When Rene told Merri who, exactly, Champagne was, his face went bright red and he stammered to respond, even as Rene walked away. "A-- a stripp--" The visualization of a naked man dancing in front of Drake came to Merri, and he had to avert his eyes to the floor.
He almost missed Ric's introduction. It wasn't until he offered his hand for a shake that he realized he needed to respond. "Me-merri," he said. "Nice to meet you."
After he sat down, it suddenly hit him. "Cassul? Are you related to Aspel? And I'd like a drink, Ari, if it's not too much trouble." Then to Drake's demand. "Of course, Drake! Um... how do you want to be entertained? We can maybe play a game?"