Tehr nodded, "My research into the histories has shown that our kingdom would never have existed without the demi humans.  I hold no racial prejeduce... certainly I'm biased, because I'm a human.  But I feel that a token of gratitude towards the demihuman houses would return a great reward of loyalty."<br/><br/>"As for stopping Dale from cornering you, I do have a suggestion that might be too forwards.  I apologize for this if it's too bold of me, but you did ask for someone who was willing to take action."  Tehr poured himself another half a glass of wine and sipped it for courage before suggesting the following.   "While I can keep ir'Dale or d'Dale from you for a while, it's only a matter of time.  If you'd not find it too unpleasant, maybe we could arrange a signal, and then if they do corner you, I could come to your rescue.  Then the two of us could escape the ball early.  Already there is rumor that you've taken me to bed, so it would fit in with the rumors, and would certainly be an understood reason for you to leave the ball."<br/><br/>Tehr held his breath and prayed that he hadn't overstepped his bounds.