Archibald ordered crisp bacon, runny eggs and baked beans on toast, though it took some small amount of effort to convince the waiter of the last item, and he was not at all convinced that he would receive what he desired. On the positive side, he inwardly decided that he would henceforth ignore the low-caloric dietary suggestions that his home nurse had mandated for the trip, reasoning that her advice had not served to prevent his death, and was therefore worthless.<br/><br/>The comely young woman was nice enough to sit at his side, though her companion's stony demeanor hadn't yet cracked. The fourth member of their band, Mr. Fitz, seemed to actually be enjoying himself. That particular step would elude Archibald for the present time.<br/><br/>"I am interested, as you know, Yazkov. Though I'll like a bit of time later to make some calls and verify that I truly have no other options. I suspect you're several steps ahead of me there as well. So tell us more, unless we're awaiting more shades?" Come to think of it, some shade would be welcome. The morning sun was growing bright and hot, and the gin's regulating effect on his temperature was struggling to keep up. He refrained from pouring another glass, though, with the new company present. Though his gaze continually drifted back to the open bottle and his empty glass. Food would help.<br/><br/><br/><br/>