LMAO. Poor Earl. Hopefully no one here has the same name...

Also, did a bit of googling, and apparently earl = count!

[quote]
An earl is the nobility ranking that lies between a marquis and a viscount. It is the English equivalent of the European title "count" and has rich associations with British royalty.
[/quote]
Reading the most recent posts, it's looking like Mirie is firmly in the duke's court. The fact she knew Nyx was impersonating the duke also lends some credence to that. Are the both of them cooking up some plan behind the scenes? Dut, dut, dun. 

I initially planned on having Altina side with the duke as well, but hm... now, I dunno... The Wizard Queen might end up getting dog-piled if this keeps up, so I'm reconsidering... I left her allegiances up in the air in my initial post to give myself some leeway. Decisions, decisions... 

[quote=@Estylwen]
[b]“Did you know, dear duchess…”[/b] Her tone was soft, almost melodic, [b]“That dwarves are more susceptible to magic and darkness?”[/b]

[i]More susceptible to [b]me[/b].[/i] 

The Wizard Queen pretended to shrug this off, her own smile matching the duchess’ exactly. [b]“Alas, their physical strength leaves their defenses leaving something to be desired.”[/b]
[/quote]
Ooh, spicy. Altina would probably be good friends with the Wizard Queen if it weren't for the circumstances. She has an affinity for fiery people. That said, maybe it's not too late? Maybe that potential friendship is still in the books? Who knows?

Meanwhile, Vulluin is off in his corner, sulking, "This disrespectful bitch..."

[quote=@Estylwen]
Vulluin, his face a stony mask, held his hands out for the art piece in the duchess’ hands, [b]“I would be happy to accept this wondrous gift. Her Grace the Duchess has surpassed herself.”[/b]
[/quote]
[s]I totally just didn't forget to have Altina bow in my post, nope, no sirree.[/s]

Unrelated but the bit with Safina was hilarious. Her pulling out a frickin' ledger, all ready and prepared, only to have the "duke" finesse his way out of her grasp — major "oof." I guess power dynamics would prevent her from forcibly keeping him there anyways.