12044/Shipping It II

Shipping It II
Date of Scene:	21 August 2020
Location:	Library - Xavier's School
Synopsis:	Emma introduces Garth to School Leadership for inspection. Scott baits her.
Cast of Characters:	Emma Frost, Tempest, Phoenix, Cyclops

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Emma Frost has posed:
Garth's invitation to visit the school to speak with the headmistress about the upcoming proposed field trip was made in a casual way. Emma offered to have Jean meet the prince beforehand, and they met in New York over coffee just for a brief meet and greet. Now, as he arrives at the school, Emma Frost escorts him from the front door to the library. As usual she is dressed in all white -- slacks, a sleeveless silk shell, and a soft cardigan with elbow-length sleeves. It's positively demure for the woman. The soft drape of the silk, though, is flattering. As is the lovely sapphire drop on silver in the hollow of her throat. "I would apologize for the air of old money that the house reeks of, but..." The cool blonde shrugs slightly. "Charles Xavier, the benefactor of the school, actually was 'old money.'" She gestures toward the library. "I do have a particular fondness for this room, though," she tells him as they enter.

"Jean Grey is the school's headmistress. I'm uncertain if she'll bring anyone else. But... I did set out drinks if you'd like them."

Tempest has posed:
    Garth is gracious as he is guided to the library. The worst thing about the walk is him stopping to admire this picture or that. He is in a pleasant, conversational mood. In his left hand he has a zip drive that he plays with, tossing and catching it absently as they move down the hall. "Pretty fancy school. Are all private schools like this? Is there something wrong with the money if it is old? Does it go bad?" Garth asks guilelessly, then slants Emma a little smile as he stifles a chuckle. "I'm an Atlantean princeling. I am almost the living, breathing example of old money." He is not bragging, but he lacks the social cue to be embarrassed. It simply is.

    "What is the appropriate term of address? Am I to call her mistress?" That one is serious. It is the worst part about Garth, one can never really be sure what he means and if he is actually serious. "And I desperately want a beverage, please. I am parched." Garth wrinkles his nose. "It is an Atlantean thing. If it were socially acceptable to dunk my head in the aquarium I would." He pauses. "The fish says she is lonely and you do not feed her enough. Do not believe her. She is rather portly." Garth shakes his head a little bit. "Angel fish are notorious liars." His tone laments their lack of integrity.

Phoenix has posed:
Of course Jean would be present. Not only is she in charge, but security is everything. Which is also why she's brought Scott along. While she'd met Garth off campus and given his brain a rustling through, she was still stiff-backed and all business as she walked the halls in one of her crispest navy suits and ironed gold shirt. School colors. Just in case security became an issue, she needed her right hand with her. Or was she his? Either way, if she had to whammy a diplomat and a prince, it was going to be messy... and oh god the paperwork.

The low click of her heels can be heard as she approaches the library just a short few moments after they've entered. "Good evening, Prince Garth. Emma, pleasant evening to you as well. I trust the trip in went well?"

Cyclops has posed:
Following after Jean is one Scott Summers. The X-Men's field leader is dressed in a crisp white polo and a pair of black pants, along with some new black shined shoes. His red raybans shine beneath the ceiling lights, casting off a ruby quarts shimmer. He gives a low clear of his throat as he stops at Jean's side, giving a glance from Emma, towards the new face. His brows lift upwards a bit.

"Evening. I am Scott Summers." He says with a simple introduction as he folds his arms over his chest in a loose manner. "Welcome to Xavier's School for the Gifted. You two need anything? Something to eat?" He sees there is at least drinks.

Emma Frost has posed:
Emma made sure there was plenty of water, iced in a pitcher, along with other things to drink in the library before she went to the front door. Her heels click quietly along the wooden floors. Her eyes cut to him briefly, as if she's trying to discern whether he's messing with her about 'old money' or about calling Jean 'mistress' -- a mental image she finds *freaking hysterical* although she doesn't show it.

"Garth, you've met Jean Grey. And no, it's definitely not required that you call her mistress." Tongue firmly lodged in cheek there, she thinks, <<Oh my...>> and flashes Scott the imagery that her mind went to. Because... well, he needs to crack a smile sometimes. He's got a broomstick up his butt. "Scott acts as the head of admissions for the school. Some private schools are as... lush... as this building, yes. Primarily because boarding schools in general tend to cater to the elite." She's merely answering his earlier question. "But libraries just have a particular feel to them that I enjoy. The scent of old books, I suppose."

Tempest has posed:
    "Food is gracious." Garth replies sounding very grateful. "Perhaps another time? I am just quite dry. I have a thirst." He has no idea that his words have a double meaning and he simply plows straight on. "And Miss Gray. Simply Garth?" His smile is genuine. He moves forward to leave a kiss on Jean's knuckles if she will allow. His other hand rises up to clasp Scott's wrist in a very archaic handshake. It is a firm and hard grip, but not crushing. "Mister Summers. A real pleasure." He moves over towards the refreshments. "Please pardon me." One glass of water vanishes down his throat in about three gulps before he pours himself a second one in a hurry. "I have been in meeting throughout the day and I have not had a good soak. Please, forgive me rudeness. My biology is different, as you are likely aware."

    Garth sips the second glass. "And no." He says quietly. "I do not have gills. That is a myth. Nor do I have wings on my ankles. Yes we have mermaids where I come from. In fact those common questions are what motivate me to visit your school? Might we have a discussion?" His lips quirk in a quick, almost shy smile. His eyes flick to Emma to linger for a moment, telepathically worrying he is making a bad impression. He is not comfortable at the moment, and though he struggles to hide it, to a telepath it should be obvious.

Phoenix has posed:
It's not Jean's first rodeo, and she seems to take to the phrasing and old world greetings easily enough. "Jean is fine. Thank you for making time to meet with us. If you need some time to rest or any additional refreshments, we can certainly provide that." The fact that she can say all of that with a straight face while simultaneously sending a, << Am I going to need to borrow some of your wardrobe? >> to Emma is a testament to how used she's gotten to business meetings. Professionals, round these parts.

"Very few cultures who have survived any length of time turn their noses up at collections of knowledge. Libraries are good neutral grounds." She takes a seat at one of the tables more commonly used by studying students. "And that's also why I'm glad we're all here to have this discussion and have a chance to help the students get to learn more about a people they likely only know through unrealistic fairy tales."

Emma Frost has posed:
<<The white would wash you out. I recommend Nancy's Closet in Manhattan proper for custom made leather and silk. They are well worth the cost.>> Emma's mental retort to Jean is cool but there's a hint of her amusement. She's practically *daring* Jean to do it. <<Warn us first, though -- I should like to clear the house of students just in case his eyes pop out of his head and knock his glasses askew.>>

With no outward indication that she is speaking with Jean, the Nordic blonde telepath reassures Garth silently, <<You're doing fine.>>

Gesturing to the table, Emma offers, "By all means, sit. If you need a little time in the water, we have both a good pool and guest suites where you might avail yourself of a tub, Garth." She has a flicker of concern in her expression, there and gone just as quickly, that he might be in physical distress of some kind. But she's not getting that sense from him. "One of the first orders of business before we actually go would be to ask you if you wouldn't mind giving a brief guest lecture on Atlantis's true history and dispell some of those myths," she tells the prince. "I wouldn't like to have your guests embarrass you."

Tempest has posed:
    "Miss Grey?" Garth's smooth, low baritone is pitched to not carry too far. Just to the four of them. "Nothing about Atlantis is anything short of unrealistic. We are a kingdom thousands of years old or people transformed into a form suited to survive under the waves after an ancient cataclysm. I am a prince, yet I was left to die on a reef because I have violet eyes." More lavender, really. Garth's left hand indicates his eyes with a little gesture towards them. "Atlantis is the stuff of your legend. I recognize that my home is bizarre to you. Let us not pretend it is anything less than out of your legends and fairy tales."

    Garth takes a little sip from his water. "It is gracious of you all to allow me into your home. I thank you." He moves towards the table to pull out a chair for Emma. "Not many books in Atlantis. Only in the few dry parts. Paper is reserved for the blood royal." All that water. "Though I admit they have a pleasant smell. Much can be learned here, but more can be understood by seeing and doing." His smile is soft. "I want to show some of your gifted students what Atlantis actually is. What must I do to demonstrate the level of responsibility and care you need in order to say yes to my request?"

    "I would be happy to provide that, Miss Frost. And the pool would be pleasant, but I doubt you all want to strip to your bathing suits to continue our meeting. I am quite fine." Though He tilts a brow at Emma is what he hopes is a suave thing. He's pretty sure he's going to break out in hives if he tries to be smooth like that again. His left hand slides to loosen his tie a little as if he's uncomfortable. "Understanding, after all, begins with knowledge."

Phoenix has posed:
"For as far as the world has tried to progress, I'm happy knowing there's still legends left in it." Jean remarks with a calm, easy smile. "As for the trip itself, of course one or two of our own staff would accompany them. The students who will be going are ones trusted to be able to compose themselves and respect the importance of a trip like this. Of course, my primary concern outside of security is just getting them there and ensuring they can remain there safely. Though, I'm sure we'll find a means. But please, if it wouldn't be a bother, could you tell us some more about your home, your people, and your customs? I'm afraid I'm not very familiar with Atlanteans, so I'm a bit short on information to even form questions about."

Cyclops has posed:
As he listens, Scott is content to remain in the background of the conversation as he takes a seat next to Jean. He is always straight backed, even when sitting upon a comfortable chair or couch, as if his backbone is impervious to curving. "I am sure we have held meetings in the pool in the past. Though not lately if I recall." He says at an attempt of humor. "If it made you more comfortable, we could always pull up some lawn chairs so that we can speak with you easier."

Emma Frost has posed:
Emma's movements are graceful as she settles into the chair that is held for her. She offers the prince a small, reassuring smile. He really is doing just fine making his impressions. Jean's request is the main reason he's here this evening, so she leans back and simply listens, eager to learn as much as she can as well. It's an opportunity few are afforded, after all.

Tempest has posed:
    "I would be happy to." Garth says to Jean as he considers. "You have to realize the enormity of the question though? Tell me about America?" He counters her gamely. "It is a big question." Garth's chest rises and falls as he pulls in a breath. "We are a culture held back in many ways by the things that enabled us to survive. We are bound by honor and tradition. The good of the people tends to win out over the individual. This is why my mother left me on the reef to die. I am not trying to belabor that. It is an important part of who we are. We fear too much power. We are a culture that survived the end of our world, and dramatic mutations amongst our people. We are a people of high technological prowess, yet the arts of magic are also celebrated, so long as one does not have violet eyes." Garth speaks quietly and in a comfortable cadence. "I would provide the lodging and the transportation. I will also assemble talismans so the children might endure the depths and breath water rather than air. My household will see to it that the children are treated like honored guests."

    Garth settles his gaze on Scott. "You are too kind. As much as I might really enjoy that, I am well. I do not need to be continuously submerged to be comfortable. I assure you, I am in no danger and after that first glass of water I am quite hydrated."

    He considers Jean again. "I spoke in vagaries. Did I spark a more specific question in my rambling words?"

Phoenix has posed:
There's a very quiet chuckle as Jean tips her head to one side in the kind of gesture acknowledging the other player's move. "It'd be a loose assumption, but you could say America is a land of people who largely came together with good intentions and made numerous mistakes along the way, and even now are still trying to learn how to do the right thing for one another and the world at large. Like any youth, some days we get it right while other days we're taught some hard lessons."

As his story is briefly given, she remarks. "Power in any form is something to be respected. A lot can do incredible things, but it can also come at a great cost. Measuring it against a life is an equation that should never have to be made." She doesn't linger on the topic and instead continues, "As for the trip, I'll want to make sure that there's an open means of communication. Even when I'm not with them, I need to ensure that I can reach the students. We'll also need to work out an itinerary, so their whereabouts are accounted for. Our school does have some clearances already for international travels, but I'll need to get parental permissions. So I need to be able to provide all of that information to them."

Cyclops has posed:
Giving a nod of his head, Scott appears to be in agreement with Jean. "That is very important, yes. I am sure you do not have telecommunication technology underwater, so we will have to find another way. Perhaps satellite phones that Forge can tinker with to extend the range and keep them water proof."

Rubbing at his chin in thought, he takes his phone out and taps away at the glass to jot down a few notes. If anything, the idea is viable in other situations. Add encryption, secure lines.

Emma Frost has posed:
Actually, that raises an interesting thought and Emma looks at Garth with clear intrigue in the answer. "Telecommunications lines into Atlantis ... now there's an interesting idea. How do you keep contact with your friends above ground when you go home? Or.... *do* you? I mean..." She pauses and then adds, "I'm sorry. That was terribly nosy and not at all appropriate." Asking someone else their technological advances in quite that way is just not done. For all that Emma has this whole dominatrix persona, it's funny the places the she can be positively old-fashioned.

Tempest has posed:
    "Communications can be arranged, as can Itineraries." Garth replies as he finally allows himself to be seated, taking another sip from his glass as he settles in gracefully, though with some relaxing of his shoulders. "There are few places safer than the royal palace of my king, and that is where I mean to host your students. I also mean to introduce them to Atlanteans their own age. I think peerage gives them enough shared experience, as we are still, ultimately, all human psychologically. Seeing the world through each other's eyes might not be a bad thing. It builds empathy." Garth pauses. "What is the term? chaperons? How many do you want to have come? I was under the understanding Miss Frost, at least, would be attending." He looks over at Scott. "We can interface with your communications equipment. You might be surprised how advanced we are." He says it with a soft smile, obviously not upset. "Though it is safe question to ask given all the seawater and the necessary power systems. I can also use magic, if that is more to your liking? You have had reasonable and responsible conditions. We will comply." He pauses. "Although, perhaps in the future you might allow some of our youth to spend some time here in an actual exchange?" He shakes his head, amused. "We are not barbarians. We have a navy, a rather impressive one, and armored suits, and technology that as a rule generally outstrips that of the surface. Some of our legends suggest we saved ourselves during the cataclysm with our science." he seems to be very amused.

Phoenix has posed:
"Good." Jean nods in satisfaction as assurance they can keep in touch. "Between technology and magic, I am sure we can find a reliable means that will serve our purposes. Between the knowledge of your people and talents of some of ours, we'll make it work."

"And I don't mean to imply the kids wouln't be safe." Jean adds with the faintest of grimaces. "Forgive my paranoia. The world isn't always a welcoming place for mutants to begin with, so protecting the children makes that caution weigh all the heavier. I'd certainly be open to having some of your young ones here as well. The children are the future of both of our people, so fostering understanding and trust now will hopefully make those days easier."

Emma Frost has posed:
It's an idea that Emma hadn't actually yet summoned the thought processes to ask about, but it's a good one. "I for one am certainly looking forward to the trip," she admits. Her smile is cool but there's genuine emotion behind it -- she's not exactly an effusive woman.

Tempest has posed:
    "Well." Garth says carefully. Like a diplomat he offers the truth with a tilt of his left hand forward Jean. "I am taking them miles below the surface to a world foreign to them, where without help they will be blind, crushed by the depths, drowned, and if that doesn't kill them the cold will." Fairness and integrity compel him to admit this with a slight wrinkle of his nose and a look of skepticism. HIs fingers gesture towards each other to indicate a small amount. "So? A little danger?" His tone is light. He is not at all offended. "If you were not asking me about these hazards and our plans to mitigate the risk, you would be delinquent in your duties." His tone remains smooth and calm. "You have my contact information. I can get everything you might need beyond what we have discussed to you through Emma, if you both like?"

Phoenix has posed:
Jean Grey mirrors the gap of threat measurement with a finger pinch and a rhetorical, "Just a little, but then what plan isn't fraught with some part risk?"

"I'm sure we'll both have ongoing questions, and you're welcome to reach out to me at any time or send me word through Emma, whichever is more convenient for you. I know that the ocean can be more troublesome at certain times of the year, so if there are times that are easier for them to travel and visit, than I'm perfectly open to those suggestions."

SHe looks aside to Scott then, asking, "Do you have any questions at the moment?"

Cyclops has posed:
"Nope. I don't have any questions." Scott says simply as he reclines back in his chair, folding his hands in front of him as he gives another measured glance towards Garth. "I trust that everything will go swimmingly well, or terrible. We never have an inbetween when it comes to our field trips."

Emma Frost has posed:
The pun draws Emma's ire. <<Really, Summers?>> She gives him a very dirty look, more embarrassed than anything else. She's brought a stranger into the school, and she expected wariness. She didn't expect puns! For the love of God. Her arctic blue eyes turn to Jean. <<I might have to kill your lover.>>

Tempest has posed:
    The Atlantean appears amused. "Indeed. I shall make sure they are never out of their depth." He moves to stand, trying not to laugh. His lips keep threatening to turn into a grin. "I.. assume someone needs to escort me out?" He asks, trying to keep his features from splitting open into a wide grin. His fight hand slides up to push his hair from his face.

Phoenix has posed:
<< Not in front of the diplomat. I am not dealing with the paperwork. >> Jean mentally tells her mutant cohorts as bland as a piece of unbuttered bread out of the bag. << See, he gets it? >>

Jean smiles wide and friendly and not at all due to horrible puns as she stands up from the table. "If she's agreeable and you'd like, Emma is welcome to show you around the school. This way, you get a chance to see where your own youngsters may come visit and we can work in advance to make sure things will be hospitable for them."

Cyclops has posed:
<< I have no clue what you're talking about. >> Scott says with a low sigh from his lips as he takes another sip from his drink. << You should calm yourself though. I figured you were beyond high school crush antics. He's a Fish Prince, not the King of England. >>

Licking his lips, he thinks for a moment. << The Fish Prince of Bel Aire. >>

Now, he's smiling. In that classic, stoic Scott manner as he gives a glance to Emma. His brows lift upwards, followed by the rest of him as he gives a motion to Garth. "It was a pleaure to meet you, Garth. I look forward to our next meeting."

Emma Frost has posed:
There is a subtle flash across Emma's skin and her fingers curl into her hands. If Scott didn't know Colossus so well, he might have missed the fact that the flash of light almost heralded a diamond carapace coming into being as the blonde reined in her immediate and urgent need to *squash* herself one of Xavier's pets. <<You're not even original in your punning -- you don't think he already deals with that kind of ignorance and rudeness on a regular basis, much as Hank does?>> The mental tone is frigid. <<This is a supposedly prestigious institution of learning. You've made a *wonderful* impression.>> "Garth, I'd be happy to give you a tour of the facility," she says to the diplomat calmly. "Please, right this way."

Tempest has posed:
    "Are you well, Emma?" Garth rises from his chair. He offers his hand to first Jean and then Scott. "Absolutely thrilled to make your acquaintance." He says to them with a nod. "The world is desolate enough without greater understanding and open dialog. I admire people who want to make the next generation of leaders better than the ones that preceded them." His one arm reaching out, as if to steady Emma though as he speaks. After reclaiming his hand from Jean and Scott, he reaches for his water glass and downs it. "May I take a beverage on the tour?" He asks. "I am quite thirsty."

Phoenix has posed:
The look on Jean's face is an almost mirror reflection of her mentor's, that frustratingly vague look that could be amusement, exasperation, consideration, and everything in between. But all she does is give Garth a dip of her head as she gestures towards the pitcher on the table, "Of course. The kitchen is right down the hall too. It was a pleasure to speak with you, and I look forward to our future meetings."

Cyclops has posed:
"Emma is pristine, as always." Scott says as he places one hand on Jean's shoulder, while reaching out to take Garth's by the hand firmly for a shake. "If you ever want to get a drink with the guys here, Garth, feel free to make plans with us ahead of times. If you aren't introduced to football, we can help you get well acquainted over a round of drinks and pretzels at Harry's Hideaway down the street."

<< There's the old Emma that we know and love. Welcome back, Miss Frost. >>

He gives a motion of his hand as he moves on through the doorway. "This way to the kitchen, Garth. We'll make sure you have plenty of water on your way back. I'll let you have my personal polar bear cooler. It's a half gallon jug that is well insulated. Can keep it cold for the entire trip back."