I would not call it loneliness that has me here on the sidelines . . . there are enough people dancing, and I need not participate to enjoy.

[An answer to a sweet question posed by the little starling in front of him. Vakares' voice is low and even, something gentle peering out of the eyes of his pantherine mask. There's amusement there, but no inclination to rouse just yet.]

But you are a new face here. I cannot recall you at any of the other fetes the Marquis has thrown— though, [he adds, a note of fuss entering his voice despite himself,] there have been so many lately.

[He is so introverted and it is so hard to go to these parties.]

Where did you come from?