“This way, if you please sir.” Druss seemed a bit hesitant as he started walking in the direction that he had indicated. As the two passed by the grand columns and entered the back of the house - the mansion really despite what Stare called it - Nevin noticed that the style changed. While the servant’s areas were still obviously of fine, high quality design and make, they were done in simpler styles, quiet refinement showcased here instead of the vaulted ceilings and ostentatious portraits.

While Nevin still felt fairly out of place in this extravagant mansion, he was clearly more at ease here in the quiet, simple halls. He saw the butler raise an eyebrow at him, obviously wondering who this “friend from Corone” was, but he was too well trained to bluntly ask. He fit the elegant, refined side of Stare that Nevin had come to know here Beinost.

It didn't take long for the two men to reach the kitchens, and Druss opened it and cleared his throat loudly, the sound cutting through the quiet clamor of the kitchen with ease. Many people in the kitchen turned to stare at the door, before a rather plump, pleasant looking woman - who Nevin noted was about Stare’s height - came bustling up to them, looking them both up and down before speaking over her shoulder.

“Back to work you lot. Well Mr. Druss, who’s this you've brought us today? New cook’s apprentice? He looks like he’d be handy in the kitchen, if for nothing else than getting things off high shelves.” Nevin blanched a bit before shaking his head rapidly.

“Ah, Mrs. Deerling, yes?” Druss and Deerling’s eyes opened wide. “I am a friend of Stare’s, she told me your name. Unfortunately madam I am no chef, or cook - if I attempt to make cuisine, it ends quite horribly for anyone involved. I am an Alchemist madam, and I have been tasked with making a tonic to help Sir Elssmith out with one of his projects. I need to borrow the usage of a pan and a wooden spoon, and a stove top from this fine kitchen.” Mrs. Deerling looked him up and down suspiciously, clearly not wanting to give up precious space in her kitchen. She broke when Druss spoke up.

“Lady Stare did say it was on the orders of Sir Elssmith as well as her own.” With a frustrated sigh the cook threw her hands up.

“Very well very well. I can't be getting in the way of the Lord’s commands. Timin, go fetch a pan and a spoon, and show this gentleman the way to stove seven. Hop to it lad.” A young boy of maybe twelve summers squeaked and put down the potato he was peeling, and hurried to gather up the items before waving energetically to Nevin. The redhead bowed to Druss and Deerling, then followed after the child to set up.