[ On Christmas Day, an impeccably wrapped present is delivered to Reijuâs suite with a note: ]
Dear Reiju,
In the spirit of celebrating these winter holidays at the hotel, I hope you enjoy this present. When I saw the design and color of this bottle, I couldnât help but be reminded of you⌠Perhaps it might come into some use?
Best wishes, SH.
P.S. I will be checking out for a few days to tend to matters at home. If youâve need of me, please feel free to leave any messages with the front desk.
[ Inside is a rather nice bottle, one that Reiju might perhaps use for⌠you know. ]
[She shouldn't be surprised, yet here she is. It's a given that Sumina would take to the traditions hosted by the hotel, but to think she'd include Reiju in the festivities . . . What a sweet woman.
She unwraps the present with care, then turns the bottle around in her hands. It's niceâthoughtful. She wonders what she can put in it so as not to waste it. The colors are vibrant and so alive.
For the time being, she sets it down on the vanity. Sumina isn't here to receive a reply, so Reiju leaves her room, heels clicking, with purpose.
A few days later, when Sumina returns, the front desk will have a package for her: an entire vanity set topped with an embellished trifold mirror and outfitted with several drawers and trays for organization, made from high quality wood, all in white. There's no note attached.]
[ Reiju may not have left a note, but upon Sumina's receipt of this incredible and unexpectedly large gift, there's absolutely no way the overly polite innkeeper is going to let this go unanswered to.
So once she's returned, she'll likewise leave a note at the front desk, "For whomever gifted Sumina Heartleaf a vanity." Presuming that the staff would have known who had left it for Sumina to obtain upon her return... the response would reach Reiju: ]
Dear friend,
It appears you've given me a rather large gift in return. Whatever it is I had given you to begin with, I'm sure it pales in comparison now, but please know that I am incredibly grateful and flattered to have received such a beautifully-crafted piece of furniture. If you would write me back or come find me now that I've returned, I would be so happy to thank you in person.
But no, they do have it. It doesn't take Reiju long to receive the note, and she blinks in surprise at the message contained therein. Stubborn one, isn't she? That Sumina.
Reiju doesn't write back. The staff have played middlemen enough.
The next time she spots Sumina during mealtime, Reiju beckons her over to the table she's occupying with the inviting tilt of her head.]
[ It's hard to miss Miss Reiju with her striking hair, so Sumina is quick to spot her and join her at her table, setting her plate and cup of coffee down at the opposite seat. ]
[Reiju's half-finished plate of sandwich and cup of tea suggest she's been taking her time. She's not one to play terribly coy on the next topic, though, and cuts straight to the chase.]
How do you like the vanity? I'm sorry, but it was all I could get together on such short notice.
[ Ah! So the mystery gift-giver reveals herself at last... Sumina's bright eyes blink in surprise at the abrupt revelation. First of allâ ]
That wasâ Quite a large gift to get together on such short notice, Miss Reiju.
[ But! So as not to seem ungrateful, she shakes her head and smiles warmly. ]
But I like it very much. Really, I'm grateful. I have to admit that I was quite surprised to open the package to find furniture inside, but I've found a nice spot for it in my suite, now! And... ah, I must also admit, I'm finding myself a little more interested in my own appearance nowadays, so...
[ ...help. That's kind of embarrassing to admit out loud. ]
[Reiju's smile is as pleasant as can be. It's relieving news to hear that the bulky present might be put to good use. Something smaller might have been more elegant, butâwell.]
[ She is... She's strong when it comes to assisting her guests and chatting with them about their adventures, but when it comes to talking about herself... ]
Well... I'm... Trying to learn how to take better care of myself. And I believe that includes taking more time for myself, too. Even if it's just time spent putting more thought into how I'd like to present myself...
That, and... Ah, do you remember when Astarion made that post and guests' photos wound up on the server? Everyone gave me such kind words about my photo, and I... I want to be able to accept such compliments more easily, and see myself in a better light.
[ ... ]
You seem like a very confident woman, Miss Reiju. How do you do it?
I was taught to stand tall from a young age. I also have handmaidens who attend to my every need.
[No shame. In terms of power and wealth, she knows exactly how privileged she is. The price that comes with them doesn't matter when she's been enjoying them.
In contrast, Sumina's self-esteem must be very low. It's a delicate time when impressions last the longest.]
It's convenient, but I wouldn't recommend it for everyone.
[ Ah, right. Reiju's upbringing had been like that... She's not one to judge such matters except if your name is Celeste but it does make sense, for someone who came into themselves in such an environment to be the sort to stand proudly. ]
Ah... To stand tall. [ Sumina looks contemplative. ] There is a certain ideal to stand tall in my family, too, but having gone home and then come back here, I'm realizing... That when I'm outside of our inn, and away from all that makes my family proud, I... have trouble, not seeing myself so plainly.
[ But... At least now, she knows of and acknowledges these feelings of hers, which is hopefully a step in the right direction. Even if... well-- ]
I'm sorry to say all this over a lovely breakfast...
[ --she still feels the need to apologize for talking about herself. ]
Even the biggest fish in a pond learn how small they are once they're outside of it. But for Sumina, who's seemed to have tied her worth to her role foremost . . . ]
Don't be. I was the one who invited the topic.
[Unfortunately, she isn't the most well-suited for it. Reiju isn't progressive. She would much rather maintain the status quo, so they live in separate worlds beyond physical boundaries. There's some familiarity in what Sumina says, though, that keeps Reiju seated across her with the usual, easygoing smile.]
Some people take longer than others to come out of themselves. There's nothing wrong with that.
[Sometimes what comes out is more beautiful than those who've been strutting around all their lives.]
[ She offers a grateful nod when Reiju says she's alright with the current topic, though soon her eyes fall to her cup of coffee with a contemplative gaze. ]
Haha... It's embarrassing to admit, but I feel like I'm too old to be talking about finding myself and things like that... At least, by human standards.
[ She's going to live a bit longer than an average human because of her elven lineage, but still... ]
I took over the inn as soon as I could. I was eighteen, so I suppose I'd spent a lot of that time working instead of learning more about myself as a young adult, in retrospect...
[At least she can admit it. That's more than can be said for others. It'll only be too late once she dies, so Sumina has plenty of time by Reiju's reckoning.]
Then it's about time that you found yourself, don't you think? The hotel is a good place for that.
[ She chuckles warmly, giving a soft, knowing smile as she nods. ]
That certainly is the plan, Miss Reiju. In fact, that was part of the reason I checked out for a little while... I wanted to tell my family that I would need some time to do just that.
[ The word tumbles out of her heedlessly, because. Wait. Reiju didn't go home just to pick up a present for her, did she? Is thatâ vain of her to think? In the end, she simply looks a bit confused, but she isn't sure if she should say anything, either. ]
Iâ nevermind. I'm, ah, I really am grateful for the gift, Miss Reiju. I didn't realize it came from your home...
[ She thought maybe Reiju found an antique store floor or at a shop in the mall floor...!? ]
[ ...Okay, at that, Sumina can't help but chuckle. ]
Miss Reiju... I apologize, but I find it rather amusing that you more readily gift large things than small when strapped for time. Whether it's your intent or not, it's very generous of you.
[ she could have gifted Sumina a small hand mirror or makeup or something, but, ]
And I'm very glad that you like your gift. I, ah, picked everyone's gifts out from the shopping floor, here. The breadth of its selection is quite expansive!
[She returns the chuckle with the mirthful stretch of her lips. Is it generosity, or just the convenient and careless tossing of money for someone with the wealth to afford it?]
I imagine it's that way to appeal to as many of the guests as possible.
Of course, the buyer's taste should be accounted for. Did you get something for everyone?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
đ december 25th
Dear Reiju,
In the spirit of celebrating these winter holidays at the hotel, I hope you enjoy this present. When I saw the design and color of this bottle, I couldnât help but be reminded of you⌠Perhaps it might come into some use?
Best wishes,
SH.
P.S. I will be checking out for a few days to tend to matters at home. If youâve need of me, please feel free to leave any messages with the front desk.
[ Inside is a rather nice bottle, one that Reiju might perhaps use for⌠you know. ]
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She unwraps the present with care, then turns the bottle around in her hands. It's niceâthoughtful. She wonders what she can put in it so as not to waste it. The colors are vibrant and so alive.
For the time being, she sets it down on the vanity. Sumina isn't here to receive a reply, so Reiju leaves her room, heels clicking, with purpose.
A few days later, when Sumina returns, the front desk will have a package for her: an entire vanity set topped with an embellished trifold mirror and outfitted with several drawers and trays for organization, made from high quality wood, all in white. There's no note attached.]
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So once she's returned, she'll likewise leave a note at the front desk, "For whomever gifted Sumina Heartleaf a vanity." Presuming that the staff would have known who had left it for Sumina to obtain upon her return... the response would reach Reiju: ]
Dear friend,
It appears you've given me a rather large gift in return. Whatever it is I had given you to begin with, I'm sure it pales in comparison now, but please know that I am incredibly grateful and flattered to have received such a beautifully-crafted piece of furniture. If you would write me back or come find me now that I've returned, I would be so happy to thank you in person.
Sincerely,
SH.
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But no, they do have it. It doesn't take Reiju long to receive the note, and she blinks in surprise at the message contained therein. Stubborn one, isn't she? That Sumina.
Reiju doesn't write back. The staff have played middlemen enough.
The next time she spots Sumina during mealtime, Reiju beckons her over to the table she's occupying with the inviting tilt of her head.]
Hello, Miss Proprietress.
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Miss Reiju, good morning!
[ 'Miss Proprietress' tho... Is she in trouble? ]
How are you doing today?
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[Reiju's half-finished plate of sandwich and cup of tea suggest she's been taking her time. She's not one to play terribly coy on the next topic, though, and cuts straight to the chase.]
How do you like the vanity? I'm sorry, but it was all I could get together on such short notice.
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That wasâ Quite a large gift to get together on such short notice, Miss Reiju.
[ But! So as not to seem ungrateful, she shakes her head and smiles warmly. ]
But I like it very much. Really, I'm grateful. I have to admit that I was quite surprised to open the package to find furniture inside, but I've found a nice spot for it in my suite, now! And... ah, I must also admit, I'm finding myself a little more interested in my own appearance nowadays, so...
[ ...help. That's kind of embarrassing to admit out loud. ]
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Oh? What spurred this interest on?
[Reiju's smile is as pleasant as can be. It's relieving news to hear that the bulky present might be put to good use. Something smaller might have been more elegant, butâwell.]
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Well... I'm... Trying to learn how to take better care of myself. And I believe that includes taking more time for myself, too. Even if it's just time spent putting more thought into how I'd like to present myself...
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That's a good idea. Even if it's for a short time, just taking a moment to look at yourself is a start.
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That, and... Ah, do you remember when Astarion made that post and guests' photos wound up on the server? Everyone gave me such kind words about my photo, and I... I want to be able to accept such compliments more easily, and see myself in a better light.
[ ... ]
You seem like a very confident woman, Miss Reiju. How do you do it?
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[No shame. In terms of power and wealth, she knows exactly how privileged she is. The price that comes with them doesn't matter when she's been enjoying them.
In contrast, Sumina's self-esteem must be very low. It's a delicate time when impressions last the longest.]
It's convenient, but I wouldn't recommend it for everyone.
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except if your name is Celestebut it does make sense, for someone who came into themselves in such an environment to be the sort to stand proudly. ]Ah... To stand tall. [ Sumina looks contemplative. ] There is a certain ideal to stand tall in my family, too, but having gone home and then come back here, I'm realizing... That when I'm outside of our inn, and away from all that makes my family proud, I... have trouble, not seeing myself so plainly.
[ But... At least now, she knows of and acknowledges these feelings of hers, which is hopefully a step in the right direction. Even if... well-- ]
I'm sorry to say all this over a lovely breakfast...
[ --she still feels the need to apologize for talking about herself. ]
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Even the biggest fish in a pond learn how small they are once they're outside of it. But for Sumina, who's seemed to have tied her worth to her role foremost . . . ]
Don't be. I was the one who invited the topic.
[Unfortunately, she isn't the most well-suited for it. Reiju isn't progressive. She would much rather maintain the status quo, so they live in separate worlds beyond physical boundaries. There's some familiarity in what Sumina says, though, that keeps Reiju seated across her with the usual, easygoing smile.]
Some people take longer than others to come out of themselves. There's nothing wrong with that.
[Sometimes what comes out is more beautiful than those who've been strutting around all their lives.]
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Haha... It's embarrassing to admit, but I feel like I'm too old to be talking about finding myself and things like that... At least, by human standards.
[ She's going to live a bit longer than an average human because of her elven lineage, but still... ]
I took over the inn as soon as I could. I was eighteen, so I suppose I'd spent a lot of that time working instead of learning more about myself as a young adult, in retrospect...
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Then it's about time that you found yourself, don't you think? The hotel is a good place for that.
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That certainly is the plan, Miss Reiju. In fact, that was part of the reason I checked out for a little while... I wanted to tell my family that I would need some time to do just that.
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[Either way, that was a very courageous thing to do. Reiju would never do that.]
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I'll say they couldn't have been more eager to push me out of the doors again!
[ A beat. ]
I suppose I really was the only one who was thinking this would be like a business trip for research, ahaha...
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Your family knows you well. That's a good thing, isn't it?
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I've not the same penchant for mystique as they do. I'm a little envious, really...
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[ She tips her head to one side. ]
Have you visited your home since coming here, Miss Reiju?
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[ The word tumbles out of her heedlessly, because. Wait. Reiju didn't go home just to pick up a present for her, did she? Is thatâ vain of her to think? In the end, she simply looks a bit confused, but she isn't sure if she should say anything, either. ]
Iâ nevermind. I'm, ah, I really am grateful for the gift, Miss Reiju. I didn't realize it came from your home...
[ She thought maybe Reiju found an antique store floor or at a shop in the mall floor...!? ]
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It's not too different from what I use. If I had more time, I would've gotten something smaller . . . but I thought it should do.
[It's functional and not that bad to look at. Pricey, too. She could've done worse.]
Thank you for your gift, too. It's quite pretty.
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Miss Reiju... I apologize, but I find it rather amusing that you more readily gift large things than small when strapped for time. Whether it's your intent or not, it's very generous of you.
[ she could have gifted Sumina a small hand mirror or makeup or something, but, ]
And I'm very glad that you like your gift. I, ah, picked everyone's gifts out from the shopping floor, here. The breadth of its selection is quite expansive!
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I imagine it's that way to appeal to as many of the guests as possible.
Of course, the buyer's taste should be accounted for. Did you get something for everyone?
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No, not everyone. Regrettably, I didn't quite have the time to prepare, especially as I was preparing to check out, too.
[ ... ]
I'll bring you back something from my world next time, too, Miss Reiju.
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That's kind of you, but you don't have to go out of your way for me. In this particular case, going back was the easiest option for me.