Ambrosia

Ambrosia was already quite the talk of the Starfall Isles after her fairly recent art show debut. The paintings and sculptures were beautiful, sure; delicately detailed pottery the size of a guardian from a dragon a fraction of the size is a sight to behold - but it was the last thing of a dragon's mind. It shouldn't be all that surprising to learn that prime discussions and interest rose only when it came to light that Ambrosia was a single-headed Aberration.

The Aberration's work alone would be pretty expensive if it were done by any other talon, however due to her "condition" these prices were often inflated in auctions. That's the reason Kirbie set out to meet this new rising artist - in hopes of charming her way to a free piece.

The strangers home was just as much of a work of art as her creations, but there was just one thing that pricked at Kirbie; the heads. There was simply too many. Why were there so many? They were all replicas of Ambrosia herself, self-portraits maybe? All held their own emotion as well: Disgust, anger, sadness, happiness, embarrassment - they lined the walls all throughout the warmly-lit home. The pretty pearlcatcher's snout was scrunched up in distaste, even now where she sat there were displays of heads just.. staring at her.

Ambrosia was either blind or simply didn't care enough to notice Kirbie's discomfort, as she continued her work on a piece (that was thankfully not a head) before her. The craftswomen didn't bother to indicate conversation, and it rubbed her the wrong way. Talk about disrespectful.

"You have such a lovely home," the pearlcatcher mused, her voice smooth and light - a stark contrast to her dark demeanor. "Very decorative, if I say so myself."

Ambrosia, to Kirbie's annoyance, took a few minutes before responding in a matter-of-fact tone; "Really? You sure have odd taste. Normal dragons feel repulsed."

Kirbie's eye twitched. "..I can see you've practiced for a very, very long time.. Why is it only now that you've started selling them?"

"It was only a hobby, but once I couldn't store them all they were sent to the auction house. I found out they pay good money." The Aberration muttered just loud enough for her to hear, skillfully defining the details of a fin with a scalpel.

Good money indeed. "It's truly a work of art. Your expertise could never go unnoticed - my, even the artist herself is a work of art~"

This seemed to get Ambrosia's attention, a subtle smirk lining her dark, slender face. "Is that so? You're quite bold. Now, what was the reason of your visit again?"

Kirbie lets out an elegant giggle. "Am I not allowed to witness an artist at work? I'm shocked you don't have more visitors!" You know.. apart for all the heads..

"That's a rather intrusive reason, if that's the case."

"Oh alright.. You got me there - though it was a definite bonus." Kirbie lifted her hands in 'defeat', a well-practiced pout on her lips. "I came to ask for a commission, if you take any. My mother is currently bed-ridden and she truly loves collecting works of art.."

"And have you brought treasure?"

"I was hoping I could pay later.."

"I see." Ambrosia exhaled softly through her snout, finally casting her gaze over Kirbie. She had to admit, the pearlcatcher was a beauty. Her rounded jaw, sharp yet delicate eyes and beautifully silked mane would have any dragons on their knees. However, she also knew what she was trying to pull - after all, she lived under the Amethyst Kingdom.

The Aberration had an idea.

"I'll make you something. Free of charge." Kirbie's ears perked. "But under one condition.." They immediately sank.

"..And that condition would be?"

"Model for me."