[Doctor Mephiston Luciferion Bahl] - [The bar area] - [Speaking with Lilith]<br/><br/>Mephiston's eyes widened at the mention of Lilith's name, "Lilith Van Stratten?  Daughter of Victor Van Stratten?  The famous scientist and inventor who sought to travel the stars?  My word!"<br/>Mephiston enthusiastically pumped Lilith's hand, "This is an unexpected delight!  I must say that I've absolutely devoured the papers he wrote while in my studies at University.  Some of his theories: remarkable!  I've integrated some of them into my own inventions, and while I can't attest to the success of the inventions themselves, they certainly wouldn't have functioned without some of the ideas laid down by your father.  Of course, that is not to say that I haven't heard of some of your accomplishments.  Genius certainly runs through the Van Stratten veins."<br/>Realizing his overly enthusiastic reaction, Mephiston coloured a little in embarrassment and released her hand.<br/>"Oh dear, where are my manners?  I apologize, I tend to be a bit over zealous and all propriety is simply tossed out of the window.  And never fear about conversing about weapons, my dear Lady, for I am certain you are quite stimulating in a variety of other areas!"<br/>The double entendre was entirely lost on Mephiston.<br/><br/>"As for any recent develops, I'm afraid to say no.  Just as I mentioned to Daniel, I haven't had the time to engage in a full blown project.  However, I do have a couple of items that I could demonstrate: items of personal defense and one I'm rather fond of and quite pleased to say isn't a weapon.  I'll be performing a demonstration later on and would be quite pleased if you would attend as well."<br/>Hearing her discuss about her recent research, Mephiston nodded and beamed happily at her, "Yes, yes, a fascinating topic indeed.  I know about your research into automata and it occurs to me that your expertise may be just what I require in a new project.  As it were, I've had some weapons left in the design simply because they are too unwieldy for ordinary soldiers to use.  However, given the nature of automata, it would seem that they'd be much more capable of handling these weapons.  I would be absolutely delighted if you'd care to join me a joint project to develop clockwork soldiers, or even a mechanized suit of armor.  Already I'm positively brimming with the possibilities!  A weapon to end all wars!"<br/>Holding her hand in both of his, Mephiston gave her what could only be described as puppy dog-eyes, and despite the fact they were coming from a man into his late twenties, were still very moving.