Oh? Is my presence alone not enough to hold you over? We did just get here. [He hasn't even sat down... Give him a minute of getting a glass for himself, then going through his great selection of books before he gives Manley his undivided attention, thanks.]

Let me think... You probably aren't interested in the technological pursuits of our finest engineers, you probably aren't interested in the beasts that live in the wilds, the impending war, and... you probably aren't interested in... anything I am.

[Wow, uh, turns out keeping the company of a really picky person is hard when he can't just say he's charming out of the blue. Okay, he's pouring wine while he thinks, use the nice cup.] Shall I read you a story, then? You don't have to look unless they're pictures, I promise.