By the time Russell had contracted with the Tobacco Sprite Nicco, the slightly tense atmosphere in the study quickly livened up.
Rolin stepped forward, took hold of Earl Merlin's arm, and cooed, "Grandfather, you're so biased, giving Russell a Little Sprite. When I had my coming-of-age ceremony, you only gave me a dress, the difference is just too much!"
"Wasn't the dress beautiful?"
"It was lovely, but..."
"Then that's settled, little Rolin, remember not to be too greedy," Earl Merlin teased with a smile. "If you could also gain the favor of looking at you more than once, why wouldn't I begrudge you a Little Sprite?"
Rolin then pouted, "That Great Dragon from the Grand Duke's family really, can it be going blind, only noticing Russell and not me?"
Although the Shadowflame Dragon was revered, it was also often the subject of jest.
