After much champagne and fine cuts of turkey with pomme frites the conversation became serious. "In the brief time I've known him, Fat Bob has been reliable except in one instance," Lilja said. "He attempted to hide your presence at the manufactory from me. On the face if it, it seems innocent enough. He was worried I might dismiss you, I think." She considered for a moment. "Sparks can 'see' that electromotive force that is so subtle and dangerous it is not used in most equipment despite some obvious superiority to steam; even, elemental steam. He tells me you're a spark and the clanks need one to maintain their ability to cogitate and communicate. I know little of sparks except that their talents are highly regarded in technical circles and that some of them are regarded as dangerously mad. What say you, Miss Steelsinger?" The diminutive clank, Pannikin, listened and watched intently. "Th' Mistress ain't what you'd call normal but she's 'ardly what you'd call mad!" Sonja held her peace and smiled. "Aside from that, you'd be a fine one to talk, Guv'ner!" Lilja ignored the clank and pressed, "Again: what say you, Miss Steelsinger? Molly's art notes: Set up and rendered in Poser 12.0.500 with the Superfly Cycles 2 rendering engine. 1971s Brings us Pannikin. The main setting is Dinner for 2 by Blue Tree Studio and the barely seen exterior set is the Victorian Arcade, also by Blue Tree Studio. Sonja Steelsinger, is based on La Femme modified with morphs and textures by Afrodite-Ohki who also made her hair. Lilja Darkstar is also based on La Femme with morphs and textures by Tempesta3d; her hair is by Afrodite-Ohki and outfit is Dark Aurora by Ravenhair. The Guardian is by Jonnte and Fat Bob by Simon3d. The waiter is based on David 3 wearing various stuff available at DAZ. It's easiest to follow the story (if you like) at DeviantArt. It begins here: https://www.deviantart.com/mollyfootman/art/Lilja-Darkstar-ponders-875997592 I love me some Steampunk!