[center][color=0072bc][h3][b]I'onriyi Stonehand[/b][/h3][/color][/center][hr]
Nodding slightly as his guest commented on Brega Menrirl—which in the hands of a non-penin truly did appear to be a scepter rather than a staff proper—the enchanter found himself smiling slightly as he noticed her puzzlement over the object. Her confusion at his insistence she inspect it—and at the purpose of the exercise in general—brought to him a strange feeling of pride, something like amusement and appreciation rolled into one.

Taking the item back from her as she offered it, I'on considered demonstrating its capabilities. Of course, that might devalue the experience, as the staff was primarily an amplifier for his spellwork as well as a weapon he could wield on its own. After all, the staff's crystal was far more durable than any purely natural crystal ought to be and though he had not dared to test it to the point of breaking, the penin knew that its durability was similar—though not as extreme—as the metal that ran through its core and in some places constrained it.

Looking upon the piece fondly for a moment he spoke,

[color=0072bc][b]"This was my first major undertaking many years ago,"[/b][/color] he began, [color=0072bc][b]"...the first item I ever properly enchanted."[/b][/color] His eyes rose to meet theirs and he held that gaze for a moment before setting the staff on a nearby table.

[color=0072bc][b]“I've been enchanting for many years, it's part of why I've some...mmm, fame, here.”[/b][/color] He grimaced for the briefest moment before his expression softened once more. [color=0072bc][b]“That item, Brega Menrirl, is not a pass-time, and neither is enchantment itself, for though it does [i]take[/i] time, I sincerely doubt that any mage who uses it does not do so merely to pass it. The process, regardless of the method used, is difficult, time-consuming, and if done improperly it is not even rewarding. It's not the sort of thing that you do [i]just[/i] to pass the hours.”[/b][/color] He glanced at his staff once more and something struck him.

He hadn't made anything for himself since he'd fashioned his gauntlets so many years ago. Nothing major at least...and now that he would be departing from the city soon he would hardly have the materials to do so, not until he reached another city that was. At the thought he cast a sidelong glance at the archangel's vessel, a small grin taking over a corner of his lips.

[color=0072bc][b]“Perhaps, before I leave the city you and I can make something. After all, it's been far too long since I've given myself a gift,”[/b][/color] he chuckled and then made his way from the workshop, beckoning that she follow. He had not failed to notice the crumbs on her clothes—clearly she'd thought that she might not be able to finish the meal he'd offered her. Poor lass.

[color=0072bc][b]“There's more bread if you're still hungry. Feel free to eat some, just not all of it. I've a few preparations to make before I head out. Don't leave and don't pocket anything—though I doubt you would.”[/b][/color] He smiled at her, waving her towards the kitchen before he headed away before turning a corner and passing out of sight.

He would be gone for only a few minutes as he got together proper clothes to be seen in the public eye, as well as some coin, a waterskin, and a few other items. Before he joined her back in the kitchen he retrieved his staff, strapping it to his back. He'd only taken maybe ten minutes, but when he reappeared—taking another slice of bread to munch on, he appeared far more alert and ready for his day. His golden eyes falling on his gauntlets, the penin gathered them up and then fastened them on either hip, where they hung, fingers pointing down along his thighs.

Finishing his slice, I'on took up his tea—which was still somewhat warm—and finished it before turning to Male'dai/Nimbus. In a good mood, he found himself smiling at the woman. [color=0072bc][b]“I hope you've eaten your fill,”[/b][/color] he said with vigor before he walked passed her. [color=0072bc][b]“Time to go. I want to see what sort of explanation  these men could possibly have for the situation I found them in just yesterday.”[/b][/color] He hoped it was better than he thought it would be. Perhaps he'd have his new companion come near enough to hear, but not draw attention. Perhaps in the room next to theirs at the inn.

He wanted believe that the interaction would go smoothly, but it was hard to say with those two. Especially the veiled one...he'd caused them plenty of undue stress, that was certain.

Perhaps it would be easier this time.