[SRP] Bernese Ball

[Toogee]

While Paige waited for the others, all of the Bern soldiers suddenly stood at attention. A man in red armor entered the dining hall. His short brown hair was quite well-groomed for a soldier. He nodded to all his soldiers.

"Gentlemen," the man addressed his underlings. "At ease. And eat up! We ride to Lord Faren today!"

As his brown eyes gazed upon the glazed donuts, they stopped on Paige. Yes, he no longer hungered for sugar. What luck that among the Lycian refugees blossomed a red rose such as her. Without even checking if anyone else had entered the room, he immediately began his wooing.

"Oh, I didn't realize these Lycian warriors brought such a beauty along," Alan remarked. He extended his hand, palm upright, to take hers.

"Allow me to introduce myself. Sir Alan Mortecai of Bern, captain of the 701st Wyvern Squadron."

"Um, Paige Piedmont of Pherae," she replied. Bewildered by his attitude, she still put her hand into his.

"Ah, we shall keep in eye on you. Red heads from Pherae tend to leave their marks on our country."

Alan took Paige's hand and pressed it to his lips. Paige indulged him, forward as he was. She was no stranger to men trying to court her. They meant well enough. And after the events in the village, she appreciated the positive attention.

"Well, Lady Paige," the captain said as he sat down adjacent to her, "you'll be the first to know the news. Word of you and your companions' heroic deeds has reached the ears of Lord Faren, Count of the Summer Wine. He would like to extend an invitation to his summer mansion, where a grand Bernese ball will be held. Nobles from all over our country will be in attendance. It is a rare opportunity for those outside the country to attend. To refuse would personally break my heart."

"We could use a break from our travels..." Paige said, seriously considering the offer. It wasn't just an opportunity to wine and dine with Bern's finest. It was a chance to see their side in this story. Not only that, but perhaps someone would know of the tome of Ostia's lineage. It was a long shot, but it was possible.