The #Broken_Dagger Forum

Several days before the peek of yule festivities, a broad tray had been set out upon the tavern's barcounter. It had held a fine wash of pretty colours and tastes, for the thing was piled high with cookies of countless varieties: there were cunningly shaped gingerbreads, and sugary treats with white frosting that suggested snow -- and oh, so much more, all prepared by Persons Unknown, for the Enjoyment of All.

There was more variety than young Dorian could rightly count, and the lackwit was certainly in a position to make the attempt. She'd eaten more of them than everyone else put together.

Perhaps this is why, in the aftermath of wonderful sweetmeats and an illuminating discussion with clever Tebrin, the following note has been left where the tray had once sat:



[INDENT]For the attention of the Master Chef:

A member of the tavern's waitstaff wishes humbly to state an admiration of your peerless skills, and beg an apprenticeship of you, for she too would conjure such treats and savouries for the delight of all. She is well-aquainted with hard work and taxing labour. She is fearless and brave and a mistress of fine poetry, with which she shall regale you at your pleasure! Each night, with devoted hope, she will await your response.


If you must reject this petition, she will gladly set aside an entire week's worth of wages with which to buy a second tray of your magnificent goodies.


Yrs. in awe,

Dorian Mode.
[/INDENT]

For many days Altias had looked at the note and smiled. He had been a little busy, you understand. Things had been...a bit trying of late, but the note never failed to make him smile.

It was only today that he finally had time to sit down with quill and parchment and write his own note in return.

Dear Miss Dorian,

I am ever so pleased that you enjoyed the treats. That was my intention afterall, to give a smile or two during the holiday.

You express an interest in an apprenticeship. I wish to offer you something better. I shall be opening my bakery soon, with any luck, and I will be needing some assistance. I would like to offer to teach you the trade and pay you a wage, to assist me in my shop.

You have proven yourself very useful at the Dagger, and you always seem to have a smile and excellent service for the patrons. I would like to see your enthusiam put to good use at my bakery. Please see me at your earliest convenience, and we shall discuss the terms of your employment

Yours in pastry,

Altias

It was difficult closing the note without his old titles and such, but he did so, instead just signing "Altias".

The note was tied to a package. Within the package were a dozen gingerbread men...well women. They were painted with white aprons and yellow braids. Altias set the package behind the bar, the envelope addressed simply...

"Dorian"