"I do?" Beren asked, surprised. He shook the noble's hand firmly, as all polite greetings warranted. The Baron winced at the shake and swiftly drew his hand back, and Beren tried not to show that he knew he should have been gentler. Sometimes he didn't know his own strength... The Baron's smile returned instantly, however, most likely to save face as to also be polite. Beren owed this man a lot, he would definitely let him have it. 

"Yes," he said, babying his hand after he slid it behind his back. He held his head high to act as if it was merely a pose. "The delectable lady here was dreadfully worried about you. She stayed by your side throughout your affliction. I would consider myself lucky you've got such a smart, beautiful woman to care for you." 

He laid it on so thick Beren's face flushed, but Jocasta used the opportunity to laugh and wave her hand dismissively. "Please, Lord Marius, Beren has saved my life more than once. Besides, he's so handsome." She said, snuggling up to Beren's arm. The monk knew she was playing a part, but he also had the distinct impression she was using the ploy additionally to toy with Beren and speak some truth. He'd get her for that, later. But he also couldn't deny he sort of enjoyed it. 

"If you'll excuse us, my lord." Beren said, inclining his head. "I believe I need to borrow Jocasta for a moment." 

"Of course, enjoy your evening. We'll shall speak soon," The Baron said with all the authority of his station, waving them away. It would have been rude had it been from a commoner, but from him it looked as natural as breathing. Beren and Jocasta gave a bow, and then made their way over to one of the standing tables. 

"You didn't tell me you had a surprise for me," Jocasta said facetiously. 

"You didn't tell me you could do magic when we first met. Surprised the hell out of me," He said with a smile. 

"I like to keep you guessing," she winked. Beren couldn't tell she was trying to hide some pain, deep within herself. She could act well when she wanted to. She stepped in front of him. "Now, what would you like to tell me?" 

"First, let me get some drinks and some of the free food. Stay here and hold down the fort, ok?" 

Once she gave the nod, he waded across the banquet hall to the buffet. The food was steaming, well-done steak cut up into chunks wrapped in bacon accompanied by hashbrown casserole and assorted veggies, with water and red wine to wash it all down. Potato salad, creamy and rich, lay in a large bowl and lightly dressed with spices, and even more! Beren took his time, and as he did so, a signal was made. 

The tall, statuesque Lord Vandenhardt stood speaking to Gloria Hawkmoore and Lord Glimburg, but his eyes had followed Beren's tracks. He pulled out a small mirror from within his jacket and fiddled with it, letting the light of the oil lamps flash across it twice, indicating now was the time. A shapely woman with red hair, spun and tied intricately, sporting a ball-gown that hugged her slim waist and full bosom, strode over to where Jocasta waited and lightly touched her arm to gain her attention. 

"I'm sorry," the woman said breathily. "I was wondering... I've heard of your companion, the hunky one?" She pointed at the buffet. "I've been watching him the last half hour and I have to ask, are you two... together? Because if not, I think I'll ask him to dance. I hope you don't think I'm being boorish, but I have to ask."