A Grand Affair

[Carter de Volthström]

Lord Leodon Taravin

Heir to the High Seat of House Taravin

Caemlyn, Andor

Upon the Queen’s pronouncement that the Andoran campaign to Shienar would be led by House Taravin, the Lord and Lady of the House announced a ball in celebration of the honor as means of sendoff and well wishes. More astute members of the court would recognize it as the opportunity to remind their sister houses of their power and favor with the throne.

Leodon was in his room, adjusting the stiff coat of his newly appointed rank. He was trained in the ways of an heir to command house troops, but he had never seen himself in uniform like this. It was strange to say the least and quite nerve-wracking.

A knock on the door admitted his mother. Lady Taravin arranged everything for the ball, of course. She’d done nothing but plan and tweak the smallest details for a week. An hour from now they would throw open the doors of their palatial manor and welcome the finest of Caemlyn nobility. Leodon turned to admire her. “You look lovely, mother.” He kissed her gloved hand upon greeting her. The Lady of the House wore a new, expensive ballgown. Exquisite jewels accessorized her appearance. Of course, among the many settings were the pearls and gems that gave his family their long-standing fortune.

Despite the momentous occasion, she touched his cheek and peered up into his eyes with the heaviness of pride and sadness holding hers.
“My dear, in two days you will leave Caemlyn and Light willing I will see you upon your return, but there is no knowing how long that might be.”

He pat her hand in understanding. There was great fear, whispered in corners and seen in worried glances, that not everyone leaving on this campaign would return. The Taravin heir would be well-protected, but war was always a risk, and Lady Taravin was a mother.

He kissed her on her cheek and nodded. There was nothing to say, and she would be expected. He was ready enough as it was and escorted her downstairs.

The ball was officially opened by Lady Taravin once their quota for guests had arrived. Ongoing were called names by their Master of Ceremonies at the door, and Leodon kept an ear for one in particular.  The last ball they hosted was the one where he finally charmed Nicole’s hesitation. She would be invited as one of the Queen’s ladies, but he hadn’t heard if she would be in attendance or not. He only hoped she would. Meanwhile, all the usual nobles were in attendance. The only notable difference was the attire of the officers to make the journey - each clad in the colors of their House.


((ooc: reposted under this account))