Irina was content to linger in the background as the ladies fawned over the jewelery and nibbled sweets. She took everything she saw and heard in with the intention of making use of it later. She loved gatherings like this as an opportunity to listen to gossip and consider her options.<br/><br/>She eventually drifted close to Maslika, giving her a pleasant smile and saying warmly, "Dinner was lovely tonight." There was much to be said for polite conversation as a way to draw someone in.