Kimberly
```And Thus Inspired, A Vision of a Duchess```
Tracy
*Aristocracy is not exactly a style that is conformed well by Kahlo in a traditional human sense... But history and culture has made way for the dragon lands to be merged with aesthetic that came from borders beyond.*

*As to what the reserved warlock is doing here... Well... He is out and about doing his duty, much to his chagrin, that regard his identity as Michael Octavius... Junior.*

*Yes, he is to remind himself that he is the son of Octavius Sr., not the sire who has long since faded. And... Kahlo has always been critical with their border security, much like Celestia he supposes... But it's already hard enough to dodge the quiet but radical accusations of his too eerie of a likeness to his "Father". He doesn't blame them for being correct... But he does blame them for unnecessarily wasting his time, with such tedium that he felt he lost some brain cells before he was left alone.*

*Any longer, and he'll have to shut these men up... For good. Unfortunately, that does not bode well to the biological code of witches. He has enough on his plate as it is.*

*He did take some time to do some sightseeing around the kingdom... And check upon his safehouses if he could. But aside from the shopping spree and the everyday walk and talk... He eventually found himself making comfortable of himself in the opulence and splendor of Chateau Belarus.*

*Well... They are a duchy belonging to the grand dukedom.*

*If memory serves him well, he was also dragged in here a generation ago... For the same reasons he is here now. To listen to the spiel of the Belarus to come spend time teaching... Well... Whoever it will be this time. But it's not like it's an entire ordeal to him.*

*They are very gifted humans in magic. That by itself is uncommon in Ambrosia. He has a duty to preserve magic through his privilege as a Corvus. Whether people remember that or not.*

*And it has been a while since the magical academies have produced a generation of mages who deserved to be marked in his memory.*

*Many gifted individuals. Few remarkable alumni marking a triumphant generation in Ambrosia's sorcery.*

*Hopefully this Belarus would provide some inspiration to hope in this era.*
Richard
In the serene stillness of her grand chambers, the illustrious Grand Duchess Helena Belarus languished in opulent repose, immersed in a world of luxury that mere commoners could only fathom in their dreams. Draped in her customary regal white attire, her mesmerizing allure, renowned for ensnaring hearts far beyond the borders of Khalo, shimmered under the weight of jewels befitting her noble lineage.

As she awaited the arrival of a long-anticipated visitor, summoned by her family to impart the secrets of magic and sorcery, Helena's patience wore thin, evident in the bored tone with which she queried her brother, Halcyon.

"When shall our awaited guest grace us with their presence, dear brother?" She inquired, idly flipping through pages as she indulged in a sip from her teacup.

"Patience, dear Helena, is a virtue," Halcyon retorted, his tone firm with conviction. "Greatness often unveils itself to those who possess the fortitude to await its arrival."

With the subtle roll of her eyes, annoyance flickered across Helena's features as she pondered the significance of their guest's tardiness. Could their visitor truly warrant such an expenditure of her precious time? She pondered the missed opportunities, the untapped potential for scandal or societal revolution, all sacrificed upon the altar of anticipation.

"Indeed, Brother Halcyon," She acquiesced, her voice tinged with restraint, "But must I squander moments that could birth new trends or incite scandalous intrigue, all in deference to a guest whose significance eludes me?"

As she rose from her seat, her gaze wandered to the rose garden, a sanctuary crafted solely for her pleasure, its beauty a reflection of her own ethereal elegance.

In the garden's embrace, amidst the heady fragrance of blooms, Helena sought solace, her nerves assuaged by the delicate petals that danced in the gentle breeze. Yet, before Halcyon could interject, a servant's intrusion shattered the tranquility.

"My lord, the esteemed guest has arrived," The servant announced, prompting Halcyon's nod of acknowledgment. "Lead them here, for they have journeyed from the distant kingdom of Celestia, deserving of our utmost hospitality."
Tracy
*Michael continued to wait in their halls until he was called by the servants to finally proceed with his duties here. Considering the pride of mages and witches who found themselves covens and institutes for education, community, and prestige... Many a magic caster would consider private tutorship below them and would require quite a promise for their knowledge and time be dedicated to a person not of their choosing. That fact displays the prestige of the Belarus but ultimately a mage can decline as they please.*

*Those were the thoughts that Michael mused to himself as he walked sipping his tea that was resting on a floating saucer, while his serpent familiar slithered by his side until they would reach the Garden of Helena.*

*As he comes closer, it seemed his hopes were assuaged in the meantime, when he can sense great magic and knowledge afoot. In the garden be a mage who harboured a potential to soar past the investment their parents had put in them.*

*When they reached the premises, Michael went ahead of protocol and walked further from the servant as his eyes fell on the two siblings and his eyes wander to Helena.*

"Halcyon."

*They can't even have the parents do the spiel on convincing him to teach Helena. Perhaps he should teach them a lesson and outright reject— But the boy does have a certain appeal in him. More so now that he has matured further the last time he has seen him in class.*

*The mage sighed.*

*Perhaps he can listen to what they have to say this time.*

*...... And maybe see if Halcyon is still studying and if he can fit himself in his schedule.*

*Hmmm... Is he here because they want to extend Halcyon's studies under his tutelage???*

*No.*

*He's most definitely here for the girl.*
Richard
Upon Michael's arrival, the Belarus siblings' attention gravitated toward him, their distinct icy blue eyes locking onto his imposing frame. Sensing the shift, Halcyon subtly clapped his hands, dispersing any tension as he approached the renowned magician, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Ah! Professor Michael, it is truly an honor for you to grace us with your presence!" Halcyon's deep voice resonated with warmth and respect. Like Helena, Halcyon possessed a countenance that captivated all who beheld him. Handsome barely did justice to his youthful allure.

He turned to Michael and bowed graciously. "It is a pleasure to finally reunite with you, sir. Have you had the pleasure of meeting my dearest sibling, Helena?" With a gentle glance, he beckoned Helena to join them.

Noticing the silent cue, Helena nodded, contemplating her next move now that their esteemed guest stood before them.

With deliberate, elegant steps, her white day gown swayed in harmony with her movements, culminating in a graceful curtsy. "Helena Belarus," She introduced herself with poise, though her dissatisfaction with the prolonged wait lingered beneath the surface. Despite the palpable pause, Helena sighed and inquired about his name, despite having overheard it earlier—simply out of courtesy, of course. "...And you? What might the name of our esteemed guest be? Pray tell?" A gentle smile graced Helena's lips as she spoke.
Tracy
*Michael did the siblings a courtesy of bowing back as well, as he glanced at his serpent companion and let him crawl along the nice garden, the milky skin of the serpent fitting in quite well to the splendor like a moving piece of art.*

"The pleasure is all mine Halcyon. After all, I was basically dragged here by your family, pestering me to come here and listen at least what House Belarus have to say regarding an... Arrangement."

*He went closer to Halcyon and affectionately took his chin with his hand before moving up to his face.*

"My how you've grown. It feels awkward having to say that... We're basically in line with our vigors. I'm not my father. Though the guards seem to think so otherwise."

*It is personally jarring how he plays different personas and how those identities tend to overlap from time to time. He is old... But between how a witch and a human works... Or how a Corvus works to everyone else. They are both fairly young and still vigorous. But it is a bit weird... Teaching his father, his grandfather, all the way to some of his ancestors. Humans live shorter lives after all. Or rather everyone lives shorter lives in the face of a Magna Corvus.*

*He stepped back as Helena stepped forward however and introduced herself to the warlock. And his interest was immediately piqued at the sight of her.*

*Belarus have always been aristocrats. People with privilege. But she stands out among her family... Like her brother. She possessed such talent... Such potential... Maybe more so than his brother. Although he felt a tinge of... Animosity towards her. Maybe he felt bad that she was a woman. But he's not sexist.*

*He just found himself more entertained in the company of men. And he had very loose terms when it comes to relationship ethics... He has a different view of romance after all.*
Shaniqua
Witches and human wise that is lmfao.
Tracy
*But he does have a sister. And sister-in-arms. He has found great company amongst very interesting women throughout his life. Even now. Whether Helena adds on to that list is entirely up to her. But he feels a certain sort of warmth from her... Like an intuition. That perhaps she'll serve herself more memorable than Halcyon. He wants to get along with this lady.*

"Michael Octavius Jr."

*He stepped forward and took a good look at her face as he did the same although he used the back of his fingers to gently hold her chin up and even though he just claimed his youth with Halcyon earlier, he can't help but inspect the lady, as if an older aunt or a mother or daresay a grandmother would, and with a smile and a sparkle in his eyes, he remarked to her.*

"Ohhh... My, how radiant you are my dear."

*He would then let go of her and looked at her brother.*

"Which is more I can say than your brother over here..."

*He paused before chuckling.*

"I jest."

*But of course, there's the element of pettiness in him.*

"But this is still not enough to convince me Halcyon... If you know better to invite a mage here to come look at someone... We're looking for something more here. Come now."

*He gave Helena and Halcyon especially with a knowing look, combined with a smile. Ah yes, the game of bargaining is still afoot. As much as first impressions go. He has a more particular eye for talent... And a penchant for wit and entertainment value.*

*Perhaps that radiance he was referring to was also seen on her interesting personality... Beyond the fact that she was audacious to be the offended one when they were the ones who invited him here.*

*..... Or was it exactly that, that enamored Michael???*
Richard
Helena acknowledged his response to her inquiry about his name with a nod. Small talk wasn't her forte, especially if it veered toward dullness or topics outside her interests. The duchess's reluctance to prolong the conversation was palpable—until...

"...Radiant? Oh my," He complimented her. Helena appreciated individuals who knew how to engage her, and Mike's mannerisms in the subsequent exchange led her to a realization: Michael was someone she desired acquaintance with.

'Not... Enough?' she pondered inwardly, raising a brow to the magician. Helena thrived on challenges, and Mike's demeanor intrigued her. A glint in her cold blue eyes accompanied her elegant smile, captivating those around her.

"Not enough? ...Professor Michael, I—" Halcyon attempted to interject, but Helena softly raised a hand, prompting him to cease his words.

As he released her chin, Helena lifted her own, asserting, "Fear not, Dear Brother, I shall manage this." Her smile persisted as she continued, "It appears I misjudged you." Helena's pleased tone belied her initial expectations. "You exude an air that has captured my interest..." She says as she stifled a small, elegant chuckle behind her gloved hand. After that she then conjured a shimmering orb, which with a beatiful glittery pop accompanied by white feathers, beautifully transformed into a regal handfan adorned with the most exquisite jewels.

Grabbing hold of the fan, she placed it's tip beneath her lip, making her look quite coquette. Helena's eyes sparkled with intrigue while looking at Michael as she then extended an invitation. "...I sense a promising rapport between **Us,"** She suggested, motioning towards their earlier table. "Would you care to join me for tea, where we can discuss..." Her gaze shifted to Halcyon, subtly signaling his departure. **"...Matters."** Helena then turned back to Michael, offering her gloved hand. "Will you?"

Halcyon, observing the exchange, coughed politely and bowed to them. "Well then, I'll allow you two to converse and acquaint yourselves. I'll await Sir Michael in my office," He stated, addressing Michael and Helena in turn.

"Farewell for now. I'll see you both in a few hours," He concluded, turning on his heel and disappearing into the palace, leaving the pair to explore the burgeoning connection between them.
Tracy
"Sure dear."

*He waited for Halcyon to leave as he joined Helena for that tea, carrying with him the floating saucer and teacup before setting it down on the table. He pulled out a chair for Helena and waited for her to sit down before he sat down as well and set his tea down.*

"*Sighs.* Well... I'm just honestly kidding with your brother. I wanted to see how he would display you dear. Talk about your beauty or the payment for your tutelage or something like that or how you are a pride of House Belarus. Seriously, he is so modest... Overlooking his own talent to serve your family's best interests. Although I stand true with what I said darling."

*He sipped his tea.*

"There are more likely to be witches than there are to be warlocks... Women simply had the benefit of better potential."

*He explained to her.*

"But I am not here for whatever House Belarus would offer to me beyond... Amicable terms... Well..."

*He shrugged a bit before he became a bit vulgar to the lady.*

"Your brother's quite charming however... I might... Well. Can't be helped, I am already a teacher, and competing with other women would be beneath me like—"

*He sipped his tea again.*

"— Anyways... I simply fail to understand why I have to "Come and see" You at first dear... You're a Belarus. Many Belarus have come before you... My father taught your brother for a while and he taught your father as well, pray tell he might also have reached your grandfather too."

*He stirred his tea idly.*

"By all means your family is special. But so is everybody else around you. Although, you do... Look nice. Magic wise that is."

*He nodded.*

"Mm-hmm. You are blessed my dear. Even amongst your peers... Which would make your admissions to any magical academy be a blessing to them. I don't see the need for your family to curry favor and high opinion from me... And offering you some of my time to improve your studies... Any academy would've passed you anyways."

"But please. Do converse with me. We have much time to get to know each other. Much to talk. Much to discuss. Much to learn."

"Tell me about yourself... Or just talk to me about anything you want."

*If only Helena knew what privilege she has on her palm right now.*