One Dance to Rule Them All (A Flashback)

[Ritual Lobotomy]

Location: Sky - Carrow Mansion

The trail of guests seemed to be neverending, but not even for the moment did Glesni disrupt her posture nor snuff out the welcoming smile on her face. Under the ever-vigilant eye of her father, Glesni played along to the image of a host who didn't hate every moment of being exposed to so many eyes and people she had never seen before. But there was one good thing about it all; her connections were building themselves as she stood there, a polite, approachable dollface. The bad thing about that good thing was that most of those she had welcomed saw her as nothing more than an opportunity for connections of their own. Surely, it wasn't her wit that had them all smiling at her so eagerly, but her wit was certainly what kept her alerted and scheming for ways out.

Aware that her father eagerly waited for her to be of fitting age to attract courters, she dreaded the event and compliments she had received. On the other hand, Branok dreaded his daughter's resistance and the effect it would have on his network. But they knew each other well enough to agree without a spoken word: Glesni would play a perfect daughter as long as he dropped the idea of parading her around throughout the evening. It was a fragile agreement that was bound to end in a fight as any other, but for the time being, it was acceptable.

"Welcome."
"Wonderful to see you."
"Father and I are eager to welcome you to our home."

Blah, blah, bullshit.

Branok Carrow glided across the event hall with the aggressive politeness of a good host and engaged in honey-tongued conversations, the antidote to many resistances of the high society members. Even long after his seat in the Council was secured, Branok did not miss a queue to appeal and connect.

Neatly decorated and well-stocked with high-quality food, the party was, unsurprisingly, a classically lavish one, accessible only with an invitation from the host himself. But even though he'd rather skip over some that were now arriving, having people talk about potential issues between Carrow and others of their kind was out of the question. After all, he was there to extend a helping hand to everyone. Just like dear Dacian had done before him. A real tear-jerker. He was nothing if not willing to fill his shoes. And more.

Much to Glesni's satisfaction, the area soon filled enough for Branok to no longer pay attention to her. With a sigh, she relaxed, quickly grabbing a glass of champagne from the passing waitress.

"Shh," she whispered and winked at the waitress who nodded in understanding and continued her round. Miss Carrow didn't even like champagne, but it would do for the moment.

@DayDreamer @Nemopedia @Noctis the Devious

 

[Noctis the Devious]

Raina hoped locking herself away in the Birdcage would have made her mother forget her completely. Instead, her mother dragged her down and made her get ready in the dressing room — because yes, while people had large closets they had a whole room dedicated to getting ready. It was her mother's personal assistant who was in charge of stuffing Raina into a dress her Dad definitely would not have approved of and caking make-up on her face. The whole ensemble made her look older than she actually was and her stomach churned at the possibility of it being done on purpose.

For once in her life she stood off quietly to the side with Declan positioned on one side of her with his previously styled hair now pointing in every direction from running his hands through it, and Kyler on her other side appearing to scan the room. "There's no red wine," she overheard him mutter.

Huh? "Red wine–" Both Declan and Raina's attention snapped to him. She grinned wolfishly. "Oh, that's brilliant. Why didn't I think of that?"

"We won't need red wine specifically," Declan said, now also scanning the room. "There at least has to be champagne."

"I think I saw some... but I doubt they would let us grab it. We'll have to be sneaky about this."

"Oh please, I'll have it poured on this dress faster than anyone can say anything," Raina grouched. She went to make a move towards it but Declan caught her.

"Get back here. Mother will have your head. You'll be lucky if she doesn't donate all your stuff." Raina huffed but retreated. "I'll convince a waiter that a large group needs a bunch of poured champagne, and while they're on their way, you can walk into them."

"Yeah, but wouldn't the waiter get in trouble?"

Raina's eyebrow twiched as she practically heard her mother screech, Do you have any idea how much that dress cost?! From the other side of the room. "She would be more forgiving toward another attend– What?" She snapped, practically feeling Declan's gaze burn into her.

"Are you as tall as me?"

"You're just now noticing?!" Unlike most of her family who shot up like bean stalks, especially the women, Raina was left with the short straw while Declan already dwarfed her. "Dear Mother got the dress length wrong and instead of having it altered she just shoved me in the tallest heels she could find, and you still can't see them. My feet are killing me."

"How are you not dead?"

Not missing the chance to gloat, she preened, "I'm just that good."

"Okay, so we need to figure out how we're going to do this before Raina takes off her shoes and murders someone with them."

 

[Nemopedia]

AUGUST - THE SKY; CARROW MANSION
@Noctis the Devious

Years at the Academy had taught August how to dress formally, or at least own formal dress. Caleb was another story, but having grown up as neighbours and nearly an adopted family member meant that August was bound to wrangle something for his best friend and partner in crime, which meant that August made sure to tie that bow on Caleb and assure said man that it was only for a few hours.

A few long hours.

The Carrow mansion was a sight to behold, with a main entrance larger than the entire compound that August shared with his family and with Caleb and his family. It allowed the imagination to form that the size of his room was probably a mere miniature closet to Glesni, which he knew to be still smaller than Raina's closet.

"Heads down and don't speak, play the score and don't go rogue. I will deduct your pay for every note you play wrong," the butler that led them had hissed into their direction, a very welcoming message, but not one August was too concerned about. The chances of the man knowing how to read music was low to begin with, and musical literacy wasn't something he expected either.

"And only one refreshment, each," was the next instruction when they passed the bar of drinks and food served. Food that August had only heard of before and never tasted, along with expensive drinks in tall glasses that was rumoured to taste worse than the beers in the tankards served in the Land.

"Thank you," August had told the man before throwing a look into the direction of Caleb. It was that the money was good, but he knew that the humiliation they were treated with was unnecessary.

"I will get some drinks, try not to wander off, that butler looks like he doesn't need an excuse to throw us out without any pay," August tells Caleb, eager to find some actual water and food to keep the both of them content for the hours of performing that they were about to face.

And of course to find a friend or two that he happened to have in the crowd. The first one being the surprisingly tall figure of an usually short friend.

"Did you stack yourself or did you finally grow?" came the affectionate tease as the musician snuck from behind.

 

[Nemopedia]

ADELAIDE - THE SKY; CARROW MANSION
@Ritual Lobotomy

There had been plenty of formal parties and dinner parties to which Adelaide had the occasion to dress for. In fact, her life almost seemed to exist solely out of it at times. Yet, she was nervous. Was her dress right? Was it too much, did it drown out her features? Was her hair in place, no stubborn curls? Had she rightly powdered away her freckles and chosen a complimentary lip colour?

Thoughts that raced through her mind as Albert pinched her arm. "Sky to Addy?" Her brother's face came into view, darker curls, bluer eyes. A handsome visage that had many mistresses in the Sky fawning over him. Misses he would entertain any other day wasn't it for the fact that Adelaide had a plus one.

"Couldn't you use one of your previous dresses? This one looks awfully made-up," her brother complained, tugging at the train of her dress that was attached like a cloak, hoping to cover his sister's shoulders a bit more. "It is such a shame you have inherited my looks, the Rosiers are much too gorgeous," he lamented, which had Adelaide give him one unimpressed look.

"Just go woe your lady of the day, or night," she had told the man, who scoffed aghast, as if the very idea was ludacris despite it being his goal every other party.

"Mind your manners, I am simply here to make sure your plus one doesn't stand you up, Addy," Albert exclaims, fussing with an escaped curl from her bun and tugging it behind the diamonds waved into her hair, "besides, what sort of brother would I be if I left you to the side for the first dance?"

Adelaide didn't argue with the man, knowing it to be fruitless. Besides telling Albert that he would be the same brother every other day would shoot him in the heart, it wasn't his forte to observe that Adelaide actively avoided dancing if she could help it, or to observe at all.

His words, however, did leave behind a trail of insecurity. What if her plus-one did stand her up? Adelaide didn't know the man as the type who would break a promise, but Albert had shared his share of stories that represented another man, one that she didn't know. And who was to say that there weren't other sides to her supposed date?

 

[Noctis the Devious]

"Did you stack yourself or did you finally grow?"

Raina brightened at the familiar voice and spun on him, nearly tripping over herself in the process. Damn dress. "Finally gave Caleb a break or did he finally quite on you?" she snarked back. She went to cross her arms but that only emphasized the very issues she was having with the dress so instead she rested her hands on her hips.

"How tall are these heels?" She heard softly murmured before feeling the skirt being lifted up.

"Kyler!" She snapped, yanking it away from him.

"I'm just looking at the shoes," he stated as if that was normal.

"I am not one of your tinkering projects!"

Declan sighed wearily and ran a hand through his hair for the umpteenth time that night. "We're trying to find a way to spill alcohol, or anything really, on the dress so she'll have a reason to change out of it. After that, she'll be back to her typical short self," he explained to him.

"I'm not even that short! Fuck all of you," she snapped. "But yeah, and we need to do it without actually getting caught. Our mother has been more adamant about getting me married off lately and it's getting ridiculous. It's like she's in a race against Branok or something." In fact, while she hasn't admitted anything outloud, she's pretty sure her mother has been trying to make her compete against her cousin. As if she could ever match Glesni in beauty. Her soft features fit the beauty standards of the Sky better than Raina's sharp ones ever will.

That totally wasn't adding to her own mother's dislike of her or anything.

"Why don't we just pay off someone to do it?" Kyler asked.

"Because they'll be too quick to tell our Mother about the bribe," Declan huffed, running a hand over his face.

 

[Ritual Lobotomy]

Virgilius Hildegard
Location: Sky - Carrow Mansion

Arriving separately from his date came with a certain challenge. As much as he would have loved to greet Miss Rosier personally, being surrounded by curious people made it challenging to excuse himself as easily as expected.

While familiar with events of such size, Virgilius often rejected the invitation, preferring to stay in the confinements of his office or his home. Despite this, Virgilius Hildegard arrived and carried himself with great pride, quickly finding a perfect tone and etiquette for the evening. A three-piece with a cravat adorned with Hildegard's family crest and a simple sleek ponytail held in place with a subtle ribbon seemed to be an eye-catching combination. Or perhaps it was the fact that hardly anyone there saw Professor Hildegard out in the wild.

The Professor entertained a group of those that had approached him with half of his attention being thrown across the room looking for a sight of Adelaide… or any other reason to excuse himself.

And what a sight it was.

As she emerged out in the open, the entirety of a chit-chat around him faded into background noise. With many eyes immediately observing her with curiosity and interest, Virgil could understand why she needed someone for support. On the other hand, he couldn't blame them as he found himself just as dumbfounded by her beauty.

"Excuse me. I believe my date for the evening has arrived. Ladies. Gentlemen," he greeted them with a light nod, not wasting time to make his way out of any follow-up questions.

Approaching Adelaide who stood deep in discussion with her brother, he wondered whether Albert Rosier had any idea who his sister would attend the event with. Did he even care at all? He would imagine the answer was negative, considering how adamant Mister Rosier was to make sure nothing of the sort was ever to happen between the two. Rather than being a source of great anxiety, the fact only pushed him further to be a great and unsurmountable barrier for any other suitor her family had in mind. Just because. If he was able to set a standard as remotely as high as she deserved, Virgil was happy to oblige.

"Besides, what sort of brother would I be if I left you to the side for the first dance?"

He heard Albert tease as he approached from behind him, clearing his throat.

"Do not worry, Mister Rosier. I will make sure your lovely sister is well taken care of tonight. I wouldn't let her miss the first dance for anything." Virgil spoke, glancing at Adelaide with a playful smirk and snuffing it out before Albert Rosier could tell how amusing Hildegard found it to be.

@Nemopedia

 

[DayDreamer]

Location: Sky - Carrow Mansion

Caleb had been in the Sky before on a few occasions, but it was always morning and always on business so he never lingered long. Nor did he have to put up with that much of a formal dress. August had seemed very amused to watch and correct his attire blunders and inform him off all the etiquette he could possibly screw up through sheer ignorance. Caleb had paid some level of attention to it but he was sure it would be fine. The goal was simple enough. Get there, play music for the pompous idiots and get paid.

The pay was really good which was the only reason he had not said some choice words to the butler who showed them in. That and the treat of a clear night sky. Stars were not something you could see on Land, at best you might have been able to glimpse the moon on a particularly clear day. Out of curiosity, he had been taking a look around, but instead of focusing on the lavish food and drinks, he was more interested in the architecture of the Mansion and all the little conveniences that a tinkerer could provide if the money was right. "Don't worry mate, I know the plan. Behave, play, get paid, leave." He assured August as his best friend mixed in with the crowd, leaving him behind.

Sliding his guitar case off to one shoulder, he looked around to locate the orchestra seats. He would have to make sure his guitar was properly tuned before the party would truly begin. While he doubted the butler, pompous bastard he was, would be able to tell if his guitar was slightly out of tune or not, Caleb would never settle for anything less than the perfect pitch. Music was an escape on Land and besides, his gramps had drilled it into him: When you do something, you do it to the best of your abilities.

He made his way over to the Orchestra, making sure to keep out of the way of the guests only to find someone already at the seats there. A young woman about his age in a black dress, cradling a glass of what he guessed was champagne, from the looks of it. He had never seen that before but he had heard of it. "Pardon me, Miss. But it seems you are in my seat." He said with a small smile as he set his guitar case down next to one of the other chairs. It wouldn't be that difficult for her to realize that she had sat where the orchestra was meant to sit.

Location: Sky - Carrow Mansion

Marco had spend a considerable amount in the mirror making sure his uniform was sitting properly on him, much to his mother's amusement. While he was not expected to ship off for another week or so, he was still expected to wear his unit's formal wear at any event he attended prior to his deployment. It had been so weird to see himself in uniform for the first time and while he was not a stranger to formal events, he still felt out of his element in this new version of himself. Thank the Stars he was going to be there with Caia and Addy, though he was unsure what to make of the fact Professor Hildegard was going to be Addy's date.

At any case, once he had gotten over himself and had discovered a certain level of comfort that civilian formal wear had not been able to provide, he had left to pick up his date. James, their driver, had the horse carriage ready and the trip to Caia's house was a short one. There were no true long distances in Sky as he would eventually find out.

Being let inside Watkins' residence, Marco waited for Caia to finish getting ready as the butler went to inform Caia and her family that Second Lieutenant Brightfeather had arrived. Having just finished his basic medical studies, Marco had entered the army as an officer but at the lower ranks afforded to medical personnel. But it was alright with him, the military had been more of a chance for him to travel, specialize and gain some experience outside of Golden City before being expected to take full charge of the family name. His mother, being quite old fashioned by the city's standards in all things, had encouraged him to seek out more 'manly' pursuits for she had done all she could to raise a respectful and thoughtful young man, but there were some things only a father could have taught and she had never married.

@Nemopedia @Ritual Lobotomy @Noctis the Devious

 

[Nemopedia]

As if on cue Hildegard appeared, popping up just behind Albert with a teasing lilt and an easy-going smile and dressed to the nines.

"Virgilius," Albert had exclaimed, examining the man up and down in surprising discern. Even the Rosier heir couldn't help but admit that, whilst Virgilius Hildegard was a fine man in casual dress, his features were much improved in formal wear. An admission that was hard to swallow for Albert who very much had grown used to be the handsomest feature of the ball and the night, and who was now to give up on his dearly beloved sister.

"I see you have decided to appear," Albert decidedly continued, which earned him a twack of her fan snapping shut on his arm, "do behave and bring her back whole, I only have one Addy," the brother continued unbothered, ignoring the glare that he received.

Releasing herself from her brother's charge Adelaide was quick to approach Hildegard, her hand already up for him to receive for her and lead her away. "Perfect timing, Hildegard. Bertie here was growing impatient, he has been projecting," she mildly expressed herself, gleefully taking in the quasi-heartbreak that Albert performed for her.

"Don't occupy her for all dances, you know it is bad manners and I wouldn't want fine society to misunderstand your relationship," Albert however warned before finally turning away, unable to resist himself to rub Adelaide over the head, causing the curl from earlier to escape once more, "two dances and then you switch back to me," he tells her, flicking her nose for good measure before waltzing off into the crowd of fine dresses and high cravats.

"My apologies for my brother," Adelaide sighed, leaning in ever so lightly into Hildegard's direction, "he has a penchant for theatrics, moreso ever since hearing about the identity of my much anticipated plus-one," the female continued, already exhausted at the idea that it wasn't just her brother's antic that she would have to deal with tonight.

"We should greet the host, and not only to rise his ire before the first dance is announced."

@Ritual Lobotomy

 

[Ritual Lobotomy]

Virgil

Virgil nodded to the sound of his name from Albert Rosier's mouth, undoubtedly full of converted disapproval.

"And good evening to you too, Mister Rosier."

"I see you have decided to appear," the man retorted.

"I'd say I had a good reason to," Virgil responded readied for Rosier's inquisition as he lowered his head lightly in the presence of beautiful Adelaide who wished to get rid of her brother shadowing her.

"Do behave and bring her back whole, I only have one Addy," the man prodded again, earning himself a polite smirk from the Professor. Adelaide's sudden presence by his side gave him one last push to respond with academic confidence as he laid his hand protectively over hers.

"I will make sure Miss Rosier has a wonderful time as lady deserves."

Adelaide was quick to join the common cause of seeing Albert gone, finding needed support in Virgil's presence. Despite the obvious overstay, Albert refused to leave without his word being the last. As in the academy, so in the society.

Being warned about the way he was supposed to behave himself did not sit well with Virgilius Hildegard. Coming from a more-than-problematic character like Albert Rosier - when social expectations and codes were considered - it felt like an open mockery. Unable to remain in debt to him this time around, Virgil responded before he truly weighed his words. The educated politeness remained, now devoided of any warm undertone typical for such a setting.

"Whether she chooses to keep me company for one dance or more is on Adelaide to decide. You have yourself a good evening." He made an active effort to leave it be as he felt Adelaide ushering him the other way. Her dismissive apology quickly made him forget about his temporary annoyance.

"Nonsense. How your brother chooses to embarrass you is not yours to be ashamed of." With a playful smirk, he leaned towards her conspiratorially. "It may be a bit unorthodox to believe a lady is more than an arm-candy. I hope you will be comfortable being allowed to think and decide for yourself, Miss Rosier. I know. It's a lot to digest." he jested in the light of Albert's implications.

At the mention of Branok Carrow, Virgil sighed lightly. "Of course. After all, it is only polite to have him know of our attendance." He knew just as well as Adelaide how Branok, Albert, and many others would react to the sight. Even so, he found no hesitation nor concern to think over.
For the first time, he was able to pause and fully admire Adelaide's appearance. He faced her with a complementing nod and brightened face. "At least I can understand all the fuss your brother is raising over you." Everso gently, his hand brushed against hers, lifting it to meet him halfway.

"You are a vision."

The soft smell of her skin engraved itself in his mind as he laid a polite kiss on the back of her hand. If Albert Rosier loved theatrics, theatrics he shall provide.

"Shall we, Miss Rosier?" Virgil suggested with amusement, encouraging Adelaide to rest herself against his arm. "The sooner we get this done, the sooner we might hope to have a good time." Just like a nasty task, it was.

@Nemopedia

***
Branok

A little altercation between the Rosier heir and the esteemed Professor Hildegard did not escape Branok's vigilant gaze. Still well capable of guiding the conversation with the guests, he threw a glance every once in a while to follow the development of the situation. He highly doubted that Albert Rosier would truly be foolish enough to openly cause a scene, but he could never have himself fully trust the young man's unpredictable ego.

Virgilius Hildegard was a strange pawn in all of it. Neither here nor there, always remaining neutral and in his lane. Well, now it surely seemed that he had a good enough reason to stir one person Branok knew would gladly have him gone. Perhaps even buried by the gazes exchanged between the two. Curious.

He made a mental note to discuss the situation with Mister Rosier once he saw the event through. His body relaxed when Albert decided to walk off, unsuccessful in provoking the Professor. What did the fool think was going to happen? His eyes then darted back to Adelaide: his younger, witty sister, intelligent and resentful enough to be a problem. Although, admittedly, watching Rosiers gnaw at each other without lifting a finger was a delight. Fortunately, Adelaide had enough etiquette left to send her brother on his way.

He observed the two that remained with interest. The body language, the expressions. The thought of a ruse came to mind when he had seen them earlier. Adelaide was stiff and confused, Virgil responding in the most scripted way as a person ushered to follow along. It was a hard sell he had hoped would repeat itself. However, he hated to admit that he wasn't so sure of it anymore. Whether there was something there, or they both had an apt time to polish the display was something he would have to figure out on the go.

In his mind, a proper approach was strategized even before they headed his way. Grabbing their attention across the room, Branok was quick to adjust his richly adorned suit and quickly took a glance at his pocket watch. Enough time to open a conversation before the music started playing.
"What a wonderful sight," he opened up their meeting when he was at an appropriate distance from Adelaide and Virgil without having to shout. "I have to admit I was a bit of a skeptic that the elusive Professor Hildegard would join us tonight, but I see you've managed to convince him, Adelaide, my dear."

Without missing an opportunity, he gave them both a once-over and nodded approvingly with a warm grin. "Very good! Don't mind me saying, you may as well be the star couple of the evening." For better or for worse.

Respectfully placing his arms behind his back, Branok made a light welcoming bow in front of them. Despite leaning towards the half a century, Branok's immaculate appearance shaved a good ten to fifteen years off. Expectedly, his politeness towards the two who were the source of the ever-spreading gossip as soon as they were seen together earned him a few curious glares and more hushed conversations.

"I welcome you both."

@Nemopedia

***
Glesni

With all of the big, important names in the house, Glesni enjoyed a moment of freedom before her father would reel her in for a presentation once again. The glass of champagne has been emptied and disposed of. For a while, she was able to enjoy the sights around her in peace. As curious as others were, she extended herself over the crowd to catch a glimpse of her father greeting Professor Hildegard and Adelaide, and her lips involuntarily curled up into a lopsided smirk. Good.

Around her, dissatisfied courters that had their eyes on the Rosier exchanged groans and laments.

"Oh, I don't know, gentlemen. She looks very happy with her choice already," she provoked playfully, well aware that the only reason she wasn't put in her place was the fact that she was a Carrow. "Well. Good luck…I guess." She shrugged lightly, fixing her rich black dress and waltzing her way around the room, politely greeting a few others.

She was only reminded of her own "unclaimed" status when a well-dressed man, clearly too old for her liking, took a step forward with obvious intent. Glesni quickly lowered her gaze as he often would to indicate a complete disinterest and disappeared in the crowd, emerging on the opposite side of the ballroom with a sigh. It would be a long, stressful evening. Her father was less than pleased that she had never chosen her partner before the event had started. Looking back at it, it would have saved her a lot of headaches but, what's done was done. The only thing she would have to endure more is her father's ire in the morning when the good times had been forgotten. The thought alone made another glass of champagne appear in her hand.

For now, she observed the empty orchestra and the setup that lay waiting for someone to play a tune. A smirk stretched across her painted lips as she sat herself down, tracing her fingers over the seats in an imaginary tune she had been practicing on her cello for the good part of the previous month. He envied the musicians who would play for them tonight.

Somewhere along the way, her mind wandered off for a sudden male voice to startle her back to reality.

"Oh, Pioneers…" she mumbled, holding a hand over her startled heart. "You gave me a proper scare," she chuckled, focusing her attention on the man who showed up in front of her, insisting she was occupying his place.

"I, uh…"

For a moment, Miss Carrow remained speechless, observing the young man she had seen before and noting the lack of recognition on his part. It was hard to blame him when the difference between then and now in her appearance was so stark.

And yet, she would recognize those playful eyes everywhere. Whether dirtied and bruised or dressed up for the occassion, it was one feature that seemed to hold his true essence, unchanged. The charming smile was a less genuine one than the one she had remembered him giving her in the ring. A shame. But understandable when he had no business having any contact with the attendees.

Realizing herself to be quite inappropriate, Glesni quickly rose from the seat in a somewhat unladylike way as she scrambled to pick up her dress before she stepped on it and made an idiot out of herself.

"R-right. Of course! Please," she gestured to the seat, smiling back. At the corner of her eyes, she had noticed the butler of the house throwing his chest out as he often would when he was ready to give an insolent guest a piece of his mind, but as soon as he made a few determined steps forward, Glesni lifted her hand and he halted in place.

"That is alright, Wilson. You may leave us." Despite the initial disapproval of Miss Carrow's decision, the butler had no option but to stay away, one eye always resting on the heiress.

She lingered at a respectful distance, hands behind her back when she laid her glass down, observing the young man's preparations with great attention. After a few moments passed, the curiosity finally got the best of her and she cleared her throat with a smirk.

"So there is more to you than muscle, huh? How long have you been playing?" She studied the state of his instrument, satisfied with how well it was kept. She could imagine he had a bit of experience already, but she could also imagine it took quite a bit of wit to get to perform at such an event.

"Caleb. Was it?" Glesni inquired further with a softening smile.

@DayDreamer

 

[Ritual Lobotomy]

Caia

Caia Watkins had already finished a couple of glasses of whiskey, her liquid bravery, even before the maid walked in, ready to make Miss Watkins presentable.

"Right. And don't make me look like every other doll out there," Caia ordered as she was sitting down at the vanity. Despite her strict tone, the young maid knew her well enough not to flinch. If anything, she had approached the task with a new-found determination.

"I don't think you could ever, Miss Watkins." Caia rolled her eyes, observing herself in the mirror. Her signature red curls bounced healthily as they were handled, and bright blue eyes were darting left and right across the reflection. She offered an obligatory polite smirk to the maid when she smiled at her over the mirror. She wasn't a bad-looking young woman. Her age was still fresh and her features were of desirable quality. But all she could see was what she no longer was. At the thought of it, she reached out and moved an empty whiskey glass out of the picture. Better.

She only partially participated in a conversation with the maid as she worked around her like a tireless bee. Just as her back began to warn her of sitting too much, the maid announced that it was time for the dress. It was a safe option Miss Watkins has opted for compared to what she was used to. After all, it wasn't every day that someone like Marco had asked her to be her plus one. And it wasn't every day that was the last before he would leave the Golden City for who knows how long. After she went through her standard rant about how it's a ridiculous idea, she had promised him she would be appropriate. The truth was, she would do much more if it had meant he wouldn't leave, but there was no changing his mind.

The maid likely read the concerns on her face as she presented the indigo-blue fitted dress. "Miss Watkins, you will look wonderful, I assure you."

"Either way, my love, there's no turning back," Caia shrugged.

Admittedly, the dress didn't look as half as bad. Observing herself in a mirror, Miss Watking cracked a confident smirk.

"You know what, love? Not bad at all." The maid clapped with delight, admiring her work.

"After all, this dress is lucky to be worn by me," Caia jested.

When the butler sounded the announcement, Caia was still busy looking for any flaws in her hair and makeup, completely missing it.

"Miss Watkins!" the maid sounded, rushing into her room again. Your date is here.

"Wh-what?! Why did nobody tell me?!"

The maid was about to correct her, but Caia was too quick to grab a pair of high-heels and rush out of the room, dragging the dress along with the frantic maid running behind her. Years of sport were too much for the poor girl to catch up to, so by the time Caia stopped at the top of the main staircase of the house, the maid was almost completely out of breath.

"I'm here! I'm here," Caia announced with a wide smile at the sight of Marco Brightfeather.

"Would you look at that!" she spoke as she descended the stairs towards him. "Little Marco in his fanciest suit! Sorry. Lieutenant Brightfeather, huh?"

By now, the man would understand it was a word of endearment from a good friend rather than a mock. With her hands on her hips, she studied him with a grin. "Looks amazing… And you're not so bad either," she jested with a chuckle that cleverly hid the nervousness she felt at the sight of her dashing friend. The military suit flattered him in a way she couldn't have imagined. "Right, uh. Let's go?"

"Miss Watkins," the maid called out to her again with a playful smirk. "Aren't you forgetting something?"

Caia shrugged with her shoes still hanging off her fingers.

"Oh, shoot!"

As if on command, the girl dived and got to work.

Even with the heels on, Caia was notably shorter than Marco, which was often a source of great insecurity for the redhead during their academic days, but a thing she had learned to accept with time. Now, it felt comforting.

"Alright, hot shot, ready to be the best-looking couple attending?"

@DayDreamer

 

[DayDreamer]

Caleb

Had he really spooked her? He smiled reassuringly at her, trying his best not to stare. She was beautiful, but something nagged at the back of his mind. She felt familiar somehow. That had not been his intent and seeing the butler marching over to, most likely kick him out for disturbing one of the esteemed guests -even if she was sitting where he was supposed to work for the night-, Caleb thought he had managed to screw himself even by doing nothing. Except, the spooked beauty before him was not a guest but rather the daughter of the host. And she had decided to keep the angry hound of a butler at bay.

Caleb's eyes widened, but he made himself busy with his guitar to avoid making things worse, murmuring a quick thanks in the process. He tried to ignore how she was observing him and went about tuning his guitar instead. "So there is more to you than muscle, huh? How long have you been playing?" His fingers stopped abruptly, though his tuning had been taking place as quiet as he could as to not disturb the conversations of the guests so he doubted anyone but he and the woman could hear it. "Caleb. Was it?" He looked up, eyes wide in recognition.

"Princess...." He trailed off softly, an amused smirk appearing in his lips as he tried to compose himself and appear professional. He was fairly sure neither of them wanted any questions coming their way by bored, nosy gossiping Sky denizens. "My grandfather taught me as soon as I was big enough to hold a guitar properly. So, quite a long time." Somehow he felt a lot more confident now. At least he relaxed knowing the butler was no longer a threat without good reason. And Caleb was determined to not give him any reason. So he sat back in his chair and returned to his soft tuning of the instrument.

"I have been playing this specific one for the last two years. The last one my gramps claims he would ever make." He run a palm over the belly of the guitar, patting the wood fondly.


Marco

Caia came barreling down the grand staircase, with her maid huffing behind her, causing Marco to laugh as she loudly announced her presence. "So I see, Firecracker." He chuckled good-naturedly and straightened up, mocking the self-preening expected from a posh military officer. "Second Lieutenant, actually, but we can keep that title for anyone trying to be a particularly annoying tick in Pioneers' arse."

A brief 'how dare' expression graced his face as she commented on his suit, but the theatrics didn't last for too long. Caia was in charge of dramatics with Addy as her second in command when it came to their little friend group. "It is the most comfortable formalwear I have ever had to deal with. If I look good in it, is a bonus." He agreed and pointed silently at her shoes, wiggling his finger in a circle as the maid tried to make his dear friend slow down for a moment. He smiled fondly as Caia realized and finally decided to take a breath, albeit a short one. It allowed him to take just enough time to take a proper look at her and she was breathtaking.

"Alright, hot shot, ready to be the best-looking couple attending?" Breathtaking and a force to be reckoned. With the most charming smile he could master, well aware of the fact his physical appearance was quite the talk amongst the eligible ladies, yet not bothering with capitalizing on it, he offered her his arm. "If rumours are true, we might have some competition in dear Addy and Professor Hildegard. I still can't wrap my head around that one!"

He gently guided her outside and helped her on the carriage and directed James to take them to the Carrow Mansion.

@Ritual Lobotomy @Nemopedia

 

[Nemopedia]

Raina was out of place, heavily overdressed, and powdered and heeled. A sight that amused August to no end who had come to be well acquainted with the rebel elite from the Sky.

"Neither, he is --was-- over there," the male responded, turning around to point out Caleb who had already disappeared. As expected.

As long as Caleb stayed out of trouble August was fine with the current arrangement and disobedience.

"He looks just out of place as you do," August continued turning back, grinning at the sheer memory of having to resize one of his formal suits to Caleb. "You should at least wait until he sees you, it will cheer the both of you up."

August was just grateful that Caleb wasn't planning on ruining his bet clothes, if only out of the sheer shock that the price of the fabric alone had caused. There were many bar nights, pit fights and counting cards involved to finally afford it, but an investment well worth the nights seeing the considerable use they had seen.

"Pay me and I can make sure to trip someone onto you? Works better if you take a dance, I will play a devious opener that will sure have you come out scathed," the performer offered nonetheless. The idea of Raina dancing even more amusing than the sight of her dress and disbalance.

@Noctis the Devious

 

[Noctis the Devious]

"Ah, he finally took his chance to run. Good for him," she snickered, looking over August's shoulder to also see him missing.

"He looks just out of place as you do. You should at least wait until he sees you, it will cheer the both of you up." Somehow, Raina highly doubted that. "Pay me and I can make sure to trip someone onto you? Works better if you take a dance, I will play a devious opener that will sure have you come out scathed."

Raina's smile was sickly sweet as she placed a hand on his shoulder. "August, my dearest and loveliest friend," she started, tightening her grip. "The underground will freeze over before I dance with any of these men." She didn't even think she could dance in three inch heels and a dress that was trying its hardest to become her second skin. The wrong length of the mermaid skirt meant the point it sinched at was lower than it should be, so the loose fabric under it was nothing more than a tripping hazard. She could barely handle walking.

And for August it was one night of amusement. For Raina, it was leading a guy on and having him chase her for the next few weeks - if not months - and Pioneer forbid if her mother or Branok decided to intervene. "I'll pay you double to leave me out of any future wedding plans. Okay?" It was kind of ridiculous the kind of fear Raina had towards weddings, given the typical shit she was willing to do, but fuck if she was going to admit to a damn possible phobia.

 

[Ritual Lobotomy]

Caia

Taking Marco by his arm took her back to the Academy when she used to initiate it and he had no option but to follow along. This time, she approached it more patiently than was ever expected, taking advantage of every moment of the evening.

"If rumours are true, we might have some competition in dear Addy and Professor Hildegard. I still can't wrap my head around that one!" She exhaled in response, synchronizing her step with his.

"I know you will think I am crazy, but I think that, at least for tonight, Professor Hildegard could be the best option for Addy." Being close to the young woman, Caia often had an opportunity to listen to all the horror stories women in their social circle had to endure. Naively, she would always lecture her dear friend on how she should show her teeth and they would leave her alone. The fact Caia intimidated the majority of the attempted courters gave her peace of mind not even a gossip over her insolence could ruin it for her.

But, growing up, she had realized life wasn't as easy as that for Adelaide. Only then was she reminded to count her blessings.

"Yeah. Hildegard will take care of her," Miss Watkins nodded confidently. "We both know she was always his favorite. It was painfully obvious." She also understood the problem it could have caused for them both; likely the reason why none were aware of the fact until right before the event. Regardless, Caia never thought to judge either.

As she entered the carriage, she finally felt a hint of excitement for the evening ahead.

"You know what, Second Lieutenant Brightfeather? I have a feeling this will be an interesting night," she smiled widely. "Talking about a proper send-off, huh?"

Oh. Right.

Reminding herself of it being the last big party before his departure, Caia found herself playing with her fingers and throwing glances through the window of the carriage until she was brave enough to speak on the topic.

"So, uh. When are you leaving again? Perhaps we can push in one more hang out before I allow you to leave me all alone," she jested meekly.

"Carrows can't even dream of throwing a party like I do!"

***
Glesni

"Princess...."

The moment of realization on his face was priceless, but for as much as his realization fed her ego, the way he had addressed her brought her right back down. She lowered her head strategically when she felt her face radiating with heat. She cleared her throat once it subsided.

"Yes, yes. Close enough."

From the first time he had attempted that game on her, she made sure to roll her eyes and fuss about it, even though the feeling it invoked wasn't that of disgust she felt with many other nicknames she was referred to. Rather, it made her insides stir vigorously as they would every time she encountered a new and exciting thing. Thankfully for her, he was willing to respond to her question, helping her mind refocus on something else other than silly girly insecurities.

"That is wonderful," she nodded to his story, observing the body of his instrument, obviously tailored to him and he treated it as such. "It is a beautiful instrument. Your grandfather is a talented man."

She found herself to be a little bit jealous of such a wonderful gesture from the man's family if only for a moment. Of course, she was far from ungrateful for her top-of-the-class cello and the opportunity to have the best teachers so she could play it. But she did envy the love invested into the guitar he was holding.

Despite that, the topic was still the one that she was well-versed in, bringing her confidence right back up. She threw a quick side glance towards the butler who still observed them intently, so she adjusted her approach, realizing the old grump was just waiting for a reason to report back to her father. She crossed her arms and straightened up with a smirk.

"Well, I guess it is only appropriate for me to welcome you, fellow musician. I am looking forward to listening to you tonight. And I will be listening," she lifted her eyebrows with a playfully smug smirk of a challenger. "I hope you have something interesting. It's a tough crowd out there. But no pressure," she chuckled, reaching for her champagne. "And that's what they would say. But if I am being honest, plenty of them wouldn't recognize a single faulty note if their lives depended on it."

If it wasn't clear enough that she was speaking from experience, a light scoff and a sip of champagne would do the trick.

"Either way, I believe in you, tough guy," she encouraged him impishly with a wink strategically hidden from the ever-vigilant butler.

@DayDreamer

 

[DayDreamer]

Caleb

Praise of his grandfather's skills had him nod his head in thanks, a small bitter smile threatening to spill on his thoughts about his grandfather wasting away in the smog-filled air of Land in his old age. Many a night Caleb had entertained the idea of leaving Golden City to aid his grandfather's health from deteriorating more than it already had, but that required a lot more money and planning than he could spare at the moment.

Glesni's mention of the tone deafness of his audience brought him away from such depressing thoughts and he suppressed a scoff, giving her a knowing look. "My gramps always said to do things right, so that is what will happen tonight, I assure you." He too, had straightened up, aware of the butler's gaze on them. "Thank you for the warm welcome. If you have any complaints on the repertoire, please direct them to my friend. I am sure he will be happy to accommodate any and all requests." He didn't have to mention August by name. He was certain that Glesni would know who he was referring to.

He wanted to ask her what kind of instrument she played, but he was fairly sure that would be overstepping a boundary with the butler. Chatting up casually with the Host's daughter was a big nono for people like him.


Marco

He chuckled as Caia complained about their old Professor playing favorites. "You're just annoyed he didn't let you ride on Addy's coat tails. He was just fine with me." He winked at her playfully and straightened up as she addressed him in his new title, changing the subject. Her silent did not escape him. Nor was her nervousness. He had been fully aware of the impact he would have on his friends by leaving them behind, but he found peace of mind on the fact that they were not going to be alone. They would have eachother while he was away. It wouldn't be forever. He just needed to get that experience outside of his life on Sky and his childhood memories of Land's orphanage.

He smiled again, but this time it was a gentle one, not at all the teasing, provoking smirk he had graced her with during her complains of over Professor Hildegard's integrity when it came to treating his students equally. "You're not going to be alone. Unless Addy decides to go for the married life, which I highly doubt even if she managed to blindside us tonight."

He poked her cheek, just like he had done when they were younger and he needed to either tease her or bring her out of a foul mood. "I am shipping out at the end of next week most likely. Plenty of time for a small gathering. We need not do something with people who don't matter." He shook his head as the carriage pulled up at the entrance of the Carrow Mansion. "And it will not be for more than a couple of years, just enough to earn me good standing and to satisfy Mama." He assured her as the carriage came into a halt.

"Now, shall we go and find out if we really do have competition as the hottest couple out there?"

@Nemopedia @Ritual Lobotomy @Noctis the Devious

 

[Nemopedia]

AUGUST - THE SKY; CARROW'S MANSION

Was the tightening in his shoulder needed? Obviously, for Raina was suffering in heels and that was a secret delight August tried to conceal, but not too much, it had to remain obvious after all.

"A shame I didn't bring in a photographer, when will you have a chance again to meet me on nearly eye-level?" he responded, considering the option of stepping away to throw off Raina's balance. Yet, he didn't, instead saying; "and I am sure the Underground will appreciate a turn in weather."

The mention of weddings or even planning for one earned a hearty laugh from August. The idea of marriage, or squandering that sort of money was a laughable thought to the man that barely considered himself a full adult yet. Not while still pursuing a better life through education. Not when he couldn't pay his parents back in full yet and didn't have to survive with a thousand and one side hustles. "Oh, you can be assured," he chuckled, reigning himself in upon the realisation that he wasn't at school but within a crowd of high society.

Funny how the wealthy seemed to think Raina was anywhere near the age to marry. The comfort of money must age, August thought before spotting professor Hildegard and associate Rosier.

How easy it was to forget how much the crowds he found himself in differed.

"Maybe Glesni will dance with you, after all this is her father's party," August proposed, suddenly curious to know what his fellow classmate was faring. Was she fighting height as well like Raina? August couldn't imagine it, but it was sure a fun thought.

"Anyway, I was supposed to get something to drink, so unless you want to find yourself in the kitchen with me," August announced, knowing full well that the entire idea of a kitchen with its fiery pits and whatever else could spill on a dress was the perfect environment for Raina to escape her own special hell.

---

ADELAIDE - THE SKY; CARROW'S MANSION

Tonight was going to be one of surprises, Adelaide figured so much at the wide-eyed expression on the face of the crowd upon seeing her, but also at the slight arch of her own brow when watching the exchange between her brother and Hildegard.

"I never took you one to goad," she responded, her fan resting against the tip of her chin before falling open in a smooth movement, "my brother is hardly the opponent to have in terms of wit," came her words next, her lips curled upwards behind the matching fan to her choice of dress.

And there came the next opponent of the night it seemed. Another challenge in the form of Branok, who strode on in confidence, as if untouched by the contempt that exuded from all named Rosier. The smile turned into a grimace, the fan still folded open to hide the disgust and the wince at being called dear.

"Flattered," Adelaide answered, snapping her fan close once she had schooled her expression once more into something more pleasant, "but don't have us steal the show, it is your party, after all," she continued before placing the hand with the fan over the one that held Hildegard's arm.

"For now I believe I have been promised a dance, not?" Looking upwards at Hildegard, Adelaide laid out her confidence thick, smiling knowingly, knowing that a Rosier could never fail in terms of natural charm.

---

ANTONIA - THE SKY; CARROW'S MANSION

In the short while that Antonia had returned, the Carrow's party was the first she had attended. Dressed and decked for the night, green eyes scanned the room. She took note of the musicians mixing within the crowd. Of the performance put on by a pair with a smile meant to kill. Of the host himself, who tried to put forward an image of civility, but truly had none of it.

"Boring, is it not?" Anthony whispered to her, breath fanning warmly over her bare neck while exchanging her empty glass with another full one. "I warned you, but you insisted," the male heir tells her sheepishly.

"The opposite," Antonia responds, eyes glued on all the players in the room, "I have found out so much, all things I have missed," she smiles, but the smile doesn't reach her eyes.

"I know something more entertaining," the male flirts and Antonia scoffs, hiding it in a chuckle as she lightly pushes him off with her fan.

"Don't let your father catch us, he doesn't like me to begin with," she warns, but there is warmth in her voice.

"He never likes anyone," is the response.