Effort

Arran spent the remainder of the banquet making a valiant effort in being a proper host. Yet after the Matriarch's announcements, most of the guests were filled with gloom and worry, and what was supposed to be a celebration ended up more resembling a funeral.

The only bright spot was the food. As always, Arran's cooks had done better than anyone could reasonably expect, and several Elders subtly inquired whether he would be willing to part with them — for a generous price, of course.

Arran politely but firmly rejected any such requests, though he reminded the Elders that anyone teaching at his mansion could enjoy his servants' cooking for as long as they remained. Even with the Matriarch's orders, it wouldn't hurt to give the Valley's most powerful mages an additional reason to help him train.