[center][h1][b][color=9354FF]Fritz "Ryn" Hendrix[/color][/b][/h1][color=9354FF]Time:[/color] Sola 28 1739; Nighttime Hours
[color=9354FF]Location:[/color] Castle Dining Room
[color=9354FF]Interaction(s)/Mention(s):[/color] [@CitrusArms] [@Helo] [@Tae] [@princess] [@Lava Alckon] [@FunnyGuy] [@Potter] [@samreaper][/center]
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While Ser Durmand’s request was unexpected, it was her hesitation that caught Ryn’s attention. She had delivered the question like someone might handle a suspicious package—gingerly, with one eye out for eavesdroppers. 

Perhaps talk of “unusual laws or hazards” was an ill-suited choice of topic to speak at a banquet where walls had ears and servants reported to half a dozen masters. Or perhaps the Knight Captain wanted to speak in private about something entirely unrelated.

Ryn could not be certain. What he did know was that curiosity had always been one of his most reliable vices. He smiled. [color=9354FF]“I’d be delighted to assist, though I must caution you my knowledge extends only to places I’ve personally travelled or had dealings with.”[/color]

[color=peru]“I.. believe I’m due tae grreet t’ Rroyal Family.”[/color] A nervous chuckle escaped her, [color=peru]“perr’aps tha’ was due when I arrived?”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Better fashionably late than never, I always say.”[/color] He raised his glass in a small salute. [color=9354FF]“Please, don’t let me keep you, Ser Durmand.”[/color] As she departed, Ryn noted how she subtly squared her shoulders like a soldier preparing to march into contested territory.

Turning his attention back to the grand hall, Ryn surveyed the scene. It was, in its way, a battlefield of silk and pearls, where the weapons were words and the casualties were rarely visible until much later.

Though unfamiliar faces beckoned from various corners with the allure of new connections, friendships demanded the first call on his attention.

His gaze first settled on Lord Smithwood across the room, engaged with his sister, Lady Charlotte, and Lord Edwards. 

Ryn took a step forward, then froze mid-stride. The question burning in his mind might require privacy, unsuitable for their current grouping. What was also concerning was Lady Charlotte’s expression—something was clearly amiss there...

With considerable effort, he tore his eyes from the group and approached the other Vikena—or rather, “Vikenas”—in the room. 

[color=9354FF]“Good evening, Your Grace,”[/color] he offered with a respectful bow to Duke Vikena. [color=9354FF]“You look particularly dapper this evening.”[/color] He turned to Ms. Persephone with a warm smile, lifting her hand and kissing the air just above her knuckles. [color=9354FF]“Lady Vikena, a pleasure to meet you again. How have you been keeping?”[/color] 

For Mr. Kazumin, a forthright handshake completed the circuit of greetings. [color=9354FF]“Master Nagasa. How fare your injuries?”[/color] Leaning in closer, he lowered his voice to add, [color=9354FF]“Did the audience with His Highness prove fruitful?”[/color][/color]