Jackal Among Snakes

“What are we doing here?” asked Galamon, looking around at outfits hung on simple carved mannequins. The majority of them were quite grandiose, studded with jewels of all denominations and made of the finest silk.

“Why does one generally go to a shop?” answered Argrave absently, staring at a set of clothes. “To buy, of course. And to avoid Rowe, lest he hound you about repaying that favor. Elias has placed things on hold until tomorrow, so Rowe’s duty is not yet done.” Argrave paused, then fearing Galamon’s judgement, quickly added, “We'll do it in time, of course, but not now.”

“Here, one can only buy frivolities,” stated Galamon judgmentally.

Argrave touched a piece of clothing, testing its texture. “Pageantry is important if one is to be participating in a pageant. It’s in the name, after all. A banquet of nobles is similar enough to a pageant—all lights and colors, only serving to mask the reality of the people behind them.”

Galamon frowned, and Anneliese beside him explained, “Argrave intends to attend the banquet alongside Elias in order to persuade Count Delbraun to support the rebellion.”

“The boy was undecided, yet you’re already planning for what happens if he agrees? He said he needed a day to think. Not a good portent,” Galamon argued.

Argrave stopped at a suit with poofy parts on the arms and legs, musing, “People actually think this looks good…?” He looked back to Galamon. “Elias will agree.”

“Predicated on what?”

“I think he is somewhat positively predisposed towards me, and Anneliese agrees with that assessment. He’s a bold person, and he likes his family quite a bit. He’s also smart enough to realize how disastrous the Duchy of Elbraille supporting Vasquer would be. Jast is the main pillar of Elbraille’s power—if it wavers, Elbraille will likely follow suit.”

Galamon considered this, then asked, “Why? If Jast swears fealty to Elbraille, the Duchy should be much more powerful than it.”

“I’d place the two at around equal strength,” Argave shook his head. “Once upon a time, Elbraille was much more powerful than Jast, but this place has been growing in strength decade by decade on account of shrewd management and a focus on magic.” Argrave pointed at Galamon. “The point to remember, though: Elbraille would be flanked by both the territories of Parbon and Jast if this city of magic pledged support to the rebellion. The Duke is a coward and would never risk this.”

“But what of Jast’s honor? They swore fealty to Elbraille. Does this mean nothing?”

Argrave laughed. “No. Such a thing might matter in that winter wonderland you call home, but you’re far from Veiden. Honor and loyalty are the words that noble houses preach, but beneath it, the true light shines through: appearances. As long as they appear honorable, nothing else matters. Elbraille has not yet gone public with their support of Vasquer. Provided this goes through, they never will.”

Argrave stopped at a neat black outfit with a long yet thin coat. The collar and lapel had been fitted with a resplendent gold fur, and Argrave ran his hand against it. “Huh. Soft.” The cuffs were studded with small rubies, and flourishes of gold thread decorated the outfit tastefully.

“They’re Vasquer colors, but… well, it’s hardly their fault these colors work so well together.” Argrave looked back to Galamon and Anneliese. “I think I’ve found what I’ll wear.”

“It will look nice,” commented Anneliese.

here? A lovely dress, perhaps? It’s only fair. Most of this business regarding Elias was your idea, anyway. I just supplied the knowledge—you came

presence of Veidimen at the banquet would only be a

personal interest?”

“No,” she laughed.

decorated with lines of gold and silver running along its length. Foremost on its decorations were myriad

no matter. I should find the tailor, get my measurements done…”

stared at the dress for some time after Argrave had left, head tilted as she examined it. Her brows furrowed in thought, but then she smiled faintly. She turned her head back at Argrave

#####

They met at the same spot—Karrel. It was early morning. Rowe was present again—they had only managed to get him to come

considerable deliberation, I’ve decided to hear you out. After that, I’ll decide. I can’t make a judgement without

Argrave tiredly. He had spent the entire night trying to learn the [Electric Eel] spell, but it was considerably more archaic and complex than the vast majority of the spells in the Order of the Gray Owl. He had very nearly grasped

“It’s very simple.

off to the side. Abraham threw up his hands

Argrave shook his head. “You won’t be marrying me, Elias. I don’t think such an arrangement is legal

Elias began dryly, Argrave’s sarcasm sparking only confusion. “Forget it. Who would I

Delbraun’s sister,” Argrave said

mean Ridia,”

Ridia?” Argrave frowned. “Quite a gaffe. A forgivable one, I hope. Indeed, in some languages, R and L are the same thing… well, never mind,” Argrave shook his head to dispel errant thoughts. “Yes, you’ll be marrying

interrupted. “Hardly a suitable bride for

five?” Argrave questioned, which Helmuth nodded to. “It’s a

Count Delbraun’s daughters would be more fitting. The

for the…’ I’m not going to finish that,” Argrave admonished himself. “To your

interrupted. “Some facts stand in our way. My father is not here—he is

then get your father’s permission. I’m sure he’ll agree, given the circumstances. This is the best course for your house’s future. You’ll get a steadfast ally in Jast, and

matter. Helmuth contributed, saying, “Elbraille

aid from any mages—a union with Jast would facilitate that,” Elias reasoned. “They have a

it is a shrewd

followed, turning on his heel to face Argrave. “How do you plan to achieve this? That friend of yours, Veladrien of

“That banquet you were invited to—we

be walking into a