Dear Deputy Chief Scribe Bashir Khatara.
I have seen your work, and heard of your legendary prowess when it comes to the art of the needle. I would wish to commission a dress. Something unique, and beautiful. I know that your going rate is only a thousand dinari, but I would be ready to prepare a greater sum of funds for something far more unique or exotic.
I hail from Il Modo, as you may have no doubt heard in passing, so as you might imagine I have a certain preference for Modini style of dressware. That said, I'd not wish to obstruct your vision.
I confess, my idea for the dress may be impossible, for I seek both beauty and utility. While a dress is usually envisioned as something one would wear to a ball, to a formal meeting, I'd wish for it to be also practical, if danger were to appear from any corner. While my formal training was that of a servant, a secretary one could say, I just as much took to bladework. In a world of both political and literal cuthroats, one must be ready for anything, at any time.
While the analogy to a rose is of course most adequate, beauty combined with sharp thorns, we could look for other inspirations. Perhaps among birds, where some of their kind are indeed beautiful, with songs that inspire artists, but talons and beaks sharp enough to disuade all manner of predators.
Here I ought underline, by "utility" I do not necessarily mean any form of strong reinforcement. I do not believe we will have to replace any parts of it with any sturdier leather. But, perhaps pouches or pockets to hide a blade, or other useful trinkets could prove useful. A way for the dress not to restrict movement too much.
Also, would you happen to know whether anybody in the Well specializes in the making of masks? I was thinking of preparing a small Opera play and I was a bit inspired by the representation of Death as a Jackal, from the Wheel Twindari faith. As such I was wondering whether anybody does make such masks, or would be willing to produce them.
With warm and best wishes,
Catalina Calza
Intern-Secretary Calza,Thank you for your kind words.
Thousand dinars does purchase a simple-yet-fashionable dress, yes, though the prevalent economy will most likely force me to raise prices. The fee for more elaborate custom work under these circumstances is a minimum of ten thousand dinars, adjusted per required materials and labor hours, if necessary.
I have some plumage in storage, so an avian motif is very possible. I do not work with metals, however, so the "bladework" you mentioned would be aided by mere hidden pockets or knife straps. I have worked with Mr. Clockhand in the past, and he could perhaps help with a preservative underlayer, if you find leather disagreeable.
As for masks, I know none of the local mascareri. My dear friend, Angelica Illydo, fancies masks and has sold them at her Emporium. I would approach her regarding that particular subject, if I were you. Perhaps you can connect over the old country.
Deputy Chief Scribe Bashir Khatara