[table][row][/row][row][cell][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/U9kwQtG.png[/img][/center][/cell][cell] [color=#50b0f1][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/pfzut90.png[/img][/center][/color] [indent][hr][/indent][hr] [indent][sup][color=#EEDC5B]Attire:[/color] [url=https://i.imgur.com/qr0eysM.png]Tunic[/url] [color=#EEDC5B]Interaction(s):[/color] Zarai Lesdeman [@Rodiak]. [color=#EEDC5B]Mention(s):[/color] Alden Plannington [@Terrance420], Edin Danrose [@princess], Alibeth Danrose [@princess]. [/sup][/indent][/cell][/row][/table] [indent] [color=#EEDC5B]“Lady Zarai,”[/color] Auguste stood up and returned the curtsy with a bow towards Lady Zarai and Sir Barrios before taking his seat again. [color=#EEDC5B]“Was my expression that apparent?”[/color] He caressed his cheek in jest. [color=#EEDC5B]“Jests aside, I am glad to serve Caesonia. This is my duty, after all.”[/color] Although there was dissonance in his statement, he did believe... or atleast think, that following his father's commands was part of his 'duty'. Auguste couldn't help spare a glance at Zarai's bruises and wounds. It was from their foray last night. His expression flashed to one of concern before conforming back to a smile. It wouldn't be in good conscience to interrogate this poor girl who returned in one of the worst conditions amongst those brought back by his mother 'expedition'. As such, he silently acquiesced to her wishes. [color=#EEDC5B]“I am sure fath- King Edin, has thought it through. The shortened time may be just to maximize those that want to meet with a prince.”[/color] Though he says so, his eyes betrayed his words. He also did not think it was possible to create a meaningful connection through such short meetings other than forming fleeting infatuations and crushes. Auguste was a bit struck at the question. Considering that he was eternally busy with all of his given tasks; while the little free-time he did have he spent sneaking outside of the castle or honing his blade. It really didn't leave him much time for introspection regarding about what HE looked for in a woman. It was something he did have atleast prepare an off-hand response for, but he truly thought he would have been fine acting as a chess piece for his family to form whatever connection they needed. Due to his tiredness, he couldn't quite remember what his usual response to the question was. [color=#EEDC5B]“My, it seems you've put me in quite a quandary.”[/color] Auguste finally said, he took another moment to compose himself. He looked over to his father and Sir Alden who seemed busy conversing between themselves and another individual. Satisfied in the fact that they weren't listening in, he continued. [color=#EEDC5B]“If you allow me to be honest, I am not so sure myself. In all honesty, I would've fine with whoever my parents had set me up with. Being a prince, well, it's a tad restricting... I'll leave it at that. Apologies if that did not satisfy your question.”[/color] [color=#EEDC5B]“As for yourself? Although I understand that these events is a bit too stifling,”[/color] Auguste pulled at the tight lapels of his tunic, relishing the comfort brought by the air cooling his chest. [color=#EEDC5B]“Surely that's not the only reason why you dislike events such as this?”[/color] [color=#EEDC5B]“... Though I understand if you do not wish to speak about such topics.”[/color] Considering how closed off Lady Zarai appeared to be. [color=#EEDC5B]“Perhaps we can talk about fencing. Tales of your skill has reached me. Surely one as skilled as you have many tales to tell.”[/color] [/indent][indent][indent] [/indent][/indent]