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It was 1892, back home. Though I have since learned that people have been taken from all times and places, not just my own. Some of the conversations I've been privy to on these devices would also indicate that to be the case.

[ such strange language being used, for one. ]

It's been a long time since anyone accused me of having any manners to speak of.

[ she may be teasing on that last bit. ]

Just so. It is a very queer place we find ourselves in now.

But I wonder what else I might have cause to accuse you of if it has been so long a time for that, Ms. Ives. Do you wear your hair most scandalously? Or were you the guest at a dinner party who used the wrong fork for the seafood?

How long have you been here, Doctor, if you don't mind my asking?

Let's see, where to begin. Perhaps attending a ball unaccompanied? Or conveniently leaving one's gloves at home prior to attendance of said ball? I haven't received a dinner invitation in some time, though I do believe I remember what order the forks go in.

Four months now. The time passes interminably slow at times, then everything seems to happen all at once in an endless cascade.

A lady attending a ball unaccompanied without her gloves seems avant garde to me, truly. A bold and bright move to make. I should imagine you might start a revolution some day. I have a friend at home whose daughter is a suffragette.

But all of that said, it seems I'm now duty bound to invite you to dinner, Ms. Ives. Both for the inconvenience of my missive and to break your 'dry spell,' as it were. At your convenience, of course. I fear the place will have to be my clinic given the current restrictions on Submissives, but I think a rather public venue best for any first meeting, if it is all the same.

You don't appear to be entirely alone in that regard. A dear friend of mine has also found himself here for about that same length of time.

I have no interest in revolution, Doctor. Though there is something to be said about the appeal of equality, is there not? Something which this place seems compelled to deny us, given the insistence on this sort of power structure.

I appreciate the offer. Unfortunately I'm not in any condition to accept it at the moment, but perhaps we can postpone for a later time once I have gathered my bearings? [ including the possession of an actual set of clothes. ]

Who might your friend be? I may yet know him.

Equality is certainly preferable. I've had my fill of men who would deny it to people based on some arbitrary circumstance or characteristic. I cannot say I'll take up a banner and march, myself, but we do what we can to support those who choose that path for resistance. I have my own ways.

Of course. As I said, Ms. Ives, at your convenience. If there is anything I might offer to help with getting your bearings, please do let me know.

His name is Dorian Gray.

Those who find themselves in a position of authority are often reluctant to relinquish it. I haven't seen enough to know whether it is any different here, where the lines are drawn literally. That said, sometimes quiet resistance can be just as impactful as those who endeavor to cause chaos, maybe even moreso. But it may be unwise to speak of such things so openly.

Thank you, Doctor. I fear my designation leaves me at something of a disadvantage when it comes to procuring necessary items, though I'm hoping one of Mr. Gray's previously established connections may be able to provide assistance.

[Ah. Dorian Gray.]

Mr. Gray and I actually met at orientation. I cannot claim him as a friend, but he is an acquaintance, certainly.

As you say.

If Mr. Gray cannot provide, I have some contacts who can. [He's confident he can ask Magnus or Neria for assistance if Anders is being shunned at this point for Jonathan's mark.] Only let me know.

And welcome to Duplicity, Ms. Ives.

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