Slow Night's Doorstep (Open)

[Sablerose]

"If the contents of the perfume are natural, and you can get me a list of what the ingredients are, I might be able to tell you which, if any, when combined might be poisonous. If they're something that was created by this organization and not based on a plant or animal, then I can't help there too much.

"In the meantime, I have to warn you again. I can only do so much. I don't exactly have any real authority in Terre de Conte, much less Venus. I can protect myself and my staff from problem, up to a certain extent. But if I push things too far, I risk bringing down the diplomatic wrath on my country."

She sighed but smile tiredly. "That said, if we can prove that this ring is a direct threat to my country, I can say, if we're caught, that I was investigating a threat, and rather than involving the Royals immediately, I wanted to be sure for myself. It's a small bucket to hold the water of the explanation, but it's still a bucket in our favor."

[Dusty Dawson]

"Nah, I couldn't go askin' ya to compromise y'self." Dusty turned and grinned, "But, anythin' ya can do to help'd be much appreciated! Anyhow, I'll go about seein' what we got our hands on. That'll be the first step."

She strolled over and took a seat on the bed, next to Calla. Her duster was brushed aside, allowing room without having to actually sit on it. "Now you an' Greystreak did a helluva job! Really couldn't have done all that without ya. I'll do what I can to make sure neither of ya catch any heat from this case. So, thanks!" she gave a rather rough, but jovial pat on the Druid's back, "And if you need anythin' from me, all ya gotta do is ask. This investigation is gonna take a long time. If I move carefully, though, I'll get to the bottom of it all. If I think I can take you an' Grey out, without anythin' fallin' back on ya, I'll be sure ta let ya know."

[Sablerose]

"That would be much appreciated, Dusty."

Dusty, I'll see what I can find out from Laurelmoon's side of things. There are old books on botanical information in the Royal Library. All Familiars can contact one another across pretty much any distance, so I will call in a few favors to see if one can convince their Wards to do research without jumping to conclusions based on the subject matter.

"In the meantime, Grey and I had best make ourselves scarce. I will leave word at the Royal Castle that any message from you is to be delivered to me or Grey directly, and if you do need to come and speak to me, that you be given entrance to my quarters if need be. I don't think it'll be a problem, so long as it doesn't look like you're abusing the privilege."

[Dusty Dawson]

"Ha ha! No problem!" she grinned, "I'll be sure not to pay ya any drunken visits. I'll be in touch once I got some more info, for ya."

She stood back to show her guest, and newest partner in her investigation, the door. There were still a few other things she wanted to check out, but those would have to wait. It was already a very late night...now, almost morning.

"Well! Thanks again. I'll see ya 'round. An' don't be a stranger...drop by anytime. Drinks'll be on me!"

[Sablerose]

"I believe that I might take you up on that offer," Calla said, rising to her feet a bit stiffly. "But first I have to give my partner a bath. Finally after that do I get to have some sleep."

She stopped next to Dusty, placing a hand briefly on her shoulder. "Be careful. At least two people know what you look like and that you're investigating this. Chances are, they'll be looking for you, just as much as you're looking for them. Call me, if you need me, and I'll be there."

With that she gave her friend's shoulder a reassuring squeeze before heading out. Greystreak also offered a quick farewell, and projected his own friendship and concerns to Dusty. The fact that he did not speak up showed just how tired he was as well.

[Dusty Dawson]

Dusty grinned and gave a thumbs up at the reassuring squeeze. In truth, she was a bit disappointed that she had to let them know there was someone looking into their business. But, she had met some good people. People she knew she could rely on.

When Calla left, Dusty returned to her desk and looked out the window. Glass in hand she propped her feet up on the desk's surface and leaned back in her chair.