"Oh it does, truly," Anillo returned, arching a pale brow. He followed her gaze, and then bent to his work, soaking the garments in what little water was left in the pail. If only it were warmer...but he would make due. He unstoppered the vials of dye.
"Permit me to tell you a story," he began with his typical flair, grinning winningly at the compliment as he continued to work. "This is the Maoin house, belonging to a Maoin (an absurdly old one I might add) named Kalkali. He is a vain and ambitious man, but he fell victim to what ensnares all men at some point: a beautiful woman." He winked. "That woman was another Maoin, named Livini. A fair and skillful Maoin, Livini respected but did not return Kalkali's affections. Kalkali was a man desperately in love however--he would not give up, and not until Livini very publicly turned down his proclamations of love did he finally admit defeat. He forced her hand, and he had no one to blame for his embarrassment but himself, but he turned bitter and vengeful all the same. Now that Livini lives in the Raon House (my house), Kalkali spares no effort in trying to steal away our clients and ruin the reputations of the Maoin under Raon's roof, including mine."
A small, pensive frown turned the corners of his mouth. "He convinced one of my most loyal clients recently that I did not write my own poetry, but in fact stole it from a lesser known poet! There is a difference between inspiration and thievery!" Then , abruptly, a smile. "Would you like to hear a poem?"