Realistic or Modern Harcourt Ball (Open)

[Breathless]

Matthias smiled as Lucas talked about painting, and his mother. He hoped his other would love his parents just as Matthias loved his mothers. It made him excited to hear about his future husbands life.

His face went a deeper shade of red, as Lucas complimented him. He was no stranger to people being kind toward him, but flirting with him? That was foreign, but he liked it.

His interest perked when Lucas spoke of reading, and how he did it mostly for knowledge. Matthias surprisingly didn't read fiction despite his personality. He was more of a sucker for Philosophy. He almost felt embarrassed to ask. "Knowledge you say? Have you tried reading about philosophy? It is quite the read. At least in my opinion, Matthias smiled as his heart raced. Lucas had grabbed his hand, was he reading his mind?

It made the boy's heart melt. He liked the way Lucas's hand felt in his. He wouldn't admit it out loud, but Matthias hoped Lucas would like him.

Besides, Lucas already seemed like a nice guy. Why would he want to let that go?

They had finally arrived at the pond when Matthias was asked a question. The boy simply smirked and looked at Lucas, letting go of his hand.

"I will show you."

With that Matthias set his jacket down, and rolled up his pant sleeves, and took off his socks and shoes, not caring about the chilly weather nor that it was dark.

He walked into the pond until the water was knee deep. Wetting his pants despite his efforts. Upon realizing this he shrugged and went on further, up to his waist at this point.

He turned to look at Lucas, "I like the water, and I like reading, dancing, gardening. I like taking walks at night, and drinking tea. I enjoy when people open up to me. The simple things in life. Most of all, I like looking at the night sky. Yet, it would mean more if you joined me? "

MToki

 

[Sgt Gomez]

Melissa slowly removed her arm from her face and blinked away tears as she noticed a cuban man kneeling down next to Mika and talking about fighting someone on her behalf. The girl quickly waved her hands in an apologetic gesture. It didn't look like he had the same flower as her so why was he so defensive of her? She looks at Mika and sits up before whispering in the girl's ear, "Please explain to the man everything and please apologize for not talking to him directly. Also water please..."

The girl sighs and smiles sadly at the man waiting for Mika to tell the man what had happened and why it happened. As she waited, she noticed a rather handsome man walking towards them. What was that in his breast pocket? A rose!? This was her match!!! She fumbles and pulls the rose from her hair to look at it. She frowns looking at it's state, she had accidentally crushed it in the aftermath of the events that transpired.

 

[Coyote]

Frankie looked at the woman with some confusion as she seemed to apologize to him quietly. He looked up at the person who seemed to attend to her expecting an answer when suddenly, he heard the voice of another woman. She had asked him for a duel. First, Frankie looked at her flower and noted that, although close, wasn’t his. She was betrothed to someone else and... a fighting match? What would happen if her beloved discover getting beaten by another man. This just spelled trouble so he only raised an eyebrow at her.
“Wait wait wait... ahora?” he asked. “Si, soy La Espina, but there’s no ring. And this is a ball. I don’t think very much that this is a good idea,” he said, his accent prevailing in his tone and manner. “Maybe later,” he suggested to her, “I haven’t fought in some time.” He glanced back at Melissa and the maid, hesitating to turn his attention away from them in such short notice. It seemed like a pressing issue for the young quiet girl that he didn’t feel comfortable leaving alone.

Sgt Gomez Ashwalker Cosmos

 

[Alvaris]

This seemed surreal at the moment. Adalia was stunning, and she seemed kind and intelligent. A woman of great worth, which he hoped was the case. When she gripped him tighter, he glanced down at her. She didn't appear aware until he finished speaking. He smiled, assuming she may have forgotten what she wished to say. He gazed back at the garden, the moons bright light illuminated the flowers, making them appear to glow.

"You're quite perceptive," Elijah said, pleased she didn't find him like those other men that utilize their words to woo women into their beds. "Alas, my love of poetry ends with me. My father does not deem writing as a worthy profession. This shall be our secret." He smiled glancing over at her. "Without hobbies, I find idle hands make for trouble and boredom." He chuckled lightly. He was not easily bored, but he did not like having nothing to do.

Elijah nodded. "You seem quite capable and I've only known you for a short time," he said as she looked away. His heart sank at her dismay. "Don't doubt yourself. I can see that you're a woman of fine worth, intelligent, and charming. Sometimes men, I'm sure you well know, can't tell their arse from their elbow."

He watched her for a moment longer before her tone changed. Dwelling on the negative was a part of life, but it didn't have to be the focus of their conversation. Elijah had a goal in mind and that was to get to know her. "I'd love that. Crafting if my profession and a hobby. I love creating things." He found work that required hand crafting to be rewarding. "I must confess that I made something for you," he said before sliding his free hand into his pocket and pulling out a wooden jewelry box. "I wasn't sure what kind of flower you liked, so I chose the camellias, since it is our flower."

Spoiler

Spoiler

Ghostiiys

 

[MToki]

When Matthias smiled, a warm, fluttering feeling danced around his chest. Oh god, he was falling way faster than he expected. But his intended was so sweet, how could he not feel like this? Like a hand held his heart, squeezed and wouldn't let go, was this what romantic attraction actually felt like? If it was, he's been wasting his time all these years, chasing fleeting feelings and forced moments.

"Philosophy? I must admit I'm a little surprised, but yes, I'm quite familiar with it." Lucas replied, a little intrigued by this new fact. "They give me much to think about and question. Some days, I can't help, but wonder about the world." Though, he didn't expect it, he was over the moon that Matthias liked philosophy too. Charming, sweet, and aware of the complexities of life and moral standards? Lucas thought for a brief second that he might be hallucinating.

Then Matthias let go of his hand, and Lucas knew all of this was real. He was always a sucker for physical affection, even if, at times, it was hard to admit.

Dazzled, he watched as the other man placed his clothes down near the bank of the pond, and walked deep into the water. "I'd suggest taking off our suits entirely, but I don't want to seem too eager." He said this as he set down his jacket, shoes, and socks next Matthias's. Listening to him talk about his interests as Lucas rolled up his pants. His future husband liked so many adventurous things, it almost made him envious of the times the other must've had, but that was quickly washed away by the prospect of having a domestic life with Matthias.

Lucas chuckled when he was invited into the pond. "Only if you hold my hand again." He said, but he was already well on his way to his betrothed. The water was cold, something he would've cared about if he didn't feel so warm inside. Carefully, he trudged his way toward Matthias, feeling alive for the first time in ages.

Breathless

 

[Jess Buck]

Rosie smiled, thoroughly interested in the conversation she was having with Josie. It truly was a pity the two of them hadn't been paired up. But maybe they could still be friends. Josie brought up the idea of leaving to go see her horse but Rosie got distracted for a moment. Out of the corner of her eye she could almost see...She was right! Her eyes widened as she saw a woman come into the ballroom holding a purple lilac. Her heart dropped to her stomach and for a moment she thought she'd be sick. She turned quickly back to Josie, hoping that the other hadn't noticed. Molly gave her a strange look before signing to her.
"Is everything alright Miss?" Rosie nodded and quickly replied to Josie, giving her a big smile.
"I'd love to go meet her! I could use the fresh air anyways."

redroseknight

 

[Ghostiiys]

Adalia stopped in her tracks as Elijah pulled out a small wooden box. And when he opened it her mouth became agape with a small gasp emanating. "I..I.." the words seem to get caught in her throat as he opened the small container to reveal a necklace. It looked just like the one they both had in there possession. But this one could not wilt , its petals could not fall off. It was timeless and beautiful. The golden color reflected even more in the moon lit sky. You could even say it shimmered.

She looked up at Elijah and then back down at the gift he had in his hands. She reached her hands out to touch the necklace and picked it up delicately from its holding. "Oh wow.. Elijah.. I truly.. I'm at such a loss of words.." To think that he made this with his own hands. She had no idea he would even do such a thing for her. That's when she choked up , Not only was the gift lovely and specially hand crafted for her. But it was coming from a man of pure intention. Nothing could compare.

She didn't even realize she was shedding a tear. Then two. And then three before she wiped them away with her free hand. "It's so beautiful.." Her emotions where at an all time high as she hugged Elijah. Wrapping her arms around him , she didn't even think if such physical contact would startle him but she was incredibly moved by this gift. " Thank you so much Elijah , I truly love it . " She then realized that she had latched herself onto the poor man as she backed away and laughed at herself.

"Ive gotten carried away haven't I? " Adalia said lightheartedly brushing her hair through over her ear. Still with the necklace in hand she looked at Elijah and smiled. "Would you do me the honor of putting it on me? " She said as she extended her hand for him to take the necklace and turned around so he could latch it together once it was on.

Alvaris

 

[redroseknight]

Josephine noted the hesitation and shift in her gaze, but there was nothing by the time that she turned her head. Hm. Odd. Well, at least the woman's gaze alighted back on her properly and there was even a bright smile. It was quite the lovely smile. She could see how Rosie could easily be quite the match for someone. Pity it wasn't her, but that didn't really stop her from playing a little with the other woman. Rosie was beautiful and had similar interests, so why not enjoy herself a little before both of them were made miserable. That was her attitude toward most things. Embrace it as fully as possible, enjoy the ride, and watch it all burn.

As she was leading the other woman by the hand, her fingers intertwining with Rosie's, she noticed a flash of purple that caught her attention since it contrasted so greatly with the other colors behind it. Oh! That was a purple lilac, just like the one her new friend had been holding. The wheels began turning in her mind, and she halted the brunette. Oh, she planned so far on still stealing her away to go see Eira, but first they might as well get the awkward introduction between betrotheds out of the way. There would be less stress and far more attention in the right places if that was done. Who knew, maybe they would hit it off well enough that she dragged this admittedly dashing woman off to the stables too? While many might have thought three was a crowd, Josie didn't really possess enough shame in her body or awareness of her actions to believe that she should contain herself from having a little extra fun by stirring up drama. oh what harm could she really do?

"Oh, look Rosie. I do believe that it is your betrothed here. Perhaps we should make an introduction once she has finished..conversing? With this fellow?" she suggested, patting the brunette's hand. "I promise, I'll still take you to see Eira. It just might be worthwhile going ahead and meeting your match! Then when I steal you away, you can have someone to properly rant to about how wrong of a match she is for you," she teased with a playful wink.

 

[Jess Buck]

Rosie was relieved that Josie hadn't noticed her attention elsewhere. And even more so when they began to leave the ballroom. In all honesty, Rosie simply wasn't ready to talk to the woman. She hadn't had nearly enough to drink nor was she quite ready to say goodbye to the redhead. Rosie's mind was distracted thinking about all the things that could possibly go wrong with the upcoming conversation with the woman with the sword on her belt. Rosie could accidentally say something to insult her. Or the woman might not understand her disability. She might find Rosie dull. That's probably what worried her the most. She was used to awkward conversation and people not understanding her. But Rosie would be devastated if the woman she was supposed to marry found her boring. She was taken out of her thoughts when Josie suddenly stopped. She looked to the taller woman to see what had stopped her. Following her gaze Rosie froze. Josie had spotted the purple lilac as well. Once again her heart dropped and she felt her hands go clammy. When Molly translated for her Rosie's cheeks burned. Not only was she nervous to meet this woman but had Josie just flirted with her? This was all too much. There were far too many attractive women here. Rosie did her best to clear her mind before signing in response.
"I...I suppose so..." Rosie looked to Molly, who nodded and went ahead of Rosie and Josie to fetch the woman.

Molly waited patiently, far enough away as to not seem rude, but also to listen for when she could step in and say something. From what she caught of the tail end of their conversation, Rosie's betrothed was trying to fight the man with the thick Spanish accent. That instantly set Molly's radar off. Rosie was definitely not one for violence. She was a peaceful person who tried to find common ground in any situation. Then again maybe Rosie could help the woman with her...aggressive...tendencies.

redroseknight Ashwalker

 

[Ashwalker]

Briefly Katarina considered backing down and allowing the man his peace. Ultimately what made her decisions for her was the weight of the gazes she could feel on her. She needed to burn this restless energy, hopefully before her betrothed showed up. She could feel the itch of being in a crowded space like this, and she reminded herself that she didn’t need to be on edge here. This was a fancy party thrown by nobles and rich people, not any of her usual haunts. She needed this distraction for her own sake, and besides she wanted to see whether she could match up to the man on his own ground.

Katarina shrugged and smiled a razor-sharp grin, although her voice was almost careless when she spoke, “So La Espina is too afraid of a foolish young heir and noble to take a match? The great outdoors are the oldest fighting ring in the world. You haven’t seen your betrothed and I haven’t seen mine, so why not spend the time learning from your defeat? A simple jaunt outside and we can have all the room to fight we need.”

Addressed: Coyote

 

[Alvaris]

Elijah turned to Adalia, surprised by her abrupt change in pace. Speechless moments he learned to take as a positive note. She seemed surprisingly pleased, was that correct? A small smile crept onto his face as he watched her study the necklace. It wasn't easy to craft, but the look on her face made it worth every hour.

"I-I hope it's not too much," he said, feeling rather self-conscious now. At the time, he thought the gesture would show his dedication, like a promise rather than anything else. His chest tightened as tears brimmed in her eyes. He wanted to reach out, but he felt it too soon. He wasn't sure how she would react if he touched her. Before he had a chance to thank her, she slid her arms around him. His heart thumped and he hugged her back before she jumped away from him.

"I'm thrilled to hear you like it," he said. He was afraid she wouldn't or that she'd fake it, but there was no way she could fake that kind of response. Elijah chuckled and shook his head before saying, "Not at all and I would love to." He took the necklace before sliding it around her neck. His hand brushed against her skin as he clasped the buckle. "It suits you," he said. "Almost like it was made for you." He chuckled lightly.

"Now that we've had a chance to get acquainted, I wanted to ask what you thought about our union." He cleared his throat. "I don't mean to overstep, but I wanted to make sure you are not-will not regret this decision." He looked at his shoes before meeting her gaze. He wanted to appear as this confident gentleman, someone who could face each challenge with a determined smile and a glimmer in his eye, but that wasn't what this situation required. The place he felt most confident was behind the pen or crafting or speaking with others who didn't matter. But she mattered and no pens were handy.

Ghostiiys​

 

[Coyote]

Frankie blinked at her for a moment. She taunted him with an elaborate monologue that ultimately wound up to, 'You're a chicken.' Frankie scoffed. "Ha!" he bellowed mightily. "Big words from a..." he looked her up and down. She was taller than he realized up until that moment. "...big woman. Ahem," he pumped up his chest. "Perhaps there's no ring but if you're this eager to taste defeat, I won't deny you," he turned back to Melissa and her maid. "Uh, I will be back if it isn't too much trouble." Upon looking back at the woman, his gaze began to smolder. "It seems you know my name already. Judging by your enthusiasm to fight el mejor peleodero del mundo, you must be Katarina Rathstone. I must say, your name spreads quickly," he said, allowing her to lead to the way. She wore an elegant uniform and held a sword at her belt. Oh, these nobles and their swords. How they love to play soldier and poke each other with glorified sticks. There were two ways mankind fought in these days. It was either by fist, or by gun. A sword in a fist fight was just a robbery, and a sword in a gunfight was just... another robbery. Frankie didn't let these words escape his mouth, however. He wasn't here to get stabbed. He was here to beat and get beaten. He should've been here to marry someone but this woman had other plans. So a beating it was and a beating it will be. He grinned, brimming like an excited schoolboy who felt absolutely sure he was going to win a game against his friends.

Ashwalker

 

[Jess Buck]

Molly had heard enough of the foolery between the Spaniard and the woman. She quickly stepped in and cleared her throat.
"Pardon me...I do apologize for interrupting but um...If I may...Miss Katarina Rathstone, is it? Um...my Mistress, Rosaline Adler." Molly gestured to where Rosie and Josie where standing. "Is actually betrothed...to you and would like to introduce herself..." Molly felt as thought she was stepping into fire but she had to do something before Rosie's future wife got into a brawl with a complete stranger. "Unfortunately when she was young she lost her hearing and so now I accompany her as a translator." Molly seriously hoped she wouldn't get knocked in the face by this incredibly intimidating woman.

Rosie watch as Molly stood for a moment before stepping in and speaking to the woman with the lilacs. She was particularity tall which Rosie found to be a theme with the women she had come across so far. Her eyes seemed piercing and cold and the way she carried herself seemed more like she was protecting herself. Rosie wondered why she had built up those walls. Rosie was unconsciously wringing her hands as she continued to stare at the scene unfolding in front of her. She was nervous to say the least. What should she say to the woman whom to which she is betrothed who she had never meet before? Hello? My name is Rosaline I am deaf and will never be able to hear and you'll most likely have to learn sign language in order to properly speak to me ever? This was a disaster. She shouldn't have agreed to this. What was she thinking? Thoughts continued to spiral as she felt herself growing lightheaded. She really wished she hadn't seen the woman and would have been able to escape to the stables. She could really use that fresh air right about now.

Ashwalker redroseknight Coyote

 

[Ashwalker]

Katarina had no sooner turned to take her fight outside than she was approached. Her attention snapped to the woman approaching her, although she only visibly turned to her when she addressed her. She gazed impassively at her as she spoke, taking a moment to place the woman in her memories. This was the attendant that had been standing with the lilac matched pair. At her words she realized that her estimation of the two women with lilacs had been poor, and when she glanced again their way she at last noted the difference in colors, and realized that her betrothed did indeed stand in the room with her. She half listened to the woman speaking to her, taking in her words but letting her focus fully turn to the woman she was meant to marry as soon as her attendant finished. Deaf then, and with a sign language translator. The woman was beautiful enough to arrest her attention, and thanks to an old friend of hers sign language wasn't an issue. Yet still she moved her hands to sign for the first time in months, I apologize Lady Adler, but the gauntlet has already been thrown and honor rather insists that I go. If you still wish it I will gladly come to you when the bout is done.

As Katarina again turned her attention away she spoke almost absent-mindedly to the attendant who had approached her, just in case the distance had proven too great for the sign language, "I have already thrown down the gauntlet I'm afraid, and I must see this through. If my communication failed, tell Miss Adler that I offer my apologies and will gladly come to her side if she still wishes it after the bout." In truth Katarina's honor could survive just fine. After hitting rock bottom it took an entirely different sort of action to dig deeper, and ultimately turning away from a fight you had started to meet your betrothed was no great offense. What stopped her in truth were the looks she had read, or at least believed she read from her betrothed and her translator. The translator seemed to have the look of disdain and distaste to her, accurately declaring Katarina a distasteful match. She saw worry and disappointment on her betrothed's face, as expected, but what made her turn away was the hint of fear she thought she saw. Even with everything that was riding on making a match, she would not push a marriage to someone who feared her. She suspected that after the fight the woman would reach out to her parent's and demand the whole thing called off, and she could not entirely blame her.

Setting her thoughts aside she nodded to her prospective opponent, and lead the way outside without looking back. Looking back usually just told one things you didn't need to know. When she spoke her voice still held the odd cold distance her demeanor had gained, "All the proper and legitimate rules I presume? Fists only, not more varied maneuvers and strikes? I prefer tap-out but I understand the usual way is knockout. Oh, and before that you are welcome to use my cape to keep your clothes from the dirt, unless you would prefer the marks of blood." As she waited for the man to speak she laid her cloak out on the ground. First she took her sword off, carefully and almost reverently laying it down upon the cloak. Then with much less care she made short work of her clothes. Her preparation for such matters showed in how effortlessly she set aside her overclothes and proper outfit. She stood at the end of it in a simple gray shirt and shorts over her actual underthings. Her chest was wrapped and she of course wore underwear, but most everything else was perfectly visible. She was not slabbed with muscle, but every bit of her was firmly defined. She had the build of not only someone who trained, but someone who had used that training. Not many scars showed through her clothes, but her arms were marked here and there by a couple knife scars, and up by her shoulders there was the edge of a patch of scars matching broken glass. Her hands were callused, both from sword fighting, and clearly from fist-fighting. Her legs were just as muscled, with old scars marking where luck had turned on her in one way or another.

Addressed: Jess Buck Coyote Indirectly involved: redroseknight

 

[Breathless]

Matthias was truly in awe as Lucas agreed about the joys of philosophy. He loved the way Lucas listened to him speak on and on.

Hell, his betrothed even got into the water with him, despite it being freezing! He blushed as Lucas spoke about the removing of suits. Which he quickly turned into a joke.

"I mean,if you wanted my clothes off you could've just asked. Nevertheless we have the rest of our lives to uh...undress."

Matthias laughed, and immediately grasped his others hand in his as requested. "I..I really didn't know how nice it was holding hands with someone, but then you came along."

Matthias had gotten cheesy, and he didn't mean to. He had been planning on splashing Lucas, but then Matthias looked into the man's eyes, and he lost the ability to think as he stared into pools of beauty.

... "Wow...your gaze is breathtaking Lucas."

MToki

 

[Cosmos]

Eliza gave a distant chuckle as the other asked why on earth she'd been strapped down, once again rubbing at her slightly frizzled red hair as her other arm stayed tucked behind her back in a fashion she found both amusing and comfortable, like a pre emptive dance move almost. "Oh uh, it's a- um, long story" she said with a nervous glance away, you could practically see her lips curve twitching a little as she thought back at the attempt to get her into this dang dress, and the maid she'd accidentally punched- argh, she'd have to do something to make it up to her later.

Moving on in the conversation as they slowly wandered forward she chuckled once more, though this time more heartily, "True woman may be imposing, but I suppose I enjoy the intelligence and cunning they bring to a relationship, men can just be so- dull and stupid. Not too mention I've never had the faintest interest in any part of the male body~" she giggled, answering both questions in one go, "However I must say I do love ladies of all kinds, it's a personality thing I suppose~ Though I'd by lying if I said there was absolutely no correlation to appearance as bad as it may make me feel" she said with a shrug and kind grin.

Leaning in closer once more she smiled brightly, "If they did not fancy you it's their loss, if it were me I would've whisked you away to my quarters immediately" she said with a teasing yet earnest wink.

However attention was quickly brought away as the loud voice of a female caught her attention in the distance, raising a brow as she let herself straighten her posture more to gaze over the bushes blocking the view, "What the heck are they doing over there?-" she muttered out with both confusion but more so yearning curiosity, grabbing the others hand with a look back she nodded once before pulling her off quickly towards the scene, "Lets go look, huuh? Surely it's better than this boring party~" her eyes lighting up with excitement with barefeet moving quickly over the grass, still evidently no care for the white rims of the dress now both scratched and muddied.
_______

StarxLight

 

[Cosmos]

Mika barely noticed the man approach until he was leaning down beside the pair and half startled her out of her skin, jumping backwards slightly and fumbling her footsteps as she looked over and awkwardly smiled, "Oh um, really now there's no need for that!~" she insisted, waving her hands around a little frantically as she could practically feel staff glaring in their direction once more. However as Melissa leant in to whisper she smiled and nodded, "I'm terribly sorry but you see my mistress has a condition where her ability to speak is little to none, as such I'm her voice. She'd like to let you know this wasn't the fault of anyone, she simply- got a little lightheaded from the whole situation at hand is all-" she was about to continue when a woman suddenly barged over.

Looking over she was beautiful, to say the least. Mika couldn't help but feel her cheeks fluster slightly before quickly turning her attention away and back to Melissa where it should be, "Everyone here is very pretty, huuh?" she giggled out the whisper. However just a few short moments later the whole scene turned to chaos, the woman demanded the man fight with her, before he begrudgingly accepted, and if not a second later the other assistant from the girl a short distance away came over to inform the lady her match was awaiting a conversation, however such helper was not good at hiding their awful distaste from the girl, clearly not a maid.

With a few stubborn words the stunning woman walked away along with the male following close behind, the other female stood there blankly as yet another new member joined the frey, however this one…. This one finally struck a nerve in her attention.

Suddenly stepping in between his extended hand and her lady she forced herself into giving an apologetic small bow, "Sorry sir, but I must insist myLLady Melissa stay seated until she's feeling up to it, you see she just had a fainting spell and not too mention hasn't even got shoes. I'm still in attending to her as well, so I'd suggest possibly coming back at a later time?" She said, her feigned smile and innocent composure not leaving her face for a second, though the tone clearly gave it away to her close friend behind.

She didn't want to leave, but Melissa had asked for water, hopefully this man took her dismissal as she began to walk away slightly, her hand reaching for the jug when she suddenly remembered she forgot to even mention Melissa's condition. Internally screaming a little, she quicklypoured the glass before rushing back over as subtly as she could, "I-I uh, forgot to add my lady cannot actually speak to you without me present- my apologies." she let out with a small out of breath puff from the sudden burst of energy to get back.
______

lion. Sgt Gomez Ashwalker Coyote Jess Buck

 

[StarxLight]

Elodie flushed deep red at the chuckle she received from El. It was . . . very attractive. Elodie knew she was a romantic, but honestly? The first woman to smile and flirt and she was mush already. Not to mention that she wasn't sure if their flowers matched. She watched as El played with her hair and dodged her question. She smiled a little, and though the blush said "Alright, don't tell me." she gave the other a teasing grin "I'm going to assume it's for indecent reasons anyway."

Lifting one hand to brush the curls framing her face out of the way, Elodie laughed again "I suppose I can see your reasoning there, El." before flushing a bright red and stammering, she had never had someone say so explicitly that they would bed her. Before Elodie could even form a coherent response the woman was running, off. Elodie watched for a moment as the woman's dress caught on things, and looked down at her own. Gabrielle had spent so much time on her dress, she couldn't bare to even think of the look on her favourite seamstresses face if she showed her the ruined hem, the torn or stained fabric. By the time Elodie had decided she would not follow if was too late.

With a sigh, Elodie picked up two hand fulls of her dress and walked herself back up the stairs in order to re-join the party. She probably should eat something after all. As the crossed the Ballroom she could still not see any sign of her match. With a sigh the picked up some fruit from a platter and nibbled on it a little, picking up another drink. This did not bubble, and appeared to be some kind of sweet juice. It was probably a good thing, as much more alcohol in her and she just might find a nice quiet alcove to curl up and sleep in.

 

[Cosmos]

El continued to run when.

 

[lion.]

When his future-to-be-wife purely bore him none more than an overcasted stare to his proposal, Thaddeus was awakened by her reserved rejection. In fact, her voiceless dismissal nearly made him bite his tongue off.

To think the blonde had it in her!

Wracked and puzzled by her decision, he desired to snatch up the lass to her feet anyhow and sweep her across the golden dancefloor where the chandeliers beaconed an entrancing glow of light. If it weren’t for the buzzing mouths, the eavesdropping listeners, he would have. For now, he was left to grind his teeth and volley his hands to fists behind his back. While partitioning with himself to wolf down his pride, a petite woman made herself betwist him and his intended. This woman, despite the radiating smile she teethed, was no Lady of the court. Her clothes were the dawn of her rank, and she crevassed the uniform so nicely, it was a question whether in another life she could’ve been a Lady.

Her voice was honeyed, something between nectarine and silk. As she unraveled the situation of his betrothed, a new feeling thrashed and hurtled within his chest. The offense he had taken vanquished like the puff of a flame, and he casted a wary peek at his intended comfortably taken into the plush of the couch. So, he decided, he would let her rest for the time being. She would need it when he did dance with her.

“By all means, do tell your Lady to take a sound break,” he suddenly murmured, his low baritone coming off as a natural Aristocrat, “I will be back to have my last dance with her.”
With that, with his tailcoat fluttering begins him, he left the duo.

 

[Cosmos]

Mika couldn't help but let out a small huff and eyeball as he finally left, a slightly smug grin briefly bracing her lips before she felt a pang of guilt an shook it away, "I-I'm sorry my lady- I-…." she stuttered, handing over the glass of water, she felt like she should've apologised for many reasons but something in her felt so right about telling that man to back away.

After all his tone, the way he looks at her like some- object, his determination to take her away with even an exchange of words…. She hated all of it, and certainly disliked him. Giving a slightly internal glare towards his direction she sat beside Melissa slowly, and gave a small yet cheerful wave to the other assistant nearby from the previous group that had appeared. "Are you feeling alright? I'm sure I cold manage to get us out of this if you fear fainting again" she said with a small and nervous lip bite, this time the statement was more genuine, sure she wanted to escape, but Melissa's needs came first- and with all this going on it might just be too much for her friend at the moment.
_____
Sgt Gomez lion. Tessa Roberts StarxLight

 

[MToki]

Lucas laughed when Matthias complimented his eyes. "No need to flatter me, I'm already falling for you." He half joked, squeezing his husband-to-be's hand a little. The blonde took a few steps further into the pond before he tripped and lost his footing, letting go of Matthias's hand as he fell to his knees in the water. "Now I really am falling for you." He chuckled, flushing a little red at his misstep. The water was definitely cold, and while he could ignore it before when it only came up to his waist, now that he knelt with the waves he created lapping against his collarbone, he could barely suppress the shivers that ran up and down his spine.


He struggled to stand, the weight of the water soaked into his clothes making it difficult to find his balance. "I suppose you've defeated me this time, pond." He grunted as he finally made it onto his two feet. "But I will have my revenge." He mumbled, staring down to the inky black surface.


Lucas turned his attention back to Matthias, smiling sheepishly. "In case you missed it, I wasn't exactly made for the outdoors."

Breathless

 

[redroseknight]

Josephine brought her hand up to her lips, the wheels turning quickly in her mind. Oh now wasn't this just marvelous! Already this evening was much, much more entertaining than she could have ever imagined a droll event to be! She had the smile of a cheshire cat on her lips as she looked over the two clearly about to proceed with a duel, though the ballroom had no space for such an event and the poor servants would likely be unprepared for it. It would be an undue strain on them to have to clean up afterwards. So outside the pair were headed, her gaze moving to Rosie at her side. She gave the woman a playful nudge, having noticed that the tall woman, one even slightly taller than herself which was generally a feat, had been using her hands to speak to the brunette. At least Rosie's match could speak sign language so there wouldn't always be need of a translator for them to converse.

While she fully intended to go watch the bout, she noticed that there were another pair of women that were being left by the man being challenged. Both were highly attractive, and her memory sparked to the beginning of the ball when she saw a lady faint. Oh! Right! So this was the maiden who took such a swoon! Well, now that the group had dispersed this was the perfect opportunity to make herself available to the pair of lovely women. So she turned her attention to the lovely Molly, giving her a bright smile.

"I'm sure that your lady is going to wish to go watch the events unfold with her betrothed. It looks to be quite the duel is to take place, and I will be going out soon to go view them for myself. Such an exciting event would be a shame to miss! But, I feel it is only right to extend an invitation to the two ladies who are being left alone amidst this stirring development," she laughed with a playful wink to Molly. Hey, the woman wasn't completely unattractive either though Josephine was just playing. Did she have true romantic interest in anyone that she gave her attention to? Not truly. She was playing with hearts, enjoying the elation and excitement that such banter and entanglements presented.

The redhaired woman then excused herself from her current company to approach Mika and Melissa, giving both that bright, charming smile. "Good evening, ladies. I do see that your lady has swooned this evening and seems to be quite faint yet your previous companion is currently entangled in a duel with that dashing lady." Her gaze fixed on Melissa, green eyes focused completely on hers. "Would you like to go see the duel? I'm sure between your maid and I, we could help support you so that you could be in attendance. My arm is stronger than it looks, after all," she teased with a wink. "My name is Josephine, by the way. I must say, your dress and hair are exquisite." She looked to Mika and grinned. "Your hard work is duly noted and to be praised."

 

[Ghostiiys]

Adalia twirled the necklace around her fingers as Elijah asked her the question. He had every right to know and to ask her. This was about both of their futures after all. "She looked into the mans eyes as he looked into hers. The silence that had wrapped around them as they where outside in the starry night. It was almost as if time had paused when he asked her. Adalia had looked away to think about what he said.

"If I am being honest. It is all so sudden.. I think we are all just a product of circumstance. Everyone here knows nothing about who holds the other flower.. And I think we all want to make it work.." She sighed before continuing her statement. "Tonight has been wonderful , it has exceeded my expectations , We have weeks to get to know each other. I do not want to make you feel like I am being too forward. So lets take things at a pace, its not like we are getting wed tomorrow right? " Adalia let out a small chuckle before holding Elijah's hand.

"I do want to get to know the fullest extent of you. All your flaws and imperfections. I think the situation we are in right now will let us do just that." Adalia said before smiling. 'Would you accompany me to the ballroom? it is getting chilly out here." She squeezed his hand as she said that while using her free hand to rub her shoulders.

Alvaris

 

[Breathless]

Matthias smiled to himself, hoping Lucas was speaking truthful words. When Lucas lost his step, and fell in, Matthias immediately went out to grab him just barely missing.

He too was wet, but not as bad as Lucas. He felt a little bad that he had caused him to ruin his clothes. Feeling this way, Matthias made a hasty decision, and went to a deeper part of the pond, causing the cool water to pool around his shoulders. He had chuckled lightly as Lucas spoke to the pond.

He shivered slightly, and grabbed Lucas's hand again to leave the cool water. As Matthias went to the more shallow side, his dress shirt stuck to him, and was slightly see through, showing his dark skin contrasted to the white. He looked down almost self conscious, but he pretended it didn't bother him. "No one is really made for the outdoors so don't be too hard on yourself. It was cute."

Confidence was attractive, right?

"Now we are in the same boat. We should probably head back to get dressed, and after you can take the lead if you'd like. We have been doing what I have wanted these past minutes. Oh, and I will replace your suit as soon as I can."

He smiled gently, as he looked into Lucas's eyes. He decided to be a little ballsy, he leaned forward and gave Lucas a quick peck on the cheek before turning, letting go of his hand, and walking out of the water.

He stopped as soon as his feet touched land, looking behind him as he grabbed his belongings.

"Are you coming? I learned that time is precious, and waits on no one Mr. Lucas."

Then Matthias winked.

How cocky that boy is.

MToki