6-276: Administration Bureau Executive Conference Facility
Aston’s Body Language
Apologies for failing to respond to this previously.
Lia thinks that Aston has been too nervous about dealing with the Vizier to process the implications of interactions with Winta.
At The Party
Lia can’t tell if her obfuscation is successful.
After a few moments the Vizier comes somewhat to Aston’s rescue, “Undercrat, I believe it’s your turn now.”
Aston blinks and takes another moment, then returns to more of his usual self, he ignores the Vizier’s suggestion, “Vizier, this conversation is not what I expected, and I must say I am very surprised.”
Farbello responds, “pay more attention.”
Aston blinks at the blunt instruction, says quietly and a little hotly, “alright, listen-“
The Vizier interrupts smoothly, “I believe Emerald is waiting on your turn.”
Aston looks as if he’s about to continue, but then pauses, possibly counting silently to ten, and says, “Emerald my dear, Truth. You have shown you’re an astute judge of people, what advice do you have for me about what we’ve just heard and based on your observations of me.”
Farbello, smiles delightedly at Aston’s question.
Again, surprise. I’d say she doesn’t cover it as well this time. She will spend a long moment assessing Aston and weighing a variety of factors.
Her face and posture will relax somewhat into a hybrid of Winta and Lia, almost as if the perfect veneer were partially removed. When she speaks, her voice is pitched low. She sounds objective but not cold.
“You’re smart. Smarter than you let on. Smart enough to hide it so that people underestimate you. You know how to play the game, Aston.”
She pauses and gives him a gentle but very genuine smile.
“You have a good heart. It’s why I like you. But it’s very easy to hide behind power, Aston. To live the good life and play the games that allow you to stay there. At the risk of losing our friendship, I agree with the Vizier’s assessment. You could be so much more than you currently are.”
Her smile increases.
“That’s a man I would like to meet…”