Fiery Dragon, Icy Drake

[Lord Daven St. Claire]

"Why not? I'd like to get the know the boy better," yes, he still called de Winter a boy, despite the fact that he was the duke of his realm. Daven shrugged in a dismissive manner, but it was feigned. He did want to know what his daughter was getting into. "Ah, Katalin de Winter? I've heard nothing but good things in regards to her."

When he felt the cold stare for Spencer, he knew had struck a nerve. Thus, Daven decided to be a rather boldfaced about it. "Oh, just go for her, Spencer. You're both widows. It would hardly be a surprising union, and neither of you are under pressure to produce anything of it. If anything, it improves both of your standings and it gives you a duchess to help manage things at home."

[Lord Spencer Lancaster]

Spencer wasn't fooled by the casual air, but said nothing. He'd want to know the same of any man who set his sights on Selena as well. Did any father worthy of being called such ever deem any man truly worthy of a precious, beloved daughter? Assuredly not, but that was the nature of fatherhood. "When I've set it up, I'll let you know the details. As for Lady Katalin, I'm surprised I'm not in competition with you for her as bride to one of your nephews."

And then Daven could not let sleeping dogs lie. He had to speak so informally of Fiona, knowing it was a sensitive subject with the man beside him. Spencer possessed a temper every bit as formidable as Daven's own, but refused to allow his to reign unchecked. However, there were moments when such speech could no longer be endured in calm silence. Swift as a snake, his arm reared back and flew forwards, delivering a blow to his counterpart. Whether Daven merely stepped back or took a fall, Spencer's voice was coated in ice. "Now we're even, St. Claire. As Cecelia is precious to you, so the Lady Fiona is to me. Watch your step, dragon."

[Lord Daven St. Claire]

Daven had his reasons for bringing up Fiona. The first reason was to get Spencer angry enough to return the favor Daven had given him. The second reason was to prove a point. Not that Fiona was as sensitive as Cecelia, but that Daven was just as right about seizing something for himself as he was. Was it a sensitive subject? Absolutely. They were both old, lonely men. Who wouldn't be grumpy over it?

Thus, Daven took the hit as was his due, though admittedly, Spencer did move faster than anticipated. The dragon stumbled, winced and touched his jaw. After rolling it to ensure the hinge was still in place, he looked right back at Spencer's icy expression. "We are even, Lancaster. I appreciate the friendship more than I do our rivalry." With that said, he continued walking back toward the festival.

As for Laurent expressing an interest in Katalin? Hmm. He'd have to look into that. There might be a match there.