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The array of talents displayed by the mages was a delightful and pleasant surprise. There were some whose talents shined more than others but overall Ben enjoyed everything from start to finish. He remained his polite applause throughout with a relatively neutral expression, only wishing the show continued for just a moment longer. Anything would have sufficed to quell the belated dread forming in his chest. For one, his dream of a relaxed evening had all but fluttered through the wind the moment he laid eyes on that [i]pompous asshole[/i]. Why Eris Samael was here was beyond him; if their conversation held as much merit as he had initially assumed, the two lovers were quarreling. Perhaps they made up by now. Perhaps Count Sinnenodel had caught wind on how much of a bane to his existence Eris was. Just the sight of that hint of a smirk on said vampire's face was almost enough to give Ben vicious thoughts and fantasies where he could wipe the look off his face with a simple, yet effective punch.

But the overblown peacock was not his current concern, his presence as unwelcoming as it was. Dancing in the tall grass with a snake coming around was a risk he was willing to take, however, he was not as eager to dance with so many people around. Until now, he had interacted at a base, neutral tone with Count Sinnenodel. Now that the rest of the nobles were around he would have to ensure he remained perfectly neutral for all intents and purposes. Except neutrality could be misinterpreted as weakness to a Sinnenodel, so it was best he replied in kind. Except disrespect without the might to back it up wouldn't impress an Astorio. There was also the countess to consider, and the growing thorn in his side that was that blonde idiot. Needless to say while he was up for the challenge of juggling every relationship, Ben was just a touch stressed.

The introduction did little to surprise him. Eris Samael must have been over the moon to be introduced first. Was it possible that it was a statement of sorts? It was bold and a waste in his opinion. To be fair, Count Sinnenodel could have introduced a sack of flour first and Ben would have found that much more suitable. He was, however, surprised at the comment that followed. He wasn't aware Eris had dipped into the political field farther than gaining access to the Sinnenodel Dorm on the weekly. Or is that what they were calling it these days? He would have to think about it. He was glad to see Count Astorio and Countess Marivaldi at least, his polite smile nearly betraying him at his comment on the Astorio. Playing school was what they were all doing considering each of them were only here due to Her Highness' summons. The lack of comment on Countess Marivaldi did at least tell him they were equally clueless to her intentions. How oddly comforting.

[color=C0C0C0]"I am honored to make your acquaintance. Truly,"[/color] Ben said. His response was punctuated by a swig of his own glass, the sweetness familiar to him. [color=C0C0C0]"Watching the budding mages display their skills and knowing which way to direct them is a valuable if not necessary ability among the nobility."[/color]

He paid the comment and didn't care much how it would be taken. It was one way to start a conversation while he could see what the other nobles would respond with.