with these matters, it just would not work.

“I feel as though the shadow figures will work better. We can still have them hand us our masks, but the idea of them dissipating in smoke as I slice through them is more theatrical.” she gave a slight playful smile. “And less traumatizing to young children of course.” but he was right, with his final words. “It would indeed be beautiful, though I’m not certain I’m pleased with the idea of chopping up my mannequins, either.” she added finally.

“You were practicing the shadow figures, yes?” he was going to have to control them. He had a better mind for visualizing a swordfight with multiple parties, even if his skill with illusions were sub par. She had chosen the shadow persons for that reason. It was an easier thing to pull off, and with him knowing the movements they had to make better then anyone, and laying on the ground while controlling pre-existing shadow/smoke figures, it didn’t seem like it was going to be an issue. She had a back up plan, but really didn’t want to resort to sigils, and the two of them would have to pre/program each of the shadow figure’s movements if she went that route. Which would take almost all of their remaining time, if they rushed.

She finished the last of her beer, wondering privately what her elves had prepared for desert.