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Khaemtir laughed to himself as the Novitiates interacted with their new master, especially that stiff Eldri girl. Everyone knew the Sorcerers and the Red Orders had a strained relationship. No one in their right mind could consider that tasteful. And how regrettable it was so early in her career but a public faux pas was too good to pass up and he made a mental note to bring it up at his group’s little rendezvous later. Ishara would certainly enjoy the tale and even if Radaam didn’t quite get it, Khaemtir would teach him how to enjoy the simple things in life.

His thoughts came to a screeching halt as one of the three newest Serpents was covered in tiny, iridescent butterflies when she returned. He blinked in awe at what he could only assume was her tutelary. They were absolutely beautiful, the way they glowed and shimmered. He’d thought Udjebten beautiful with her gemstone eyes and baby fat all over but those butterflies were absolutely stunning. He wouldn’t trade his tutelary for the world―Not that he would ever tell her that!―but maybe they could work together and make her eyes glow like that. The obvious superficial desires aside, he wouldn’t need to light a candle if he got up at night anymore. 

[color=FF47D8]“It’s rude to stare, little Khae.”[/color] Udjebten nudged him from where she sat on the bench next to him but he wasn’t fooled. Not only was she perched up on her hind legs and resting her forelegs on the table for a better look, usually she’d have commented far sooner than she had. She was just as enthralled by the butterflies as he. He smirked at her and scratched behind her flicking ears like she enjoyed. 

[color=E7D500]“Alright, alright. I’ll keep my appreciation to a minimum, mother.”[/color] Khaemtir laughed, finally standing to approach the group. If their master was anything like his, they’d be dismissed shortly or at the very least sent on some inane assignment Khaemtir could steal them from. He still needed to give his regards to Ms. Faux and he definitely wanted to get to know the girl with the butterflies. He smoothed out any wrinkles in his outfit, helped Udjebten off the bench, and stood back up to see where they’d gone and…

Groaned in disappointment. They’d vanished somewhere in the crowd, the entire bunch of them including their master, which only made him think they were off on some purpose or another. Great. He had been hoping to greet all of the necessary parties [i]away[/i] from his mother before he had to play proper but it seemed fate did not smile on him today. He sighed dejectedly. 

[color=FF47D8]“Well, it seems another greeting and it’s off to your family. But first, you need to drink some water. Beer is a poor substitution for hydration and it is hot out here.”[/color] Udjebten demanded, trotting off into the crowd. Khaemtir followed obediently. As long as it kept him away from his family, he was all set for it. Udjebten led him to a refreshment table, watching him drink water and eat a little before giving a satisfied nod. 

[color=E7D500]“Why is being a noble so difficult?”[/color] Khaemtir complained to Udjebten. [color=E7D500]“I just want to hang out with people but I know it’ll get stuffy if I don’t greet people somewhat formally.”[/color]

[color=FF47D8]“You are a Sorcerer now. Your future is yours to write. If you wish, you could disappear from your noble life and become a hermit in your pyramid.”[/color] The hippopotamus suggested, the closest thing to teasing smile on her face.

[color=E7D500] “Absolutely not. I’d die.”[/color] Khaemtir shuddered. He didn’t want to give it up; he just wanted to be a noble his way. Was that so much to ask?