A Rose is a Rose is a Rose

[Milton]

A pleased smile and a bow of the head to acknowledge her kind words. As they stroll, Milton casts the occasional glance at the flowers on either side of them, but his eyes always return to Jennifer as she speaks.

"Chaotic, indeed," he agrees. "But I am very proud of the responses we've mustered to these various...difficulties. In our world, there will always be problems to address. That we, thus far, have displayed the will necessary to resolve such issues bodes well. I, for one, will continue to make myself useful as necessary." Precisely for the reasons she's just enumerated. "Your recognition is a gift, Ms. Hazelton. I am honored, truly. That situation was particularly delicate. Especially given the...interdiction (justified, I might add) surrounding the interference with such facilities. I am very glad that we were able to solve the issue as you've described." Milton is certain that the alternative would not have been favorable for him.

Her jest at Edward's expense is met with a burst of laughter from the otherwise staid Lord. It's immediately stifled behind a pale hand. He just can't control it, even if it might've been more prudent to hold it in. This may be the most mirth Jennifer has ever witnessed from the 'man'. "Oh, yes. As entertaining as Mr. Heinrich's...gaffes can be, I quite agree. Providing a focal point for the...party would certainly induce engaging conversation. Paintings, sculpture, even a film screening would introduce a new element to the affair." One he would enjoy.

"Oh, Ms. Hazelton, I imagine you would have no trouble contributing to such a discussion, whether or not you've read any economic theory." Intelligence is apparent no matter one's familiarity with a given topic. "And besides, the argument doesn't just concern market forces...It's a broadly philosophical re-evaluation of the privileges and uses of the human species. About whether creation implies dominance. The human animal has created a technological and material armature that, more and more, appears to instrumentalize humans themselves, use them as a resource or as tools. Thus, for instance, their seeming inability to stop climate catastrophe. The market, the machinery, demands that they keep going. And so they do, even if it kills everyone on the planet." It is altogether clear from his tone that Milton treats this as a dispassionate point of consideration or even an opportunity for the Kindred, not as a moral question. "So, where do we fit in? Which was your question, yes? Honestly that is the question. The very one I would be keen to discuss." He's hesitant to do so, in detail, just now. After all, how does one properly disguise one's meaning when considering whether or not it is feasible to move toward the large-scale farming of humans, given a likely decrease in stock within the next hundred years.

"Yes, time. It is amazing the possibilities. And equally amazing how so many squander them." It's not exactly the pettiness of the Kindred that bothers Milton. He's quite petty himself. No, it's the lack of curiosity he often observes in his fellow vampires. In the case of the very aged, this might be understandable. But even the younger classes of the undead can exhibit striking inflexibility. Unfortunate. "I would be open to the idea of hosting or even co-hosting classes, lectures, seminars... An opportunity to share knowledge among the community. Not simply for social purposes, but in the interest of the...common good." Is that the word when you're talking about a collection of undead monsters?

[Jennifer Hazelton]

"I am as well. I admit, I have little experience in martial matters. Yet I tried for prudence, not engaging when we were outnumbered. Assisting when we could, even if we were not ideal back up. Even those untrained can give a good attempt. Next talk, I will have to tell you more on how I hit the tresspasser. I was so proud!" A smile, then perhaps an embarassed laugh. Why was she so proud of that?

"I have no doubt that you will be useful. As you have already proven yourself to me. No doubt, others have taken notice." Perhaps Jack, although his mind was so sharp. He could have criteria she knew not of before Milton could have his support as sponsor.

"I will find the time to suggest these activities to the CEO. Or perhaps you would like to do so alongside me?"

"You flatter me, Mr. Northbridge. Although I must say, one can gather resources and look for one of the most talented folk, one who seems to know how to fix the situation. Direct resources to them so that they can research or hire on folks to run algorithms. I think that is an idea. Although I am curious to hear more on your opinion on the matter.

Think on what topics you would like to speak of at my venue. I am setting things in motion for it. It is a second objective of mine, so it would take some time. Yet what is time. For us?
I shall make sure you are invited when I set up the final details, to see if you have any insight. Which I welcome." Jennifer assures. The choices were hers alone, yet she liked how his mind worked.

"Perhaps the third week of October?" Jennifer proposed. "Or if that doesn't work for you, November. I meant what I said."
Jennifer assured. She was not the sort to emotionally manipulate. She did adhere to her code of being truthful.

This has been an excellent scene. Thank you!

[Milton]

She's speaking Milton's language: prudence is his watchword and caution is a defining feature of his standard operating procedure. He nods his approval, "Oh indeed. There is more than one way to skin the proverbial cat. And if one can manage the...difficulty without the skinning, all the better." He joins a soft chuckle to her chagrined laughter: "I look forward to hearing that tale when all the details can be properly shared." About her contribution, and the overall developments with that, particular case.

"Again, your recognition is greatly appreciated. I will continue to serve in any way possible." If she's noticed, he hopes others have as well. And if not, then he will continue his efforts. There is no other course.

"I would be happy to approach the CEO about this idea with you..." Another voice added to the chorus can't hurt. And, besides, it's another chance to make himself visible within the domain. A win win.

"And I would love to hear your reaction to those thoughts," but now is not the time. It grows late and the locale is far too public. "Another point for our next conversation."

Milton's already making a mental list of possible topics, "I will endeavor to develop topics both intellectually engaging and, hopefully, useful to our society. And, of course, I am free to go over any details concerning the space that you may wish to discuss." It's a thrilling thought: a space of aesthetic achievements, academic discussion, and easy hunting. Milton can picture himself there on a nightly basis.

"Either of those times will work for me. Simply reach out and I will be there."

They've arrived back where they started, the rosebush-flanked path letting out onto the sidewalk. Milton escorts Jennifer to her vehicle, opens the door and holds it for her. When she's seated within, he looks down at her from the curb: "Have a wonderful evening, Ms. Hazelton. And thank you again for this most enjoyable walk. I look forward to continuing our conversation at your convenience."

With that, he shuts the door. The car pulls away and Milton watches as it disappears into the night.

So much fun! Thank you!