Toria departed his company and he looked up, watching people mill around. Many of whom tried not to make eye contact. He made some polite nods and tried to keep his gaze soft. His mask had a small smile to it to appear less severe, his mother's idea, but it didn't matter. He was a large man who couldn't show his actual smile, or give people disarming looks to make them feel better or show his approval or joy. Emeric tried to relax his shoulders, took small breaths, and did all the things he had practiced to make people feel more comfortable around him. He got a few smiles and gentle hellos and happy birthdays and things seemed to be doing alright. Especially when he looked across the room and saw her. Lady Marina stepping into the room, his eyes immediately meeting hers.<br/><br/>He paused, not wanting to look away. There was starlight in her eyes; bright, beautiful, and mesmerizing. He took a step to move towards her and was cut off by his brother. Frederick stood in front of him, a few inches shorter than him, and a plate of food was in his hand.<br/>"Ah brother. Happy birthday!"<br/>He smiled and laughed, the wine thick on his breath.<br/>"Here have something to eat! Oh wait... you'd have to remove the mask to do that... can't have you scaring off your future prisoner - I mean wife by doing that!"<br/>He laughed heavily after that and pulled the plate of food back from Emeric's face and took a bite then nudged the birthday boy with an elbow before moving off to get more food.<br/><br/>The man of the night sighed and tried to not let his brother ruin what should be a happy and otherwise pleasant affair. He was just hoping not many  people had heard that. He kept his head high and watched as a few men held back chuckles and a few women look away nervously. It was hard to keep his shoulders back and relaxed, he let them slump. His mother was across the room and gave him a sad smile. He knew if she could she would wrap him in her arms and tell him it would all be okay. She always treated all of them like they were still her little boys and only wanted the best for them. She hated seeing Emeric like this but there wasn't a lot she could do.<br/><br/>Once again he tried to straighten his back and looked for the woman who had shown no fear or morbid curiosity when he spoke to her. Lady Marina. He took a goblet of wine and slowly made his way through the crowd over to her. A smile once again forming on his lips as he presented her with the glass.<br/>"I promise it is the best wine in the region, I would hate to see you go thirsty, or it to go to waste."<br/>Handing it to her he stood there wishing he could enjoy it with her.<br/>"Are you having a nice time my Lady? I must admit I have not seen you at events here before. Granted I don't attend many but I believe someone as beautiful as you would have left an impression on my memory."<br/><br/>What was he saying? Coming on strong, over flattering, being ridiculous. His face had a slight blush and he had to admit he was happy for the mask so she could not see it. Was this the woman he wanted to choose as his bride? He barely knew her, she was the daughter of a Baron so no real political connections would be made, but he was the 4th son and no connections were really needed. She was gorgeous, and seemed kind. She didn't need or probably want to be with a man like him. But at least until he made up his mind - which would probably be soon - he could enjoy company with someone who didn't see him as a monster.<br/><br/>"Please forgive me but I am unfamiliar with your father's business. Would you care to refresh me? Maybe while getting some fresh air..."<br/>He turned his body and put his hand on her back guiding her outside while gesturing with the other. Leading her out onto the terrace wanting just a bit of privacy.