Realistic or Modern Spellbound

[xrakkax]

“Oh it’s fine.” Cory assured her. “I mean, you’re being pretty cool about helping me out. It’s the least I could do. Anytime some guy wants to take a dance, you can just tell them it’s been filled. And it will be true too. Mostly.” He chuckled. Of course, in realty, all but the seven slots she’d sign in his would belong to the women he promised dances to, by rights. But the suitors who tried their hand at Rosalie, who she rather not dance with outside of the seven she signed with Cory, would not need to know that. “Besides, I don’t think you’d be able to drag me away without a fight. Some of these girls had a frightening hunger in their eyes.” That evoked a flashback and a nervous clearing of his throat. Two in particular had played tug-of-war with his card. Him standing there like a deer in caught in headlights. He knew one of them was still looking for him too. Cory had overheard her just in time to run before she saw him. “Disturbing, really.” Especially since just about everyone here had come away alive from death matches with Mages.

 

[Soliloquy]

Rosalie grinned at his clever ploy, moving to her bags to fish out a pen. Her own empty card was passed over to him in exchange for his battered, mostly filled one. She worked on filling the remaining blocks with her own name, letters curving as much as the spaces permitted, listening as he spoke. "I'm not too concerned with any of them," she muttered, eyes flicking over the names. None were ones she recognized, meaning they couldn't be too big of threats. She also generally wasn't one to show fear. "If you do need a damsel to come do the rescuing you can let me know. I'm not afraid of a cat fight, Cornelius," she smirked, his now full card held out for when he was ready to accept it, knowing it was going to take him much longer to fill in her bare one.

 

[xrakkax]

The confidence she had got him thinking she truly was a Crosse. The family members he had met so far were no shrinking violets. “I’ll do that if it gets too much.” He chuckled. If she had mean flirting, he wouldn’t know. But Cory did have a passing thought that that would have been the most romantic thing a woman has said to him.

Cory figured he might get away with one or two girls thinking he simply forgot to pen-in Rosalie when they promised dances. And playing off that Rosalie had been first, he would trust in etiquette to persuade the women to accept it without question. While Rosalie may not have noticed any name in particular to stand out, Cory knew a couple of them were-- while not a part of wealthy, powerful family lines-- quite a force to reckon with. However he felt about those dances, it was best to go with them, lest there be a messy row. Cory felt the rest would be easy enough for Rosalie to deal with if such cats did fight.

Once they had finished with the cards, Cory felt comfortable enough to be playful and easy going. He offered his arm to escort her, as if they were taking all of this way more seriously than they really were, “My Lady.” he smiled boyishly. It almost didn’t suit his handsome, manly form. "Might I escort thee to the-- thine?--" He chuckled, "To thine seat?"

 

[Soliloquy]

In truth, it was likely her lack of exposure to the world of hunting that left her less than aware of just how dangerous some might have been. Those she was wise enough to be slightly fearful of were not going to be chasing after Cory for dances. Both his parents and her aunt and uncle had impressive notches on their belt, along with Everest and Cory's brother and sister-in-law. There were other she was aware of that were no doubt going to be present, but likely not fawning over a seventeen year old boy.

His offered arm was truly unexpected, looking from it up to his face and taking a second to respond. A harmless offer and they were both going to the same auditorium, anyways. "I don't see why not," she said with a nod, slipping her card into her pocket, should she find someone foolish enough to question her for a dance. Her arm wove about his, a rather dainty hand resting against his bicep. There was definitely growth there since 2015, she noted to herself, nodding to the door. "Shall we?"

 

[xrakkax]

By the time Cory and Rosalie were walking into the opera house, they saw the massive, elegant concert room almost filled. The bright lighting illuminated the chattering crowd of Hunters. If a bomb were to go off, it likely would all but weaken the community to a handful of wayward hunters scattered through the world too poor to attend the event. Thankfully between Everest and Wesley, and few of their buddies, the security was so tight that air was lucky to pass through.

Cory and Rosalie skipped the nosebleed section and the economy section. They had V.I.P seating in the center up front due to their connections to the hosts. The two drew some appraising eyes-- they did look good together--as well as a few glaring shots from pretty faces who, no doubt, would match some of the names of his card.

As promised the two were on time. Just under the wire, in fact. The lights overhead began to dim as Cory and Rosalie to their seats. The chattering of the crowd lowered to a murmur. When the lights shut off fully over the audience they fell into silence.

Smoke billowed from unseen origins. It filled the stage. A green light shone down on a dainty figure coming forth from the curling whisps. Inara had dressed in a traditional Hindu dancers garb; a halter and pants with cut-outs over her thighs, encrusted with jewels and tassels. Gold bands wrapped around her arms. Her long, black braid fell over her left shoulder. On her head was a crown honoring some Hindu mythical being. She stood, perfectly still, and then the bells started the music. Inara’s body flowed with the ethereal rhythm. When the beat dropped her hips hit like drums. The dance evoked awe and fired up the crowd. By the end of it Inara earned applause. Just as she had come, she seemed to vanish into the haze.



Walking out of the mist to the front of the stage came Wesley. Another applause rose for the arrival of the second host. “Welcome to the seven-hundredth annual Hunters Ball!” The flutter of cheers continued. “Please take a moment to thank Doctor Meifang Xu for hosting last year's Ball.” The crowd did so, and in the way of tradition, Dr. Xu got up and bowed to her grateful participants. “Lady’s and Gentlemen, tonight we honor the traditions of our forebears. Let us take a moment of silence to both give respect to our ancestors and to remember the Fallen who have given their lives in the service to the good of the world.” The crowd murmured into a quiet hum that dissipated into the air. A minute passed. Wesley inhaled, bringing the eyes of the audience to him, “And now, let us give a warm welcome to the Von Helsing Vampire hunters stationed in Dubai who have been the inspiration for the opening performance.”

“For those of you who don’t know, a small group of Hunters would meet on the eve of December thirty-first to hunt Mages performing sacrifices for the coming year. Afterward they often got together for a meal. As the gathering grew, they moved to a hall instead of the grimy taverns they started out in, and since 1317 it had become an official tradition taking place in increasingly larger dwellings to accommodate the participants.” While many of them did know, there were initiates fresh to the world of hunting who still learned these little details about their new profession. It was always wise to repeat anyway. The more these stories were told the more alive they were in their hearts and minds.

“In the passing years, various hosts of this event have strived to give Justice to the memory of the original Ball.. While I do hope my humble abode in Belarus impresses and that I have plenty of food and entertainment, that is not what I look forward to hearing about most.” Wesley chuckled with them for his understatement. Cleary, a castle did not a humble abode make.

“When we hunt, we do so in small groups occasionally. Often we hunt solo. Sometimes in these moments of silence, when we’re weary after hours of tracking or sitting in the camouflaged bushes of some Mage’s ill-gotten estate, these little discomforts add up and can cause us to lose that inch of resolve each time. We forget there is an unseen support system all over the world.” Wesley, ever the charismatic charmer, walked from one end to the other, catching the eyes of this or that person. His steps fell sure and confident. When he stood in the middle again it felt to them that he spoke to each person individually. “My hope is that all of you go home at the end of your visit changed from when you arrived. Nurture old acquaintances, certainly! Make new ones, in fact. Learn from one another to better your hunts, take advantage of the innovations, and leave with a renewed spirit for this coming year.” A common phenomenon, he had observed. “But if there is one thing I want you to take away from this year's Ball, is that there are still people in this world, like you, who are working tirelessly to safeguard humanity from the evils that roam. And that one day our goal of eradicating the Mage will come to fruition. Some say that is a lurk among us. And that there will come a day when the threat has ended and we can lay down our weapons. As John Lennon had once said, Just Imagine.” Wesley knew that, for all the work this entailed, it seemed insurmountable.

“Some say that our fight can never truly end. For the Mage has an advantage that has kept us from reaching that goal.” It was no secret that a man of flesh and blood could only do so much when a Mage thrust a massive boulder their way. Often this resulted in a bloody puddle of skin and bones, and one less hunter in the world. “But I believe those days are over. I believe we have come to a point of equal footing...Some say all I have is a dream. . .” He paused, allowing that to linger, “. . .I take that as a compliment.”

“Ladies and Gentlemen. May I present. . .” Wesley grinned as the wind blew aside the mist and a suit of armor came whirring up from behind Wesley. The form of it took a feminine shape and wa about the height of his wife. The shine of its metal glanced off onto the audience whose mouths gaped and eyes widened.

Wesley raised his hands while keeping his eyes on the crowd. “My dream come true.”

The roar of applause accompanied a standing ovation. Mist thickened to veil their hosts once more. The clapping lasted until the smoke cleared to reveal an empty stage. The lights came on then. People excitedly began to file out of the opera house. They were eager to dress for dinner and dancing. Many of them hoped to get a minute or two of Inara and Wesley’s time. But none of them knew the secret passageways that lead directly to the drawing-room where Wes and Inara were to be found by their close friends and family.

 

[Soliloquy]

Any glares that might have come her way while entering with the younger Cromwell son were dismissed, if even noticed. Rosalie's chin was kept perfectly level as the two found their seats just in time for the performance to begin. The dance Inara flawlessly performed gained quite the murmur of approval, although perhaps less favored from the older womenfolk of the audience. It wouldn't be the last time that opening ceremony that the aged generations might be less than pleased, a good amount too set in their own ways and unopened to new ideas, be that a dance or technology.

Rosalie was one of many who found themselves taunt with the possibilities that were coming. She shared Wesley's vision of the hunters taking their role as the superior race, wiping the planet clean of the vile scum that lurked about. Science and technology were tools that weren't being used to their full capacity, but as the new generation of hunters was rising in the ranks, it felt like that could easily be changing. The suit was even more impressive in person than Wesley could have hinted at, and she felt like a child at Christmas to know she'd be inside it come the morning.

Everest, as one who was privy to more information as the suit had been developed, was still impressed with the finished product. Like Rosalie, he knew that it wouldn't be as well received by others as he and his colleagues might have, but also knew that their days of hunting were diminishing while the youth still had quite the battle before them. If a suit like this could offer protection, even the playing field, then there was no reason to shy away from advancement simply because of change. Likewise, Ellie was also a child born into the world of developing technology, agreeing that if their phones could do things that were impossible a decade ago, that same advancement was needed to eliminate the mage species.

While most were excited for the prospect, Anita kept a firm lower lip as she listened. The suit was a game changer no doubt, but both she and her husband worried that the reliance of technology were only going to make younger hunters grow sloppy. They'd be less aware of their surroundings, using things like the suit as a clutch. Still, both would outwardly share their support for the work, their skepticism was found in private.

As the impressive ceremony came to a close and some began to gradually shuffle out, the Crosse rose to vacate the magnificent Opera hall with plans to toward the drawing room as instructed. Rosalie caught sight of a young brunet who was eyeing Cory from behind like a lioness on the prowl with Cory the unaware gazelle, steadily walking closer. She leaned closer to speak to him, finding the height difference had her on her toe. "I'm quite certain of your admirers is heading this way. Give me your arm and let's get out while we can," she offered, a perfectly calm smile as if they'd just discussed the weather.

 

[xrakkax]

Yonten and Diki were positively excited for all of this. They began a fast-paced conversation in their mother tongue about the possibilities of these suits.

Roderick, having taken his seat by Robert, knew all of this had to do with suits. He wasn’t sure what that would mean. Now that all became clear, he wasn’t sure how to feel. Proud? Maybe a mix of pride. This project certainly wasn’t a small effort. The design, the calculations, the material-- they were not accomplished by a weak willed person. But because of what had come to light, Rod, though admittedly happy for Wes, felt a deep sense of offense, maybe even bitterness, toward Fiona. He gave her a cursory look. Fiona did look proud. But at least she had the decency and the grace to be solemn too. Roderick felt in that second a flutter of mercy in his heart. But he kept his thoughts to himself and simply followed the others out of the opera house.

Lottie had only understood that her momma was on stage. It was all she could really convey to Ellie and Everest, needing to know they saw it too! At their confirmation she moved on to the next most important topic. Doing that kind of thing herself. Because why should mommy have all the fun? Of course, she meant just being on stage where people clapped for her. This she discussed with them as they made their way out.

Cory’s eyes popped when initially hearing the tip. Not only did the brunette see him, but there was the redhead and the blondie coming his way. Quickly he smoothed his features and murmured, “Here, through here.” He weaved with Rosalie around a few couples, and without a word they stepped behind a large statue. To any eye watching, all they’d know is that the two went behind and didn’t come back around. For Rosalie, she watched as Cory pressed one of the identical ornate grape bunches carved from stone and the wall shifted. The two slipped into the passageway. Cory pressed a finger to his lips to indicate silence and to keep this secret. “I’m not supposed to show this to anyone.” Cory whispered, stifling a nervous chuckle.

They tip-toed past many varying ways out and in that, to the untrained eye, you would not know how to get through, though some had keypads. Probably for specific rooms meant to be kept as secure as possible even when someone found the passages. This was especially true for guest rooms. Cory and Rosalie were able to hear and see most of the crowd just inches from them. Paintings on the crowd side looked like any other hand-stroked artwork. For Cory and Rosalie, the technology of the canvas allowed them to see through it like a translucent screen with an overlay of an image that had been painted on the surface. They passed by mirrors that, for them, gave them a clear unobstructed view of people. Some hilariously so, for they checked themselves out in those mirrors, unaware their poses were being seen by two rats in the walls. This route took time. More than if they walked normally. When there were no more young maiden to be found and the crowd thinned, Cory slipped out of the passages with Rosalie into the common halls again.

The rest of the way was the familiar path they had gone before. Cory smiled at Rosalie, a gentle sheepish turn of his lips, “Wesley said to use them only in emergencies. I’m going to count that as one.” He chuckled.

Once the guards let them through, after checking their invites, they saw that a small table of refreshments. Yonten and Diki were still chatting away, munching on snacks, too overwhelmed about their vision of the future to engage. Roderick sat by Robert, smoking a cigar with him. Fiona solemnly studied her wedding band, her eyes studying it affectionately. Then she smoothed over her discomfort with a smile when she saw the two come in, “Have a seat, dears.”

Wesley had made room for them near him and his wife, alongside Ellie and Everest too. Wesley wore a blue formal with silver trimming. Inara, who had a sleeping baby Kit in her arms, wore a matching sari. Three year old Jasper had fallen asleep on Hye. Kazumi did her best to help him with any water he might want, or to take Jas in case he had to go to the bathroom. Lottie was quite happy sitting by her favorites, drinking a juice box.

 

[Soliloquy]

While Rosalie had been prepared to serve as a delicate-seeming bodyguard to thwart off all the women who saw Cory as a young heart-throb, she hadn't thought that was going to involve quite as elaborate of an escape. She followed him through the passageway, unable to shake a grin that she'd had since they'd vanished from sight. He was clever and resourceful, even if he wasn't as smooth of a talker as his brother was. Although she currently wasn't, if she had been keeping a counter of traits in his favor, it would have increased just then.

A few times during their walk, she was forced to cover muffle herself with her palm over her mouth, amused with the sights of others who believed no one could see them. Humans were certainly a peculiar species, and while superior in many ways hunters were not immune to those oddities. Stepping back out into the real world was almost a disappointment, having enjoyed their unorthodox pathing. She nodded in agreement with his conclusion. "I would say your life was endangered and the choice was a wise one, Lord Cromwell," she assured him, a tease in her tone before the two joined the remained of their group where their joke would have to fall silent.

Relieved to find a spot by those of similar age and beliefs, Rosalie tucked herself into one of the available seats, yet again at Cory's side. She helped herself to a steaming cup of tea, although it was a fair amount of self control to finish doing so before turning to Wesley. "The suit is phenomenal," she praised, unable to contain it any longer, seeming to spur a discussion.

"Agreed. In the words of many of your favorite musicians, I think they call it-" Everest started but paused, quickly placing his hands over Lottie's ears and finishing in a near whisper, "Bitchin'." His grin was undeniable releasing the young girl so she could continue obliterating her juice box.

Ellie didn't disagree, but felt it wasn't the only topic of perfection. "Yes, but can we talk about Inara, please? Wesley, however you've managed to trick her into staying with you, best be kicking it up a notch. The suit was nice but I'll be the first to say not the hottest thing on that stage," she praised, adding in a lowered tone, her head toward Inara, "And if you decide to do lessons ever, please do tell."

 

[xrakkax]

Wesley graciously accepted the compliments. He especially enjoyed the slang Everest offered. “It is quite exciting to see a project I started in my teens come to fruition. I firmly believe these suits will provide the protection and advantage needed to sustain our Hunter population and see it grow.”

Lottie missed the word, thanks to Everest's consideration for his friend’s offspring, and she did her best to try to pry it out of them, but to no avail. Lottie pouted with her mouth full of pastry. But not so offended that she would leave. No, she wanted to keep them until her mother dragged her off.

Wesley chuckled at Ellie’s comment, “Yes, I was glad of the mist.” He was a man, after all. And some things were too hard not to react to when his wife was dancing.

At the mention of her mother on stage, Lottie did her best to understand why the temperature was mentioned to be so high. And why her father was happy the smoke was thick. But again, nothing these adults said made any sense. She sat back against Uncle Everest in all puzzlement.

Inara understood, of course, and she smiled, “Ellie I would love to show you. Perhaps a little before we leave for dinner and dancing. My family has reserved a song for group dancing. They wanted to bring a little more of a traditional Indian dance.” The music wouldn’t drop any bass, but the song chosen was nice nonetheless. “They have their own complicated formation, but we can follow with a simple set of moves.” But that was not all. Inara leaned in to murmur, “And maybe a move or two for a private show for Everest.” She knew her parents-in-law didn’t much like hearing her talk like that in public. Even among friends. Whether it was for modesty or a dislike of her, she didn’t know. But she rather not cause a scene in front of the children between her and them. So she had whispered that to Ellie.

Cory’s cheeks blushed hearing all this talk. He was new; to hunting, to affection between him and people other than family. All this talk of dancing, and specifically the bellydancing, had made it difficult not to see certain faces pop in his head. Namely the only girl around his age that was unattached and not related to him that he’s interacted with the entire afternoon. Clearing his throat, he said, “So are the people helping tomorrow going to wear that suit?”

Wesley drew his attention over to Cory, “Oh, there are three types. Brawn, Nexus, and Lithe.” He explained that Brawn was the heavy-duty, almost juggernaut suit. Lithe was basically a skin suit with advantages for stealth, ability, and still able to take some amount of damage. Nexus was a balance of both, though not as durable as Brawn and not as nimble as Lithe. “We’ll see which of these fits the three volunteers best tomorrow morning. The suits are adjustable to an extent. So no need to worry about being measured.”

“You have suit, Cunu?” Diki asked.

“Yes, I do. That one is here. But I rather the attention be on the display-case suits.” Wesley said.

“Which is yours?” Yonten asked.

“A Nexus.” Wesley took out his phone to share a picture.

Inara said, “You’ll learn more tomorrow, but basically the suits are also customizable upon request.”

"The one you wore on stage is yours?" Diki asked.

"No, I wear a Lithe. My profession isn't as demanding in that way. Mage's have such a diverse arsenal. It just makes sense for me to focus on using a suit 'suited' to my needs as a Vampire hunter. We're hoping the Von Helsing branch in India will take interest in Lithe especially."

 

[Soliloquy]

They could be grateful for the purity of little miss Charlotte Cromwell-Von Helsing while it lasted. In a few years they'd have start having such discussions in rooms free of tiny ears, but for now it could sneak past. Snagging a napkin off the table, Everest swooped in to clean up a messy Lottie's lips, immediately defeating his own work when he passed her another small pastry to tie her over until dinner. It was the Hunter's Ball! There was no such thing as over-indulging.

And speaking of over-indulging, watching his fiance and close friend's wife plotting talk of learning the well-revered style of belly dancing certainly caught his attention, a grin spreading. "I've always thought it was important that we share cultures from around the world," he said with the straightest face he could muster, one that was met with a raised brow from Ellie, showing he couldn't fool anyone.

"Sounds lovely," she turned her attention back to Inara, not having missed the whispered offerings. While poor Inara was facing a much harder crowd with her own in-laws, Ellie didn't have nearly as much resistance. In part that might have been because since their engagement she'd made no move to apologize for an ounce of how she was. Anita had only attempted to speak up once since then in protest, arguing that it wasn't 'appropriate' for the two of them to cohabit prior to wedding. There was a long discussion that ended with everyone in flushed cheeks and apparently enough of a valid point from Ellie that it wasn't questioned again. "I'm sure mister culture over here will appreciate."

Rosalie couldn't share quite as much enthusiasm for that form of dance. Sure, it looked fabulous when Inara was up there parading about (somehow with a divine body only months after her third child) but she felt that if she were to try and mimic there would only be worry in the audience that she was having a seizure. No, she'd leave that to bodies better suited for the art of seduction, instead her attention following Cory's question regarding the suit. She was considerably curious and listened to Wesley's explanation intently. She had expected one suit when she had heard whispering of this, but Wesley had of course surpassed expectations by thinking of the different needs of the hunting community.

"We're going to have to test that adjustability tomorrow. Although something tells me you'll be putting me in the Brawn," Everest said with a grin nearly as broad as his shoulders.

"Obviously. I doubt the other sizes would fit your ego," Ellie half muttered under her breath before taking a sip to hide her smirk.

 

[xrakkax]

Indeed, Lottie’s mouth ended up the color of the teal icing. Thankfully Kazumi was free to hand wipes and take the used ones to the trash can. Although a deadly force in her own right, Kazumi couldn’t help the softer side of her coming out around the children. Hye too found his job far more appealing than expected. He thought it would have been all poopy diapers and occasionally defending them with a gun. So far it was the occasional diaper and they haven’t had to pull out their guns. The most they had to do was stop Lottie from getting her little brother in on cookie theft. But yes, at the Ball, they sat back while the little girl happily enjoyed her time with her favorite visitors, plus snacks galore!

Wesley nodded to Everest's words, “Cheers.” He toasted in full and unquestioned agreement.

Appreciate indeed! Inara already thought of the most not-safe-for-work hip-popping moves to teach Ellie. In private, of course. An empty drawing-room perhaps where Ellie and Inara could help her practice. They didn’t want to spoil the fun for Everest before it was time. And obviously, Ellie’s hips doing the dance Inara knew, was no one else's' business.

As for the business of the suits, Wesley had to give it to Ellie, “Eleanor, I thought I’d say I don’t know how Everest managed to snag you, but I can’t believe he did. You're too smart to be snagged, darling. It follows that Everest had to be your choice.” Wesley laughed in an easy manner. There would be no-nonsense of telling Everest ‘no offense’. Wes meant it as a compliment. A woman as intelligent as Ellie would not pick anyone less than impressive. And of course, being as impressive as Everest is smart, he’d be a fool to refuse her. In a way both Everest and Wesley had similar love stories in that regard. But Wes had nearly been the fool. Cory envied his brother’s way with words. He took mentals notes.

They talked amongst themselves for a while until Inara handed off Kit to Wesley so she and Ellie could take time to practice. Kazumi and Hye stayed to help Wes with the children. They hung out for a time until the hour struck seven. Kazumi and Hye took all three kids to eat their dinner and get a movie going. They wouldn’t be out dancing all night like the rest.

The rest of them agreed it was probably time to freshen up before they went down to eat. This night's dinner would be more formal. The hosts were expected to kickstart the feasting. Nothing too fancy, just a few words and then food. So they all shuffled out of the drawing-room to their chambers before it began.

Cory had offered Rosalie his arm to escort to dinner. He had found it a comfort to be with someone who didn’t expect him to be frilly and ‘proper’.

They entered the dining hall with ten minutes to spare before eight. The high ceiling made it feel like they were walking outside. The pillars on either of them felt like redwood trees of stone. Through the arches on the left, they could see the courtyard sectioned off by silk ropes. To the right, a ballroom. All the doors to the far right of the ballroom were opened to allow people to walk, or dance, through the adjoining botanical garden. For now, everyone was too hungry to dance. Since this dinner was much more formal, everyone had a place setting. Some of them got away with fudging their seat placements. Mostly they all sat in their assigned spots.

Wesley arranged their seats together at one of the ends. Being the host had its perks. The seats capping the end of the string of people he made sure were near him were guests he had pleasant interactions with in the past. For one, Alaric, who had supplied most of the material for his suits. Then there was D’Lante who had been the reason why Wesley survived a particularly difficult Mage fight in Italy. While they didn’t have a close relationship, Wesley felt he respected D’Lante as a man and Hunter. There was no resistance when D’Lante asked if his Aunt Tia could come. It was the least he could do. Any move a Hunter made may well spell doom. Most don’t realize how much providence saved their lives everyday. Thankfully D’Lante had been there with him in Italy.

People waited with grumbling bellies. They chatted to distract themselves. Welsey took a mic to speak, “My friends, we have been filled with enough words. Please, enjoy the meal.” Not all hosts were as considerate. Some took the time to steal a few more minutes of hearing their own voice. While Wesley would readily agree his voice was quite amazing, he had been a father long enough to know you don’t withhold food unnecessarily.

A sudden wave of waiters came swooping in with plates steaming with seat-assigned food. Those that fudged now regretted their decisions. A vegan accidentally ate meat. An omnivore gagged at the taste of almond cheese. Thankfully these mishaps were easily fixed.

Aside from those little snags the rest of the Hunter community indulged in some of the best cuisines they’ve had in a while. While Fiona had wanted Wesley to do a three-course meal to be ‘proper’, in the end Wesley decided a savory meal for dinner would be the only thing served at the table. That didn’t mean there wouldn’t be dessert. Along the walls of the ballroom were tables for various cocktails and sweets. Wes didn’t personally like feeling so full you can’t move, and with no way to get more if you wanted later. Many dishes were cooked by the Indian chefs of Dubai. Inara herself ate a dish with pale yellow rice and meat dressed in juices and smelling of curry. Diki and Yonten were calling over their third wine each. Cory and his father ate a classic steak and potatoes. Fiona had decided on a salad and soup. D’Lante was practically seat-dancing in place while he cut into a tender chunk of BBQ. His Aunt Tia didn’t want to admit that her chicken carbonara was better than her own. Alaric and Wesley had coincidentally chosen to eat Korean short ribs with a side of kimchi rice. They noticed this and gave each other a toast of approval.

A good amount of time passed before anyone could speak. Finally, Alaric said, “Wonderful evening, Lord Cromwell-Von Helsing.” He sipped his wine. “A refreshing pre-dinner speech, by the way.”

Wesley chuckled, clearing his throat with his own beverage to say, “Thank you, Sir. And thank you for your contributions. I doubt the suits would have made it this far without your help.”

“Oh it was my pleasure. I am honored to collaborate with any son of Fiona Cromwell.”

Aunt Tia hadn’t really heard of Alaric, but she knew Fiona. For someone to be so familiar and yet not be known to Tia had her question, “Old friends?”

“Oh yes, we had gone to college together.” Alaric smiled, winking at Fiona. “She’s the one that got away.” He chuckled. “At the time she wasn’t a Hunter. I couldn’t take the chance to make a miserable wife out of her.”

Fiona cleared her throat, “That’s right. You left to Canada to train. Then I met Rod.” It would be a year later that they were married. Fiona tried to connect with Roderick with a look of affection, but he didn’t turn his head to her. Either he didn’t see, or he chose not to. No one could tell. Only he kept eating his steak. Fiona downcast her eyes to her soup.

“Yes, indeed,” Alaric recalled. “I was quite busy. My partner died, unfortunately. In the spring of eighty-nine, I think. Mage attack.” He nodded and shook his head. “A shame, truly.” He sighed. “But it wasn’t all bad. I came down for the summer to look for a job down in the old USofA and bumped into Fiona. When was it, June? July?” Alaric’s words were barely out of his mouth when Fiona glanced at Roderick who paused his eating to stare at Alaric, before solemnly going back to eating with a frown. Wesley was too engaged with Alaric to notice. Unaware of any tension, Alaric rambled on, “Anyway, I learned she was a Hunter. We reminisced, talked about this new life she entered, and then I saw she had married. I lamented the missed chance.”

Wesley spoffed, “Well better to be cautious. I may have been married into the Crosse family myself. Willow is an amazing woman. But I think all this is best left to us.” A hunter life would have been terrible to deal with when you’re as gentle and sweet as Willow.

“Too true, Wes.” Alaric said, catching himself, “May I call you Wes?”

“Of course.” Wesley waved his hand. At another request for assurance, Wesley said in a chuckle, “Truly, it’s fine. We’re all friends here.”

Roderick paused his eating, drank some wine, then stood, “Forgive me. My stomach is unsettled. I think I’ll take something and go to bed.”

Fiona, large-eyed and worried, stood too. “I’ll come with you.” She reached out to touch his arm, but Roderick turned on his heel abruptly. Her fingers barely brushed the fabric of his sleeve. “So sorry, excuse me. Please, don’t worry. Carry on.” Fiona said as she left.

All but Wesley and Inara murmured in concern. Wes puzzled over what transpired only a few minutes before brushing aside the incident and going back to his dinner and talking to the others. “I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Wesley said. “He hadn’t been feeling well on the way here."

"Maybe he sick.” Diki said, her nose blushed with wine.

 

[Soliloquy]

Ellie gave a grin that said she knew just precisely how fortunate the two had been to found each other. At another time when less people were already familiar with their story, she might have shared how they first stumbled into each other when he was looking test courting her older sister and Ellie herself was only fourteen. It wasn't for five years from then that she attempted to recontact him, only to be met with the remark that if he had to wait for her then it was her turn to wait for him. Four more years - the audacity! - but the two had slowly formed an unexpected bond over their work until it was clear they'd both only put off the inevitable. On the far side of that journey they were months away from finally both settling down, but she wasn't sure who had needed more convincing, or trapping as Wesley might have thought it. "I'll be sure to remind him of each day," was her thought on the matter before the conversation moved on. The group disbursed with Rosalie accepting Cory's offer, much to a barely hidden delight of Anita.

Just shy of 8, everyone seemed to be making their way toward the hall, often in sets of two. Less fussy with her own attire and rushed along by Robert, Anita had arrived with her traditional simplistic elegance look, arm draped over her husbands. She carried herself with a light step although her eyes still shone with the danger she radiated even as her youth was leaving her. Robert on the other hand, went for a classic long-tailed tuxedo, always certain that his wife could more than make up for his own blandness.

Spoiler: Anita's Dress

Once they were finally spared from the duty of best aunt and uncle in the world and then the impromptu dance lessons took place, there wasn't nearly as much time to get ready as Ellie would have preferred. With immense reassurance that even if they were engaged she'd be stealing all the hearts in the room, Everest managed to coax her out of their room and quickly make their way to the hall.

Spoiler: Eleanor / Everest

The last to leave her room was Rosalie, battling with the dress she hadn't wanted to bring, previously content with plain attire to her aunt's dismay. Everything had fit perfectly, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong, fussing with her hair until a knock at the door announced Cory's arrival to escort her. Swearing under her breath, she hurried to leave, not about to make him wait on her. "Sorry for not being ready," she apologized profusely as they journeyed to the dining hall, arriving closer to eight than she might have liked and undoubtedly drawing attention once more.

Spoiler: Rosalie's Dress

Dinner commenced and everyone seemed happily absorbed in their meals. That was of course, until something more interesting came along. Over the rim of a wine glass, Ellie's dark eyes followed the conversation a few seats down, interested to hear how the histories of another prominently known hunter intertwined with their circle. Had there been a few more seats between them, she might have remarked to her fiance that there was a heavy dose of unresolved tension coming from Alaric despite his words. As it was, it appeared that wouldn't be the only excitement in the meal.

Rosalie had sat quietly in place, eating slowly, mostly concerned that something or other was going to pop out of that dress. She had followed along with the back and forth, though, eyes flicking over to watch as Fiona and Rodney made a rather abrupt exit. Lifting up her napkin as if she were dabbing at the corner of her lips, she turned her head enough that she could speak toward Cory. "Is everything okay? With your parents?" A bold question to ask, no doubt, but it'd been gnawing at her since first seeming them that afternoon. That wasn't just the tension of parents disapproving of a daughter-in-law and their departure only made that more clear. She expected him to know that he could tell her off at his own choosing.

 

[xrakkax]

Cory allowed time between her question and his response to throw off any suspicion of the topic. To anyone else he too took a swipe at his mouth, eyes still on his food. But his mouth quirked to the side and whispered, “Dance.” He hoped that conveyed his meaning. It was clear Wesley and Inara were not as concerned over Rod and Fiona. And Cory didn’t want to chance getting scolded about talking to people over ‘family affairs’ at dinner. So, Cory figured a nice loud song and an excuse to move away from the crowd would be best served by the dancing to come. The second dance of the evening had Rosalie’s name in his card.

While everyone wished the struggling elder couple well, the dinner and the event itself made it difficult to dwell on these small moments of discomfort. After all, none of them could think of a trip where everything went right.

The conversation picked up around the subject of the new generation of Hunters. Wesley chuckled with Everest about that tea party a while back, when they were the ‘new’ kids. “But now my younger brother is one of the people our community will look to, to take on the torch.” Wesley nodded to Cory. “He’s quite a good tracker. And he doesn’t even have to leave the house.”

Interested, and somewhat skeptical, Yonten asked, “What you do?”

Cory put down his fork to take a quick, clearing sip to speak, “I have done studies in psychology and behavior. It has led me to believe that we can find Mage’s in plain sight online. I have many profiles from several e-mail accounts. My usernames are always different, always with different i.p's. LakeFiner2, PrettyPrettyPrincess, HunterX, FallWind.” He explained that in his field they discovered a person would rather feel the pain of an electric buzz than sit idly in a room for an hour. This level of disregard for the body’s welfare in favor of mental stimulation got Cory thinking Mage’s just might be doing the same. Anywhere they could. Although it sounded silly, he thought he’d find them in LARPer groups and MMOs. Where they could indulge in their natural behaviors under the nose of regular society.

Yonten chuckled, not quite sold on it. Diki herself frowned in thought as she tried to puzzle it out. But her drinking took away her focus. It was Tia who voiced their question, “What example can you give? I mean, this is such a serious issue. You don’t think they’d just risk that to play pretend Mage to satisfy an urge when it’s life and death do you?”

It wasn’t unexpected, Cory had dealt with it before. He smiled, “I do. Think about pedophiles. When they are arrested they need to lie about what they got jailed for, because more often than not the prisoners will kill them. There was a man who was doing time in Florida for sexually assaulting a six-year-old. No one knew how the other inmates figured it out. But when he walked into the yard they stopped his head to mush.” Cory explained another story or two. Both just as gruesome. You actually got respect from other prisoners when you killed a pedophile. And people who aren’t pedophiles do their best to make sure they aren’t mistaken for one. Because if there is a single mistake that leads the others to think you are, you’re done. “And yet, there repeat offenders who lurk around parks and schools. The self-discipline to tame a temptation is a force of will as priceless as divine grace, in my opinion. A scorpion is a scorpion, after all.” He called attention to the old fable.

Somewhat convinced, Tia shrugged and went on with her meal. Alaric, impressed, said, “Have you caught any? Or rather, how many?”

“Over a dozen this year.” Cory smiled, having a hard time controlling his proud grin. That earned him a murmur of congratulations. “I work with the contacts Wesley has to take the hits. I think maybe I found a target for Everest once.” Being in a room in some corner of America made it hard to just pop off and go back. Better to stay put and send out locations to Hunters around those areas instead. It confuses law too, for all the conflicting MOs.

“Any you took out yourself?” Yonten asked.

“Once. Recently.” Cory didn’t seem as enthusiastic here. “It was more happenstance, actually. My father and I were on a trip south when my target contacted me about an argument I had with a Pawn-- a term for undetermined--over some in-game item.” He took another bite of food, swallowed, and said, “She happened to be near my location. I told her to come to meet for the first time for some coffee to talk it over.” Cory wiped his mouth and hands clean. “It was pretty dark and I knew her area. You got to make sure you know the pattern of your targets so when you engage the hit is clean. Anyway, I turned off my lights and ran her off a cliff at a hard corner.” It would have looked like an accident.

 

[Soliloquy]

A simple nod from Rosalie before returning to her meal meant she understood. They were surrounded by some of the finest hunters around, having a quieted conversation was not going to happen, and if it did it'd only draw more attention. If Inara could hear a babe wake from two rooms away before it cried, he'd have to wait until they had plenty of cover to discuss it freely.

Everest nodded in agreement with the story being shared. He found it admirable the way they were all re-molding the tracking process. His own work focused on a combination of tracking through financial records made available to them and through the dark web. He'd collaborated with Cory on a particularly stubborn case where they kept coming up with loose ends until Cory had connected through a game. It was a preposterous thought no doubt, especially to those who were bred and would die by blades and guns, but to ignore the possibilities was sheer ignorance.

"A job well done," he praised the younger man, raising his glass in a brief toast of this abilities before taking a drink. "I think there's a true beauty in it as the bastards are all relaxed and don't even see it coming. Glorious."

Ellie also shared her approval. "It's doing wonders particularly for the young mage population," she chimed in. She had tried a similar tactic, using social media rather than gaming but her success hadn't been nearly as broad as his. Not as many were as boastful, although it still served it's purpose for tracking. Her most recent hit would have gotten away if they hadn't stopped for dinner and felt the need to Instagram a picture of their meal!

While Rosalie took the preference of science than the technological approach to their missions, she did appreciate the uniqueness of it. Particularly because as they evolved it seemed everyone was focused on removing the dangers and lowering mortality of hunters. Mage were responsible for her being brought into a world of destruction only to be raised in confusion for the first half of her life. That had all melted away when found by Robert and Anita of course, and now she was just as passionate as those who knew in their youth. If video games and tracking finances meant there'd be one less mage in the world and none of their people had to suffer, then she was all for it. The fact that Cory had been both innovative and successful in his hunts was certainly a point in his favor in her book.

The last of the oldest generation present were less enticed by the conversation of catching one's prey on a video game. Anita in particular was still worried that they were relying too hard on gadget sand gizmos, rather then good old fashion intuition. What was next? Building robots to do the kills themselves? Where would the thrill be if a good hunt didn't end with a dagger in the skull of a mage while their blood coursed down your hands? Kids these days.

 

[xrakkax]

The rest of the meal went smoothly. Once the orchestra in the ballroom began the prelude, Wesley and Inara excused themselves. As hosts they were expected to head off the dancing. The couple took to the center of the room. To the pleasant surprise of the older generation there would be no hip popping-bodies and no hip-hopping music. During the waltz more people joined until everyone was swirling around the marble. Cory’s first dance, being with a copper haired girl, had him sweaty and stammering again. She kept trying to press their fronts together. He was all too happy when the song ended. Cory found Rosalie in time for the second dance. He mopped his forehead dry and then took Rosalie to the dance floor. The slow songs were taken by everyone else. So Cory and Rosalie had to edge closer to the botanical gardens to speak without shouting. They also chose a moderate silver-box step so they didn’t have to worry about twirling so much. It was probably for the best. Cory was flushed with exercise, but he felt his cheeks blush for the beauty and outfit of his current dancing par tender. A spin at the wrong time might spell doom for the integrity of Rosalie’s dress.

“Okay so, about my parents—” Cory began, thankful for the distraction from thinking about the awkward position he’d be in if indeed he was faced with such a surprise, “—there are a couple reasons why they might not be doing well right now.”

Firstly, apparently Wesley was a sweet boy. Gentle, took care of baby birds, and spent time reading. He was too sweet. So much so that Rod and Fiona discussed ways to ‘help’ him grow into a Hunter. Whatever they did, it ended in the death of Wesley’s best friend. Accident or not, Wes had confronted them recently, and came to them for reconciliation. They refused to admit they did anything wrong and Wesley decided if they couldn’t see that they shouldn’t have violated his right as a human to choose on his own, then he couldn’t trust them with his children. They have been barred from having them over entirely. They only get to see them in public spaces, and with the assistants present.

Second, it could have something to do with Inara’s family name. Wesley had added ‘Von Helsing’ to all of the family businesses. Cory knew less about this subject. He knew it had to do with his mom, but he wasn’t sure why. His father has been furious. But because of recent retirement and having signed it all to Wesley, nothing could be done. It appeared that the Cromwell family line and businesses would forever be merged with the dreaded Von Helsing family. Wesley found his parents' disdain of the Von Helsings to be overly dramatic and ridiculous. However, Wes confided in Cory alone that while he meant to continue his work under either ‘Cromwell-Von Helsing’ or only ‘Von Helsing’, if Cory wanted to revert back to only ‘Cromwell’, once he came of age and shouldered his half of the estate, he was welcome to do so. It was likely Cory would. Unless he happened to marry someone who insisted on hyphaning like Inara did. Cory would be cool with it.

Third, something happened twenty-eight years ago. Something his mother did. But that part was more confusing to understand. Cory only knew that it influenced Wesley’s decision to hand Cory full power over the Cromwell name and keep Von Helsing as his own when Cory could take over and after their parents passed away. In the meantime Wes would at least hyphenate.

That was all Cory knew. “Dad has been very upset. And it’s only gotten worse with the Alaric guy here.” He frowned. “He’s never left like that before. He’s always been able to push through uncomfortable situations.”

 

[Soliloquy]

As their meal concluded and the opening dance lured everyone in, Ellie had coaxed Everest to the dance floor although there were certain protests. Something along the lines of his compliance now meant more 'dancing' later in private seemed to have sped up his decision, the two soon twirling and gliding along the floor with practiced grace. It was a relief to know they wouldn't have to waste their precious time doing something as trivial as mastering dance leading up to their own wedding; that had already been handled in the forced etiquette of their youth.

Rosalie had managed to linger beside a pillar to watch the first dance without drawing anyone's attention, many too engaged with their pre-established partners. Spotting Cory, she couldn't help put see him as an animal, trapped in the clutches of a thirsty young maiden. He was freed soon enough though, the two finding a corner they'd be able to talk in while keeping movement enough to call it dancing and keep most at bay. Even at a distance, the music was quite loud and demanding, meaning she found herself leaning in more often than to not to hear as Cory divulged the trouble in paradise.

"Hmm, interesting," she commented, still chewing on the information she was given. It wasn't surprising that Lord and Lady Cromwell had used questionable antics with their son, they did seem like the type who would go to whatever measures were necessary. The last comment drew her attention back to the dinner talk and she gave him a thoughtful look. "If I can be bold...I think your father is threatened by him. The way your mom kept staring at Alaric and well, he certainly wasn't being very modest to talk of someone's wife the way he did. Well..."

She trailed off, not sure if such a suggestion might be an insult to Cory. It wasn't as if he could be held responsible for their parents actions long before he was born, even if it now raised a question of faithfulness. Rosalie knew she was hardly a poster child for healthy family metrics, although whether or not that was public knowledge was still unknown.

 

[xrakkax]

“Threatened?” Cory furrowed his brow. Now, he was still new to all of this. He still had a lot to learn. It was hard for him to think of why his father would be threatened. All he knew of his parents were their longing looks to one another, the late evenings of them walking at dusk, or how they danced in the living room sometimes. To old music that still thrilled their young souls. So the only threat Cory could imagine had been a physical threat of danger. And in all honesty, Cory couldn’t see that tall man beating his father. Whether that was because Cory had an accurate understanding of their abilities, or he was looking at his father through that lens that all kids do, he himself wasn’t sure. However, as Rosalie went on, he found it a little amusing, “Oh that’s just talk I think. Wes does that kind of thing.” He said, thinking especially of how Wesley talked with Everest. All in good fun. Perhaps Alaric and Wesley simply had similar humor. “You should have seen mother’s face when Wesley implied he and Everest were secret lovers at his birthday in front of the crowd this year.” Cory laughed. “I thought mother was about to throw all twenty-eight candles at his head, while they were still on fire.”

 

[Soliloquy]

While Rosalie had been witness as well in the past to the odd comfortableness the two men seemed to have in each other, she wouldn't have categorized it the same as the looks that were bouncing between Alaric and Fiona during dinner until she left. Then again, she could have just been reading too hard into it, always expecting people to pick the worst of two of options, leading to disappointment. Another statement of his only served to add to suspicions, but in the end she elected to keep such things to herself. They were here to enjoy a celebration, not to start pointing fingers with little basis to do so. "I can only imagine," she chuckled. "The few times I have met your mother she doesn't seem to share their...sense of humor."

The music faded out as the dance came to an end, although it took a few moments longer for her hands to fall back to her sides. It was a shame, he wasn't that bad of a dancer at all. "I'm sure you have someone eager and ready to bat," she said with a bow of her head, a smirk lingering when she straightened once more. "Until our next dance, Lord Cromwell."

 

[xrakkax]

“Until next time, Rosalie.” He smiled gently.

The song ended too soon for Cory. But the maidens written on his dance card felt it had been too long. He turned to see their intent stares. Cory sweat just by watching the next one come walking toward him like a heat seeking missile. She hit her target, grabbing his arm, almost clingy and desperate. Cory flashed his own desperate look. He vanished into the crowd. Buried in the to and fro like a soul bring dragged to Hell. Rosalie could almost hear his voice call to her. But she couldn’t be sure. The next song began and it very well could have been the wail of the violin.

 

[Soliloquy]

Rosalie watched as Cory was whisked away to the throb of the crowd, unable to mask a chuckle at the look on his face. They'd run him through the ringer, no doubt, but somehow she felt like he'd be coming back just as sweat-coated as he'd found her before their dance. She watched the spinning masses for a few moments longer before stepping further off the dance floor, less she get in someone's way. Sticking close to the walls, she wandered along, hands clasped in front of her as she heard small snippits of conversation about her.

"The dance seemed to go well," Ellie observed from the dance floor, once more with Everest moving about. Everest looked over where her gaze fell on Rosalie who did seem to have a bounce in her glide as she headed through to the botanical gardens. They'd been made aware that Rob and Anita had hoped for the two to interact, and it hadn't ended as a disaster.

"Yeah, but now she's going to have to wait until he's available again," Everest commented to her, tugging her closer for a small dip before they continued slowly dancing about. "That or she's going to have to beat her way through all the young, single women at this party."

 

[xrakkax]

The adjoining botanical garden might as well have been a forest. The glass ceiling could be seen through the boughs of trees occasionally. Vines of flowers draped branch to branch. Little streams were bridged over by hand-carved wood. Ponds, wherein koi and other extravagant fish swam, dotted through the vast floral world. The fragrant scents, familiar and unfamiliar, waft softly into her nose. The snow collecting on the panels overhead gave the garden a wintery touch. Rosalie turned a corner on the stone path when she heard a hushed argument through the criss-cross of thick vines growing up a lattice wall.

“Alaric, you need to leave.” A familiar, feminine voice demanded. If Rosalie parted a leaf, she could just make out the figures of Alaric and Fiona.

“What? Why?” Alaric chuckled. “Fiona, I am a guest. By your son's request, might I add.” He sighed in a careless, easy manner. “Such a lovely place. Have you seen the—”

“Silence!” Fiona snapped. “I told you I never wanted to see or speak with you again!” Fiona puffed her cheeks.

Alaric nodded, with arms crossed, “I presume you are speaking of the letter.” His tone sharpened. “The one you left behind for me when you vanished.”

“Yes. You should have declined Wesley’s offer.” Fiona set her hands on her hips.

“Mhm.” Alaric tapped his foot. “Here’s the thing, Fiona. You may have made that ridiculous command, but you don’t control me, darling.” With effortless grace, Alaric sat down on the pond edge. “I go where I please. And why shouldn’t I?”

Fiona’s hand grabbed him and pulled him to his feet. She yanked him toward the exit. Alaric, being stronger, took his hand back easily. Rightfully indignant, he demanded, “What’s gotten into you?”

“You have to go! Roderick is quite upset by your being here.” Fiona said in distress.

Alaric scoffed, “Oh, please.” He rolled his eyes while fixing the sleeve she ruffled. “What issue could he possibly have with m— oh.” He studied Fiona. The woman rubbed her fingers nervously together. “Did you two have a ‘talk’ about what happened between us?” Alaric asked, amused. Fiona blushed in embarrassment. “It was a one night fling. You’re married to him now. I can’t believe he’d be upset over some old flame. I was barely a flame.” Alaric cocked a brow, “I was an easily discardable ember, apparently.” There was nothing to brood over, in Alaric's opinion. “Rod doesn’t seem the type to quibble about anyone you’ve been with before you met him.” The color drained from Fiona’s face. Alaric pieced together the puzzle. “Oh. Oh no. You were married to him back then weren’t you?”

“It was a trial separation.” Fiona’s excuse left a bitter taste in her mouth. “We had a huge fight, I— I was hurt. I doubted I could continue at the time. But after that night, in the morning, I knew I made a mistake with you. I knew I loved Rod more than anything and left right away. I never looked back.”

Alaric tsc’d in pity, “Is your marriage on the rocks? Has he lost love for you?”

“No.” Fiona shook her head. That was the only thing she could be thankful for in all of this; Roderick did still love her. They could work this out. They’d be okay. “It’s just, the mistake I made. . .The consequences. . .Rod is, he’s— he’s hurt.”

Alaric frowned at being inconvenienced in this way. “Oh come now, Fiona. Aside from this night we haven’t spoken or seen each other. You said yourself you’re on the mend with Rod. I am no threat to him. You’re all his.” He hesitantly set a comforting hand on her shoulder. Fiona stepped away. “It’s been twenty-eight years, Fiona, what effect could my presences possibly—”

“You don’t understand. So many things have happened in such a short amount of time.” Fiona exhaled sorrowfully. “Just go, just go, please. Rod can’t stand to see you. He can barely stand to see me and Wes.”

Alaric scoffed, “Why would he barely stand to see his own son—oh.” He blinked. Delicately, Alaric asked in a cautious tone, “Fiona, is Wes. . .is he my—”

Fire sprang in Fiona’s eyes, and so did hot tears, “He’s our son!” She insisted aggressively. So much so that Alaric knew it to be both a truth and a lie. Roderick would always be Dad to Wesley, even if not biological.

“Oh my.” Alaric looked in the direction of the ballroom. “Wes has accomplished so much.” Pleasantly surprised, Alaric voiced his mind, “Well now, this is a good feeling. I never thought I’d know what it meant to be a proud father.”

“You never will!” Fiona pushed his shoulder hard.

Aralaic’s winced and caught himself from tipping over. “Easy, Fiona! I could have fallen in the pond.” His hand rubbed the throbbing pain.

“I swear, Alaric, if you do anything to agitate the situation I will, I—I will—!” Fiona stammered to think of the worst thing she could do. Death would be too sweet.

“Darling, I am not one to seek out confrontation,” Alaric said, standing up. “But I don’t intend to scamper off like I’ve done anything wrong. I only just now learned you were married at the time. If anyone here is distressing Roderick, it’s you.” He patted his front, smoothing out the askew fabric. “I’m sorry our night of vulnerability has caused so much trouble. But, this is not my problem, Fiona. And I intend to enjoy the evening.” Alaric took a few steps before he heard her pained voice.

“Please, Alaric.” Fiona pleaded. “Please. . .”

Sighing, he gave her a look of mercy, “I promise I won’t agitate anything on purpose.” Alaric ran a hand through his dark hair. His coffee eyes spilling over the weeping matron. “That’s all I can do.”

Nodding, Fiona took a few steps into the greenery and disappeared. Some passageway, maybe. Alaric left too. He made his way back to the dance floor. While this had been quite upsetting for the Cromwell family, Alaric appeared to shrug off the incident easy enough. The next skirt that came by was swept into his arms.

 

[Soliloquy]

Listening and peering through the lattice, Rosalie was torn between allowing the two their privacy and getting to the bottom of the Cromwell unease. Eventually her curiosity won out, hoping no one would stumble upon her as she became the unknown third party to the conversation. Hearing of the former lovers, it felt as if her suspicions were confirmed. Of course! Roderick was faced with his wife's former fling and was not taking to it well. She could only imagine -

"Oh shit," she breathed when a harmless fling turned into something more. Lord Cromwell wasn't Wesley's father? An affair twenty-eight years ago that was only now coming up? She was suddenly very eager to get out of that garden, feeling that the information was more than she bargained for. Fiona had a look of desperation, although in truth she knew Alaric to be right; she had brought it completely upon herself. Finally the two vanished from sight and after counting to thirty she did the same, following the direction Alaric had walked until she was out of the gardens.

Back in the ballroom, she was attempting to find an enclave she could dwell in until either Cory found her to offer up her next dance on his list or she found more juicy gossip to listen to. No doubt he'd be pleased with just what she had found out. She was looking at a painting while sipping on a sweet champagne, wondering if it'd was like the ones she'd seen in the tunnels earlier that day while they were making their escape. She was wondering if she'd find a button around that she could slip behind and hide as well, just as a voice sounded behind her.

"Well I'll be damned. What's a vision like yourself doing hiding in the corner?" A voice like thick honey was soon matched with an approaching figure. Dark steel blue suit went well with ice cold eyes that were boldly taking in her figure with little regard to if she had seen or not. He had a jawline that could cut through glass and a strong chin, and standing directly in her path. "Tristan de Lancre," he introduced himself, one hand extended toward Rosalie.



Unfortunately, she couldn't bring herself to refuse an introduction at such a formal event, placing her hand atop his offered palm. "Rosalie Crosse," she answered, too distracted by his name to pay much attention as his lips brushed along her knuckles. De Lancre was French and even with her slowly developing knowledge of the hunting community, she was well aware of the 17th century witch hunter of Labourd. The judges actions had been open and public, as frequently occurred in that era, although the general public didn't find his actions quite as noble. Although still renown for the families abilities and historical accomplishments, she couldn't say she'd heard of Tristan directly, a sentiment that wasn't shared.

"Crosse?" One of his well-groomed brows raised at the question, his eyes then shift down to her left hand, clearly searching for something. "Not the one married to Everest. I didn't know the Crosse's had a daughter."

Rosalie had expected to have this run-in at some point and she wasn't keen on telling some stranger her life story. Forcing a smile, her shoulders rose and fell once, shrugging aside his statement. "Well, now you know." He didn't seem to be daunted by this fact, even taking a step nearer, much to her dismay.

"Well then, Rosalie Crosse, as I said you are far too pretty to be in the dark. How about you give me a dance and tell me about yourself?" His words might have formed a question, but a look of sheer confidence said he wasn't asking. In fact his hand was up once more, waiting for hers to accept it.

"I would, but uh, my card is full," she stumbled to answer him, flashing an apologetic smile. "Completely, full, sorry."

Once more his brow raised, nodding over his shoulder to the dance floor where a song was still playing. "Oh? Then who is this dance supposed to be with?"

Well, shit. She hadn't planned on someone asking her in the middle of a damn song. "Cornelius Cromwell," she answered earnestly, seeing as his name was in fact on her card.

Tristan turned to look better at the dance floor, and as luck would have it, Cory was in clear sight of them, dancing with of course one of the chicks on his card. Fantastic. "Hmm, seems like he's otherwise engaged. Shall we?"

At that point, Rosalie realized that she was completely out of excuses and the only way to say no…would be to say no. Finally, she was left with little option other than to accept his offered hand. It wasn't as though he was being out-right rude, just rather cocky. Besides, the song had to be nearly over by now, wasn't it?

Tristan took the lead on to the floor, one of his hands finding the small of her back and keeping her close. He wasn't quite as gentle as Cory had been, if she was comparing the two men. That combined with the whirlwind of information she was still processing from the gardens meant he was quite literally tugging her along.

Thankfully, the song ended quite quickly, Rosalie offering her most charming smile to him as she went to try and retriever her arm. "Thank you for the lovely dance, Tristan de Lancre," she said, her smile dropping slightly when he didn't release her immediately. "I have a partner waiting."

"Rosalie, you don't need to lie," he dismissed her, pulling her slightly closer. "Just relax and enjoy yourself. Enjoy me, I can promise you I'm quite the pleasure to be around."

She didn't want to start a scene with many distinguished hunters around and the fact that she was relatively close to the hosts. That would cause them stress and unnecessary drama between clans, no doubt. "I said thank you for the dance," she said again, this time with a bit more force in her word, moving to step away from him, only to find his hand gripping her wrist.

"And I said, we're dancing again," his charming demeanor was quickly disappearing, his smile still present but his words forced through his teeth.

 

[xrakkax]

As if summoned by providence, Cory, who clearly looked like he was intently searching for someone, saw Rosalie in the arms of Tristan. Being the younger brother of the host had meant he heard a lot about who was coming. And being the son of Cromwell at a Hunters Ball meant he knew the handsome face-- maybe not quite by the first name, but de Lancre came to mind. They were pretty respectable Hunters.

Cory didn't pick up any discomfort at first glance. While good-natured, he lacked many social queues outside the ones taught to function well enough in polite society. So, he sauntered over in that bounce like his father and smiled, "Good evening, Mr. de Lancre." He addressed out of courtesy. His true intention being Rosalie. "Looks like this dance is ours." He tapped his card. Cory waited for them to part. As it was, he had come upon the two still in an embrace.

 

[Soliloquy]

If they had been in any other location, she might have been completely fine with starting a scene in response to Tristan's comment. As it stood, she only contemplated how much longer she was going to have to tolerate his grip on her. He was smart about it, too, keeping their hand between their bodies and pulling her close; they seemed just like many others dancing. It was only up-close the pressing edges of a frown were found on Rosalie's face.

Cory approaching them wasn't fully digested by Tristan who was quite focused on Rosalie and her reaction. Her dark eyes shifted to Cory for only a moment before flicking back to de Lancre. "As I said, I have a partner waiting," her words were clearly forced, once more tugging her wrist in an attempt to escape his grip.

This finally seemed to get Tristan's attention enough that he digested the young Cromwell standing just beside them. With an agitated smile he released her quite quickly, even going as far to bow toward Cory. "Oh it seems he has finally managed to find time for you. Lord Cromwell," he straightened, eyes back on Rosalie. "Once he's padded off after the next on his list, I'll be back for another dance, Rosalie Crosse." Yet again he wasn't offering, simply informing her.

 

[xrakkax]

The only reason why Cory took a moment to evaluate what Tristan said was Rosalie's seeming distaste. Her usual manner didn't match this moment in the slightest. What would have been taken with a grain of salt and maybe a free pass for a benefit of the doubt now colored Tristan disfavorably in Cory's eyes. Cory had initially parted his lips to say a friendly-- well, anything, really--but instead he set his mouth in a grim line and furrowed his brows. Tristan said his piece and Cory pocketed his hands as he studied the man walking away. Then he turned to Rosalie.

Now that Cory felt something was off, he frowned, "Found a loophole with the cards?" The fact that she went along with it implied to Cory she had not wanted to create unnecessary drama. He respected that. "Hm..." Cory rubbed his chin. There had to be another way around confrontation. "Well, next time he comes around and I'm dancing. I'll keep an eye out on you. You can at least tell him he's not on your card. If that doesn't work, I'll end the dance early and say I want to rest a moment with a friend and ask you to walk with me in the gardens." That should do it! Cory didn't think Tristan would be tracking Rosalie. "In the meantime, would you like to dance?" Cory asked politely. "I understand if not."