[Vivi/Aspel.]
And you do not think that I have tried? Between the rumors that follow me and my station, it is a rare thing indeed for someone to speak frankly with me and outright deny me. Things were much easier when I had left Those in the Bards' Guild fear incurring my ire for dread of Reinholdt, though such rumors are inconclusive and few know of their veracity. Attempting to reason with nobility is futile, for classism is very much alive in our fair city. The ones who truly care not for my title or the rumors are those that I would not engage with normally. You and Reinholdt are the only ones My words alone do little to affect change in perceptions. It is far easier to fall into that trap rather than suffer constant disappointment
And yet the situation was caused directly by my presence. My lack of foresight at the moment directly created the situation, because I chose what was easiest for me.
Were I to inquire, honestly inquire, what answer would I perchance receive? Any previous inquiries have been met with dismissal and badly veiled attempts to change the subject or deflect. No human is made of stone, Aspel, yet that is the persona you strive to put forth. I will take my foolish assumptions and keep them to myself, however. I apologize for causing you discomfort and for assuming that help would be welcome.