Proceed to a quiet place.

You and Lyra slip away from the ballroom. You find a private alcove in the courtyard, decorated with plush chairs and a small table littered with the empty wine glasses of whoever left the quiet little respite behind. A servant, seeing you, comes by to collect the dishes as you and Lyra settle in on chairs opposite each other. You take a breath of relief, leaving so many wandering eyes behind.

“So,” Lyra says.

“So,” you say.

“I’ll be upfront. I think this could work. {if hunter = true}You’re no mage, but where you lack in arcane understanding, I can provide. {elseif mage = true}Our arcane capabilities combined? Unstoppable.{endif} And with your diplomatic skills and honourable reputation, I’ve no doubt my parents will agree to the union.”

You nod, considering your hands.

“And me?” she asks slowly. “Do you see value in me?”

You smile. “I see more than value, Lyra. I--” You stop as a pair of guests walk by. You nod stiffly at them when they recognize you. It feels like aeons before they fully pass.

“Maybe we can go somewhere more private,” Lyra says. She leans back coolly, eyes almost mischievous in the low lighting. “I tire of the spectacle, personally. {if hunter = true} I know you might not be able to appreciate the magical aspects of them, but I arrived here with a number of creatures I believe you’d find quite fascinating.{elseif mage = true} I know you must have heard about the creatures I arrived with -- the aethtredders. Their arcane attributes are well-worth your attention.{endif} Would you like to go see them with me? Get away from all this?”