Round 3
Another course is served and Rashad is just setting-to when, sharp-eared as usual for talk and gossip, a choice phrase uttered just within earshot catches his attention.
"...devil-worshipping heathens..." and then someone elsewhere raises their voice and he misses he rest of the sentence. But he listens carefully after that. If it refers to anyone at court, the possibilities are limited. The noise dies down a fraction, "...use of his keeping them here? The heathen lord has probably forgotten both whelps."
That would seem to be conclusive.
Almost any other time, the proud young Saracen would have rounded on the offender with a sharp word and a ready challenge. But he is enjoying this evening, it would be a shame to let an ill-bred oaf spoil it for him, and making a scene here and now would endear him to no-one. Besides, if he was aiming to still every Christian tongue that ever slandered the true faith, he'd never have a moment's peace. Eavesdroppers never do hear anything good about themselves.
He takes care not to show that he has overheard, for surely some would seize the excuse to brand him a coward, and then he would have to show them their error - but takes note of who was speaking.
Drew card: 83 - Malicious Slander. Succeeded Modest
Round 4
Rashad suppresses a groan as his cousins begin to join the dancing, the singing, or the music. He is not gifted - nor even capable, to be truthful - at any of those. Why did he not take the opportunity to leave the hall while he could? But there is no help for it, so he forces a smile as he follows Renier to the musicians. He is even worse at singing and dancing.
He takes up a lute, slightly less complicated to play than the harp his more talented kinsman is beginning to pluck, and plays as quietly as he thinks he can get away with, hoping that he is not striking too far from the correct notes.
Failed Play