[NPC Post]

If one were to talk about the most influential woman in Rascade, the name Antigone Steinwall will more often than not come up. Her meteoric rise and her profession led to the sprouting of countless stories and rumors, embellished even more with every passing tale. Yet it was undeniable that her existence alone raised the Steinwall into a ducal house, an effort to tie in the first archmage produced by Kindeance in a very long time. Lesson learned by generations of kings extorted in all but name in order to keep a proper Royal Magus from the outside.

At this moment the middle-aged woman sat with a well-concealed hint of impatience at the soirre, one that only those closest to her can tell. Less indulging in conversations, twitch of the fingers that usually hold the pen, and the long-cultivated gaze that gave the impression of rapt attention but in reality was an exact opposite. After all, how could she not? The recently fished out Ser Henri was a treasure trove of magical artificing, one that she couldn't wait to continue studying.

The duchess was woken from her reverie by a discreet tapping at her hand, mentally replaying the conversation on the table as her gaze fell onto the three children that had accompanied her through half her life. Longer than her late husband, who passed away so unexpectedly. Antigone smiled, three different pairs of respectful eyes looking back at her as a belated realization came into being.

Perhaps she should've cherish the present more.

[b][color=#33FFF7]"Oh dear, dont let my old bones stop you. Have fun, darlings."[/color][/b]

Three voices of affirmation returned before the owners split, approaching their respective circles of youth. Antigone had been trying to grow the habit of asking for everything out of them, but the power she held in the household was simply too lopsided. Even the late duke was reduced to a supportive role, and the habit sort-of trickled down to their children. Much to her dismay. But oh well, they'll grow into proper adults soon enough. Hopefully. Until then, they'll be as safe as it could be underneath her wings.

Morrigan, the eldest, found her way to the more martially inclined sons and daughters of knights. Theodore, the middle child and her current right hand, seemed to have interest in the king's unusual guests. Finally, the youngest Fairen boldly approached the prince's table though she stopped in respectful distance as she awaited for an invitation in.

Antigone, for the moment, was content to observe.