#mccnstricken

It's not like it makes much difference, at this stage. Frederick's already tarnished reputation has been falling further and further to pieces, lately - even now, he can see the way that people look at him; their whispered words and judgemental gazes difficult to miss. He wishes he could say it doesn't bother him, but even now, after everything... he can still feel a hot shame creeping through him when he allows himself to dwell on the way people think of him.

But it doesn't matter. He's sure that now, watching him talk with Antonio, people must be curious, making up stories in their heads and imagining all kinds of wild theories as to what they think of each other. Yet... only Frederick knows the truth. And the taste of death that this man has brought him, time after time, is one he'll never forget.

"Mr. Paganini. I must say... your performance tonight was excellent, as always."

@mccnstricken inquired: book, sender helps receiver get a book from a higher part of the shelf. ( emily + andrew . or joseph + antonio . just to give an option! either is fine with me )

⁕| Actions Speak Louder Than Words |⁕

The second-floor study was a nice place to go to when one wanted some peace and quiet, something Emily has learned after being in the manor for so long. Her “clinic”—a room in the manor that she transformed into a makeshift doctor’s office—could sometimes be overwhelming with people doing stupid things and getting injured, so she needed a break from time to time.

Emily had always enjoyed reading but seldom had any time to pick up a book when she was in medical school, and especially couldn't when she was trying to balance her own clinic. At least now she had more time to spare, so she found herself searching the study for a new book to read. Unfortunately, the book that had caught her eye was just out of reach.

"Oh? You're sparing some hospitality my way despite the imposition on your travel venture's itinerary?" The Soaring Yellow Rose grins upon the pleasant revelation of her opposite's more personable reception of her otherwise more forward manner of greeting, balled fists settling on the dips of her hips. "I take it you're here on vacation?"

Assumption gathers at one glance at the man's more Inazuman-styled attire. Fashion preference or something that catered more to the stranger's cultural ties, it mattered not. He docked onto Fontaine's land and brought attention to himself like a fish out of water. Naturally, there was a strong inclination to befriend this ripple in the waters of what was otherwise a typical day in the land of Hydro. After all, what fun was there to be had in stagnant tides?

"Well. Who am I to deny such a friendly invitation? I'd be more than happy to accompany you as you settle down." Her head dips in acceptance toward his offer, making strides to seat herself across from him. A hum passes curved lips, precautionary warning being the first thing that occupies her thoughts in the presence of a foreigner to start their conversation properly. This, too, was Navia's innate sense of duty kicking in.

"Let me start off by saying to mind the more obscure laws that Fontaine harbors, lest you wish to get caught up in a sticky situation." Her mind drifts off to the instance spread of the Traveler's own misfortune the very moment they set foot onto Fontaine borders. While she was not there personally to witness it, word in this city of dramatics spread quickly ━ even the most minuscule ordeal all but required to be woven into some sort of spectacle for everyone to judge as they deem fit.