(1202) Nathaniel, Ricardo and Ariana

[Cameron]

Nathanial nodded as Mr. Rodriguez spoke regarding the First Estate. He may have been only marginally more interested in kindred politics than he was in his own navel, but it was good to know that the option existed. He decided to express as much "That is good to know, Mr. Rodriguez, I shall keep that in mind." He made a mental note to futher discuss the covenant with the Hispanic Lord on some other occasion.

"Ah, we meet once more, Supplicant Ankers" He only vaguely recalled the title his fellow had introduced himself with, something supplicant of something hunger. Each and everybody seemed to have half a dozen titles he was expected to recall, so very tedious.

Nathanial's expression changed dramatically when Seneschal Donovan asked about his interests. His smile seemed far more natural and less forced in tone, and a certain hunger danced behind his normally placid eyes.
"I have a vague interest in the pharmaceutical industry, but I have spent the last, oh, century or so dedicated to the pursuit of science in all its forms." His tone remained calm, but it was clear that he was speaking with far more emotion than he had previously.

[Vassagon]

To the Deputy Chase replied politely, "I have, thank you. I've settled some accounts and opened some new ones. There has been rarely a spare moment for myself, but I prefer to remain efficacious in my endeavors." He paused before adding, "I hope your time has been equally stimulating dealing with the security of the Prince's Domain."

Nathaniel's greetings saves Chase the decision on whether to reintroduce himself or not. He was not certain if the Lord had suffered any embarrassment by his witnessed discussion with the Herald. Though if there were any signs of tension in his countenance they were gone now. "Why yes, Seneschal Donovan, the Lord and I have met briefly early this evening. Mr. de l’Aubespine, always a pleasure."

Directing his attention to the Seneschal Chase voiced a concern he had at the forefront of his mind, "Seneschal Donovan, in light of the concluded contest I've been doing much thought on the subject of Tenancy within the Domain. I wonder if Deputy Rodriguez or yourself might know of some need or service I might perform to obtain this privileged right. You see I'm quite interested in opening a business, perhaps one that may benefit our community in some way in the future."

He hated to press business on her after so little spoken between them as of late, but he didn't want to miss this opportunity of her company.

[Vassagon]

"Of course, noble Deputy, I realize this, but I thought perhaps if you had the need for a specialist in your line of work, that it might create the opportunity to earn such rewards," Chase added to the attentive Lord. A recommendation from the Whip and Deputy was sometimes just as powerful as authority.

"For the business I have in mind, elegant Seneschal, a close proximity to the density of commercial businesses is best. I intend to establish a telecommunications company, or specifically an internet service provider. I realize that in this day and age the Masquerade has few soldiers defending our front of secrecy from the internet in the height of this information society. My experience as a computer systems and data analysis may give me an advantage in this. For my purposes a faster connection that would attract local business would require my close proximity to take advantage of fiber optic technology."

Chase looked hopeful that his explanation wasn't too specialized to be outside Madam Donovan's understanding. Again and again the spread of free information exchange on the web of networks became a highlight of controversy in the media. Sacramento was no exception to this and taking hold of the hardware as a private company would bend its control to kindred interests. At least that was the plan. Such tasks were daunting to even governmental sanctions. But to leave it as it was seemed too great a risk in Chase's opinion.

[Vassagon]

"Thank you, Madam Seneschal. I will so do as you advise," says Chase as he bows at the waist in appreciation to the departing dignitary. The night had begun to wind down after the climactic performances. Perhaps he too should begin thinking about taking his leave. Turning to the remaining men in his company he says, "It seems the night is likely drawing short. Perhaps we should all address our remaining affairs. I hope to see you gentlemen again soon. Deputy, I'll try not to make it a half-year this time." He smiles pleasantly and then makes his exit from the group.

[Cameron]

"Thank you for your time, Seneschal Donovan." Nathanial said in a polite tone to the departing Lordess, bowing his head in deference. He had been listening in to the conversation regarding tenancy with considerable interest, and while he was not entirely sure as to what the phrase referred to, he had a fair idea.

He found that such formality, obtuse as it may be, came naturally to him. The simple act of immersion within the local culture had resurrected a side of him he thought long dead, and was unsure what to think of it at this time.

As Supplicant Ankers said his farewells, Nathanial once more echoed the gesture "We shall likely meet again, Supplicant Ankers, until then...Good evening."

Turning to his last companion, Nathanial spoke in the same polite tone he had used with the Seneschal "I would quite like to speak with you further regarding the First Estate, Deputy Rodriguez, but it would seem that the evening has grown late. With your blessing, may we may continue this conversation some other time, perhaps over what hospitality I may provide?" The invitation was left deliberately open, the Deputy was likely a busy man and Nathanial was in no great rush. A thought had begun to hatch in his mind regarding the Invictus, and he felt that if nothing else, knowing more about the expected protocol and customs of this cities rulers would be beneficial to the longevity of his stay within this domain.

Between the meeting with the Herald, and the effort required to properly consecrate his Haven, Nathanial knew that his next few nights would be busy indeed.