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[There's that cool-headed drow, no doubt full of poise and confidence as he presented himself in his poems, and Taryon must match his level of self-control. No sudden clasping of hands, no shy smiles and certainly not twiddling of thumbs. This isn't their first dance at the wedding. This is just a normal date. Guys don't turn into lovesick idiots after their first romantic outing.]

It's a castle. There's nothing more impressive than something that should have taken years to built without magic. But I'm certain your home has its rustic charms. After you.

[He bows and holds his hands aside to guide this esteemed guest towards the workshop.]

Dory, get the tea set ready. [The automaton turns silently and marches upstairs, as any obedient butler would.]

Thank you.

[Saelfen gives Taryon a warm smile as he walks towards the workshop. He pauses briefly at the threshold, his eyes widening in amazement as he slowly steps inside. This is Tary's world, his small home away from home. Nothing is more important to an artificer than their workshop. It's like a haven for them, a refuge from the world that constantly pollutes their minds.

He walks through the workshop with a hint of reverence in his steps, his hands folded neatly behind him. Saelfen is doing what he can to stop himself from tinkering with Taryon's things. After all, he doesn't want to be a rude guest.]

You've been busy, haven't you?

[He offers Taryon a little smirk.]

I do hope my lovely poems inspired you to do your best, handsome.

Oh, yes. I've been going through my books and notes to figure out the most efficient way to enchant all of the walls. I was thinking about laying down an arcane network along the length so that when it's time to infuse magic, it will travel more quickly down the leylines. The problem is that I worry that this will create weak spots, but I'm not certain what other technique to use besides going over the entire area bit by bit.

[His arms become animated as he walks around the workshop to collect his tools in one hand while picking up a chair for Saelfen with the other.]

They've given me something to think about while at work. The bakery, I mean, not that I dislike it, but I couldn't get to get back and do something with my hands and make use of that inspiration.

[He holds the seat before Saelfen as a gentleman would for a lady.] I think I will be further motivated now that I have a beautiful muse before me.

[Well, let's get down to business. It seems Taryon has already done his part of the homework.]

Any corners of the walls that are not covered by the leylines will be weaker than the rest of the structure. This is why I propose the possibility of doubling up on the arcane network you propose, by adding a second set of leylines going vertically across the walls to match those that I assume would be going horizontally.

[It sounds like double the work, but this way they can be certain the walls are properly fortified. The last thing they need is a brute to be able to punch a hole in the walls. Miss Belladonna would be upset with them if they botched this job.]

A beautiful muse? [He chuckles quietly as he sits down at the table.] My, my, whatever shall I do with such wonderful praise.

I certainly hope I can rouse more than just your creative spirit, Tary.

[Taryon nods with Saelfen's suggestion and draws additional lines on his plans. Perpendicular leylines cross his own, creating a grid of structural beams like magic rebar in concrete. The corner gets another line on the edge, knowing that there is where all of the stress will congregate if a massive blast hit all of the walls. The application must be precise, which is why they are two intelligent and somewhat dexterous crafters working together.

Taryon's sole reaction to Saelfen sitting beside him is a small twinkle in his eye. The focus is in his work, no matter who beautiful the company is. That is the dedication one requires when it comes to the sciences. To keep one's mind on higher matters rather than base carnal desires is the mark of a wise man...

...which Taryon is not, because the suggestion coming from his...partner in science and in romantic manners has him pause his work and fear looking the drow in the eye.] What do you mean?

[It's too easy to tell that his heart is beating faster while he reviews his drawings. There's nothing else he can add to them until he starts the actual calculations and enchantment process; all this is to stall for time until he knows that he isn't getting excited for no reason.]

I think you know what I mean.

[Saelfen responds, resting his elbows on the table and placing his hand under his chin. He's feeling very flirty. That should be obvious from the way he looks at Taryon with such anticipation. He's watching the man like a hungry hawk, his eyes narrowing slightly as he concentrates solely on Tary.]

If not, then shall I state it plainly?

[He quizzically tilts his head to the side, just waiting to see Taryon's reaction.]

Tomorrow waits for no one, as we now know after looking into the future. So; why do we wait when there is passion between us?

[Taryon continues to avoid Saelfen's eyes, but the confirmation that he is correct in his assumptions blocks his thoughts on the project from connecting. It should be obvious, than when two people get together romantically, the topic of carnal intercourse will follow. But here? Someone propositioning him in the middle of praising his work? It's too much like his fantasies to be real.

When he finally looks up, Saelfen's expression is not one of jovial rhetoric. This is a "now or never" issue - sure, they have a future, hypothetically, but he's just about asking they head upstairs to his room and...]

I...well. [He clears his throat and sets his tools on the table.] It's not like we're on a tight schedule. I suppose we can indulge in some...fun, especially since you have become enchanted by my brilliance.

[His eyes dart from his hands to the table, then back to Saelfen. He's a beautiful man, but there's a limit to what they can do in public. How daring can Taryon become knowing that no one will walk in on them? Science encourages experimentation.]

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