[Just the one, she says, and someone who would try to do so without being noticed. Markus knows exactly the implications behind a statement like that, and it’s territory that he’s quite certain he shouldn’t delve into with abandon. Only circle quietly around, for he hardly knows her that well as of yet.]

Then I guess I’m the second. The official start of a trend; I’m sure you’ll pick up more eager artists along the way, with a profile like that.

[Easy charm, easy flattery. Something about Markus is always underlined with a quiet understanding, which makes even his throwaway comments oddly sincere.

Speaking of not knowing her that well, though—]

Peggy. [His grin goes a little lopsided, and his work is momentarily ignored in favor of engaging in the conversation fully.] Well, I’m glad to have eventually earned your real name; not that I can blame you for your caution during the ball. You put on a good show, I could barely keep up.

My name is still Markus, though.