ooc continued from http://www.evernight.com/boards/canon/v ... c&start=40

He smiled and took her hand that she offered and kissed it. He got the signal of new arrivals. Lady Judiama would you mind coming with me as I go to greet the new guests or would youprefer to wait here. It would be be a moment then I would most enjoy a dance with you. In fact the honor would be mine. He smiled at her and awaited her answer. Whether she came with or not he went and claimed his dance right after greeting and introducing the new guests. He bowed to her before leading her out on to the floor.

He had never been really in the mood to dance before but she changed that in his mind. He wanted to get to know her better and spend time with her. His reasons for the ball were few. He wanted a comfortable atmosphere for all to come and enjoy. He wished he could have asked her to come with him but he knew being the host he had to play entertainer and dance with others also. He did not want to leave anyone out, he would make sure every woman got to dance at least once. This would have been so much easier if he had more time to plan it and given people time to bring someone. He then thought about it and wondered if she would have come with him if he had asked.

She could not help but smile maybe this is what she needed. SJ was a good looking man, and maybe just maybe she could make Aranor jealous. She took his hand and let him lead her out on to the dance floor. She made a point of dancing close to SJ and making sure that Aranor could see her. The problem was that aranor was not even looking her way at all, his concentration was on greeting guests and that woman. She knew she would probably have to do something more obvious to get his attention. She would make her way over after this dance and talk with him. Make him admit that he still loved her and then she would win. She would not be alone anymore. Yes tonight was the night she waited a long time for. Not that she would let any know of her plans just yet. He was not to know at all. Her jealousy ran as she watched him with the other woman, what had been her name again? As soon as the dance ended she waited till she got the right chance. As soon as she was able she walked up and hugged him and gave him a soft kiss. My love it is so good to see you again, I hope that this next dance are mine. And who is this lady? I am Jerrica his fiancee

Your what? Jerrica I was polite enough to you when you showed up but this is ridiculous. I am not your fiancee or your love or anything else. I am your ex fiancee, remember that. Now I am trying to be a gentleman here and not mention what happened so please just leave me alone.

He was trying not to show how irritated he was. He turned and looked to Judiama. Lady Judiama my apologies for that. I did not know she was going to try and cause anything like that. I am going to go outside for a few moments out front and see if any other attendees are coming. Would you like to walk with me? I can understand if you do not.

He frowned slightly at all that just happened. More so concerned about what she might be thinking. He just needed to get some air.

The guards at the front gate seemed to only blink their eyes when before them stood a man draped from head to toe in a dark cloak. Startled, they raised their weapons. Raising his hands to show he was not armed, he carefully slid the hood back. His long black hair fluttered outwards in the wind.

”I have been invited,” was all he said as he reached inside the cloak to pull out the parchment. Handing it to the guards, he smiled and tried to look harmless. The guards looked back and forth between one another, then nodded and stepped aside for him to enter.

He walked up the drive before the manor, his cloak billowed out behind him revealing his long legs encased in black leather pants. Black boots adorned his feet. They were made out of the softest leather and rode up to the tops of his knees, where silver buckles attached them to his pants and kept the soft leather from slipping down as he walked.

Arriving at the front door a young man held out his hand to the new guest. Nodding, Cil-Gamir unfastened the neck of the cloak and handed the heavy cloak to him.

Chaos. it was a word used to describe many things, and yet underused to describe many wonderful events that didn't happen on such a grand scale. Riots, wars, stealthy murders in the night... They were all beautiful chaotic things. But the human, or even humanoid being had it's own form of chaos brewing within each and every moment of every day. Love, hate, anger, disdain, infatuation, power, and controll were all naturally occuring emotions, who waged war against one another in the mind of a being who could not allow such emotions to just be, and instead inner conflict raged. Misty for intance, being a trained and paid assasin, you'd think would be cold, and had learned to turn off such sillyness. Quite the contrary was true in fact. She'd learned to allow such emotions to run their course and saw the beauty in each of them. The pain caused by a father being taken in the name of someone's revenge... a someone the child wouldn't even know. She felt the sadness, and the loss of an individual she'd killed, and she felt the beauty of the emotions welling up in her.

Then of course there was the chaos of... the ball. Interesting event that she'd not attended in years. Most of the people she worked for prefered her to stay out of sight and out of mind. They claimed it was in the name of secrecy, but Misty knew it was that her very pressence reminded them of their dirty little secrets, and filled them with a guilt that they could not cope with. Hence, she'd learned to live off the land, and only showed up when messenger brought word she'd be needed. All of her worldly possessions, and graces turned to dust in the name of someone else's guilty pleasures. Enter Lord Risetti. A man who felt no need to hide his emotions. A man who could make use of her services, and not feel guilt every time he looked at her. Back to the material world comes Misty. A woman who found great beauty in watching the chaos brew within other people. A woman who rather enjoyed helping that chaos along once in a while. A woman who was discovering again that she enjoyed dining, and dancing, and drinking, and the company of a man who was not overbearing, but yet strong enough for her to consider him her equal.

I guess what i'm saying is... Misty was having a damned good time tonight. Something that hadn't happened in quite some time, and something she surely wasn't expecting as she was being prunned and stuffed, and washed and curled earlier. Misty looked Tanarri up and down as he walked away from her, and she had to take joy in that! She cocked her head, and was nodding her approval when he turned around. Her eyes blinked open and she straightened herself when he did. Meeting his gaze, a softened smile curled to her lips as she watched ebon pools swirl around in his eyes... and then a flash of red in them just before he turned around again. A soft sigh escaped her lips, for it was beautiful display. Surprising, of course, but beautiful non-the-less. Every man should have his secrets, and this one definantly had his. Unraveling them almost seemed a shame, for they gave his charactor such depth, and she considered for a moment that she might just want to drop the concept of this man being a challange. Then her sences came to her. Emotions were a wonderful thing indeed, but one could not let them control their comon sence either. The again, the air of mystery he carried with him, was a definite attraction for her.

Her mind was playing through several unmentionable scenarios with the man as he stood there at the bar. Over her shoulder she heard the conflict brewing behind her, which naturally took her attentions. This is what I meen by chaos. A gilted ex-lover on the path to destroy all that would bring her former mate pleasure in the effort of winning him back. It was a grand display, really. This intruding woman could learn much about the way of the warrior, for it was definantly best to think out your battle plan more thoroughly, and approach the matter with far more cunning. Gentle nudges, as aposed to slaps in the face, did the most damage in instigating the battle within. Without turning around to look at Jerrica, Aranor or Judiama, Misty sniped... "Hmmmph! Another tart!" Just then a tall, dark, swanky man spilled himself into the ballroom with a pressence that was nearly overpowering. "And hel-lo... Here comes her vicor!" She blurted out as she wondered how it was that he felt the need to warm his body under all that heavy clothing on a sweltering night such as this.

Tanarri returned with the three drinks, and her attention was called back to him, and rather abruptly. Misty took the drink from his hand, and lightly grazed her fingernails over his hand as she did. Swirling the wine around in the glass, she inhaled it's essance... "Nice..." He held out his arm for her, and the smile returned to her face as she took it. He obviously wasn't threatened by a strong woman, and she liked that, it showed confidence in his own masculinity. Yet another trait in the man she was growing to enjoy. Pressing against him to guide him in the oposite direction, she gently led him in a way that apeared it was he who led her, she took them to the table where the dark elf sat.

Misty released Tanarri's arm, and a giggle escaped her mouth as she considered giving him a pat on the rear, but then she thought better of it, and glanced around at the woman and her companions. They probably thought her rude to approach in such a manor, but Misty made it policy to keep people guessing what was going on behind her dark eyes, so she shook it off and made her introduction. "My name is Misty, and this is my companion, Tanarri." Her eyes darted to the enterage, and then back to the woman... "We were wondering if you'd like to have a drink with us?"

I had sat for but a few moments before the only other Jordain from House Risetti started towards me. I knew before she began walking towards me that I would have the pleasure of her company. Restraining myself from rolling my eyes, I stared directly at them as they made their way towards my table. Aznar stepped closer to my shoulder but I waived him away as quickly.

Mary? Melanie? Mincy? Oh, yes, Misty. That was the woman’s name. I could hear her obnoxious laugh clear across the room, even over the shrill voice of the woman at the entrance. Misty clung to her companion, pulling on his arm and strained her breasts toward him in an almost desperate manor. It was not my place to question Lord Risetti, but she did not strike me as a proper Lady of House Risetti.

Beaming at her date with an almost dubious look in her eyes, I had to turn my attention away. The sight of her act was causing the small glass of wine I was drinking to heave inside my stomach. I glanced towards the door where I seen the newest arrival. He was very tall and handsome, however a face I had never seen before. I took another glance around the room to see if anyone was awaiting his arrival. A few women were looking his way appreciatively, but no one seemed to move forward to greet him.

Misty and her companion, having finally reached my table, disrupted my view of the door. I looked up at them both and smiled dutifully.

"My name is Misty, and this is my companion, Tanarri,” she said looking at us each in turn. I had almost forgotten Aznar, when I had seen the newest stranger to enter. As if sensing my thoughts, they both stepped one step forward. Almost, unnoticeable, but I was sure the young woman had noticed.

Still smiling her over large smile, she asked, "We were wondering if you'd like to have a drink with us?"

“How very nice to meet you both, yes, please sit down. We are both are the only living members of House Risetti, are we not?” I asked as they sat down.

I held my hand up towards Aznar, as I smiled out my new guests. I nodded discretely, simultaneously; Aznar and my young servant stepped back to their former places at my back, a more respectful distance. I noticed the gleam in the woman’s dark eyes, but I did not fear her. She was more a player of games…I long ago perfected the art of games.

Tanarri gave a nod of satisfaction of her acceptance to the choice of wine he picked. He walked along smoothly along Misty's side to the person she was interested to be in company with. It looked apparent they were going to meet the dark elf that sat alone at a table. Misty's introduction about him being her companion made him give her a quick glance with his eyes as a quirky smile played on one side of his face. She had something on her mind perhaps.

Upon Veressa's invitation to sit, he placed the two glasses of wine on the table pulling free his chair. On his way down he caught the movements of Veressa's hand. He couldn't help but to see what or whom she was motioning too. The two people standing behind her responded accordingly to her actions. Must be with her....servants of some kind no doubt. Guess she wasn't alone afterall. He didn't stare and caught Veressa's smile making him smile in response. Sitting comfortably he picked up one of the glasses of wine and placed more infront of Veressa. The glass didn't make a sound as it was settled upon the table. When his hand let go it turned over to show is palm it made a gesture to say it was hers to take. It was the drink they offered. The white wine settle to give a hue in the light.

I hope the wine is to your liking.

There was another bit of thing that was on his mind in what Veressa said. She mentioned that they being the only living members of House Risetti. This bit of information didn't make him pull away or retract the smooth feelings he had of the situation but it certainly opened his mind to regard those he was dealing with. His part with House Dovanucci was quite clear on the rules on what they must uphold....quite the contradictory in what Risetti does.

He picked up his wine and held it up before the ladies. A pleasing smile on his face letting the shine of the crystal swirl with the coloring blend of the wine.

Cheers ladies.....

Waited till they complied before bringing the refreshing cool liquid to his lips letting it trinkle down his throat as the aroma waffed about his nose. When he was done he let it stand before him, removing his hand from it to keep it from getting warm from his touch. Quietly he waited to hear what words would transpire between the two, he was ready to reply to any that should come his way.

Malcolm watched Astavia raise the flower to her face and realized afterwards that he had neglected to give the flower scent. Sight and touch, but no scent. He had been a bit distracted by the woman before him and neglected to complete the illusion, but the beauty was there, so his mistake was of little consequence really.
"Thank you. They are most beautiful. I had not expected to find you here. I did not know you cared to frequent the white houses in your leisure... I am sorry. That was uncalled for. Do forgive me."
Lord Bainev had come to expect the occasional harsh words from the object of his affection, but the apology which followed it pleased him. She seemed to try so hard to avoid betraying the fact that his affection was not in vein, but as hard as she tried she could not hide it completely.
"Think nothing of it my dear." It was a term of endearment he used with all women, but it somehow seemed to have more depth when he uttered it to Astavia. "You were forgiven before the words even reached my ears."
Lady Dovanucci's fixation on good and evil, light and dark, seemed so peculiar to Malcolm, do him the differences were arbitrary. Of course her fixation could be likened to Malcolm's own with beauty, but at least that had a physical manifestation.

The band began to strike up with a new song. Malcolm offered his hand to Astavia. "May I have this dance Lady Dovanucci."

House Dovanucci, House Bainev, House Risetti

The noblest names had attended this evening and the dancing had already begun. How long had it been since members from these Houses had shared a pleasant evening together? Judging by the mingling it had been too long. The members of the Houses in the light of the White monolith were quickly drawn to those in the shade of Black monolith like moths to fire...

Lord Tanarri, an unspeakable creature, having fooled everyone into believing himself faithful to Dovanucci let alone Isonia, could be seen eagerly consorting with that well-dressed peasant girl. That he had chosen the company of House Risetti was no surprise, that House was known for the worst of magical practices. I chuckled to myself...Lord Risetti himself couldn't have snared a demonbreed this quickly.

And of course Lord Bainev began his game with the Fanyare Istar. It was not surprising that the Lady Alisia has serious reservations about their 'relationship' for it was hard to see who was the more fooled.

Why are you frowning m'Lady?

Alice's question broke me from my thoughts. Perhaps I was being much too serious for such an occasion. I would have looked forward to talking to the Lady Sephrenia Wingrider but had not seen her as yet. Instead I walked over to where the Lady Alisia was, looking as dangerous as usual.

Lady Alisia, I have not seen you for a while. What have you been doing lately?

He watched as the Lady Anne walked off and he frowned. He had asked if either would like to dance and neither answered. He nodded to Alice and then walked away. He felt defeated not because he was told no but because he was not even given the courtesy of being told no.

He watched as Aranor went about greeting, it seemed that he had no problems of getting anyones attention. For the moment at least Cameron wished he was more like his cousin in that aspect. Well it was not his blood cousin. Dustbal Aranors Aunt had taken him in when he was younger. He had been friends with Dustballs Son SJ when his parents were killed. There was no where for him to go and Dustball offered a place in her home and in her family. Who would turn down such an offer, he knew he could not.

He went and got a drink and kept looking around maybe someone else would be interested in a dance. Maybe not though, he was no one special in anyones eyes.

But M'Lady, excuse me M'Lady,
Alice nervously interrupted.

Turning away from Lady Alisia, I looked at Alice looking pleafully into my eyes. She curtseyed to me and smiled reverently. I nodded for her to speak.

I believe Lord Cameron had asked for a dance my Lady, and we...ah, haven't answered him yet.

She gestured towards a young man walking away.
How absent-minded of me, so caught up watching everyone else I failed to notice an invitation. Of course I wouldn't dance with him, or anyone for that matter. Alice exuding hope, waited for my response. Looking at her sternly, I replied,

If you feel it would be polite to dance with the man, then you may. Remember Alice, while you are here tonight, you represent families Wittgen and Bainev. We have the highest standards and I expect nothing less from you. You will also come straight to me if he causes you the slightest discomfort.

She beamed, curtseyed again very quickly and rushed as fast as her gown would let her towards the disappearing gentleman. I doubt she heard half of what I said.

I was Alice, just Alice.

Most trusted and loyal servant to the Queen...or should I say Lady Anne Wittgen. I had been with Lady Wittgen longer than any of her staff. And despite her stern demeanour, she had been very kind to me. I shared some of her darker secrets, but I knew she had darker still. Lady Anne would always look after me and together we would prosper.

I was soooo excited when I knew we were going to the Wingrider Ball. It had been forever since I had been able to meet new people in the city, so busy was I with my normal duties. That the Lady had let me wear one of her own gowns was a welcome surprise. Although I was only allowed to wear one of her purple ones I chose something with the least amount of fabric. This wasn't easy and in the end I had to settle for a simple gown in royal purple and gold. I painstakingly wound a beaded gold thread through my hair but kept it down as became my innocence.

When Lord Cameron asked for a dance my heart lept! But I knew Lady Anne wouldn't dance with the man. When she turned away completely disinterested my disappointment was so great I almost forgot myself and begged the Lady to dance with him...

I only hoped he wasn't too angry with us. I could see him quietly taking a drink and I swiftly walked over, curtseying with my eyes lowered. I stumbled through a greeting,

Excuse me Lord Cameron. I beg your pardon that we failed to address you earlier, the Lady...my mother, Lady Anne was so intent in thought I fear she didn't hear you. My apologies again. If you would still like to dance I would be honoured.

He put down his drink and bowed to her. His eyes met hers as he came up from the bow, his bluish gray eyes sparkled. I would be the one that would be honored Lady Alice. We all get caught up in moments. Shall we

He smiled and held out his hand and lead her on to the dance floor. He smiled as they danced. He thought as they did and he looked at her. I do hope that you are enjoying this evening so far. My cousin worked hard to get this ready.

"Cheers!" Misty smiled, and winked at Tanarri as she picked up her glass by the stem, and clinked it to his. Her eyes met his for a moment and then wondered over to the two lap dogs at the woman's side. They appeared to be highly trained and only moved when she motioned for them to do so. How odd, Misty thought as she gave them a queried look. She pondered what it was that would make a person need to have everything in their life in such order, and maintain control of everything and everyone around them. And yet join a house where she herself would be under quite a bit of control.

A number of possibilities ran through her thoughts. Usually a person with these traits was someone who was afraid. Either afraid of what might happen from the outside if they let their guard down, or afraid of themselves. What might happen if they stopped controlling long enough to look at themselves in the mirror, and get a good feel for what they saw in there? Everyone's peculiar actions covered some deeply imbedded feer of some sort. One might say that Misty herself used her wild side, and her ability to 'feel' things to cover something. It's hard to say really without getting in that brain of hers and having a look around, as she was one complicated individual. She felt the pains of other people, and it made her feel alive, but to feel her own pain, or acknowledge her own feers of inadiquacy might give the beast within too much control? Of course, this is not a thought she considered herself. As far as she was concerned, she had a zest for life that few people in this day and age had, and she toyed with the possibility that this woman before her may be putting on her show of complete control because she was jealouse of this side of her. Or maybe she was trying to invoke a responce of fear from her?

Misty considered what her next move should be. She could play it cool, and try to relate to the woman on her level, but then again, the woman obviously knew more about her than Misty did of she, as she knew which house she came from, and Misty had never heard of her before. So, one must presume that she knew of her personality and temperment as well, which was whimsicle at her best; cruel and calculated on the other end of the spectrum. Usually, she tortured her victims before killing them if time and situation permitted, as she enjoyed the pain of others. Like I said, it made her feel alive. There had been no beauty in her life in years, and without feeding on the pain, she'd wither up and die, or at the very least, be like this woman on the other side of the table, and have to control everything.

That decided, she opted to go with what felt natural, and as she brought her glass up to her lips, she looked over at the two servants, and let out a low growl, and then smiled at them before she tasted the wine. Her eyes perked up, and she looked over at Tanarri almost in disbeleif... "Nice choice." She whispered, and then she tipped the glass up and finished it.

Flirting wasn't something she was very practiced at, and she tended to come off too strong, but this man seemed to accept her for who and what she was, and he didn't even flinch when the dark elf mentioned their house afiliation. She had hoped he was of the Risetti house as well, but going by what this woman said, she guessed not. Misty set her glass down, and slipped her hand under the table to rest it on his leg. Leaning into the table some to avoid having to shout at her over the music... "I would supose so... What did you say your name was?"

Judiama went with Arnor to greet another guest and then finally got her promised dance. She loved to dance, it was almost as nice as riding a warhorse at a full gallop. Both got your heart beating fast and left you breathless. Arnor was obviously not an experienced dancer, but he gave his all to the beat of the music and was a pleasure to dance with.

Judiama danced and enjoyed the company of Arnor. How nice to get to know another member of House WingRider. And how nice that he was handsome, tall and very attentive. As she danced her emerald eyes sparkled and her face became slightly flushed with the activity. Although she thought of herself as only average looking, it was obvious that Arnor viewed her as something special.

As the dance finished they were approached by a young lady with a gleam in her eyes who walked up and hugged him and gave him a soft kiss. "My love it is so good to see you again, I hope that this next dance are mine. And who is this lady? I am Jerrica his fiancee", she said.

Before Judiama could frame a reply Arnor said, "Your what? Jerrica I was polite enough to you when you showed up but this is ridiculous. I am not your fiancee or your love or anything else. I am your ex fiancee, remember that. Now I am trying to be a gentleman here and not mention what happened so please just leave me alone. "

He then turned to Judiama saying, "Lady Judiama my apologies for that. I did not know she was going to try and cause anything like that. I am going to go outside for a few moments out front and see if any other attendees are coming. Would you like to walk with me? I can understand if you do not. "

It was obvious to Judiama that Jerrica was trying to cause trouble between her and Arnor. Interesting, she barely knew the man, although she was looking forward to getting to know him better. A little healthy competition always added a little spice to a new romance.

Judiama looked at Jerrica and her face lit with a small, wry smile. " You feel you have a prior claim on Lord Arnor? Interesting. Good luck in your quest, although it seems hopeless. "

She then turned to Arnor with a wide smile and said, " Surely I will take a walk with you Lord Arnor. You should know I love to meet new people, let's go greet your arriving guests."

Judiama took Arnor's arm and turned her back on the poor ex-fiancee. Not being a fool, she kept part of her attention behind her in case Jerrica did anything but slink away.

_________________
Judiama
Jordain of House WingRider
Istari d'Tiavain

He smiled in relief that she did not take anything that bad at all. In fact her shot on Jerrica had to make him smile just in that alone. He was happy that she took his arm and he led her outside. While it was a nice night he watched her to make sure she did not get cold.

I am sorry that you had to see that, I should have not let her in probably.

His mind went back for a moment to the years before. He had loved Jerrica from the moment that he saw her. Then he heard of rumors that she was trying to get with his cousin, and someone else. He heard that she had been around this other guy a lot. He could not take the rumors since he had already asked her to be his wife. This is when he found her with him. And that she told him she only agreed to marry him cause her family needed the money, that she couldnt love him. This had broke his heart and he mourned the loss of her for a long time. That was until he realized there were a lot more interesting people out there.

Lady Judiama, I hope you have found the evening so far to your liking other than putting up with Jerrica. I apprecciate your standing your ground. I noticed you are gifted with the horses are you also with other animals? Are there any that you dont like?

Judiama walked out with Lord Arnor and acknowledged his apology about the scene with Jerrica. " We all have these little things from our past that come back to haunt us, Lord Arnor. Please don't feel bad about it. I actually feel sorry for the Lady Jerrica, she must be terribly unhappy to act like that in public."

Then Arnor asked her about other animals. " I have a connection with most animals I think, " replied Judiama. "My favorites have always been horses, wolves and badgers for some reason. I actually raised an orphaned wolf cub when I was a youngster, and have remained friendly with several packs in the grasslands where I was raised. They actually learned to leave our horse herds alone, as we left them alone. I have seen you with your birds, they are beautiful." Judiama hoped to find out more about Lord Arnor's connection with his flying friends. Anyone who could reach animals was surely to be trusted.

Alisia's sullen demeanor brightened ever so slightly when Anne approached her.
"Ah, good evening Lady Anne." She replied, in he naturally sad sounding voice. "My days have been occupied with the constant struggle of keeping my fool brother from destroyer the honorable Bainev name. Although as you can see my efforts have been in vain. He still seems unable to distinguish between friend and foe. I'd not be surprised if next I find him cohorting himself with a Foretien." Alisia continued her effort to align Anne with her in her family feud. For a city so full of Turmoil and conflict it was a wonder that Tiavain did not tear itself to pieces. "But forgive me, I do not mean to burden you with my troubles. You have been fairing well I trust?"

He smiled as he listeened attentively to her he let her stop before he started speaking. Her main issue is she likes to be the center of attention she always has. Shes not used to hearing the word no. My relationship with birds started back when I was little. I had found a nest where there were eggs and I watched over it. There were no adult birds around so against what i was told I climbed the tree. I found a way to bring the nest and eggs down then took care of them. I also deal with wolves in fact the one that is usually with me should be joining back soon. He goes off for times with a pack but always comes back. It is a family thing with wolves for sure. Then there is my fascination of snakes. Though I find them a little hard t deal with at times I know they will be good once trained.

I like talking with you Lady Judiama, there is never a moment that I have been in your presence that I have wanted to be somewhere else. I was wondering since I am the host of this here ball I can not really have a date for the night, but I was wondering if you would join me for dinner sometime?

There he had asked her, his palms were sweaty he was nervous in asking her to dinner. At times just nervous around her. He waited there almost still waiting on an answer.

I was late and I absolutely hated being late. The messenger had said seven o'clock and it was already half-past. I hurried around my rooms trying not to trip over the long flowing hem of my gown. This was my first real ball in the city and I wanted to make a good impression.

I stood before the looking-glass and ran a brush through my long white tresses once more. It would have to do. For this evening I had chosen an off the shoulder lavendar gown. The bodice was fitted at the waist and belted. The airy fabric swilred around my legs with just the slightest movement, and the shades of violet made the color of my eyes seem even more brilliant. From my jewelry chest I had chosen a intricately woven choker imbeded with amethyst and a matching ring.

My long white hair which was usually bound now hung loosely, falling down my back to rest between my wings. I fluttered them nervously causing my hair and dress to float around me. Smiling at my reflection I nodded and then turned to go.

I had procured a small but beautiful coach to drive me to the ball. The driver was waiting for me just outside the Tarrant grounds. I took his offered hand and settled within for the short ride to the ball.

I had been so right. I was late. As I entered I could hear the strains of the music and the light voices of those already present. I hoped I could enter without too much notice.

I slipped in quietly and stood off to the side so as not to be noticed right away. I sighed deeply as I searched the room for a familiar face. There were only two I recognized. Lord Bainev and Lady Dovanucci. It seemed that I was the sole representative of House Tarrant. Not realising I was doing it I spoke aloud to myself.

Where could Lord Tarrant be keeping himself? And where are the others of our house. I swear they are the most elusive bunch of creatures I have ever known.

He saw a way out of the incomfortableness of the moment. He saw the woman arrive and excused himself for a moment to welcome and intorduce her to the others. It seemed this one had slipped of the tongue.

I do hope you enjoy yourself ma'am. Any of my servants will attend to anyhting you want. I will be just outside getting some air. My apologies for not meeting you sooner.

He walks back outside and looks around. He sits back with Judiama.

Triston was rather new here and he had not had the chance to introduce himself to everyone. It was not well known that Lord Tiamat had a relative living within his Manor. Since that Lord Tiamat was on Ravenfire Island for some time and could not attend any type of functions regarding his house. He had asked Lord Tristan to attend the ball.

Now Tristan had just shortly come over from his own kingdom and he knew not one person within the lands of Tiavain. Now to have Tiamat ask him to attend the ball actually astonished him. Tiamat usually never missed a single ball. But seeing that Xena was about to give labor, this was not something that he could control to be there. So to send Tristan in his place was nice to him.

Not many time had he not had fun at a ball. He was rather charming and hansom. He had often gotten compliments in previous balls. Now what new did this ball have in store for him? He hoped that he would meet interesting people.

"I would be the one that would be honored Lady Alice. We all get caught up in moments. Shall we..."

My nervousness was unnecessary. In the manner of a true gentleman I was forgiven in an instant as he held out his hand. I could not help but smile as he led me to the dance floor. His clothes were simple and tasteful; his hair shone blonde under the glowing lights. Hands, warm and strong, touched mine. I was growing nervous again…

Calling from memory all my dancing lessons, I was terrified of stepping on him or tripping over. I silently thanked my tutors. His movements were so smooth but I am sure we were overstepping more and more, getting closer and closer. His scent grew stronger and I could feel his warmth from beneath his clothes. I dared not look at him. Concentrating so hard on my steps, I almost jumped when he spoke to me,

"I do hope that you are enjoying this evening so far. My cousin worked hard to get this ready."

Your cousin…your cousin is Lord Aranor?
I hoped desperately my awe did not sound too strongly in my voice.
You must thank your cousin very much. I am having a wonderful time m…my Lord.
I looked up into his face and met the blue-gray eyes for the first time this evening, hearing his voice in my head, "We all get caught up in moments…"

What magic was this?! That I should be struck numb in an instant by this man! Indeed it did not feel like the illusion magics of our House but as something that thrilled right through me. I dared not break his gaze lest this feeling be lost forever…

Are you also enjoying this evening my Lord?

Lady Alisia Bainev had of course also noticed her brother's 'unnatural courtship' behaviour tonight. And it was well that she was in the mood to discuss this rather more openly for I too was becoming embarrassed.

I am faring well, thank you. And you do not burden me at all Lady Alisia, for your trouble in this case is also mine.

I was mindful to keep my voice lowered in our conversation and drawing the Lady Alisia even closer to the walls of the room where we might not be overheard from behind, I continued,

I hope you do not think me too blunt in what I am to say. But this behaviour is increasingly shameful and unnerving for I am not sure now who is playing the other. At first I thought your brother to be in control of the situation, for see how the Lady Dovanucci seems uncertain of herself when he comes near. However, now I wonder if he himself is unable to control his fanciful urges at times…
Indeed if he does not command all her attention tonight I was hoping to introduce myself formally to the Fanyare Istar. But tell me Lady Alisia,
What more do you know of this impossible match and what can we reasonably do to….'remove' this problem?

He smiled as he brought her out on to floor and danced with her. He noticed they were growing closer together and he tried to ease them to a more respectful distance though he could feel something stir inside of him, that he had not felt before. She was soft in a lot of ways and he again felt that strange feeling growing inside of him.

He watched her eyes with his not wanting the dance to stop, not wanting to look away. He was caught up in her movements and not realizing how close they got until she peered up into his eyes it took his speech away for the momente. He finally realized what he was feeling it was something coming from her and he was reacting to it.

I am enjoying this eve mi lady after all how could I not with such a beautiful lady to dance with. I was wondering since we both came alone tonight would you consider accompanying me the rest of the eve? And I will make sure to tell my cousin about what you said

He smiled at her as he looked at her getting lost not even realizing when the music finally did stop.