Closed starter for @txphatt-cxntrxller
Mr. Conductor's inner sanctum was quite the spectacle. Light filtered softly through a large stained glass window, casting colorful patterns across the polished wooden floor. The walls, lined with dark mahogany bookshelves, were filled with an eclectic collection of books and old maps. Timepieces of various shapes and sizes adorned the room: a stately grandfather clock stood sentinel in one corner, its pendulum swinging in time to an unhurried beat, while smaller, ornate clocks punctuated the walls and shelves.
A grand wooden desk occupied the center of the space. It was cluttered with an array of artifacts: a brass compass, a ledger, a vintage typewriter, and a wooden rotary phone, all bathed in the warm glow from suspended pendant lights. Littered throughout the room, an assortment of lush potted plants added a welcome splash of greenery.
As Mr. Conductor led Topham inside, the large wooden door slowly drifted shut behind them.
“ Come, old friend. We've much to discuss. ” Stepping inside, he gestured towards a plush armchair opposite the desk, upholstered in rich fabric.
Mr. Conductor's voice was not loud, but possessed a peculiar quality of penetrating general conversation, and cutting it like a knife. Perceiving that he had attracted Topham's general attention, he lit his pipe with great equanimity.
“ You've been through quite the ordeal today, my dear Topham. For that, you are owed an explanation, ” he began, exhaling a faintly shimmering cloud of smoke. “ But first and foremost… How are you feeling? Physically, I mean. Any lingering discomfort from your injuries? Healing magic is a wondrous thing, but it's not always the most precise. ”
Next to the entrance was an oak endtable, atop which sat a samovar. Polished to a brilliant sheen, with steam curling from it's spout. Mr. Conductor made his way over, briefly turning his back to Topham, as he began preparing what appeared to be a cup of fresh tea. Though seemingly nothing had been added to it, the tea would taste exactly how Topham Hat preferred it; faintly sweet, with undertones of honey. Perhaps a hint of lavender as well?
“ Drink this, if you please. It will help steady your nerves. ” he set the cup and saucer in front of his guest, before finally taking his own seat at his desk. There was a thoughtful pause before he continued. “ I am… Truly sorry about what happened to Thomas, Topham. Do know that things could have gone much worse if the conductors hadn't been present, scant comfort it may bring. A quick trip to the steamworks, and he'll be back to his old self in no time-- and with blessedly little memory of what happened. ”
