"Ahh, but subtlety is my game as well, my<em>dear</em>Archmage," she said, her smile growing ever so sly.  "Perhaps your senses are dulled by your previous encounter.  You both have sensed me because I allowed it.  Were you a vampire, you would find me no more interesting than the next woman rambling through the streets."  Her lips parted briefly into a discomfortingly serene smile.  "I am quite adept at hiding my strength."<br/><br/>"I have already made my entrance to this city known by the proper<em>authorities.</em>"  Thessaly added, just the barest hint of disdain cracking through her mask.  "And you are quite correct in assuming they would be hostile.  Though clearly you do not know of me, I fear that my name is not held in high regard in many circles.  Nor do I hold many names in high regard myself.  You may say that I have,<em>fallen</em>out of the good graces of certain officials.  Through no fault of my own, you understand."<br/><br/>She placed a hand to her temple and sighed just a bit too dramatically, looking as though a dreadful weight were upon her.  "If I might be so bold, it is far too common for elderly Archmages to become stuffy and caught up in their old ways.  They fear things that might change them, even for the better.  It was for that very reason that they did not admit<em>me</em>into their ranks," Thessaly revealed with a pointed look.  "Though I must say that I am glad of it.  It's far more freeing to be unburdened by rank."<br/><br/>A small laugh escaped her, and she put a hand to her brooch.  "But here I am, speaking so casually!  I would simply adore becoming better acquainted with such strapping gentleman who know their way around a fight."  Her smile was nothing if not charming, though her gentle teasing would not go unnoticed.