Had Basren felt him go rigid when the King was announced? He was saying that he didn't have to speak to him, and most likely Alaras could pass everything off as simple nerves for persuing someone he shouldn't. He only hoped his rage didn't choke him. He'd loved Maes so very much, and this was the man responsible for taking him from this world. The very same one that was fucking his only child in<i>not</i>so much secret, and making a mockery of his death. Alaras swallowed half the glass of wine that Basren had handed to it.<br/><br/>Sovele came down the stairs, and Alaras' eyes were glued to him. His tall form and sharp features hadn't changed a single bit. Circumstances were considerably different the first time he'd laid eyes upon the immortal King. Alaras had only been a face in a crowd, listening to Sovele spew his propaganda. He would meet him directly for the very first time, but as someone else. Anis was at his side, and he knew it was just as much for appearances as it was to needle her husband into the direction she wanted him to go. In this, she was an ally.<br/><br/>Alaras bowed to show his respect, but did not address the King. Basren introduced him instead, since the royal family had shown up after he'd been formally introduced to the occupants of the gala. Sovele's expression was carefully hidden, especially after taking in the Langlais boy, a boy no longer. If they'd been alone, he would have struck Basren, even though he'd said Alarastian was<i>worth a look</i>. He saw the way the two stood close side by side; the way that they matched. Anis was the first one to make comment.<br/><br/>“That color absolutely suits you,” she beamed at Alaras, her plan falling into place. Oh, she was sure her husband would throw a fit later, but it wasn't one she had to entertain if she didn't want to.<br/><br/>“You look nothing like the boy that I remember, but of course, more time than I realize has gone by,” Sovele admitted evenly, eyes going to the dance card at Basren's wrist. If it wouldn't be so out of place, he'd take the boy for the first dance of the evening. As it were, he'd have to wait until later in the evening, when he could fit it in less noticeably. He'd have some words for his dear boy. He did not look frightened, and Sovele had to wonder what he and his wife had been up to. She was a conspiring bitch, and with the way she fawned over Alaras, like they'd been well acquainted already, gave him hint enough. Sovele would have to try to out maneuver her carefully.<br/><br/>“I take it Basren has seen you well introduced,” Sovele said, smiling. He'd no idea who'd gone behind his back first, but he doubted either were completely guiltless. He expected it from his wife; less so from Basren, and there was only one of those two he could reprimand for their actions.<br/><br/>“He's been most considerate since my arrival,” Alaras responded politely, neither sidling closer to the young man he'd publicly make his interest known with soon enough, but neither did he distance himself. He realized the situation, and he'd rather Sovele think that his interest occurred naturally, what with their time spent together in the garden.