[ Balthier doesn't catch the blush but he catches that David's gaze is elsewhere. For how direct the fellow usually is, Balthier takes that as mild self-consciousness, and he's flattered. ] It does help. Pity for them that I'm harder to catch.

[ In a few months when Balthier has a better grasp on American history, he'll be happy to debate the idea of whether there isn't an aristocracy or it's simply been folded into more palatable terms. But for now, he takes David's word for it. ] New Rich has a deeper hunger for status objects. Sounds like I'm in business.

I'm glad that change in your abilities was a pleasant one. I know I'm repeating myself, but your life sounds exhausting. I'm impressed you accomplished as much as you did besides, but with navigating a head full of noise--it's a lot of self-discipline. I'm not sure I'd have ever left my ship at that rate.

I definitely think it's for you. We can use the same dynamic of your being uncomfortable with large purchases and my being insufferable. Are you my primary lover in this scenario or would there be someone else? [ He feels a twinge of possessiveness in that question. Balthier, darling, you met this person two days ago and are inquiring about their character. Easy. ] My question is does the piece of jewelry need to steer clear of any particular marriage or courtship conventions here? If we're doing jewel I'm assuming we'll look at something bulkier.