12041/The Conquerers Tour

The Conquerers Tour
Date of Scene:	20 August 2020
Location:	LexMall - LexCorp Tower
Synopsis:	Lex and Mercy take Conan to a TAILOR. Yes, Conan wearing modern clothing. Mental images abound.
Cast of Characters:	Lex Luthor, Mercy Graves, Conan the Cimmerian
Tinyplot:	The Conqueror Cometh

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Lex Luthor has posed:
LexMall. The beating commercial heart of LexCorp Tower. If the rest of the tower is where the magic is made, this is where the magic is distributed.

Conan has likely drawn all kinds of looks as he came in through the main foyer, with Eve at the front desk doing a double take at the mostly nude Conan... but didn't make a fuss of it seeing as Conan was following Lex himself. Into the elevator they went, with Mercy and Hope right behind.

"LexMall." Lex stated aloud, and the elevator began to move up.

"LexMall is midway up the tower. Top of the line in every respect. It's the beating heart of this place. You'll be hard pressed to find anywhere with more products and services. Peter will be waiting for us as well."

As the elevator opens, Conan is treated to a sleek view from the ground floor of the five floors of the LexMall, the large fountain in full bloom as commerce is slowly picking up in the morning hours.

Mercy Graves has posed:
In preparation for Conan's arrival, Mercy took the most brief scan of his body with her LexPhone. It's not exact as if the tailor laid hands on flesh, but comes within a centimeter or two, so Peter would be prepared for what he needed to clothe when they arrived. She has, otherwise, been a silent shadow to her more loquacious, the click of her high heels making more sounds than anything.

She's still in her sharp black suit, not a very practical looking outfit for bodyguard work, but as shown momentarily on the train, the pencil skirt has a hidden high enough slit all the way to the bottom of her hip, so she's got a full range of motion when she needs it. Now in LexCorp Tower, she's relaxing by incrimental inches. The strict guard stance goes from high alert to medium alert and she's not glued quite so tightly to Lex's side.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
As the elevator stops and Conan steps out he takes a moment to study his surroundings, "There is great wealth here. I would not know where to begin were I not with someone who knows this place." As he looks over the shops he says, "We should find a shirt for me, first. Then the weapon smith." There's a solid nod of his head. As Mercy scans him the Barbarian looks on curiously, but doesn't comment.There are many things here still to look at and explore.

Lex Luthor has posed:
As Conan speaks, Lex turns his head to listen. "This entire tower is my design, actually." Lex points out. "My corporation is called LexCorp. This tower was custom designed as the headquarters for it. It is, for lack of a better word, an Empire created to help people."

Lex turns around to look at Conan, "Most people these days use these things called firearms. Melee weaponry like what you used for the fight in New York is usually mainly for hobbyists, or the obsessed." Lex begins to walk towards the left, around the walkway, "Peter will have a variety of clothing ready."

Mercy Graves has posed:
"I would be happy to take you through learning some modern weaponry, and get you a few pieces that feel right in your grip, Conan. There is a firearms range where we can practice and get you more accustomed to the responsiveness of modern technology, if you are interested, and if Mr. Luthor can spare me for a few hours." While usually quiet, the allure of teaching another capable warrior weapons seems too much for Mercy to resist. She remains on Lex's right side, as he hugs closer to the left wall, so she's still a quiet shield to the part of him that is the most exposed. It's like a well practiced dance between them, Mercy subconsciously shifting to accommodate every time he moves into a different physical situation.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Someday I shall have a nation of my own. I hope to instill in people the need for leaders to take care of the least of their people as well as they tend to the needs of the mightiest," Conan says seriously to Lex as he pads along beside him.

He looks over towards Mercy and nods his head, "I look forward to it. I shall need to master the weapons of this age so that I can put them to best use."

Lex Luthor has posed:
As they approach the tailoring shop where Peter works, Lex continues, "All people have their place and uses in a proper nation." Lex agrees.

It's actually amazing how similar the two are, when one really thinks about it.

As they moves into the shop, Peter is ready and waiting. The blonde british man wears a tuxedo as he gestures to the measuring and design booth. Lex himself remains a bit distant. "Mercy handled your initial measurements. Peter can handle the rest."

Mercy Graves has posed:
"That is a wish both Mr. Luthor and I share for this world as well. A lesson too few leaders seem to know." Mercy echoes Conan's words quietly, keeping the volume of her voice to a level that is truly meant for just Lex and Conan's ears. A touch of warmth has come into her tone, though. She seems to be relaxing into the idea of Conan as an amiable companion.

As they enter the shop, Mercy does a quick sweep of the room. Intially just by eyes, but then she's walking a smooth perimeter, checking any shadows, corners, and displays which could be hiding a threat. Peter is clearly quite trusted, as she doesn't guard Lex's form from his presence. He's given a single, respectful nod as she walks the space before returning to Lex's side as a silent shadow.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
Conan lets the tailor direct him to the booth, not hesitating for a moment, "Peter. I am Conan of Cimmeria. I trust that you will provide adequate attire for me." He gets ready for the measuring to commence, standing quite still until it's time to take direction. Apparently this isn't too different from getting clothing made back in his time.

"I despise those who abuse their underlings. When I am a king even the lowliest peasant will be treated fairly, should their lord wish to keep his head," the barbarian comments. "We must do what we can to protect our people. As I have been a leader of men in war I found that treated roughly, but with respect, soldiers will be loyal and will fight hard for their commander."

Lex Luthor has posed:
Peter gives a 'what is he talking about?' face to Lex. Lex, in turn, just shrugs, "we have a numbers of styles available for you, Conan. I made sure that staff here would have a wide selection of fashion, both modern and old style. You can take your pick and I can give you an idea of what you're looking at." Lex informs Conan, before he looks to Peter, giving a nod.

As Lex nods, Peter begins to use measures all around Conan's body; Peter is clearly a practiced hand at this. "Got any particular styles you like so far?" Lex asks, casually.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"I would like to look powerful, but also wear new type clothing," Conan says as he's measured, standing mostly still and watching Peter work. "I do not know what important people wear, but that would be good, too."

Looking around the shop he'll see a three piece suit, "Is that what is worn by men of importance? The cloth in those outfits looks finer than what is worn by others so I should think those are better."

Lex Luthor has posed:
As more outfits are brought in from staff given notice for this session, Lex flicks a hand to one leaving, "Bring in the modern European and African royal styles next."

Then, Lex looks to Conan, and the suit he's looking at. "Modern businesses and national leaders tend to use that style for clothing these days." Lex confirms. "If you're looking to blend in for this era, that is a good start."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Yes, that will do," Conan declares after Lex gives him the rundown on the suit. Then he sees some of the other stuff being brought in. "I could use a fine cloak, as well. Keep the rain, snow and cold at bay when the season changes." The styles suited for royalty definitely have the big man's attention, "I like that they have some color to them. Does that mean the wearer is more powerful? While physically I am strong I do not currently lead any armies."

Lex Luthor has posed:
"Everyone has their own idea for symbolism." Lex began, "You seem like you know the world well enough to know the truth of that. These days, there there several major 'sections' of the world. The western world, where we are, tends to have business suits like the one you've looking at Black with a red tie."

Lex gestures over the middle east and African styles, "These are from the middle east, a collection of poverty stricken nations, with one or two wealthy as outliers. Africa has it's own traditions they cling to stubbornly, and has been a place of ethnic genocides for a very long time now."

Then, Lex gestures to a set of empty mannequins, "I'm having Asian styles brought in next, if you'd like to wait a moment for those."

Mercy Graves has posed:
Having finished her sweep of the room, Mercy quietly settles back to standing a bit closer to Lex's side, against the wall. She's careful about not getting in the way of any of the clothes Peter is bringing through, doing a quiet shift of steps every time he needs in her area without seeming to be avoiding him. Her own black suit most closely mirrors the fine, clean lines of the modern day business clothing, but with the short skirt instead of the carefully pressed slacks.

As a cloak is considered, she slightly smiles, "I think Peter got the new line of wools in from Burberry last week. They aren't exactly cloaks, but they're excellent for keeping out the weather and a generally well lauded designer."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"My time was much the same. Each nation had its own ideas for what they liked best in all things," Conan replies as he continues looking over the attire on display. "As I am in this country, though, I think it best that I match the people here. Though perhaps I should be prepared to travel as I do not know where my quest will take me."

The mention of genocide has him grow thoughtful for a few seconds, "Mass murder does not appeal to me. I have seen much killing, but there is no glory in killing the weak."

"I shall wait to see all that you wish to have brought forth, Emperor of LexCorp."

Mercy's suggestion gets the barbarian's attention, "I should like one of those Burberry, then. It will probably not be necessary for some time, unless I travel to the North."

Lex Luthor has posed:
"If you want traveling clothes, that's an entirely different matter. These outfits are modern leadership fashion. I can have traveling garb brought in, if you like." Lex informs Conan as Mercy finishes. "You can take both, and keep one set in a backpack." Lex offered.

Mercy Graves has posed:
While there doesn't seem much difference between the Mercy in the field and who she is here, there are some subtle hints. The fact that she's not glued quite so close to Lex is show that this is a far more trusted space. But there's something different in her eyes as well. A bit warmer, and her neutral line of mouth edges just on the touch of a smile. Especially as she watches them piece through clothing. Her expression reflects the most emotion she dares show on the job, and those subtle changes are ones of simple enjoyment in the entire situation.

"For traveling north, the wool plaids from Canali are excellent this year." She's made many of these recommendations to Peter already for Lex, she knows what looks good on him, especially as the seasons change.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"I should have traveling clothes and clothes for conducting my business," Conan nods his head deeply as he continues studying everything that's being brought out for him. "I will need to be prepared for anything that comes up. The future is uncertain here."

His gaze travels to Mercy and he nods, "Wool is good. I prefer furs, but I do not think they are normal for people to wear now."

Lex Luthor has posed:
"Furs are good, but technology has advanced since your time. I guarantee that modern traveling clothing does a better job at heat regulation." Lex notes as he looks to Mercy, "can you give him the fashion tour? I need to make some calls."

As he speaks, some asian styles are being brought in.

Mercy Graves has posed:
"Of course, sir." Mercy replies quickly, her tone clearly pleased to help in such a fashion. She steps forward from her place blending into the wall and gives Conan a touch more of a smile as she looks across his frame. "... While current styles are leaning towards the slimmer cuts, I think if we put you in a Tom Ford or Armani's classic lines, you will have more room to move, just in case you end up in a fight when not expecting it. They have slightly more generous seam allowance and will show your shoulders well."

She motions Peter to bring forward one of the wool coats she mentioned. It's a gorgeous, deep gray with generous cut in the lapels and double breasted buttons that will be fit exactly to his frame. She begins by opening it, showing off the inside. "Modern wools, when properly cut and treated, are even better at keeping the water off and softer feeling than traditional wool. If you this this jacket, it's designed for deep winter. There is an insulating layer beneath the wool and the lining is moisture whicking, to remove any sweat from your skin when going between indoors and outdoors areas. We can also have these designed to hold whatever weapons you wish. Minus, possibly, a sword."

Then she's motioning back to slightly more casual styles. "For traveling. If you are going casual and wishing to blend in, you will wish at least one pair of jeans. They are standard across the population right now, but you can tell who has the right designers and fit for their frame. The button down shirt stays, but no tie, and either a sweater or a casual blazer..." She pulls forward something in a deep navy, close cropped velvet cut for his generous masucline frame. "This isn't fur, but it's top of the line fashion and might have the feel you like. It would work well for casual traveling."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Technology improves even upon fur?" Conan says, sounding quite astounded. "The science of this day is miraculous! I should think it can accomplish anything!"

And then Mercy has his attention again. "Being able to move is quite important. Also, I am not suited, I would not think, to anything slim."

The coat is closely studied, nodding his head a few times. "I will need knife and a hand axe at least, I think. I don't know what I shall be expected to slay, but I would like to be able to penetrate the hide of a giant monster."

Then he lets out a chuckle, "I trust your tastes, Mercy. You seem an expert on the subject."

Mercy Graves has posed:
There is a momentary hesitation from Mercy as he asks about technology over fur. The debate in her eyes of explaining the whole morality issue. Eventually, she settles with, "The improvements are mainly in keeping sweat away from the skin when changing temperature locations, but yes, fur has mostly gone out of fashion. Leather, however, never goes out of style. Peter, can you bring one of the bomber jackets out from Andrew Marc? And maybe a few of the leather blazers."

As Peter is grabbing clothing Mercy seems to think will fit both style and Conan's material preferences, she frowns thoughtfully at him. "We should be able to tailor the coat to have a modified slit so your sword can still be sheathed on your hip, we'd just have to build around it. Same for your axe. Peter is a genius at tailoring clothing to handle any weapon you'd like while not ruining the lines. I'd know. I'm wearing six weapons currently." And the only one that she's shown is the gun she had out earlier.

Peter wheels a rack of leather jackets into the room, several options, all real. There's everything from a long black trench coat, to a traditional bomber style jacket, and a few casual leather blazers. All real. All very soft. Modern leather is luxurious when done right. "See what you think of these?"

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Keeping sweat away is important. If warmth is also retained then I do not care what it is made from," Conan says simply enough, nodding his head once seriously. "Leather is always good, too."

"I would like to carry my sword, but I do not know if I should except when expecting some sort of trouble. No one else I have seen carries blades. Openly, at least. What weapons do you advise me to obtain so that I might carry a half dozen as well?"

When he sees the leather he reaches out to touch it, feeling it between his fingers, "I like these very much." The bomber jacket has clearly caught his eye, though, "The wool on this is pleasing to eye against the leather."

Mercy Graves has posed:
Mercy's smile actually grows a little when he goes for the bomber jacket. She's all too pleased at having guessed things right. "Well then, as long as it fits, that is your's. They aren't all that useful for high level business, but for travel and casual meetings, this is an incredibly classic and popular style." She pulls it off the hanger to step around him and help him into it. "See what you think?"

"As for weapons, firearms are going to be your best choice for the easiest to conceal and the most effective. We'll get you trained up on the range and once you're comfortable with them, we'll make certain you are outfitted properly. Knives work as well. However, once the world is a bit more... Accustomed to you, I suspect you will be able to get away with wearing your sword. The public will find it charming once they realize it s a part of your history. It's all about how the newspapers report on you."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
As he slides into the jacket with Mercy's help he looks down at it on himself, then turns to look into a close by mirror. His head nods deeply and he smiles very slightly, clearly approving, "It will serve me well. I shall do much traveling and casual meeting so this will be most useful."

"Firearms are interesting, if they are the small blocks that bark fire and thunder. I tried to buy one off of watchman after seeing him use it, but he would not sell it to me." And then there's a sharp laugh, "I am glad knives are still in use, at least! You can never have too many knives, unless you are going swimming." The idea of people accepting him carrying a sword clearly appeals, "I must help these newspapers to learn about me! How do they work?"

Mercy Graves has posed:
Oh goodness. Mercy gives Lex a quiet look as Conan asks about the newspapers. They hadn't decided a strategy yet, but she's brought it up now. She steps back as Peter looks to the fitting of the jacket, seeing anything that needs taken in. It fits in his shoulders, but he's probably going to need to tailor the waist some.

"Newspapers are like formalized versions of town criers. Or... Bards? I don't know how people spread the news and stories in your era. Now, they are put out many times a day. Generally printed on paper, but with the internet, most just comes up on the screens of your technology." Mercy's clearly trying to break this down into simple concepts as she pulls out her own phone, showing him the screen with various bits of writing across it.

"Reporters are the people who write the stories that the whole world reads. We prefer to make certain they are writing stories that, while being accurate, help the world see you as the best person you are. It makes being in public much easier, since everyone is going to know your name one way or another."

Lex Luthor has posed:
After Lex has been on his LexPhone for a couple minutes, rearranging scheduled meetings -this is the CEO of LexCorp after all, and he's found something a bit more interesting to do than his routine- he comes back in from outside and walks back over to the two, "What's this about reporters?" Lex presses.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"I am familiar with bards and criers," Conan tells Mercy. "Ahh, the black mirrors project newspapers. That is why people always study them! Men of this time must be incredibly well informed." Then he grins at Lex, "I shall make sure they know my name, then! I will find great deeds that need doing and accomplish them so that reporters sing my tales across all newspapers!"

Mercy Graves has posed:
"I was simply telling Conan that once he's better known by the public, if he wishes to carry his sword, it will be more acceptable. We just have to make certain the right reporters get the news." Mercy explains simply, ideas already running behind her eyes.

The comment about people being well informed gets a slightly sardonic, momentary laugh from Mercy. "You would think that. But, the ease of putting information into the world means people read lies as much as truths. It's... messy. But we'll make certain the right information gets out about you."

Lex Luthor has posed:
Lex watches Conan, then shakes his head. "Most news outlets of this era print lies as much as truth. Lies 'sell' better. If you want to be well informed, you need to learn which news outlets care enough to not print lies." Lex moves over there to a television against the wall, grabs the remote, and starts to flip through channels to the Lex News Network.

"That, or having your own network of informants who can tell you the truth from their own eyes." Lex continues.

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Ahh! I know how lies can be used against even the noblest hearts," Conan says with a shake of his head. "It is unfortunate."

The barbarian's attention will follow Lex's movements and the goings on on the television. "These larger black mirrors are most impressive. There are many around Avengers Mansion showing all manner of things. This time is as violent as my own if they are all to be believed!" Looking back to Lex he says, "It would be good to have access to as much information as possible to help me find what I search for. I am glad that we met."

Mercy Graves has posed:
With Lex's return, and decent amount of clothes picked out, Mercy settles back into her position near to the wall. As she walks, a brief murmur is shared with Peter. Probably something about the fitting for Conan, but she doesn't disturb the more prominent pair with little details. That's what she and Peter are here to handle.

"There are many places this time is as violent as yours, and many where it's not. It's just easier to see all at once with our... Black mirrors." She affirms gently, the distaste for the news cycle not totally concealed in her voice.

Lex Luthor has posed:
"Actually, Mercy, it's not far from the truth." Lex notes to his bodyguard, "LCD displays like this are essentially using a specialized form of crystals with a mirror with filtering." Lex flicked a couple fingers casually at one of the televisions, "Black Mirror."

As the channel goes to the Lex News Network, Lex puts the remote control down.

"There are constant wars in the middle east and Africa. The nations of our world like to pretend that it isn't their concern since it 'isn't their sovereignty'."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"Constant war is good for a man like me, but not for regular people," Conan shakes his head as he watches LNN. "It is hard to know if countries are powerful enough and good enough to protect their people without knowing the military capabilities of their neighbors and of the country's own lords" There's a shrug, "If they are concerned. truly concerned, then they should conquer the lesser states and enforce what is right upon them.

Mercy Graves has posed:
It's basically a micro-expression, but if either of them look towards Mercy at Conan's last comment, she's definitely smirking. She's biting her tongue against any sharp commentary about it all, but she's smirking. Her hands settle behind her back, shoulders straight and squared, in her body-guard-at-rest position now as she waits for Lex to finish the meeting, but she doesn't cut in with further commentary. This is far more Lex's area.

Lex Luthor has posed:
"Constant war is good for mercenaries, but when there are no rules to war, it ruins lives and destroys hope." Lex added in affirmation of Conan's views, "you wouldn't happen to have coins from your home era, would you? I would consider some payment enough as a collector."

Conan the Cimmerian has posed:
"I do have some coins remaining," Conan confirms for Lex as he reaches into his belt to produce a purse, jingling it before pulling it open and pouring a handful of the money inside into a hand. "Aquilonian gold piece, 3 Ophirian gold crowns, the rest is assorted Nemedian coinage." Without hesitation Conan picks out one of each coin and offers them over to his new acquaintance, "I have learned that silver and gold still have value in this land, which is good, but one cannot just spend it as they would the green paper money."

Then he smile and look between Mercy and Lex, "Now that the clothing is being prepared should we continue to explore this Metropolis of yours? I have much to see."

Mercy Graves has posed:
The coins gain Mercy's attention for a few moments, pale eyes flickering across them with curiously lofted brows. She trusts her boss to know if they are what he needs, but something that ancient and strangely beautiful deserves at least a glance.

"I can bring the car around again as you both please. It's nicer to see it from the limo, and then we can stop when something piques your interest." And Mercy can protect them both better there, something that seems forever on the woman's mind.

Lex Luthor has posed:
'This Metropolis of yours'. If only Conan knew.

"Of course, Peter can handle the adjustments and we can pick them up later. We have a number of weapon shops. Swords and the like are more of a specialty item, but I know someone here who does that sort of work too." Lex notes as he starts to head for the exit. "We're not done with the mall yet, Mercy. Come along." Lex informs her as the tour continues.