Name: Jarvan Lightshield IV and Garen Crownguard Affiliation: Demacia Location: Standing next to the wine samples at one of the banquet tables Tagging: Open Mentioned: Noxus - [@LeeRoy][@BreakingMe][@PatrickDrummer][@Mirrodin] [hr] [hr] Jarvan bitterly sipped from the cup in his hand. The red wine was a sweet blend and the alcohol left its burn across his tongue. The Demacian emperor peered down at his glass after sampling the drink’s strength, and with a frown, returned it to the table. [i]They’re trying to lower our guard[/i], Jarvan thought. He never disobeyed the gods but that didn’t mean he ever took pleasure in the occasions they had planned. The moment he was informed that every kingdom to include that one kingdom full of bloodthirsty, anarchist scum (surprised they even have a crown to stand under), were invited to this [i]ball[/i], this [i]grand occasion of peace[/i], he felt the declination even in his soul. Absolutely not! But there he was, standing amidst six Dauntless soldiers to include his general and friend, Garen. “The wine is strong,” Jarvan muttered for Garen’s ears. Garen’s brows lifted curiously as he peered into the rouge waters of his glass before he asked without turning away from the rest of the room: “Does this occasion unsettle you, my lord?” Jarvan frowned and crossed his gold armored arms before his chest. The gods had insisted that the champions arrive in formal clothing suitable for a ball, but Jarvan wasn’t going to have it. He and his men were armed to the teeth. “Tell me Garen, do you feel comfortable in the presence of the gods?” Garen frowned a little as he mused over the question. He had to ask himself how did he feel at that moment and if he was supposed to feel as paranoid as his lord. “I suppose, yes.” “Why?” “Because I believe that we were brought here for respite, and the gods will ensure that we get it.” “In death, Garen. Do you really think Noxus would see the Emperor of Demacia standing here without his complete guard, walk over, grab a plate of cheese and chips, and say, ‘How fairs your day?’ Whatever they got planned; whatever they intend; I want my men to be just as ready as I am. So drink light. You’ve never failed me, and I can’t imagine you ever doing so.” Garen turned to Jarvan with his blue eyes shining in determination. He returned the wine glass to the table and reassured the emperor, “I would [i]die[/i] for you. You have had my sword and my undying loyalty for years now and you’ll have it until my end.” Jarvan glanced over at Garen and smiled in appreciation. “And I, you Garen. I intend for my grave to be on the battlefield, blanketed in the blood of my enemies.” “That’s a fine death, my lord, but I intend to see you die naturally for the sake of the kingdom.” “Hmph!” Jarvan uttered a muffled laugh behind a smirk. “Old, bedridden, and shitting myself.” Garen’s face lit up brightly with mirth as a grin expanded on his face before laughter rang loudly from him. “I won’t be any younger than you by then. Hm…” Garen crossed his arms next and smiled into his possible future. “I might have me a lady.” Jarvan arched a brow. “Is that right?” “I want strong Crownguard children to continue to serve your line.” He then arched a brow back at Jarvan and gave him a side-glance. “Which means you’ll need to find a lady friend too.” Jarvan huffed out another laugh. “If there are any worthy.” “What about Shyvana?” “What about her?” Garen looked away from Jarvan and just closed his eyes as an amused smile stretched across his face. Jarvan’s brows knitted on his forehead as he gave the silent vanguard a questionable look. Turning his attention back to the ball, Jarvan scowled at his thoughts and the teasing Garen gave him. “She’s a loyal and fearsome warrior…I would trade her prowess for no other.” Garen nodded. “Her beauty is quite exotic and she watches you a lot.” Jarvan closed his eyes next and his frown hardened further as he resisted Garen’s subterfuge. He knew what he was trying to get him to confess. “We will discuss this no more.” “Yes, Sir,” said Garen with another large grin on his face.