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Ben could not for the life of him figure out what he wanted to do with his hair. His attire was along his usual line of boring but practical as he could not get himself to care much about what he actually looked like, however, he was starting to have second thoughts about it and nearly everything else tonight. He was a little nervous, yes, as expected when anyone interacted with any Sinnenodel no matter how high or low they were on the order of inheritance; and he was acutely aware that Varis was the current heir for a reason. Perhaps he should have made some attempt at some pizazz.

It was too late for those thoughts but at the very least he did look different from his usual self. He did appear more sharply dressed so he secretly hoped that the difference alone would make up for the choice in suit. In his defense the suit was more modern than his usual dated choices as his mages loved to point out. At the very least he would only be under one critical eye as he highly doubted Count Astorio cared much about appearance and Countess Marivaldi didn't seem to fret on that. 

He decided to leave his hair loose and decided to check on his mage. For just a moment he nearly assumed someone else had taken her place. To his joy she had been transformed and were it not for the absence of color on her head he would very much think her as any other mage. He did wonder when he should broach that topic but he supposed it was too late now. At the very least it could endear Countess Marivaldi to his side further as it would show he accepted mages regardless of their flaws. That would not tide over well with Count Sinnenodel and he was certain he would hear more than one comment on that. The princess' words came to mind and he wondered if his intention to get both heirs on his side was too ambitious.

Lilie's words brought a small smile to his face as he freely walked into her room. He noticed a detail on the back of her dress needed to be taken care of. He lightly pulled the zipper up to its full height and made sure the hook kept it all together. Now it was perfect.

[color=C0C0C0]"In this scenario, we are looking to impress as I am the guest of honor. I suggest daring,"[/color] Ben said. [color=C0C0C0]"I'll make quick work of your hair, give me just a moment."[/color]

Ben strode into Lilie's bathroom with confidence as he grabbed what was necessary. With tools in hand Ben took care to be gentle. He kept in mind the style he wanted and fortunately the length allowed him to do what he wanted in excess. By the time he finished, her head was aloft with a pair of braids leading up to a tousled bun. He felt it was appropriate enough for the image he had in mind and opened up the box. Within was a small assortment of decorative hair pins in the shape of leaves which he took care to place in various spots along both braid and bun.

[color=C0C0C0]"There is beauty in simplicity and that is something I intend to capitalize on tonight. Mages are to be seen and not heard; I assure you, you will be seen,"[/color] Ben said. [color=C0C0C0]"Remember to keep yourself poised as you represent me tonight. It may be tempting to let your guard down around familiar faces but tonight is an exercise in caution. Build upon those relations and do not let your guard down. If at any time you are addressed by any noble you speak only when directly spoken to."[/color]

He had sincerely hoped that their practice would come to fruition tonight. It was difficult to predict a Sinnenodel and he would have to make sure his attention was focused on the snake himself; he could not afford to worry much about what happened among the mages. Fortunately the setting would eliminate any chance of any unsavory actions and he didn't think anyone would try anything. Of course one never knew what a Sinnenodel planned so he only hoped any ill intentions would be aimed primarily at him. It would be good practice for him as well for the future.