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[color=gold][h2]Terminus Valarien[/h2][/color][b]13th of Gerna | 1200 AU
Valarien Estate, Lalrial[/b]

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	Terminus Valarien was not a man suited to frivolous engagements of wine and song, a fact that was clear as Kammeth's flame as the inquisitor tried his best to stay away from interacting with the party’s audience. But much like every Valarien still breathing it was not only [i]expected[/i] of him to be in attendance but also [i]required[/i], and not just by his kin either. Whilst Terminus was the second-born and held some political clout on that fact alone, his true reputation came not from his bloodline but what he had earned as an agent of [i][b]The Argentum[/b][/i] and servant of Kammeth.

	[i]“We need you to investigate your family's affairs and keep your eyes open. There is something going on beyond simple votes and favors in Lalrial.”[/i]

	The words of the Elder Council were never ones to take lightly— though he wondered what sort of things were happening in Lalrial that were so important to stop him from investigating a vilespawn infestation that he believed could’ve been a telling precedent that was far more important than wine, promises, and condescension. But while he was not a political animal or spy, the wisdom of his betters was difficult for him to dismiss and ignore outright. He’d carry on and do as he was asked but… he wasn’t sure what he would notice outside of uncouth pretension and arrogance. As for his relationship with his family and him bringing his perception with their affairs in mind? He wasn’t sure what he could learn given that his relationship with his kin was distant at best; especially the two Valarien’s that had put the most coin into this superfluous event. 

	Out of the two, he still held a relationship with Allianna though it was hardly an “active” relationship. She had been the youngest of their father’s children and while Ralltene was off playing merchant prince she was the one who had to fight for everything she had while Terminus and Jakinius put sword in front of the realm’s enemies. In many ways, she was much smarter and braver than he had been.

	"I say this to you. As Arch Elector, I [i]will[/i] vote for Ralltene Valarien, if the electors should reach a tipping point in choice between him and either you or Jakinius. Unless you make me a sufficient offer, now, right this moment. Not later. If you make an excuse and walk away to attend to something else, that will be all. If you want to be elected by House Chalarensis, I shall only give you this one moment to sway me."

	The voice of Diende snapped Terminus out of his isolated thoughts as he “announced” such disrespect towards the very person Terminus had been reflecting on; and at someone who was above him— his sister. Had it been at anyone other than Allianna he may have been able to ignore it idly. His hand went directly to the hilt of his inquisitor’s blade as his expression obviously went from distant to [i]aware[/i] and [i]irate[/i]. How anyone could be such a contemptuous and impolite fool was beyond his reason though Terminus certainly felt he shouldn’t have been surprised considering the reputation of the most [i]irrelevant[/i] house in all of the elector seats. Terminus had dealt with lesser nobility who skirted the line of heretical and foolhardy for the past dozen or so years that passed, but he never thought anyone would try to play with fire in such a way here and now. Perhaps this is what The Argentum meant with keeping his eyes open? 

	[i]Both my family and my faith would not want me to give in to wrath so easily. But he needs to learn his manners.[/i]

	Terminus took a heavy breath as he lessened the grip on his blade’s hilt before moving the goblet he held in his opposite hand to his lips— the taste of Cedfield apples aged with honey, ginger, and other spices running down his throat. Depending on his sister’s reaction or other words spoken only then would he act— but as per the current scene he would only act with clarity and not with foolish zeal— Kammeth had chosen him to be a guardian of his children and would not look kindly on him acting in his name inappropriately. 

	And he refused to act inappropriately, unlike others in attendance.

	Though the temptation was there, of course.