[center][hider=Meeting of the minds][color=lightgray][center][h1][color=D2691E]Farim[/color], [color=5486ae]John[/color] & [color=ab274f]Wulfric[/color][/h1]
Date and Time: Sola 23rd, Early afternoon[/center][hr][hr]

Farim could not help but show a look of pride at the mention of him being a legend. He smiled and nodded at Dr. John’s words. [color=D2691E]“I am flattered to be thought of as a legend. I simply look to provide what I can for the good people of my country and even further beyond its borders.”[/color] He paused to do an open palmed gesture towards the doctor. [color=D2691E]“Such as someone in your line of work seeks to help others, I very much share that notion, even if some may view me as a pragmatic persuasion.”[/color] His arms now crossed, and his stance become slightly more casual.

[color=D2691E]“The main point of my wanting to meet with you is simply that there is a rather short supply of medical experts in my homeland. Sure we have some, but very few and far between and half of them ill-equipped to tackle the problems of modern medicine.”[/color] Farim’s hand moved to hold his chin between his finger and thumb, as if to mimic a thinking posture while relaying this plight. [color=D2691E]“This is not a problem that can be fixed overnight, but I feel that it may be necessary to start expanding my branches out to that of your field, Dr. John. Perhaps even send a few willing participants to do … oh how is it said… an internship?”[/color] 

The hand moving his chin now rolled at the wrist as if to passively dismiss any initial suspicions with his next line. [color=D2691E]“Of course, not for free. Proper payment and all. We can talk about the details over some lunch perhaps? That sandwich was good but I would not mind grabbing another bite somewhere local. Have you found any good places around here?”[/color] Farim poised the offer, wondering how the man before would think of all this. If the proposal was outright rejected, perhaps some good food could at least come out of it.

[color=5486ae]“Oh for sure. It’s going to be a little technical with what I’m involved with, so not a bad idea.”[/color] John leaned his head slightly. This one he actually knew a little bit more than Farim might expect. [color=5486ae]“I know a nice little place with noodle soup. It’s not in the fine dining area, but in the tavern area funnily enough. According to what I heard, it was, and probably still is, a soup kitchen for the nearby hospital, and that patients loved their food enough that it spread through word-of-mouth, so now it grew into a restaurant after a decade or two.”[/color]

John’s eyes seemed to glow like a little kid, as if it was a personal memory. [color=5486ae]“It’s a niche taste though, I hope that’s not too far off for you.”[/color] But he remembered that he was talking to high-class Alidasht royalty, not to his colleagues, so that might not be their thing. But still, after his times both in high and low, he always remembered that place as an example that not everything for the commoners is bad.

Farim’s hands clapped with enthusiasm, and he gestured with his hand off into the distance, prompting Dr. John to ‘lead the way’. [color=D2691E]“The best meals come from all corners of the world. I shall not turn my nose up at something that has yet value to be appraised. That and the nature of our discussion is rather fitting for such an atmosphere. I shall come with, so long as my…attire is of no consequence.”[/color] He realized wearing a wet-suit to a kitchen may not be the most socially fitting image, so he whistled to one of the nearby guards left from Layla’s ensemble. He dusted off any remnants of sand from his earlier scuffle with them and made a request. [color=D2691E]“Would you mind either fetching or finding someone to fetch my robes hanging off my bed frame? I assure you my cousin would not mind your absence for an hour.”[/color] His tone was pleasing and his demeanor friendly, and despite the guard looking frazzled and worried, he nodded and quickly hurried off into the distance. [color=D2691E]“There, at least I can cover up slightly, eh? Lead the way, good sir.”[/color]

As the Varian doctor and the Alidasht prince were conversing, making their way towards an eatery at a leisurely pace, an unlikely figure caught sight of them. The first prince of Caesonia himself, mounted atop his steed, which was trotting towards the beach. He had intended to head towards a more secluded part of the beach, and go for a swim, but seeing two men he wished to speak to changed his mind. Steering the horse towards the pair, Wulfric called out to them with a, [color=ab274f]“Gentlemen, good day.”[/color] He wasn’t loud, but his firm greeting carried to them well.

Once he was close enough, he dismounted, giving each man a nod. [color=ab274f]“Please excuse me for interrupting what seems a thoroughly engaging discussion. However, I had hoped to speak to each of you, so seeing the both of you together by happenstance is an opportunity I would rather not pass by. Provided you do not mind me joining you, of course,”[/color] he smiled charmingly.

That’s a face John didn’t expect right there: the Prince himself. On a horse as well, a very fairy tales evoking image, but charming nonetheless. But assuming all good faith, he was happy to entertain the discussion.

[color=5486ae]“Oh, you are very welcome to, Prince Wulfric.”[/color] John gave him all the greeting gestures one could’ve expected. [color=5486ae]“We are on our way for a meal. I am certain the humble restaurant would be equally honored to be visited by your highness.”[/color] 

Farim had not expected the company of the eldest Danrose, but nonetheless he had a big smile to greet the man as he approached. With a bow he gave his greetings to Wulfric. [color=D2691E]“My, many surprises await me today. This one at least very pleasant. Your steed, they are quite the majestic creature.”[/color] Farim admired the horse with reverence and would softly stroke its mane should he earn the right.

[color=ab274f]“Indeed, he is,”[/color] Wulfric agreed, and permitted the Alidasht prince to pet the beautiful black-coated horse.

A quick movement would be noticed from the sidelines as the guard from earlier approached the trio with a finely knitted silk-lined robe - as per Farim’s request. He took the clothing and donned it quickly, making short work of the wrapping necessary to secure it. [color=D2691E]“There, less revealing to the public eye this way.”[/color] 

[color=ab274f]“Ah, yes, that is for the best. After all, we wouldn’t want to risk someone fainting,”[/color] Wulfric was clearly amused, a head tilt indicating several gawkers who had [i]a plenty[/i] to stare at. Two royals, one of whom had been strolling along the streets in a swimsuit to boot. 

[color=ab274f]“By the by,”[/color] he suddenly added, [color=ab274f]“I happened to meet Thara the other night, when you had sent her to my sister.”[/color] He raised a brow at the other man, mildly interested in just how companionable the two of them were. [color=ab274f]“A beautiful raptor, truly - is she not with you today?”[/color] he inquired after the bird.

Farim silently thanked the momentary distraction of clothing himself as he would think of just how to respond to Wulfric’s unexpected words. He had indeed sent a random animal to his sister’s bedroom in the dead of night - but he calmed his nerves and reassured himself with his next statement. [color=D2691E]“Anastasia had done me a great kindness in my stay here. She had shown me the city and the lovely festival you all were holding. She had seemed a little off when we had parted ways so I repaid her kindness with kindness of my own, a habit that I hope you are fine with, Prince Wulfric. Thara is a beautiful falcon. One whom I cherish dearly. She is resting in my chambers, likely tired after being out all evening. The fact that she returned unharmed despite your discovery of her is a kindness I won’t forget either.”[/color] He said with a chuckle before moving with the group to their destination.

The Shahzade seemed a tad nervous, which clued in Wulfric that he might have an eye on his sister. [color=ab274f]“Of course. Anastasia did appreciate your thoughtful gesture, after all,”[/color] he agreed. This situation did amuse him; Farim was acting as if instead of the bird, what he’d found in her bedroom was the Alidasht prince himself, in the nude. [color=ab274f]“Not to worry, Shahzade. I shall reserve my overprotectiveness for my sister’s potential suitors, not their pets,”[/color] he reassured with a smirk. Though his tone was lightly teasing, his gaze was thoroughly assessing as he considered the foreign royal.

The distance to the intended restaurant did not take long at all, and to no one's surprise, their arrival was quite a sight. An Alidasht royal and a Caesonian prince amongst the common diners. Gossip quickly began not atypical of Caesonian habits, of what their purpose here was, as well as who was the third man in company. One might think he was a servant, but his seat and the two royals formed a complete circle. 

[color=5486ae]“There you go.”[/color] John passed the menu to the two. [color=5486ae]“It's a smaller menu than usual. I would recommend their special noodles with herbs and pork. But if you have any allergies or religious restrictions, they’re probably flexible with the meat.”[/color]

Farim looked over the options and couldn’t help but ponder the variety of things he had scarcely seen or heard of outside of cultural exchanges or themed restaurants back home. There was the chance to try a particularly interesting soup that still seemed familiar to him. [color=D2691E]“I think I shall try this special soup. It seems lovely!”[/color] He asked before handing his menu away to whomever would take it.

Wulfric hummed as he quickly flipped through the menu. [color=ab274f]“Roasted pork for myself,”[/color] he decided.

After ordering their meals, John leaned back on his chair and looked around at both Wulfric and Farim with a friendly smile. [color=5486ae]“Anyway, now that we’re settled in, I am happy to answer and discuss any subjects you have.”[/color]

Farim nodded, and took a more serious expression while keeping up the cheery and charismatic demeanor. [color=D2691E]“Well, on my end, I simply wish to discuss things trade-worthy. I am a man of many deals and know where to find good arrangements. I see potential in a medical partnership between you and I, Dr. John. Imagine the good for everyone if you could show some fresh hands the ins and outs of medicinal practice?”[/color]

His hands now linked together, fingers intertwining as he leaned on the table. Farim’s gaze shifted now to Wulfric. [color=D2691E]“And if there is anything you need, dear Prince Danrose. You are certainly welcome to ask me whatever it is that may be on your mind.”[/color] Farim had heard of Wulfric from Anastasia, albeit briefly, and he was rather excited to meet the impactful prince in the flesh. Farim’s curiosity over both him and Dr. John's response would make any restaurant seem like fine dining to him.

[color=ab274f]“So, the two of you are arranging for internships?”[/color] Wulfric raised a curious eyebrow. [color=ab274f]“A fine way to advance medical knowledge in your country,”[/color] he gave an acknowledging nod to Farim, [color=ab274f]“since Varian is known for their advances, and you are one of their renown physicians,”[/color] his gaze landed on the doctor. However, he did not intend to pitch in; he deemed the existing exchanges between Caesonia and Varian acceptable.

[color=ab274f]“As for your offer, Shahzade, I shall keep it in mind. I am most intrigued to learn more about your trading pursuits. Investing was once a very active hobby of mine, but it is far less hands-on compared to your endeavors.”[/color] He leaned in as he said so, which was an evident sign of his interest. He believed they could talk about business in depth, and there was the potential for him to gain some unexpected insights. [color=ab274f]“However,”[/color] he straightened in his seat, [color=ab274f]“let us shelve that for another time. When the two of you conclude your previous discussion, I will address another matter.”[/color]

[color=5486ae]“I would love a partnership for sure, though like I said, it would get pretty technical.”[/color] John rubbed his hands together as he quickly glanced at Wulfric before settling on Farim. [color=5486ae]“You see, my doctor title can be misleading. I indeed nurse people back to good health, and it is my official role here as a Royal Physician to personally tend to our monarch’s health, but being a Varian Institute member, I work on a variety of other things, like medical research or public health.”[/color]

That and also one more responsibility that he decided against revealing, one that he had a complex relationship with but couldn’t help but feel a little bit of pride in. It was also more of an internal Varian mechanism to keep the boots of their sovereigns from the necks of the people, so it was not widely known, not even to some people in the Varian government itself. So that, unfortunately, Farim would have to miss out on.

[color=5486ae]“So you have quite some choices. I assume since you’re more of a trader, a medical research partnership might sound enticing? An opportunity for Varian and Alidasht to exchange medical knowledge, and also medical supplies to each other.”[/color]

Farim’s eyes shifted between the two, taking ample slow breaks in his train of thought to process what all had been given to him. The exchange was going precisely how he desired it to go. [color=D2691E]“Well, Prince Wulfric. I shall happily indulge whatever matter you may be curious about. I do not have to make a deal out of every interaction, of course, so I am not shy to simply discuss whatever topics may plague your curious mind.”[/color] He waved for a nearby attendant and asked for a glass of water. 

While said glass was being retrieved, Farim straightened his posture and placed one leg over the other as he talked. [color=D2691E]“As for the idea, Dr. John, knowledge is precisely why I came to you in the first place. The tangible supplies can be supplements for a more immediate result on my ledger, but the exchange of knowledge can be a fairly lucrative arrangement. Perhaps some of my more willing participants can elect to become more long-standing medical assistants, nurses, and the like as a way of ‘paying back’ for your time in showing them the ins and outs of the medical world?”[/color] As the attendant returned with a glass of fresh water, Farim gracefully took it in hand and took a long drawn out sip before placing the glass on the table. With one-third of the glass already gone, he did not quite realize how parched he was.

[color=5486ae]“Tentatively, it’s no big deal, but you can always send over the profile of who you had in mind. For a review and maybe an interview, I would say.”[/color] All in standard procedures.

Wulfric caught the doctor’s glance. He wondered what it signified. Rather than discovering the reason, mulling over John’s words gave him an idea. [color=ab274f]“If it is advancing medicine based on a research partnership, then I do have something in mind.”[/color] He turned to the doctor to address him. [color=ab274f]“I do not know if this would be in your purview, but I understand that for the remainder of your stay, you will now act as some sort of representative for the Varian medical community?”[/color] He waited a moment for John to confirm this, or else to clarify it. The prince had heard mention of it, but he wasn’t clear on the specifics.

John raised his eyebrows. That information got out quickly. [color=5486ae]“You can say that, yes.”[/color]

[color=ab274f]“Consider this idea then, doctor. A joint partnership for research of antibiotics.”[/color] He paused to gauge John’s and Farim’s reactions. [color=ab274f]“I believe that sharing of material resources, personnel, and of course, knowledge, would significantly expedite the research process. The sooner we learn how to optimize the production, the better, no?”[/color] It was obvious he wanted to implement this on an international level, so his proposition was basic but clear-cut to test the waters.

[color=5486ae]“Hmm, antibiotics is a fun one.”[/color] John pondered for a moment. He did consider the Prince’s words a bit more than Farim’s. His expressions were low-key but there was excitement lurking beneath. [color=5486ae]“I won’t jump the guns on what my fellow colleagues desire yet, but at the very least, we do want to see this increasingly life-saving technology put into use, so I will put in good words of your highness’s offer. If it were just me, I would be ecstatic to have the Caesonians onboard.”[/color] 

[color=ab274f]“Excellent,”[/color] Wulfric smiled faintly. Have them onboard, was it? He supposed the doctor considered this one of Varian’s flagship projects. Well, it was natural each side would see themselves as the more prominent one, or try to gain such preeminence. As long as they still managed to find some common ground, though, that was just fine. [color=ab274f]“Then I will refer to you a formally written offer and proposal. I am certain we can garner enough interest on both sides to see this realized,”[/color] he concluded.

Farim observed the two begin their own form of negotiations, and nodded approvingly. This was the kind of deal-making he certainly loved being a part of. He looked off to the left and noticed a few people approaching with their ordered foods, his stomach almost seeming more empty as the promise of good food made its way to the table. He took a pause and a sip from his soup, and despite its scalding hot temperature, still drank the spoonful he had rather quickly. With a satisfied but quick sigh, he rebuttaled.

[color=D2691E]“I suppose I have not given any real [i]meat[/i] to the constant mention of our arrangement, dear doctor. For the candidates, I shall pick some of our finest up and coming medical professionals for you to meet and you shall judge them worthy or unworthy of your teachings. As a subsidization for such a service, I can promise a few things. What immediately comes to mind is the procurement of the rare desert flora that we commonly use in our herbal remedies - ones that fight off fungal and bacterial infections like no other. But if there is another particular ingredient or possible item you require, simply name it.”[/color] He took another spoonful of hot soup and graciously sipped it. [color=D2691E]“As for Caesonia, since this has now become a proper triumvirate of sorts,”[/color] he suggested with a sly grin.

[color=D2691E]“You spoke of investing, no? What might some particular needs of this fine kingdom be? If antibacterial medicine between Varian and Caessonia is on your radar, perhaps there is some form of collaboration for us all to contribute towards? Or do you prefer the more one-on-one style of negotiation~?”[/color] With this, Farim’s more true nature of business began to glitter and shine. His voice carried a casual connotation yet the words he spoke were professional in intent. His offers were open-ended and rather pleasurable to the foreigners - something he hoped would help him win their favor, or perhaps even spill some crucial details. He fully intended to keep his promises to the two men, but it couldn’t hurt to learn a little extra information here and there.

[color=5486ae]“Perfect. I don’t think we will have much issues with the deal, practically speaking.”[/color] John replied to Wulfric, just as he noticed the food coming out. He promptly settled in with his own noodle soup before answering Farim. [color=5486ae]“Oh, you’re too kind, Farim. I do not really expect subsidies, not at least until we proceed with the onboarding process anyway. Like with Prince Wulfric, we like to offer on more…say…edge conditions, but in reality, it often goes a lot smoother.”[/color] It really seemed like the way he spoke, of a more cautious investigator and scientist seemed to rub it a bit weirdly on these gentlemen, who were more tradesmen than he was. [color=5486ae]“But herbal remedies are good subsidies nonetheless. You do not know how much we northsmen love those.”[/color]

As for the offer…

[color=5486ae]“I certainly don’t have a problem with the collaboration. At the end of the day, national pride is really a thing to be concerned of, as long as the public benefits from it.”[/color] He made his opinions clear. Especially as a Caesonian by blood and Varian by adversity, he saw that as both potential nuisance in the collaboration, as well as a non-starter as it should be.

Wulfric nodded to the doctor in affirmation. The food arrived, and he gave it a try as John and Farim conversed. The meat was fattier and of poorer quality than he was used to, making the soup unpleasantly thick. He supposed commoners considered this a hearty meal. However, the taste of the ingredients blended well enough together in the broth. Thankfully, the noodles weren’t overcooked either. Overall, he’d mark it as another odd meal, which was not at all up to par compared to his usual fare…but it was acceptable for what it was.

[color=ab274f]“Hm, for Alidasht, building upon our existing trade agreements would be my go-to. Of course, that isn’t only a matter of the demands and interests of my country, but of yours as well, Shahzade.”[/color] To start with, Wulfric offered a more generalistic answer, corners of mouth curling up in light amusement. Apparently, Farim was the type to do his utmost to become ‘someone who provided’, so that when one had a need to fulfill, he’d be the first in their minds. Not bad as far as strategies went.

[color=ab274f]“I wouldn’t mind a few of those samples you’ve offered to the doctor, either. Novelty items have their niche,”[/color] he added. [color=ab274f]“Though, if you are saying you wish to join that medical project, I would be receptive to your contributions. Do feel free to send in a proposal.”[/color] Preferably, it would be an agreement between the nations, rather than just Farim’s company pitching in. Though, depending what was on the table, even just that could be advantageous.

He gave a curious look to the doctor at his last words. [color=ab274f]“Oh?”[/color] he raised his brows. [color=ab274f]“Now that is a sentiment not many claim,”[/color] he commented. [color=ab274f]“I have no doubts we will have to deal with the matter of national pride, as you say. However, as long as rivalries do not take precedence, competition can be balanced out with cooperation,”[/color] he rolled a shoulder in an elegant shrug.

Farim continued nursing the scolding soup - its warmth slowly fading as the time passed. As he worked on the broth and finally began to hit the herbs and the pork, he noted an appreciation for some rather simple yet effective combinations. This was a meal meant to be cooked en masse to the public, and provide some slight bits of flavor all the same. A nod of approval from Farim noted he rather enjoyed the meal he was having as the two continued their rebuttals.

[color=D2691E]“Doctor John, it is the least I can do for such an arrangement. It is very customary for a ‘give-and-take’ as you say. But if you would simply prefer the presence of my best and brightest, then I shall indulge you in that very manner. You shall see some resumes come across your desk here soon, let me know if you find anyone worth the journey.”[/color] He took a few purposeful dips of his spoon into the broth, maintaining a modest pace after his initial sprint into the meal. He wanted to savor the pork of this dish in particular, his grin of satisfaction evident to the others as he enjoyed a few more bites.

Once he had a momentary pause in between his bites, he took note of Wulfric’s comments, and noted the rather tactful political view the young man held. It was only natural for someone to look at the bigger picture, even something as simple as a trade between the three individuals would necessitate the attention of many third parties. Doing such dealings outside the public eye would likely seem suspicious or contain bits of nepotism, so Farim agreed with the overall idea of acting as a member of Alidasht, not as a sole beneficiary. 

[color=D2691E]“You make a good point, Prince Wulfric. I hope I do not seem too hasty. I assure you, my actions are in the interest of the Sultanate, the Royal Crown, and the Governing Council of Varian. I am simply gauging interest, forging arrangements, and getting whatever details make this particular back and forth of ours the best it can be!”[/color] He gave out a slight hum as he began to think over the details, his finger idly tracing what appeared to be numbers on the wood of the table. As strange as the motions looked, Farim was merely doing quick imaginary math to “run the numbers” as some would say, before looking to the two with a reassuring and confident smile. [color=D2691E]“In terms of what I can contribute, I shall throw in a care package of Alidasht local medicine for both Caesonia and Varian to study, either alone or together. A stack of resumes on the good doctor’s desk, and a proposal of varying contributions from the Sultanate on the young prince’s desk by the end of this week. Hopefully sooner, shall we drink on this arrangement or is there more to be discussed?”[/color]

[color=5486ae]“Not much from me. I look forward to seeing them then.”[/color] John replied. taking his enjoyment of the soup in a more reminiscent manner. Because unlike the two here, this was the soup of his childhood. His Caesonian days were not poor, but the uncostly meal always gave him a nice reason to come back, and naturally the taste had left its marks. Like the familiar summer wind, John savored both the familiar and the new that had moved on without his memory, letting the two exchange their words, as well as giving a think on if and what he should answer Wulfric’s last inquiry.

[color=5486ae]“Oh yeah, that’s just a personal thing I live by…”[/color] John looked up from his trip down memory lane. [color=5486ae]“I was born Caesonian after all.”[/color] He kept it as short as possible. He still remembered that it was Wulfric’s father that exiled him, but a part of him did not want that to affect his relationship with the man. 

[color=5486ae]“The Sultanate, eh?”[/color] John tried changing the topic as he looked at Farim. [color=5486ae]“Admittedly, I’m not well-versed in Alidasht royalty, but you are related to the Grand Vizier, is that correct? Just a curious question.”[/color] 

Layla did mention him as her cousin, and the Grand Vizier himself is a fairly enigmatic person from the outside point of view other than a rather polite front. For a royal though, John would not be surprised if he’s a cunning man in secret. It takes one to know one: niceness doesn't go very well in a royalty setting.

Wulfric gave a firm nod to Farim. [color=ab274f]“Appreciated,”[/color] he stated simply, yet genuinely. The man was eager, yes, but also quick on the uptake. Wulfric was glad to see he agreed that this shouldn’t be viewed merely as a deal between individuals. He lightly chuckled at a part of the Shahzade’s statement. [color=ab274f]“I am not usually called young by people younger than myself,”[/color] he commented, drily joking. [color=ab274f]“I shall be looking forward to your message, however, and you can expect a prompt response in return,”[/color] he wrapped up their talks.

He did have something else to discuss, but he was momentarily distracted by John’s comment. Wulfric gave him a thoughtful look. He had known the man’s original nationality, but didn’t expect him to bring it up in conversation. It was a sensitive topic. The doctor didn’t show overt resentment, but it was clear he’d rather not discuss this at length. [color=ab274f]“And now you are Varian,”[/color] the prince stated softly. His words were heavy with meaning as his gaze lingered on the doctor.

But then John changed the topic, and the moment was broken. That was likely for the best. Though, unknowingly to the doctor, he treaded straight into another delicate matter. [color=ab274f]“He is that man’s son,”[/color] Wulfric supplied neutrally, while raising a brow at Farim. From that morning meeting after the party, it was evident the two didn’t get along, to say the least. He would let the Shahzade reply as he would, of course, but he was also providing an ‘out’, as it were. Besides, it would be annoying if they finished their meeting before he addressed what he’d initially wished to.

[color=ab274f]“There was something else,”[/color] he spoke up after Farim gave the doctor whatever answer he so chose. [color=ab274f]“It was discovered that the one renting the warehouse where that party incident occurred is the Black Rose merchant company, which is owned by Marek Delronzo. If you have any dealings with them, whether past or future, I would suggest caution. And if you happen to unearth any information, do pass it along.”[/color]

He let the two think on his words, watching their reactions. He was curious if those names meant anything to them. Wulfric then turned to John. [color=ab274f]“That night, my siblings had a sample of their blood taken, since the queen was there to issue her permission for the procedure,”[/color] he relayed briefly. 

[color=ab274f]“So far, our physicians have only discovered traces of alcohol in it. Requesting those reports on your side shouldn’t be an issue. If there is, feel free to notify me,”[/color] the prince told him seriously. [color=ab274f]“I hope your party and ours will be able to compare their findings. As for the samples, I am sure you understand that access to them is restricted.”[/color] Naturally, royalty and their health was a subject which warranted the highest caution.

Farim noticed the terse tone in Dr. John’s voice, and couldn’t help but curiously ponder why his nationality was such a hot topic between the two men here. But that train of thought quickly burnt out at the mention of his own bloodline. His face grew slightly dour and he let out a click of his tongue at the question. He did not mean to be rude to the Doctor, but it was almost instinct to Farim to despise being associated with [i]that man[/i]. This only lasted for a moment, as he recalled the situation he was in and the decorum best suited for it. He turned his head to meet the sound of Wulfric’s voice, a slight nod confirming the man’s suspicion. 

[color=D2691E]“You are correct. I am his first born son. But just because I am the Sultan’s nephew does not change my personal relationship with him - we are all family.”[/color] His smile returned as he addressed Wulfric’s comment. [color=D2691E]“I can call you whatever you please, Prince Wulfric. But my apologies if calling you young was unbecoming. Your demeanor and looks betray your age.”[/color] Farim calmly sipped from his bowl as he threw some flattery Wulfric’s way. But then the conversation turned to a more interesting matter. The party last night was still a mystery yet to be solved, and Wulfric provided some fairly important information right off the bat. Farim could not help but wonder what else the young wolf had discovered during his investigation.

[color=D2691E]“It is certainly refreshing to know I was not actually poisoned. I hardly assumed I was, for I would likely be dead or needing to resort to my increasingly relevant supply of antivenom. But it does beg the question, why the memory loss? Why host such an event?”[/color] Farim paused, the name of that particular company ringing a bell as he continued his train of thought. [color=D2691E]“I cannot say I would not be glad if the Black Rose is caught up in a scandal. They are quite the industry titan amongst trading empires. But to resort to something like drugging several powerful nobles. This Marek fellow would need to have quite the pair of -”[/color] Farim let out a quick cough. [color=D2691E]“Well, you know. If you would like extra hands in this investigation, I may also know a few people who can dig up some information. I refrain from immediately doing this out of respect for your country’s process, but if the culprit still eludes us, then I am happy to offer any aid I can.”[/color] Despite the Prince’s answer, Farim had half a mind to call some of his friends in low and high places to find out more about this Black Rose. For now, he had a name, a place, and a company that could be shadowing a much darker secret. All figurative thoughts for now, but his face showed no signs of scheming - only his pleasantly trademarked grin.

Amusement curled Wulfric’s lips at Farim’s answer. Being complimented on his looks was one thing, but to say that the way he acted exuded youthfulness struck him as humorous. He hummed thoughtfully as the Shahzade latched onto the given topic. [color=ab274f]“The current assumption is that it might be a fast-acting, unknown drug, one that is difficult to detect…”[/color] he trailed off. He wouldn’t mention the other possibility, namely magic. [color=ab274f]“I could only speculate on [i]how[/i] your memories were affected.”[/color] That wasn’t strictly a lie.

[color=ab274f]“But as to [i]why[/i]? The answer is clear enough. For one, it makes the situation more of an unknown. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Delronzo has evidence of you in compromising positions and intends to use it for blackmail, for example.”[/color] Having finished the soup, he set an arm onto the table, and leaned his head onto a palm. Though his demeanor and manner of speaking were nonchalant, his gaze was steely, hiding a promise of retribution to the culprit. [color=ab274f]“For another, because none of the guests remember that night, my siblings are still left with the illusion that [i]Marek[/i],”[/color] he sneered, [color=ab274f]“is a [i]friend[/i].”[/color] A point he was obviously unhappy with.

He straightened in his seat with a huff, though his expression was now once again impartial. [color=ab274f]“I frankly do not see why he would do this now besides as a means of sabotage,”[/color] he concluded. He gave Farim a long stare at his next words. [color=ab274f]“Since theirs is an international company, you might as well start investigating their activities in [i]your[/i] country,”[/color] he stated curtly. He was too territorial to easily allow outside interference with something this close to home.

[color=5486ae]“It’s pretty much the same on our side: the memory loss detail is still a headscratcher. I will send you a copy of the initial report from our Corp of Physicians, although it will just be purely medical.”[/color] John looked over at Wulfric, his countenance having seemingly moved onto the new topic. [color=5486ae]“For anything criminal-related, I would suggest asking Sir Matthias or Sir Verrick. We don’t have that kind of jurisdiction to do that work.”[/color] 

It was that quirk that surprisingly allowed the Varian to be more effective with their investigations, as violators would likely not downplay them in fear of prosecution. However, it did make things slower than how it would for other nations, which was more rough for the, quite frankly, drama-obsessed public. 

[color=5486ae]“I can’t say I know this guy Marek at all, and it is hard to predict motives at this point, considering most people have reasons to dislike the royals these days. As for the Black Rose, that’s not a bad idea either. If there are similar cases happening in our own nations that went under our radar, they can be important leads.”[/color] John added on some suggestions after Wulfric, with a more matter of fact tone, however. [color=5486ae]“They got to all our nobles so daringly. If they had done something similar before but on non-important targets, it might mean that they’ve grown confident. In that case, the discovery could be a breakthrough.”[/color] 

In fact, the Varians may already have one, but they could not trust anyone else with the information just yet.

[color=5486ae]“I will nag them more on the Black Rose, if they haven’t already done their own.”[/color]

Farim listened intently to the two testimonies, and raised his hands up in a demonstration of passivity. [color=D2691E]“Fear not. My offer was merely that. An offer. It was not my intention to step over boundaries. As for my country - I am to await word on some potential activity along our coastline involving that particular company. There are rumors they are peddling illegal goods, and it will be a snowy day in the dunes before I let that kind of trade into my homeland.”[/color]

With his meal finished, and their meeting nearing its end, Farim rose up and clasped his hands together with a huff of air pushing through his nostrils. [color=D2691E]“This meeting has been very informative. I will make sure to follow up with you both in the coming days.”[/color] He gave Dr. John a modest bow with his arm crossing his chest. [color=D2691E]“Thank you for hearing my proposal, Good Doctor John.”[/color] Farim smiled before offering a similar bow to Wulfric. 

[color=5486ae]”Please take care.”[/color] The doctor gave both men his greeting, overall satisfied, but stayed behind to finish his meal and tipped the owners generously. 

[color=D2691E]“And same to you, Young Prince.”[/color] His smile turned into a more friendly smirk at the introduction of the word “young” once more. [color=D2691E]“If it does not trouble you I would ask you something else. We can chat by your horse so I will not delay you much longer.”[/color] With that, he rose up and gave a friendly wave to the pair before placing a small pouch of gold onto the table - more than enough for the three meals and then some. [color=D2691E]“Lunch shall be on me. Until our next meeting!”[/color] He spoke in a firm yet calm and friendly voice. He walked out towards where Wulfric had stabled his steed and waited patiently for the prince before going further.
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