Spirits of the Earth

((This is a closed thread, thanks.))

But a handful of weeks had gone by since he had settled into his new role of duke and already he was being summoned to attend social functions that were addressed to his parents. The letters took time delivering, Conall reminded himself , trying to disperse with his sour mood as he plucked the invitation from Geoffrey's hand and opened it. It was a extravagant envelope , he thought, in appearance as well as in scent. Boldly so, even. "Duchess Avelon, "he murmured as he carefully opened the letter. He read it over and shook his head, "Ah right. Aella's birthday, I almost forgot."

And that certainly would not do! His parents had always stressed to him the importance of NOT forgetting certain 'holidays' that Melora hosted because failing to attend them and bring suitable gifts was considered to be a serious offense. Most nobles could , eventually, get over such offenses but not Melora. Melora held long grudges. She never forgot and she never forgave- well, unless you paid for it the next year to her approval.

"I don't feel like going..." Conall sighed and tossed the invitation aside with a sigh.

, "With your parents...gone. You'll find there may be shifts in allegiance to Ardal. You need to attend these functions, socialize. You need to get a feel for who your allies are and your enemies. Don't worry, my Lord. I shall be going with you. "

~
The ride to Hellvion had been long and tiresome and as Lord Shanley and his entourage arrived, the party seemed to be quite busy already. He turned in his saddle a bit and spoke over his shoulder to Erving, "Think we're late?"

Erving's wrinkled visage appeared the picture of calm, " We're early. No need to worry, my Lord.  The guest list is quite large and , well, some show up rather early in hopes of impressing the Duchess. You do not wish to appear overeager but neither do you want to appear as though you don't care. "

Conall shook his head as they passed through the castle gates , passing the Hellvion guard. In the courtyard, they dismounted and the horses were handed off to the care of the stable boys.

From there they proceeded on foot to the palace. "Are you nervous, my lord?"
"A little, " Conall admitted, " I hope I'm not required to speak much. Do you think my gift is adequate? "

Erving placed a hand on the teenager's shoulder, "You're a Shanley. You'll do fine."

"...that's really not that comforting."

((It was actually a lot longer than this but I shortened it since you're on a phone.))

The Duchess of Hellvion was a duchess in her own right- considering her husband, for quite some time, has been ill and 'ill suited' to rule. Though when it came into question as to 'who might rule'; the visor's were immediately 'fired' by the duchess herself. She didn't need those fools stepping in where she was capable, and no laws prohibited a woman to rule while her husband was still alive...
And he? Well, he only supported her, despite his condition, and was rarely ever seen and was strong enough at times to simply sign the paper work that needed it.

But now was not a time to be thinking about her husband; as power shifts were in the air. She could smell it, and as her only daughter was slowly coming of age, she wanted to flaunt the beauty she had created, considering her time to shine had come and gone and she had already gotten what she had wanted.

But Melora was a woman who always craved for more...
and she could do no wrong through her daughter.
Aella... the vision of perfection and grace, was something she began to focus on as a propaganda parade just this year. She had Aella, in her beginning stages of adult beauty, paraded around from the Kilanthro's, to the southern boarder that met at Serendipity.

And no one could argue the perfection and grace of her budding daughter, and now that she was fourteen, it was time to throw a grand ball in her honor. Unfortunately, her husband's illness had become 'difficult' so he could not attend...
but did that matter?
The focus was on Aella, and what men of power she could associate her with. She was, after all, a prime woman to wed- for if the right man came along, he could become the duke of Hellvion,
Or
If they played their cards right, Aella might be able to align their family with another duke who was quite wealthy and powerful... And Melora had her eyes on just the right man- Calent Allarrick of Allar.



ANd now was the time! The day had arrived; beautiful and shining with blossoms sprouting every where since Aella had been most joyously born during the spring. And because of this, the decorations inside could only reflect this detail, as garlands created from blossoms hung off the chandeliers throughout the entire Hellvion Castle, and soft-pink themed bouquets lined just about every corner of the place so that it was ornamental, and not too over bearing in detail.

Either way, the lovely Aella and focus of the evening was being prepared, those same decorations that lined the castle now being woven into her hair and dress as she sat patiently while the servants brushed out her hair.

"Be sure all 900 strokes are completed before the guests arrive," Melora said impatiently.

"Yes, my lady."

"And be sure to use the diamond roses, not the ruby ones. Red would be too bold for a child so fair."

"Yes, my duchess."

Melora gave a pensive nod as she looked over her daughter, and once she was ready, Melora's smile was unerasable as she placed her hands upon her shoulder and leaned in to speak into her ear.

"You look lovely. I believe it's time we arrive at the party. Some guests have already shown up."

Too bad the Duke of Allar had not. Perhaps he would arrive fashionably late?

Still unaccustomed to all of the attention that his new station merited, Conall paused in mid-stride and cringed at the blaring trumpets that sounded in his ear as he made his entrance, walking down the golden carpet. To his left, a tall and slender gentleman with a beard that made Conall blush with envy adjusted his monocle and held up a slip of parchment that probably had something written on it. The gentleman cleared his throat and announced loudly,  "Lords and Ladies, it is my esteemed pleasure to introduce you to Conall Shanley, the Duke of Ardal!" And the room which was filled mostly with complete strangers filled with half-hearted applause, a sound that was only truly made out of feigned politeness, really. Most of these Hellvonites probably had not idea he'd even existed up until this very point. Only a handful knew that this was quite a big deal because the newly appointed and very young duke had made no appearances anywhere since his coronation.

Erving trailed behind him along with one of Conall's bodyguards, the tall , but silent Ser Trainor. Reluctantly, the duke of Ardal exchanged greetings with several minor nobles he was fairly certain that he'd never met before at last stood before the duchess herself. He had met Melora before, but it had been at least two, perhaps three years since he'd seen her and back then he was she that she had not cared to be aware of his existence either. He swept forward into an elegant bow and kissed her hand when she offered it, " Duchess Avelon, 'tis been too long. I am both honored and delighted to have received your invitation. " He noted Aella standing not far off. In spite of her mother, Conall had always liked Aella. She was as sweet of a noble a girl could be. He afforded her a polite nod and a warm smile, " Of course, it is also a pleasure to see you again too , Lady Aella. I hope your birthday celebration is everything that you hope for."

The duchess gave a scrutinizing look over the young duke, but the smile never left her lips as she did so. And she didn't miss the look and time he paid to Aella, and made note of just about anything ever said to her child.  Lady Aella, sweet as Conall had known, curtsied to him with a polite bow of her head and stated, "I'm so glad you could attend, Duke Shanely." And her tone never missed a beat- and naturally, neither did her mother.

"Yes, we are always happy to see other dukes in attendance as grand as this. After all, it's not every day we get to celebrate Aella's birthday."
But that would be the end of her politeness as it was announced  the Duke of Allar had just arrived. Her eyes went away from Conall as she brushed him off in nonchalance when she spoke, "I hope to see you later this evening enjoying yourself." Which was his cue to leave. She didn' even bother casting him a look while her eyes remained plastered upon the door as the Duke of Allar strode in, arriving at along last with a long crew of two mordecai flanking both his sides, and a few guards to his rear.

(( Minor correction, but sort of and important one. Calent isn't the grand duke at this point in time and wouldn't have any mordecai at his command. ))

"I shall look forward to it, " Conall picked up on the cue immediately, knowing full well when he was being brushed aside in favor of far more illustrious company. Had he been looking forward to attending, the young duke of Ardal would have felt slightly affronted. However, his mind was on far more weighty matters than his sense of pride and he was only too grateful to take his leave. He offered one last polite smile in Aella's direction before moving onward to allow Melora to obsess over the duke of Allar.

"Well , that wasn't too bad. She didn't seem impressed at all."

"She wasn't." Erving was quick to inform him as they moved away. "But don't feel too bad, my Lord. You're not the only one who fails to meet such grand expectations."

"I don't–" Conall stopped himself and shook his head, sighing, " So, how long do we have to-"

"Duke Shanley! "

Conall's head whipped around to see an outlandishly dressed noblewoman in her middling ages weaving her way through the crowd. Only Lady Luvina was bold enough to wear so many shades of purple and green and decorated with such busy geometric patterns that it made one's head spin . The fashions in Uthlyn these days , Conall thought, had never been so strange. "Lady Delgrin, you're...here?" Conall stared at her, unblinking, and looking as well as sounding surprised.

Luvina laughed and pulled the young Lord into a fierce hug. Lady Delgrin crushed the poor lad who was still quite thin, a condition that was to be thanked from months of being consumed with grief and depression, " Oh, look at you! You're all dressed up and looking so regal. " She released him and took a step back to admire him.  "Your mother would be so proud!" She beamed. "Oh, now that you're a duke I suppose it's time that you seek a lady. Lucky for you I am an expert at matchmaking."

Conall stared at her incredulously, "Are you...? You jest." He felt slightly affronted. He was not even half a year out of morning and she was suggesting that he go hunting for a wife already? "Lady Delgrin,  I appreciate your ...er...enthusiasm but I-"

"Now, do you have any particular feature preferences? Blondes? Red heads? Blue eyes? Green? Do you like submissive, outspoken? Flirtacious? Demure?"
"Lady Delgrin, I am not looking for-"

Luvina grabbed his arm and pulled him close, pointing out a fair-haired young noble girl , "What about her? She looks quite elegant. Almost like a swan. I think the two of you would look divine next to each other. Now, how would you like to proceed? Shall I go approach her and express that you're interested or would you rather awkwardly make your own introduction? She doesn't look like the sort that's easily impressed. See that bored expression? And her nose is upturned as though she thinks she's far too good this party. Hm...you're not really attracted to those snooty types, I'd wager..."

Erving chuckled from behind him and Conall shot him a "Don't you dare say a word or I will murder you" look.

OOC: Actually, Calent has mordecai, who are in the service to the current Grand Duke as well (obviously XD ), but more or less remain allegiant to Calent but do their duties when the Grand Duke would call. I'm assuming Calent had a good standing with the former Grand Duke, or at least his father may have, but anyways yeah XD He had only two- Zannrick and Emery in his time prior to Grand Dukiness, so it's not like he had this entire army to command XD sorry if that's confusing x.x

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The duchess spent an excessive time fawning over the Duke of Allar. Calent Allarrick was a rather handsome man, and with it, made Aella a lot more nervous than she should have been. She knew her mother put a lot of weight upon him and wanted her to meet him, even when she aws so young- an impression, her mother said, was a woman's best ally.

To bad her tongue was too garbled too really speak too well, and after the Duke of Allar left, Aella was relieved and numbed to the remaining guests she had to pay attention to. And it was not like the Duke of Allar was unaware the Duchess of Hellvion wanted to fix him up with her daughter, and as pretty as she was, she seemed a tad young to his liking, and perhaps.. a bit too eager and mute.

Taking a glass of champagne, Calent's social circle seemed to pair very closely to Conall's, and words about some ruins discovered in the north of their duchy- magical ruins, of all things, seemed to make the quiet Duke of Allar appear more bitter, and as the conversation went on, there was a discussion of dismantling it after investigations were made with mordecai. Though someone had the gall to inquire if the castle were the from the former Duchy of Harmond, those speculations were quickly snuffed out by a deep and narrowed gaze by the Duke of Allar himself.
Though he, like Conall, had been more or less on the throne due to the unfortunate passing of his parents, he had been ruling long before the actual death, as his father had taken ill for quite some time.

Conall couldn't help but overhear Allarick's friends talking. Calent, as expected, was tight-lipped. There were whispers of a ruined castle and a fallen duchy. The young duke of Ardal caught the name and frowned. Though it seemed familiar , he had , sadly, neglected a handful of his geography lessons much to his mother's disapproval in favor of sneaking outdoors to be with his friend, Aislinn. They would ride horses and shoot arrows at targets that his father had set up on the trees...

He envied the girl. She was probably at home now attending to the horses with little a care in the world. Idly he wondered how someone of her breeding would react to a situation like his. The images both amused and horrified him.

Luvina touched his arm, "You and Aella are the same age about and you're both single. She's a nice girl and you two seem to get along well."

Conall blushed, "Well, yes but –"

The grip Luvina had on his arm tightened and she gasped, "Oh!There's the sweetie now!" She waved at the girl, "Lady Aella! Do come over here and chat with us, dearie!"

(( Time for failz. I agree with Aella bumping into someone and ultimately Calent is wearing lady Driscoll's flaming wig (don't ask) and then Tinstall goes "I got it!" and he splashes Calent with his drink OR Conall could do it. Lol  Or whatever lulz. )) 

Aella had been released from her mother's side for all of two seconds when she was beckoned by another woman. Blinking, she looked to Luvina, then back to her mother, who was becoming preoccupied with snaking her way into a conversation nearest the Duke of Allar. Perhaps her mother would not mind if she were to mingle? And her mother, giving a half wave of approval, was all the sign Aella needed as she drew in a breath and held daintily to her skirts while making her way over to Lady Luvina.

Giving a bobbing curtsy, she smiled.
"I would be most welcome to chat." Though after she quickly said it, she had no idea what to say as she tucked in her lower lip and inquired, "Are you enjoying the party so far?" And her eyes lightly swept across the grouping of guests before her.

Luvina eagerly guided the girl to stand betwixt her and Conall and at Aella's inquiry, Luvia beamed, "I'm having a marvelous time, dear. I just love what your mother has done with the palace. It's simply a work of art! Oh , but you my lady – your mother really has outdone herself this year!  Does she not make all the décor pale in comparison with her magnificence?" Luvina was specifically looking at Conall when she inquired.

Conall stared back at her, appearing much like a gaping fish. What? Why ask him?  He glanced over his shoulder at Erving who was also looking at him expecting. The Duke of Ardal shifted his gaze over to Aella, "Er...she does?" He replied a bit hesitantly, feeling the heat of frustration and embarrassment at being so purposefully put on the spot like that! "I mean... your pardon. You do look quite lovely, Aella." Awkwardly, he fished for a subject to discuss. It wasn't as simple now as when they had been children where they could talk about most things without being so unforgivably scrutinized, "How fares your lord father?"

Aella looked at him with large eyes. Though she was young, Aella was already blossoming into a young woman, but the innocence was there, and that sweetness touched her lips as she blushed softly and gave a gentle bob of her head to Conall.

"You are too kind." ANd as the conversation moved to her father, she blinked up at him. "He..." and here,s he tucked in her lower lip with a bit of a frown. "He is doing alright. He has been a bit ill as of lately, or he would have liked to attend."

Conall bowed his head, nodding, "I see. I shall keep his recovery in my thoughts and prayers. "

"Oh, I'm sure he'll be fine, dearie." Luvina reassured her, " Your father is a strong, healthy man. I dare say he's caught death a few times and given it  a sound thrashing." She waved a hand dismissively, " But come now, this is your special day, Lady Aella, do tell us what it is you're looking forward to this year? A proposal from Lord Allarick perhaps ? Hm?"

"Lady Delgrin!" Conall shot her a disproving glare that would have silenced most. He turned to Aella, "I'm sorry. She can't ...help herself."

Aella grew quiet at such remarks, nodding and smiling through a blush about her father, but then drawing back some in surprise at the forwardness of the woman's comment.

"I am still too young to consider marriage, though I suppose proposals can come at any age. But today, I'm simply here to enjoy the pleasure of everyone's company." And she bowed before them before excusing herself, and she took off, stating it was necessary to keep mingling with all of her guests.. and feeling strange. Really, she did not want to stick around for such conversation. Did all of Hellvion know her mother intended her for Calent of Allar?

And as Lady Aella moved away from the crowd, it seemed Calent Allarrick was moving away from his own group..and being that he happened to be rather close to Conall and company- he found his shoulder hitting off of Aella and the girl let out a gasp and tumbled backwards, right into Lady Delgrin who then toppled into Conall, who's arm she hit and forced his drink to shoot out lik ea bullet-
and land clean on Calent's suit.


And the entire place went quiet- stunned.

"Luvina," Conall hissed at the woman under his breath at the old woman, "that was far too bold! " He felt a little awkward scolding a woman that was three time his age, but it needed to be said because in spite of the silly old woman's intentions, it would not do if his relation with her ended up damaging his relations with his only positive connection to Hellvion. Not that he was in bad standing with Hellvion. It just wasn't much of one, " Do control your curiosities,please, and stop embarrassing people!"

Lady Delgrin shook her head, " Oh, I didn't expect her to become so flustered. Good heavens, the poor dear is so nervous!"

And Conall watched Aella moving away. He made a mental note to catch her breifly a little later and apologize for his mother's friend later because he knew Lady Delgrin saw nothing wrong with what she had done and while he was thinking on this, he failed to notice the chain of events that led up to him choking and spitting out his drink right on Calent Allarick of all people.

And while so many eyes were on him and Calent, Conall did not feel the shame that those eyes on him seemed to expect him to be feeling right now. More than anything, the poor young duke of Ardal was confused. He knew it wasn't his fault, but the way that everyone was looking at him like that told him two things. Either A) no one had seen what had happened or B) no one cared because how dare he spit on the duke of Allar anyway!

As Conall opened his mouth to offer and apology , someone cut him off, " How dare you spit on the duke of Allar!"

I didn't spit on purpose, you imbecile.

"My apologies, Lord Allarick; It wasn't intentional." He offered cordially. He wasn't about to fall over himself like Melora and others did to appease this man. The only being Conall would ever bend knee to was Ansgar himself, and perhaps the Patriarch but Calent was nowhere close to being that close to God. He was just a man, a duke. No more important than anyone else in this room.  Frowning slightly at the motionless crowd , he added,"    Could someone please fetch a damp rag before the stain sets? "

The glare Melora of Hellvion was giving him was positively a cold one. How DARE he make a mockery of the Duke of Allar but ten minutes into her event. And without even thinking, she pushed her way through the crowd and gave a snapping command to her servants to fetch a towel, quick. And as she was on her way over to make amends of the situation, Calent of Allar slowly raised his gaze from his wine stained suit and lifted those green eye to Conall. For a while, he peered at the boy with a frown set to his jaw, but before anything could be said, Melora was already on the scene.

"Oh, Mother! I'm so sorry-"
But Aella's words were cut off as Melora stepped in between child and man.

"Oh, Duke Allarick, how dreadful this had to happen-a nd so early into the evening. Shall I lend you a coat from my husband's collection? Or would a towel suffice for the wine?"

Calent, removing his cold gaze from Conall, turned to Melora with a deep bow.
"A towel would be nice, though I've brought a change of clothing. It would not take too much time for me to change."

Melora nodded and took him by the arm. "Allow me to escort you." ANd as Calent was lead off, he gave Conall one scrutinizing look as he dabbed at the wine on his jacket, and then as he turned away, Melora gave a scornful expression back to him as well.


Aella winced. She knew that look.
"It seems my mother is angry.." And she contemplated if she should go and help but..
she felt so nervous and out of place, and instinctively  backed away, accidentally bumping into Conall. "Oh! I'm so sorry! I, oh dear, I'm so clumsy this evening."

Conall couldn't help but feel his mood turn icy from the looks that both Melora and Calent had given him. A small spill of wine on someone's coat and the whole room was offended ? These people needed to get their damned priorities straight, but he had to remind himself that these were nobles and this was not Ardal where things were a bit more ...relaxed.

There was little Conall could do about the matter. Half the room unlikely knew or cared to know who he was or what had happened. He shook his head and didn't care to watch Melora or Calent take their leave. His attentions were immediately brought to poor Aella who seemed to be on the verge of being a nervous wreck. With a gentle hand , he steadied her on her feet. He frowned slightly, his gaze sympathetic, " No, 'tis quite alright.  I should have have stopped Lady Delgrin from bringing up such an awkward topic. You have my sincerest apologies. She just gets a little overexcited about prospective marriages and potential party arrangements. Believe me, she's had my wedding planned out for me since I was about five and likes to remind me of this on a yearly basis. " He sighed and shook his head again, "Are you alright? Pardon me for being a little bold, but it pains me to see you so out of sorts on a day that ought to enjoy." He dare not add that it wasn't all that fair for Melora to treat Aella. At least not on her birthday. This should have been a day that Aella could enjoy. She was a nice girl and he felt she deserved that much.

"Oh, but you needn't apologize.  It is just the way of things. My mother has expressed a high regard for the man, so it is only natural others might believe that she'd desire us to wed." Though as Conall went on to explain his own Lady Delgrin awkward moments, her smile began more natural as it warmed. "I shall take note of that. But is that why you are here? Are you seeking to court a young lady?"

Seeing how Lady Delgrin just blurted that out as a topic, she just assumed it was something natural to say at such an event. And at least, for now, his conversation was helping divert Aella's frail emotions from when she was quivering but a few moments ago. Now she seemed more lively. But that's how youths always were- so easy to bounce back from things, but also, so easy to fall prey to their emotions.

Conall chuckled at the question and blushed lightly. He shook his hand and waved a hand dismissively, "Me? Marry? I'm ..." Well, it was indeed expected of him and especially when no one wanted his uncle's line succeeding his father which would happen if Conall failed to produce an heir. "Your pardon. No, my lady. I'm here to celebrate your birthday. I would not think to pursue any selfish endeavors on your time."

He stepped closer to her and leaned in to whisper in her ear, "Why do you inquire? Are you contemplating a proposal?" He teased but then shook his head, "That was a bit cheeky of me, I apologize. Ah but, between you and I , I am not quite...ready to pursue a lady's hand. And , if I am to speak plainly of myself, I doubt any girl could put up with me.  " And he meant that sincerely in spite of his humor. Though Aella couldn't have possibly known what he truly meant and that he was thinking in terms of his health rather than his personality or his habits. That said, he stepped back and gave her some comfortable space between them .

"Though I enjoy your company, it would be selfish of me to insist upon keeping you. Unless you'd like to stay, of course. It's your birthday, the one day you ought to enjoy your time as you like. If you'd humor me a bit longer, I would inquire if you knew of any intriguing literature to read. I just finished 'The Wanderer' by the Malfrayne. Have you ever read or seen it , perhaps?   " 

Aella's face went quite pink at his statement.
"Oh, but Duke Shanley, do you not think of an heir?" THough as he went on to explain, she went even more pink, but nodded. Though his teasing partly won her over, she was somewhat relieved to see he was not here to court. Though if he was, she wouldn't be one to say no. What would her mother say if he DID wind up engaged? And Conall wasn't terrible looking- and she found herself much liking them, even his freckles, as she smiled and built up a small crush on him inside her mind. Though the little bubble popped a bit when she caught the gaze of her mother, and almost missed Conall's last statement.

"I uh.." she stammered, blinking as she looked up into his face. "What did you say again?" Oh, how dreadfully rude of her to miss it!

It wasn't difficult for him to forgive Aella for her inattention for she was not the only one with a small crush. She was beautiful and kind, but Conall had never entertained any ideas of pursuing her hand for multiple reasons. Even had he not been formerly betrothed to the late Lady Kearney, he understood that Aella was Duke Avelon's only heir. She would likely marry some duke second eldest. Therefore, she was off-limits.

That Melora thought she could get Allarick to marry Aella was...odd, but he doubted that anything would come of it. Allarick didn't seem interested in Aella much at all.   

"I was wondering if you have an interest in theater ?" Conall offered the girl with a pleasant smile. "Have you read or perhaps seen any plays that captivate you?"

"Oh, yes!" she went on, eyes sparkling over the idea. "My mother and I have gone to a lot of shows, though most of them are Rettison's works, but I would give my left leg to see a play by Emberly!" Though at the idea, her smile faltered a little as she composed herself and turned away. "Though my mother says they're too silly and romantic. But I've read numerous plays by him and 'The Scorching Crown' was always my favorite!"

"A leg?" Conall stared at Aella, unblinking and then he chuckled, "Oh dear. I don't think it necessary to be quite so uh...dramatic. "  Though Conall wasn't much of a fan of his works, he was not about to judge Aella for liking them. Emberly's writing was definitely for women. It was dramatic , silly and chalk full or romance that one would only expect to find in fantasy. His smile was ever kind towards her , " There's no such thing as too romantic. Ah, but I am intrigued now. I do not believe I've ever read this 'The Scorching Crown'. Would you tell me more?"

"Well, my mother doesn't like me talking about it," she admitted sheepishly. "It's about magic and things." And here, she leaned in to whisper the revelation as closely to him as she could, "And that's illegal." Well, at least if it were real, the actions there in would be!
Though as she was leaning in real close to speak to him- a voice behind her made her jump.

"Mother!" Aella's eyes were as wide as the tower of Uthlyn, and she blinked as she regarded Duke Allarrick on her arm.

"Turns out some spilled wine is an easy thing to fix," Calent said, eyes meeting to Conall's before he turned his attention to Aella. "So I hear you are speaking about plays? Emberly's 'The Break and Wine' is excellent, though 'Thorns of Allegiance' is one of my favorite."

"Oh! Emberly's plays are so magnificent!" And Aella felt too sheepish to admit to Calent she hadn't seen one. Though she had read them all.

"THough I haven't seen a good performance of it in ages. Pity the writer's wife turned out to be a mage. He had grown depressed after the fact and hung himself, so the world can no longer be gifted by his talent in writing." And to Conall, he turned, a fresh wine glass within his own hand as he gestured, "And yourself, Duke Shanley? What sort of plays do you prefer?"

Conall gave a soft gasp and blushed lightly at Aella's confession for enjoying reading mildly sinful material. But from what little she told him, he wondered if it really was. Reading about magic wasn't evil unless , of course, said literature attempted to paint a false, positive image of its vile nature. He could only assume that this was what Aella was referring to and he frowned slightly with disapproval. Of course he thought no less of Aella for taking an interest in such things for surely she knew better than to mix fantasy with reality?

Allarick's voice didn't invoke the same reaction from Conall as it did from Aella. With a neutral expression , he regarded the duke of Allar and quietly listened to him list off his preferences. Conall feigned interest , though deep down he was still very much put off by how he and Aella had been treated less than ten minutes ago.

He held his tongue while Allarick spoke of Emberly and there were things on Conall's mind which he dare not speak for concern of uttering an unpopular opinion, but he frowned at the mention of the man's wife and how it was a 'pity' that she had been a mage. And to think that a man would hang himself over such a thing...it was tragic but not because the wife had been a mage but because Emberly wasn't strong enough to deal with that fact.

Now that the conversation shifted to his own interests , Conall adopted a thoughtful look, "I've always been fond of Mister Zermuth's works. Most of his plays, as you are likely to know are historical. However, there is one fictional work that I was quite intrigued by called 'The Saint's Wanderer' or 'The Wanderer' . It's said to be based off a true story. Tis a historical romantic tragedy, but it's quite old and has been rewritten numerous times.  Zermuth took some creative liberties with it, but I rather like what he die with it. It's a lot less morose than the original tale and I won't spoil anything ,but the ending is bittersweet. "

"Zermuth," Calent repeated plainly. "I always believed Waverly had better historical pieces. At least his version of Ansgar's rising and his fictional plot where the future was cured of the evils of magic, has some admirable voices behind it- not to mention it offers some compelling thoughts to what we, as Connlaothians, have to deal with on a daily basis. Not everyone can be as humbled by magicians as the Serenians." And the last part was said with just a hint of distaste.

"Interesting, "Conall replied in earnest , though not in agreement with anything that the man was saying, "and what ,pray tell, would you say that a Connlaothian suffers from on a daily basis, Lord Allarick?" He had a feeling that he knew what the man would say, but there was always the chance that one might say something that wasn't expected. He suspected that Calent would dismiss it as a foolish question and that the answer to it should have been obvious. 

Conall was right, and the man cast him a sneer but didn't bother to respond as he sipped his wine. Though sensing some of the tension, though not fully realizing while, Aella smiled and politely added in, "But oh, what about symphonies? Graeschlin has some beautiful music, in fact, I hear his piece playing now, On Rose Wood."
Aella smiled happily about it while Calent's gaze drifted over towards where the small band was performing the piece.

Conall smirked and was about to offer a retort when Aella interrupted them. Where Calent seemed too haughtily preoccupied with music, Conall's attention shifted to the young lady curiously, "Indeed. Do you play an instrument, my lady?"

Aella shook her head.
"No, no instruments. I know some piano, but my playing is somewhat clumsy. I can sing well enough, but nothing to boast about."
And with a curious tilt to her head, she inquired back, "What about you, Duke Shanley? Do you play an instrument or two?"

"I'm sure you're not so bad. Singing is no small talent and alas it is one I do not have, " Conall replied with a grin, " Ah, but I do play a couple of instruments, actually. Mother insisted upon learning to play the violin and piano. My talents are nothing to brag of either.  My sister , on the other hand..." His expression softened a bit, his gaze sorrowful, "She was ...truly gifted. " He forced a smile and shook his head, " So you say you can sing. What songs do you favor?"   

"Oh, normally the classics, really. Some of Gaerren and Issontahl." She gave a nod, then realized her manners, smiled and turned to Duke Allarrick.

"I heard you play an instrument," she told Calent warmly. His eyes sought to hers and he nodded. "Several instruments in fact and well, that your playing is very famous from what I hear, though I must say I haven't heard you play, though my mother says you are wonderful. Perhaps you can play something for us tonight?" She knew her mother would be happy she suggested it. She knew her mother was keen on him and then, turning to Conall she smiled to him as well.
"And perhaps you and I could try our hand at something, Duke Shanley. That is, if you'd be up to play some Issontahl. I've been very inspired by that music as of lately. It just sounds so pretty."

Calent stared at the pair,a nd after a moment, he interjected his own thoughts.
"And perhaps you and I could play something together as well. I know you say you don't play any instruments, but your mother has informed me you've been learning the harp."

Feeling uneasy he'd bring that up, she took a step back and averted her eye to the floor.
"Oh, nothing performance worthy. ANd surely not at an event like this."

And he peered over at Conall before looking back to Aella.
"It's your birthday. I'm sure the guests would be thrilled."

Aella awkwardly nodded her head.
"Y-yes, I'm sure they would agree."
Oh boy, did that mean she just offered to play?

Of course your mother would say so. Who didn't fall over themselves to flatter an Allarick ? Not that Calent's talent as a musician was anything to dismiss for it was surely an impressive thing, but the man received far more credit than necessary. Of course House Allarick was ever showered with praise and compliments and it wasn't quite envy that seeped into Conall's veins but annoyance. Conall had limited dealings with the Allarians and he'd dismissed his father's claims that they were full of themselves. Though he knew he couldn't judge their people by their duke alone , Conall couldn't help but wonder if maybe his father had been right about more things than he'd care to admit...

"Issontahl? I am indeed familiar," he bowed elegantly, "It would be a tremendous honor to play with you, my lady." 

Conall noted Aella's sudden look of discomfort at Calent's suggestion of playing the harp with him , "Come now, Lord Allarick. One must not put the birthday girl on the spot. " He told the man pleasantly, though inwardly he was wondering what the man was about. Was it that he did not know nervous poor Aella could get? Did he consider that she might feel uncomfortable performing in front of such a large audience? Of course if Melora caught wind of this suggestion, Conall was certain that Melora would push the two to play a duet or something just to make it look as though her daughter and the duke of Allar were an item.

"Lady Aella, you need not play for us if that is not your wish. No one would take offense, unless of course they think themselves above your preferences. I would not hold it against you, but if I am to be honest I think as beautiful as the harp is , the sound of your sweet voice is far more a captivating melody to my ears.   "

Aella's cheeks went pink at the compliment, but before she had a chance to reply to either, the Duchess appeared.

"I hope you are all enjoying the evening," Duchess Melora's voice was smooth as she spoke, a hand moving with elegant grace as she took in the small group of people surrounding her sweet daughter. "The peach punch is excellent. It has some exotic nectars imported from Essyrn. YOu should all give it a try." And to Aella, she gestured, "And I have a few people I'd like for you to meet, my child. Come, let us let the men continue to mingle while we do the same ourselves. I'm sure they would not hesitate to join you in conversation and dance later on." And Melora tossed a smile to both, though Conall's was obviously forced.

Calent, who remained quiet throughout the ordeal, only nodding once towards the Duchess, eventually let his cool gaze turn to the other Duke.
"So how fairs Ardal?" he said, taking a sip of his drink.

Conall was sorry to see Aella leave and surprised that Duke Allarick made an effort to further pursue any sort of conversation with him. Where some may have felt flattered by being honored with the wealthy duke's most precious time, the young duke of Ardal merely felt curious. Was Allarick truly that bored? Interested? Or simply using this opportunity to measure him in a political sense? Hm. Quite likely the first and last of these options was probable. Airs were hardly necessary after all because while duke Shanley was a duke, he was still very much an unknown to the court and idly he wondered if that might one day make someone nervous.

"She suffers , but she endures as she always has. Time will do little to heal the deep wounds of treachery that have been inflicted upon my House and my people. An investigation into the attacks against House Shanley were initiated immediately after the attacks. There are bits and pieces that the attackers left behind, but no concrete evidence has been yet located to suggest whom is the perpetrator-"

"I hear it was the work of terrorist mages." A tall, stately lord from Highheart sniffed.

Conall regarded Lord Gracivius Thornmire with a slight frown, "There was nothing to indicate such, but neither is there evidence to refute these claims. Mage or not, the act of murder by one party or the other does not give crimes like murder or treason any less weight. "

Gracivius nodded, "A fair point, but you have much greater cause to be wary if there are rogue mages running about with their insidious magics and spreading their taint throughout the country. I pray that you do not find yourself facing such a grave challenge,  duke Shanley."

"All that can be done is to continue the search and strengthen our defenses. "

But Ardal had ever been so vigilant. How his father could have missed the attack...Conall was at a loss but he had a theory. A dark, unpleasant theory that he could barely stomach thinking about.

"It's good to hear the duchy remains strong. Sometimes changes in power can leave it's people feeling uneasy." Calent knew this first hand, though he was ruling at even a younger age than Conall, technically his father was still on the throne- but his illness kept him mostly bedridden, while Calent was quickly forced to take the reins.

He stared at Conall in silence before someone else chimed in, and at the mention of rogue mages, he frowned.
"Mages are a natural taint, as proclaimed by Ansgar. If I were you and you found it was indeed, some mage group parading against the government and were the ones responsble, I'd make the laws in your land stricter against them- to remind them that mockery against their lord, and their god, is not left without punishment. After all, you give them some room to make that sort of scratch, you might be dealing with something even more grave than losing your family."
And Calent was most serious about that as he looked over at the other Duke.

"No. Magic is the taint, " Conall was quick to correct the older man, "not the mage. And no being is born without sin. Not you, not I.  It is the magic-user , the one who willingly embraces the temptation of sin without remorse that is the black spot on society. Not the child who cannot help that his father was born with such wicked power and certainly not the mage who rejects the taint and surrenders her life to dawn the noble mantle of God's work. "

The glare he gave Calent was equally chilly and the expression on his face told him that he believed in his words and nothing would change that, "Thank you for your input, Duke Allarick, but I think I'm capable of deciding what is best for Ardal and my people. " He offered a polite smile in spite of his agitation, " The thing is, I am not you nor do I wish to be. " He could have gone on , but he was not here to be petty and make personal attacks. "I have my ways and you shall come to know them soon enough. A little patience, and a firm guiding hand is what these people need. I would rather that the people respect my rule than to cower and hate me from the shadows. One goes a lot farther with kindness and compassion than an iron fist, Lord Allarick.  But I am no pushover. I swear by all that is holy that anyone who crosses me or threatens the welfare of my land and people will learn to regret it and shall feel the full extent of my wrath as well as Ansgar's. "

And that was no empty threat, it was a promise. 

Calent stared at the man listlessly, though it was evident in the tense air much more was shared.
"Yes, no one would presume you to be the Duke of Allar." And he peered the man over before glancing away. "Excuse me, I do believe I'm wanted elsewhere." And the Duke of Ardal was left alone.

"Yes, I wouldn't want to keep you," he smiled pleasantly though inwardly he thought , from all of your sycophants.

In other words, Calent had grown bored or irritated with the conversation and rather than engage it, he chose to flee. How many more exchanges would happen like this, Conall wondered. Because he felt that this wasn't the first or last time he'd have to deal with Allarick. It was really more of a gut feeling that told him such than anything. It always seemed to be that Ansgar enjoyed presenting challenges for him and Conall wasn't sure if he ought to have felt honored that his God found him worthy to be tested so or if he ought to beseech him and ask him to lighten up a bit.

Conall scowled, Indeed. I would hope not.For I am not a self-absorbed brat with a stick shoved so far up up my patronizing, sanctimonious ass.

But Ardal didn't need Allar when it had most of the West and Matron's Hollow that it could trade with. House Allarick was not the only House in the Grand Duke's good graces.

He took a deep breath to calm his nerves and prayed to Ansgar that Allarick had been the worst of this evening. Knowing his luck, that probably wouldn't be the case. 

The next to approach the young duke of Ardal was none other than Calent's 'right hand man'- or rather, the right hand man of Calent's father thusly inherited to his son. Vesrik Delcheaux was not a beautiful man in any right, not in brains or looks, and with a large nose, several chins and standing much taller than an ordinary Connlaothian ought, he was definitely one of the least sought after men- except for those unwittingly desiring to get close to the Duke of Allaar.

"Ah, why if it isn't Conall Shanely, Duke of Ardal. How fairs trade?" he asked cooly, and without missing a beat as he snatched up a goblet of wine from a servant passing by and offered one over to the young pup. "As in, make any good trade lately? Also, you'll want to drink some of this. It will help rid that sour look upon your face. But good heavens, why on earth would any one appear so sour at suhc an event? Does the young, unwed daughter of Melora displease you so much? I know she's a tad young, but are you both not hte same age, my duke?" And at suhc a question, he gave a delicate sip of his wine.

Conall was hardly familiar with Vesrick, but knew just enough about the man to recall that the large, pig-faced gentleman (if he could be called such) was in one of Allarick's pockets. Or was it the other way around? Though to what extent he should be wary, duke Shanley was not quite yet certain.

He regarded Vesrick with a wary, critical eye and accepted the wine with a reflexive and polite, "Thank you." but did not drink it. The wine certainly wouldn't kill him, but he wasn't finding himself terribly thirsty so he held it while he listened to the other man talk.

He elevated a brow slightly towards the suggestion that Aella would sour his mood. "Lady Aella is a friend blessed with a sweet nature. It is highly improbable that she would sour one's mood and especially mine, Lord Delcheaux. Nay, I was reflecting for a moment on the last visit I paid to Hellvion." And that was a lie and he knew that Delcheaux would likely perceive it as such, but  it would be left at that.

"Trade took a blow, but that's not surprising given the late circumstances. However, we'll likely recover within the next month or so. I've already been swamped with new proposals. " And that wasn't surprising either. He had been warned that the more ambitious merchants were going to try and take advantage of his youth and inexperience.

"Ah yes.. Any Allarrian requests? I know a few, new eager bloods in the trades market has popped up on our shores. Surely you would not turn down a novice?" he inquired, giving another delicate sip to his drink. "Seems a lot of old blooded merchants are passing on their legacy and some have more children than business, so they seek other means- as you can see..."

"A few, " Of course there were and the majority of them were an aggressive lot who made such ridiculous demands from him and acted as though he should blindly sign a contract just because they were fair at bullshitting and experts at name-dropping.

"I am always open to new ideas and opportunities, Lord Delcheaux. I do not turn novices away for being novices,I turn away for poor business manner coupled with their unsatisfactory demands. I'm sure you understand that well enough , being a man of considerable economical influence and experience. If you know anyone who might be interested in seeking some financial opportunities in my lands however, you're welcome to refer them to me. "

"Ah, an intriguing proposition. I do know someone seeking more opportunities to the west. I suppose I could send him your way, his name is Lord Malcon. A fair man and he's been doing business for years, though finds it difficult to keep trades interlinked among all of the duchies. He has a lot of bold propositions, and unifying a trade structure sounds like something anyone could gain from. We are all Connlaothians, after all."

It sounded almost too good to be true and Conall had learned fairly early in life especially where it came to being promised that this treatment, that diet, praying regularly, paying huge sums of money was somehow going to cure him of the illness that plagued him...that things that sounded too good to be true typically were. But, Conall tried to keep his perspective fresh and not let his cynicism get the better of him. It wouldn't do a whole lot of good here anyway. Better to play the young, ignorant , open-minded child than to play the bitter little brat.

"Interesting, indeed. It's also a rather bold undertaking. " If not impossible, he thought. He offered a polite smile, "Indeed we are. Please, do send the gentleman my way."

Although it seemed not everyone agreed that sentiment.

"But of course, my Duke," Vesrik told him with a nod. "Though I must inquire as to any available tradesman of your own? Trade is a frugal and finicky business, and not all can understand the woes of such a beast- though I can easily say I understand it rather mildly, and would not mind over hearing any of your plans to improve trade as such a young ruler; and who you aim to keep up the Connlaothian pride in Ardal." And he continued to peer at the younger man, his eye lids hanging low, giving him that eternal pompous look most arrogant assholes possessed.

"Irving is my primary financial adviser. Your inquires on such matters are best forwarded to him. I have yet to hold any economic conferences. Ardal's economy is not threatened so much as her political morale. That was where my attentions have been since my crowning. " He studied the pompous expression on Vesrick's face with a cool countenance, "Naturally, our initial goal would be to reaffirm our agreements in the West. Particularly on the borders. It is imperative to have good relations with one's neighbors. As far as bolstering our people's spirits , there is a holiday coming up that celebrates Saint Eimhir. " 

"And will Ardal be hosting a specific celebratory event in Saint Eimhir's honor?" Vesirk inquired, lifting a single brow.

"House Aeron and House Shanley are to convene in a few weeks time about this year's festivities for this special event. We have a tradition every year to hold a series of contests. As you may or may not know horses are a very important part of my people's culture and the good Saint Eimhir himself was quite the skilled horseman and served in the army's Calvary for a number of years before retiring and offering his devotion wholly to Ansgar. For amusement we will likely hold a few racing competitions, some jousting , archery, and an elevation in which all citizens are welcome to enter for a chance to compete for a small , but generous prize."

"Naturally, my judging panel has agreed upon composing a small but crucial list of requirements for entry to make certain that we aren't flooded with poor contestants. It is...rare that we're bothered with such things as it is a crime in my kingdom to mistreat a horse , but there have been some...rather unfortunate circumstances in which an individual has attempted to exploit a noble creature for profit. And of course before such events we will probably hold a mass service in which the church may collect donations for a city relief fund. Wholly optional , of course, though encouraged. The proceeds are to be used to aid some of the military outposts that have been falling into disrepair gradually in the south where we border Serendipity as well as the west over towards La'maari. And of course, the church itself claims a portion of the money to keep their buildings from falling into disrepair and the orphanage functioning to exceptional standards. There is also a consideration for expanding the local academy to accommodate more students which the people seemed in favor of. "

"Ah," Vesirk's eyes lit up, although it was almost in mock delight, like the glow of a snake before it were to strike. He lifted his drink to his lips, sipped more down before nodding his head towards the young Duke Shanley.
"And what of a wife? Surely you are considering maintaining your dynasty through the desire of an heir? I know there are quite a lot of suitable young women. I myself am trying to coax my own Duke into considering, though I fear Duke Allarrick is being difficult." He chuckled and sipped more wine. "What about you? Will you suffer the same fate as he? Wait so long to acquire yourself a bride?"
And he stared at Conall most curiously, a wolfish grin plastered across his lips and his eyes never once leaving the younger man's.