"I'm sure you'll manage it perfectly." she said, in total sincerity. How could a woman like Ms Wells not thrive in a place like this? It was insane and unthinkable and her own life sounded exactly the same, she would manage fine. In Irene's opinion anyway.
She noticed Helena's moment of disconcertion, but didn't comment on it. Obviously something had crossed her mind, but it wasn't Irene's place to pry - she'd done enough of that already. "At home, whilst doing my thesis, I examined some people who had delusions of fantasy worlds. Now I wonder was I too quick in dismissing them as insane. Although probably not; if my world had Warehouse agents, or supernatural beings, I believe I would have heard about it." And she would have, too; the rich variety of clients she entertained would have informed her. Of that she was certain.
"The rigging sounds fascinating...I could do with a rope that you couldn't escape every now and again. But I assume it was impossible to control?" Oh that would be delicious though, binding someone in such a thing. Watching them try to escape only to be more and more restricted.
When Helena described the explosion that had claimed her life Irene winced in sympathy. "That does not sound in any way pleasant. But I'm glad you saved your friends; at least there was a purpose to it, no?"
She nodded in understanding regarding the other artifacts, glancing to the counter as she did, wondering about their tea. "I see. Your job really must have been fascinating."