The window he gazed through overlooked the Ledgerdemain Lounge. Malcotin Baen felt an urge to visit the lounge. He looked around his lab and noted the many empty vials sitting secure and sterile on the side tables. He was in dire need of more samples.
His current project was almost complete. He only needed to conduct a few experiments to solidify the data. Malcotin was so close to achieving a breakthrough. His brow furrowed and he emptied his pipe into the ashtray. He needed two subjects, one alive and one undead. The data had to be researched further. In theory, it seemed to him that his own life was a testament to the possibilities inherent in the world. Some races were more…resilient.
He had to gather more data to complete his work. Other races, other ways of living, other methods of creation. The Titans, he mused…yes they seemed to be the answer. But there was so much as yet unknown.
It might take him many years to discover all those secrets. For now…he was no longer restricted by Time. Or was he? A frown marred his handsome face as he contemplated. No, time was running out. Events were moving far faster than he was comfortable with.
One more glance out the window and he decided. Getting his greatcloak, he put on his tophat and left his lab. His dark hair streaked with grey, a distinguished look he cultivated to give himself a dignified appearance. His pale blue eyes were now shaded by special lenses that filtered out the telltale glow of Undeath. Though any other being with his condition would sense it immediately. He did not fear their repercussions in Dalaran. The Silver Covenant made sure to enforce the neutral state of the city. The strong odor of fragrant pipe tobacco was his defense for the smell of death. It worked remarkably well, most of the time.
He strolled into the Ledgerdemain with a serene confidence. He went to the bar to order a brandy and to refill his pipe tobacco pouch. “Good evening, bartender. I am Malcotin Baen. Would you be so kind as to fetch me the standing order I have for the whiskey soaked tobacco I favor? I find your brewer’s methods very satisfactory. The smoke and the flavor are greatly enhanced and I have received many compliments on it.”
He smiled as the bartender brought him the small can of tobacco and his favorite brandy. Leaving a gold coin for the bartender as well as paying for his tobacco and drink, Malcotin overheard the conversation behind him at a table nearby. His senses were alerted to the tension and the emotion between the two elves. A flicker of sympathy in his heart was soon overshadowed by the germ of an idea that started flaring in his mind. The male was a Death Knight, and the female was alive. The way she presented, it was possible she was a Light wielder. Still, the possibilities were there. Sometimes even Light wielders could be swayed…
But how could he approach them without seeming to be nosy? He frowned slightly, then as he stood at the bar, his brandy on the counter, he refilled and lit his pipe. The fragrant smoke soon filled the Lounge and he noted some favorable glances turned his way. Maybe, if he was lucky, one of them would approach him.