"As you wish," Velbrance conceded, irritation glittering in dark eyes for but a moment before the polished veneer returned. The scion still did everything [i]but[/i] take the captain's arm, never quite overstepping the bounds of simply going the same direction, but taking every effort to appear to be [i]with[/i] her.

He politely applauded the duel, remarking, "Strange; for an exhibition I would have expected something flashier and less practical. I suppose even the Iron Roses must have trouble arranging on such short order."

Any designs or plans involving the princess were promptly scuppered by said princess's running off to talk with the knights... a conversation that Velbrance seemed to have no interest in pursuing, instead pivoting to the nearest member of high society: Veilena.

"Your Grace, it is good to see your participation for once," he said, offering a deep bow, eyes flicking around the girl, "It makes them far more bearable than standing to one side. Of course, I'm sure you know of Knight-Captain Danbalion. If your bodyguard is around, surely the opportunity to meet such storied knights would interest them?

"And Lady Arcedeen! I'm glad to see you looking well this evening. I must congratulate you on your accession to the Iron Roses; I believe my father's gifts should have arrived for your father and yourself?"

[@VitaVitaAR][@ERode]