Eldritch Tea Party

"Oh, indeed. Screaming people rarely do. I think they make the scene sometimes. Morbidity with a backdrop of beauty, how tasteful. Of course, I'd rather people don't scream while you're serving cake. So impolite, that." The Duchess took one last sip of her cup and placed it back on the saucer.

This was the second cup of tea.

My, my. Almost halfway to dinner.

"Are you feeling any pastry in particular, Doctor?"

The Duchess nodded. "Indeed," she said. She was glad there was at least one civilized person around here that understood. It meant her worries were perfectly justified. The Duchess clapped and had the teapot pour the good doctor another spot of tea.

"If we're leaving it to me, I suggest these hearty lemon tarts." Two plates of lemon tarts, one for Donein and one for the Duchess, began floating to their directions. "They're fresh and a perfect blend of rich and sour. I have to wonder, though. What sort of desserts do you normally prefer, for future preference?"

The future being soon. She knew she would have this one come home with a box full of cake if he graciously declined dinner.

"Lemon tarts are quite lovely. I find that lemons are the best in the summer, as the citrus flavors are incredibly refreshing." She nodded, chewing a slice with her many rows of teeth. Mouth closed, of course. "You do love to flatter me, dearie. A little more and you'll have me swooning!"

A little indulgently, the Duchess leaned forward. "Oh? What kind of compliments are you thinking of, Mr. Donein?" she asked, a small blush coloring her cheeks. She was halfway through this second cup. My, my, how time flied.

The Duchess blushed coyly, again, and placed her hands on her warm, slimy cheeks. "Ah. Most wonderful!" she said, absolutely delighted by the wonderful comments being said.

"It seems like we're almost done with the party, Mr. Donein. Such a shame. I do hope you'll visit again soon. Do you think you'll have time to visit lil, ol' me?"