20:52:06 Viktor` remained as he was, lounging back at the head of the table; his table. Very much like a King on his throne he sat back, merely watching as his guests milled about, chattering about the most fickle of things. So this is what power had been reduced to? Conforming to fashionable niceties and the like? Hardly something he approved of. Nevermind that though, for he noticed at once that the great banquet was coming to an end. Though there was plenty of nourishment about the decorative table, already plates were being cleared. Full liveried footmen were bringing out desserts and sweets whilst the more pompous ladies, what with their demure airs, were excusing themselves and being escorted to their suites on the upper floor to 'freshen up.' Viktor himself was decidedly lacking a sweet tooth and preferred his meals to be of a red meat variety, rare and bloody. A not-so-handsome trait he'd had even before becoming the monstrous entity dubbed vampire. With a forced smirk coming to his lips, the stern man but-
20:52:34 [Viktor`] - nodded to his dining partners. Kaira and Beckett on his right, and Luz and Tristan on his left. Rising to his feet, he shared a glance with a few gentlemen who'd had the same idea. Something along the lines of 'escape the women and retreat for a quick cigar or two before the ball.' Unfortunately for them, Viktor hardly liked them any better. All these men were capable of speaking about were horseflesh, land and age-old fueds. Subjects while, held mild interest for him, became droll and desperate when heard time after time. Viktor exchanged mere greetings with them before shaking his head; no, he would not be joining them. Instead he hurried ahead of everyone through a maze of extravegant halls to come to the Grande Ballroom. Gilded and lit as it was every night, opera-boxes overhead and refreshment tables lining the majority of the large French windows. A ridiculous waste of money if you'd asked him, but a ballroom was needed to hold The Masquerade. Seeing as the event was the most important -
20:52:54 [Viktor`] -regarding the politics of those immortal, he'd had no choice but to conform and install the greatest one these foolish, dullard nobles had ever seen. Voila! There it was. Skilled musicians who were as every bit undead as he began a quiet festive tune upon first sight of the master. They'd continue the little melody as guests began to enter, and only pick up in a waltz when Viktor decided to take the first dance. It was tradition, after all. Though Viktor barely paid them any heed, many of the fifty or sixty odd guests began filtering in, their bodies littering the grand ballroom that could have housed quadruple their size, or more. Habitually, a hand came to brush at his brow whilst he suppressed and inward sigh. Another tiresome night of society.
20:53:10 Ivy_Luthor exits from this room
21:07:28 Seraphin will not rise until the ladies have done so - will wait for Luz to post before starting his.
21:07:55 Ivan_Luthor Seeing as he was already dressed for the main ball Ivan made no side trip to his room like some. Instead he shifted from his place at the dining table offering a brief glance to Adaloura before leaving the dining room and with the mass crowd, entering the Grand Ball room. Emerald irises glanced over the ballroom before promptly strolling to take a perch against one of the walls less populated by others dancing. Ivan hated balls, dancing, and most usually women as well. Pulling out a small silver case Ivan soon opened it to remove a cigarette form the case placing it back on the inside of his jacket promptly after. Lighting the cigarette shortly after with a nearby candle Ivan again would take long slow drags off the cancer stick finding solace in the soothing rushes of nicotine that polluted his undead vessel. Here he would remain until someone bothered him, which wouldn’t be too long after he was comfortable. From his room the only servant he had brought with him soon navigated through the heavily <c>
21:08:14 Ivan_Luthor <c> populated ball room to Ivan handing him a letter. Quirking a brow at this Ivan took the letter opening it with a few careless tears and soon skimming over the words. A the conclusion a roll of the eyes would be his reaction a low groan of frustration soon following such as his place against the wall would sulk some. It seemed by the letter that his elder sister Patricia was back in the region, and though likely missing this pre-ball of sorts…she would certainly be able to accept her invitation to the Masquerade. How lovely.
21:08:18 [Ivan_Luthor] Doesnt care))
21:15:24 Kaira had eaten more than she'd liked to... It made her sick to think she was eating simply to make her blood richer for Viktor when he chose to feed, but she needed to keep her strength up if she wanted to survive in this terrifying environment. The second he'd grown bored of her, or didn't care for the taste of her blood any longer, was the day he fed her to the wolves, so to speak. So, reluctantly, she rose from the chair and shuffled into the ballroom with everyone else. Nothing had really been said to Luz or to Viktor either... The girl had chosen to withdraw into herself and not socialize with any of the monsters surrounding her. Beckett had been ignored as well. Once again, she ignored the strange looks and occasional sniffs she recieved from those she passed by, quick steps bringing her to the elegantly dressed Viktor's side. "Do I have to stay for the ball? It's late and...I'm getting rather tired." Truthfully, most of these people terrified her and the thought of being made to dance with those
21:16:36 [Kaira] charming, sadistic males caused shivers of fright to run up her spine. "I-I'll stay if I can...um...stay by your side." Quite a conundrum that... Her only choice was to stay by the side of her captor, of the man that fed off her, because only there was she safe from the other monsters attending this gala.
21:29:54 Luz had continued to eat her food, just as she had--even as that pea or bean was flicked across her line of sight. She didn’t see it, and wasn’t really paying attention enough to hear it either. Not to mention the noise of chatter, eating, and dishes meeting silverware were filling up her head. Feeling the light squeeze against her shoulder Luz would lower her fork from her mouth and look in the direction of the touch, tipping her head slightly to focus her hearing upon the man’s words. “Oh. . .no. . .” she whispered, setting the fork down into her plate along with the knife she had so blindly used to cut up everything upon her plate. “It’s quite alright.” Luz would find herself saying, not knowing anything more polite than to assure him everything was fine. Oh, she was such a shy girl at times---pity the albino was given moonlight instead of shadow to wrap herself in. Luz hadn’t seen Viktor’s nod, but she did hear his throne shift, and did happen to hear a ---
21:30:25 Luz few other chair shift across the floor. That was her signal to rise. Standing up slowly and making sure her chair didn’t tip back while she did so, Luz held her fingertips against the back while stepping out from between chair and table. Using the touch connected with the chair the blind one would cautiously step around her seat, her other hand tentatively searching the air in front of herself. All in effort to keep from bumping into people, or perhaps further an embarrassing evening by tripping over a chair and landing heels up on her face. However, despite all the slight mishaps from the fork to cutting her food Luz would think it was a lovely evening. Even more so as the music from the ball room had started to leak through the walls and fill the caverns of her mind with tasteful melody. It brought her back to her days as a music student. Luz sighed----Oh, such memories.
21:37:57 [Seraphin] With nothing more than a simple nod and a few steps, Viktor threw the room's complacency into a furor - for where the host went, the guests were sure to follow. Well - everywhere save the vanities and bedrooms, at least. Unless he missed his guess, Tristan expected that Viktor intended to begin the real festivities of this event and lead them all to the Ballroom where they would, in all likelyhood, spend the next few hours. Truth be told, he was rather excited about the entire endeavor - an interesting twist on the age-old waltz had just been recently introduced: the Viennese waltz. Quicker, snappier, and apparently far more interesting for the female partner, it had already begun to spread through the European aristocracy. And where better to debut such skills than at a gathering such as this? With a grin, he'd push his plate away from his place setting, crossing his utensils over each other before looking towards the young lady who..had been seated at his side. She'd already seen fit
21:38:02 [Seraphin] to stand, which meant he could as well - and if his flicked pea hadn't proved his point, her mannerisms now would demonstrate just how blind she was. Was there no other gentleman here to lead her to the ballroom? A pity. He'd simply have to do it himself - and so, pushing his chair back, standing, and pushing his chair back in first - he'd make his way easily to her side, to take one of her searching hands in his own. If she allowed him to do so, he'd not only take her hand, but take it and place it on his upper arm, after threading it through the nook created by elbow, armpit, and side. "Allow me to be your escort to the ballroom?" The words were phrased as a question, but it would be beyond a doubt that she would fare better with him at her side than without - but even still, he was more than prepared to release her if she so desired it. He could hear the music starting, but nobody had begun to dance just yet - which meant that Viktor had yet to step onto the floor. There was time yet.
22:03:17 [Adaloura] frowned a little to herself. Ivan had but ignored her whisperings, only to leave without even offering his escort. She scolded herself inwardly; it would do no good to attract any suspicion but still, as he had been her dining partner it would have been perfectly acceptable. Forcing another endearing smile to full, cupid bow lips the femme rose to her feet. She still wore her pink satin gown and was indeed quite the vision as she went about moving as gracefully as she could to the ballroom. A rather involved task, given her pained body. Upon entering, orbs of deep emerald scanned their gaze over the vicinity. The room in its entirety was draped with ladies and gentlemen of higher calibre than herself, whilst she had been of a respected family, it was only because Viktor had sired her and taken her in as a companion, that she was allowed to be present. Juniper, one of the few freinds she had, was evidently absent. A little morosely, she sidled off to the wall and stood there, rather content to watch.
22:28:46 Luz would never have asked for help---never. However, that didn’t mean she wouldn’t accept help if it were offered to her. Feeling a hand envelop her own she turned in the direction of the touch, recognizing the feel; knowing it belonged to the same being who had touched her shoulder earlier, also being the man she’d stabbed with her fork. Luz curled her fingers around the stranger’s arm---not knowing his name as of yet. “If you would be so kind. . .” she said, her voice delicate and soft, almost lost under the voices and music swirling about the room. Half-lidding her eyes and turning towards the music she would pull her lips into a sweet little smile. Once the stranger stepped off in the direction of the ball Luz would follow, tipping her head from one side to the other as if admiring something she couldn’t see. In fact, she was doing that. Simply enjoying what the rest of her senses picked up. The sensations, smells, sounds, and even tastes ---
22:29:18 Luz that dared to venture across her tongue. “Sir---” Luz suddenly would say, pausing in her step---hopefully her escort would do the same. She turned her body to face him slightly, gazing just over his shoulder while assuming she looked to his face. “I haven’t had the pleasure of hearing your name.” It would be nice to place a name with the voice. The voice was this man’s image to her. Just as Viktor’s voice was his, Jonah’s was his own, so on and so forth. Perfumes could be changed at any given time, jingly jewelry, and clothing as well. But a voice---a voice remained the same; even if one tried to place a mask upon their words. Luz would wait for the stranger’s response, swaying lightly upon her feet with the music’s rhythm.
22:29:27 [Viktor`] finally sprung to attention. He spied both Luz and Seraphin, and breathed a sigh of relief. So unaccustomed to the belle's company, he had all but forgotten her blind state and the fact that he would have needed to escort her to the ballroom. What was done, was done. It was then that his little lamb approached. He smirked a little, apparently amused with her fear. These were foppish, ridiculous men. Hardly frighteneing at least, not his eyes. "I request that you stay." As for him staying by her side? "Wait here, sweet lamb. I will return to you in a moment." There was a dance to be done. Despite the nagging desire he had to roll his eyes heavenward, he kept his peace. Why these ridiculous people needed him to dance before they dared do the same, he did not know. At least the disruption allowed him time with his charge. That said, he but strode forth for Adaloura and bowed low. "I have seen very little of you lately, mon cherie." was his husky greeting, cut short by his quick movement. In but a moment he had -
22:29:46 [Viktor`] - whisked her to his side and begun to escort her to the gleaming dance floor, upon which he bowed to her once more, smirking as his gaze took in her figure. "You are a vision." With that, the musicians delved into a waltz and as they did, Viktor took the first few intricate steps; proceeding to lead Adaloura along.
22:38:01 Kaira didn't like his smirk... All that meant was she had amused him in some way and he could use her own fears to make this night miserable. Her heart sank when she heard his "request" knowing to take it as such and decline it would only bring about anger. He was most likely going to be annoyed and irritated what with having to entertain all these guests and be the host to every single one of them. He loved the woman he went over to, but he didn't love her... She was nothing but a pet to him, a toy, something to be fed off of at his leisure. No way was she just going to stand there unaccompanied. Once his back was turned, she took off into the thrall of people, easily hid due to her petite stature. Unfortunately, it was only a matter of time before her pungeant human scent and her rapidly beating heart tickled at he senses of the blooddrinkers, urging them to seek out the source of the arousal. Viktor was the only one that made her feel safe and, without him, she felt like she needed to be surrounded by
22:40:00 [Kaira] a group of people to avoid being singled out by just one. They were cultured beasts, thankfully, so she was counting on them ignoring her presence and instead turning their attention to the conversations they were enthralled in as well as the dances that had broken out all over the ballroom floor. Hopefully...hopefully no one snagged her around the waist or grabbed her wrist to pull her into a dance. It would be nice to dance, of course, but she was convinced Viktor would punish her for allowing it to happen and allowing another vampire to touch her.
22:42:15 Seraphin would, of course, pause when the young woman at his side did - it would be uncommonly impolite to do otherwise - and turn towards her, expecting that she had something to say to him. He was well rewarded for his guess with a question - one he had been expecting. "Ah! My apologies, for not having introduced myself earlier - but if you would, I should think that titles are rather unnecessary, no?" A pause, and he would smile at her, the expression surely finding its way into his voice. "My name is Tristan, milady - Tristan Sèraphin." If she were privy to such matters as the identities of those who sat upon the council, she might have perhaps heard of him; and if not, then he would be what he wished to be - another name to another face, able to come and go as he pleased. His voice was, as far as vampires went, uncommonly gentle - likely due to the courtly manners that had been instilled into him while he was still mortal. With unending age came the option of lengthening one's patience -
22:42:37 [Seraphin] a possibility that he mourned to see wasted by so many other vampires. After all, they had years upon years to live yet - wherefore, then, would be the need to be rude to one another? Old lives bred older grudges - and a dispute between vampires was never a pretty thing to settle. "I am, I assure you, of quite little consequence - but you, on the other hand..." A pause, and he'd quirk an eyebrow that she'd be, unfortunately, unable to see. "You grace this floor and all those here with your presence. Whom do I have the honor of escorting this evening, might I ask?"
00:46:35 Luz allowed her smile to grow a little while the gentleman introduced himself. Of course, Luz had not the faintest clue who was on the council--the minor mentioning’s of the event were all she knew of it. Jonahs hadn’t told Luz anymore than she needed to know. In this case, nothing. Same as when he brought her along on a little trip, that turned out to be a kidnapping or disposal of a werewolf. She couldn’t remember what had happened after the creature was thrown in the trunk of the car. Pressing her lips tightly together and sweeping her left foot behind her right she gave Tristan a shallow curtsy. Make no mistake, Luz wasn’t being rude, simply cautious of her surroundings. Unlike most here, Luz couldn’t see what may be but an inch from her forehead or a step behind her. “It is a pleasure, Tristan.” she said, righting her posture and stance. With one hand she pressed a hand to her chest, turning her head to the side and --
00:47:02 Luz and offering Tristan a half-curled smile that formed across her lips with innocence. Oh my, the man was too sweet---that is, what she thought at a least. Luz could hardly believe she graced all those here with her presence…But, she did grace Tristan’s leg and hand with her fork, that was for certain. Luz allowed a light, feathered chuckle escape her lips, “You flatter me so. I am Luz Thwitch.” she would say, dropping her hand away from her chest and placing it at her hip where she gathered an inch of her skirt from it’s low dangle above the floor, making sure her feet wouldn’t fumble with the hem. Her name held little importance. She wasn’t known by any far and wide. Despite her strikingly ghostly features that caused her to stand out. Luz was young, holding not even a century under her belt of age. Not much time to make much history at all.
01:08:45 [Seraphin] "It is, milady Thwitch, only flattery if it is incorrect, is it not?" A pause and chuckle, and he would move to take her elbow in his once more, before continuing on with his words. "But rest assured - the pleasure is all mine." Due to the movements of the crowd in all directions around them, it would be more trouble than it would be worth to try and continue standing in one place - and so, if she allowed him to lead her, he would proceed into the ballroom, with her at his side. There would be no herald to announce their arrival, nor would they be noticed by anyone important, Tristan suspected - especially since Viktor had taken the floor with his beloved Adaloura. For a moment, he pondred a moment's envy at their relationship, then decided against it; as delightful as it might be from time to time, he enjoyed his freedom too much to risk having himself hampered by the presence of another. A manor as grand as this one was interesting enough from time to time, to be sure - but permanently?
01:08:53 [Seraphin] The idea was rather disagreeable. Thoughts for another time, nevertheless; for sometime or another, the two of them would have arrived, by Tristan's guidance, along the edges of the dance floor. Wherefore did one attend a masquerade, but to set one's feet to the music in the air? To but sip and nibble at the dainty treats on the tables along the sides? Nonsense. Here, there was dancing - and so, they would dance. He would await the completion of this first song before even suggesting to his current companion that they strike out onto the floor themselves - but when the notes of the current tune faded and began to give way to another, she could be sure of hearing from him once more. "Would you do me the honor of yielding your first dance to me, milady Thwitch?"
22:08:18 Luz simply let her smile continue to glow while she stood there. Of course, when Tristan started to lead the way once more she did follow without hesitation. Luz did, however, walk with the beat of the music already playing, dancing within her mind. The girl was very oriented in the ways of music, even after her rebirth she held a passion for if. Luz momentarily paused the dance in her mind to think---she really should send for her cello. That is. . .if it was still in one piece back at her last place of residence. Clenching her jaw slightly Luz would toss the thought of her battered instrument out of her head and replaced a small look of concern with an honest smile. Pausing when Tristan did she lifted herself up onto her tip-toes, then swayed back down again---looking onwards with blind eyes as if she could see the dancers. In her own way she could. Listening to their feet step across the ballroom floor, along with the sweep and rustle of women’s dresses as they were spun about. --
22:08:35 Luz All light conversation being exchanged between the couples just added to the effect--forcing an almost dreamlike picture form within her mind. People--vampire---the human form, looked like something a young child would perceive. For that. . .was all she could ever remember. Luz was pulled back from her mind as the song ended, looking to Tristan with a nod of her head. “But of course. I shall try not to step on your toes.” Luz said that with a subtle hint of confidence that lingered within the lace of her voice. She wouldn’t step on anyone’s feet---she could dance. Viktor knew she could, and soon Tristan would as well. To be led and honor the melody with graceful movement was something woven together perfectly by Luz.
22:33:04 [Seraphin] "And I shall do my best to keep your unharmed." A genial nod in her direction would go, unfortunately, unseen - but it was the intention that mattered most, no? Once the first dance was completed, and Viktor and his date given a moment's reprieve, the musicians would allow them a small break before beginning to play once more, the opening notes of a stately waltz stroked from their fingertips. Delightful. With a grin towards everyone - and nobody in particular - Tristan would take a single step forward, announcing his intention to take the two of them out onto the floor - and then promptly wait there for her to follow him. The touch of his hand on her wrist - when had he changed positions? - would be firm enough that she would know what he wished, but would hover just on the edge of insisting. In this, as with all things, it was the lady's perogative as to dance or not - and though he doubted she would decline, the gesture was still as much a matter of courtesy as anything else.
22:33:08 [Seraphin] "The First Dance has finished, milady Thwitch - the floor is, I believe, open now to all. Shall we make our entrance?" Tristan was not, in contrast to the other members of the Council, a vampire of great standing or age or power among one of the smaller covens that had formed here and there; and in all truth, the invitation to join the small, select group, had come as a surprise. The years of his mortal coil had been spent basking in the reign and glory of the Sun King - which made him much younger than some of the elders who sat in Council seats as well. But where the Sun King had failed to continue the pursuit of excellence, Tristan had continued the search, aided by the years of undeath. Once a minor courtier, now a member of the Council - but perhaps along the way, somewhere, he had learned a thing or two. Such as how to dance - there would be little stumbling, it seemed, on the floor this evening.
23:09:01 Luz pulled her attention from the dance floor towards that slight tug at her wrist. Blue eyes gazed down towards her own hand. A light smile pulled at her lips and she took as step forward, following Tristan onto the dance floor. “Lead the way.” Luz replied. Her free hand dropped her skirts but for a moment, reaching up to brush a few ghostly strands of hair away from her neck, sweeping them behind her shoulder for safe keeping. Once she felt him pull her further onto the dance floor Luz would reach the free hand out towards Tristan, for him to take of course--and guide. As of now, she knew only where one of his hands were located. Although she was unable to see his feet, Luz was able to keep them in front of herself and not across his own; hiding under the safely surfing hem of her skirt. Ah, the stage was set so beautifully. If only she could see the way that sapphire looked against her eyes, twinkling madly under the warm orange glow from the chandeliers above.--
23:09:46 Luz Really she hadn’t a clue as to what her colours were. Only that her favors were blues and cool purples--soft and delicate colours, just as herself. Anything dark struck against the spirit-esque aura. Tonight, however, she was dressed to awe--rather than kill.
22:37:08 [Seraphin] On the other hand, Tristan's wardrobe had little need for colors that were soft and delicate - enough questions were raised about his sexuality without the aid of such pigments, he thought. This evening, he sported a royal blue waistcoat, breeches, and cravat, with dark green accents that would shimmer slightly, the shades seemingly alternatively blending and standing out at will. As the Lady Thwitch followed him out onto the floor, Tristan would join the other couples who found the nerve to dance the second dance of the night as well, forming what would be the inner circle, if enough dancers took up the call to form yet another outside of their ring. The innermost part of the room would be left empty out of respect for the host of the evening - at least for the first few dances. There, it was supposed, the host and whomever he chose could spend however long they wanted, in the center of it all, with couples swirling and turning all around them. And yet - after leading her to the floor, she would
22:37:59 [Seraphin] find his hands suddenly dropping away from hers, after a parting squeeze, of sorts; for at that moment, the musicians, having noticed that the number of dancers making their way to the floor had dwindled, would pause in their playing for a scant few seconds. The que to greet one's partner. It was now that each dancing couple was expected to either bow or curtsey to their companion, before joining hands again - and the musicians would, of course, give them the time to do so. The first measures of the song had been played to announce the type and tempo of dance that would be expected - but the dance had not started just yet. His hands would be gone from hers for but moments - but should Luz extend her hands once more, whether she curtseyed or not, his would be there. It would be completely and utterly impolite to do anything but - and Tristan was, first and foremost, a gentleman. In death, and beyond.
23:01:28 Luz felt a soft squeeze to her hands as she took her position on the ballroom floor. Once Tristan’s hands had dropped away from her own she swept her skirts back and slipped one foot behind the other. Only a light dip was given--as her normal fear of what might lie beyond two inches of her nose forced her to never lower any further. Rising up and dropping her skirts she reached out, hopefully gaining hold of Tristan’s hands on the first pat of her fingers. If not, she would continue to seek until they were found---they shouldn’t have been too far off, were they? Luz kept her feet as they were from the curtsy until she felt Tristan take the first step off and lead them both in dance. When doing so her toe lightly glided around to take that first step, assuming either direction from that stance was easiest. My, my, Luz couldn’t recall the last time she had danced so often. Just the other night Viktor had taken her for a spin around on the dance floor---Twice, might I add. --
23:01:38 [Luz] Oh to be treated like a woman again. . .what a treat. It truly was. She wasn’t just a piece of arm-candy taken along for an evening stroll, or that ghost seen haunting dark halls. No, the last couple of evenings she was a Lady. The very thought caused a rather warm smile to appear. Tristan my not know what she was thinking while they danced, but she was enjoying herself---It helped hide the embarrassment she’d encountered earlier in the dining hall.
23:23:35 Emiliana_Dimitri had taken the liberty of tending to her evening meal in her private suite. She wasn't one for gossip and senseless banter; no, the belle simply preferred the company of novels, volumes and scrolls alike. This wasn't to say she was in any way bookish or bland though, she did appear a good bit studious as she sat at her writing desk examining an age old volume on philosophy, a simply childish pout at her rosebud lips that seemed to breath 'concentration'. She was unable to dwell on her particularly thrilling train of thought in that moment for, it was then that her most trusted friend interrupted. "Emilia.." was all she said, her tone warning and scolding all at once. The maid in actual fact wasn't treated any lesser than Emiliana herself. She believed not in the heirachy of snobbish households and was more than pleased to indulge in the playful friendship she had with Marta. Though much younger than her mistress, the woman had an air of age about her. In fact, one could say that with Marta's ever youthful >
23:23:56 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < lips pursed as such, she was but a mother chastising her child. Exasperated, Emiliana could only exclaim with her dainty arms thrown up with emphasis "Marta! I was in the middle of a revolutionary thesis, and you have spoiled it!" She rose from her chair and, as ridiculous as it was, stamped her slippered foot on the ground. And with that, she threw herself face down onto the overly extravegant bed. With a low chuckle, Marta stood her ground. Eyes rolled heavenward and she clicked her tongue reproachfully. "Emilia, you have completely missed the banquet and if you keep this up, you will miss the ball!" Like Emiliana cared. Knowing this very well, Marta came to sit beside the mock-upset mistress, cooing to her with a few friendly prods at her shoulders. "Come on then, if you miss the ball you know you cannot attend the council meeting.." Marta could barely contain the urge to laugh, but managed enough to bait her further. "And if you don't, none of your ideas will be heard." Suspiciously, the scarlet haired>
23:24:15 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < Russian peeked up. This was true. With a groan, she rolled onto her back and swore, "Jesu." Dainty hands that told tales of many nights spent with books rather than needles and embroidery, writing rather than leisurely rides through the park, rose up to cover her eyes. "Fine. But you shall have to dress me!" Emilia supressed a grin. Society would never allow one such as Marta to partake in such events, no matter how intelligent, well spoken and demure she was. More ladylike than the mistress, herself. It was for this reason her friends utmost pleasure came from selecting gowns and helping Emiliana dress for the galant events that she herself, did not appreciate. She was even allowed to wear the great ball gowns Emilia had little care for. At least, whilst in the confined space of her rooms. With a cherub like giggle, Marta set to work. She selected for her mistress a gauzy maroon gown, detailed and lined with gold. For her neck was a teardrop of ruby on a gold chain, with matching earbobs. Long >
23:24:30 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < locks of deep scarlet were allowed to hang loose, the low barrel curls creating a picturesque mane that reached almost to the small of her back. It had taken no more than ten minutes for the skilled ladies maid to be done with her masterpiece and in no time at all, Emiliana had become a vision. It was time with a ball. Bidding her friend adieu, she exited her chambers and made her way through the maze that was Viktor's household and entered the Grande Ball as discretely as possible. Not an easy forte given her striking her, and catlike almond shaped eyes of deep emerald. Piercing as they were they scanned over the room, searching mostly for council members. She counted off the most influential and important before noticing Seraphin and.. who was that? Not being one to gossip and tattle, she knew very few of the guests save for those in the council.
23:57:26 Seraphin would, of course, be there when Luz came out of her curtsey - shallow though it might be, excusable still because of her slight infirmity - with one hand open to take her hand in his, and the other sliding forward to cup her shoulder. In a few mom- ah, it had started. She'd feel the urging of the first step in the grip of his left hand, and so the dance would begin; one graceful step after another. Up and down, up and down; with every third step, the couples would come together slightly and then draw apart just as slightly on their way down, in the exact same rhythm as all the other couples that were on the floor as well. Contrary to popular opinion, dancing was not the realm of the male to display his talents; for though it was he that took the lead, it was for her to perform. It was the female half of the dancing couple that made the dance beautiful - the only position that belonged to the male was to give her the opportunity to express herself. To identify what it was that she
23:57:36 [Seraphin] she enjoyed most, the positions and flairs that she could perform most smoothly and then display them to the best of his ability - that, above all else, was the duty of the man. And somewhere in there, he likely ought to avoid stepping on her feet, too. Rather unfortunately, Tristan would be unable to mark Emiliana's entrance into the ballroom, since his attention was, and correctly so, taken up by his monitoring of the floor - and his partner. The song still had some time left, but for the time being...he intended to make the most of it. And he sincerely hoped that the Lady Thwitch would, as well.
00:52:51 Emiliana_Dimitri had made her way to Viktor who, after his first dance with Adaloura, had departed the floor. Whilst he didn't exclusively love dancing, he did love dancing with her. He simply preferred to do it in private. This, Emilia was well aware of. Other than his charges, she was the only woman he tolerated. Like a sister, she was. Nevermind that though, for she had approached him and spoken in hushed tones. He'd had an idea and that feline-like gaze of hers had widened in both astonishment and animation. It was a good idea, at that. Something that could benefit them all if only all parties played their respective parts. Nevermind that though, for the latest number had just ended, leaving the striking Emiliana on the sidelines and without a partner. Lush features screwed up into a pleading pout of which, Viktor ignored with a smirk. Damnation. He was decidedly not going to save her. Ever the excitable miss, a dimpled smile found her lush features, cupid bow lips even releasing a musical giggle or >
00:53:15 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < two. The sound itself was cherub-like, and enchanting. She'd certainly captured the adoration of society, gentlemen and scornful ladies, alike.It was for but her slight obscurity and disinterest in betrothal did they cry 'A shame indeed.' Dainty hands took up handfuls of her gown, raising it just so that she could weave nimbly between guests, avoiding at all costs any eligible bachelors or even, the taken men who had somehow decided she wanted a duty dance. Off in her own world, and without a care for properiety, she continued in the game. There was nothing better to do, no?
22:33:04 [Seraphin] "And I shall do my best to keep your unharmed." A genial nod in her direction would go, unfortunately, unseen - but it was the intention that mattered most, no? Once the first dance was completed, and Viktor and his date given a moment's reprieve, the musicians would allow them a small break before beginning to play once more, the opening notes of a stately waltz stroked from their fingertips. Delightful. With a grin towards everyone - and nobody in particular - Tristan would take a single step forward, announcing his intention to take the two of them out onto the floor - and then promptly wait there for her to follow him. The touch of his hand on her wrist - when had he changed positions? - would be firm enough that she would know what he wished, but would hover just on the edge of insisting. In this, as with all things, it was the lady's perogative as to dance or not - and though he doubted she would decline, the gesture was still as much a matter of courtesy as anything else.
22:33:08 [Seraphin] "The First Dance has finished, milady Thwitch - the floor is, I believe, open now to all. Shall we make our entrance?" Tristan was not, in contrast to the other members of the Council, a vampire of great standing or age or power among one of the smaller covens that had formed here and there; and in all truth, the invitation to join the small, select group, had come as a surprise. The years of his mortal coil had been spent basking in the reign and glory of the Sun King - which made him much younger than some of the elders who sat in Council seats as well. But where the Sun King had failed to continue the pursuit of excellence, Tristan had continued the search, aided by the years of undeath. Once a minor courtier, now a member of the Council - but perhaps along the way, somewhere, he had learned a thing or two. Such as how to dance - there would be little stumbling, it seemed, on the floor this evening.
23:09:01 Luz pulled her attention from the dance floor towards that slight tug at her wrist. Blue eyes gazed down towards her own hand. A light smile pulled at her lips and she took as step forward, following Tristan onto the dance floor. “Lead the way.” Luz replied. Her free hand dropped her skirts but for a moment, reaching up to brush a few ghostly strands of hair away from her neck, sweeping them behind her shoulder for safe keeping. Once she felt him pull her further onto the dance floor Luz would reach the free hand out towards Tristan, for him to take of course--and guide. As of now, she knew only where one of his hands were located. Although she was unable to see his feet, Luz was able to keep them in front of herself and not across his own; hiding under the safely surfing hem of her skirt. Ah, the stage was set so beautifully. If only she could see the way that sapphire looked against her eyes, twinkling madly under the warm orange glow from the chandeliers above.--
23:09:46 Luz Really she hadn’t a clue as to what her colours were. Only that her favors were blues and cool purples--soft and delicate colours, just as herself. Anything dark struck against the spirit-esque aura. Tonight, however, she was dressed to awe--rather than kill.
23:26:45 [Seraphin] On the other hand, Tristan's wardrobe had little need for colors that were soft and delicate - enough questions were raised about his sexuality without the aid of such pigments, he thought. This evening, he sported a royal blue waistcoat, breeches, and cravat, with dark green accents that would shimmer slightly, the shades seemingly alternatively blending and standing out at will. As the Lady Thwitch followed him out onto the floor, Tristan would join the other couples who found the nerve to dance the second dance of the night as well, forming what would be the inner circle, if enough dancers took up the call to form yet another outside of their ring. The innermost part of the room would be left empty out of respect for the host of the evening - at least for the first few dances. There, it was supposed, the host and whomever he chose could spend however long they wanted, in the center of it all, with couples swirling and turning all around them. And yet - after leading her to the floor, she would find his
23:26:50 [Seraphin] hands suddenly dropping away from hers, after a parting squeeze, of sorts; for at that moment, the musicians, having noticed that the number of dancers making their way to the floor had dwindled, would pause in their playing for a scant few seconds. The que to greet one's partner. It was now that each dancing couple was expected to either bow or curtsey to their companion, before joining hands again - and the musicians would, of course, give them the time to do so. The first measures of the song had been played to announce the type and tempo of dance that would be expected - but the dance had not started just yet. His hands would be gone from hers for but moments - but should Luz extend her hands once more, whether she curtseyed or not, his would be there. It would be
01:07:35 [Seraphin] With this last dance, Tristan bid the Lady Thwitch adieu at long last, to their mutual - or so he felt - relief; he wasn't entirely sure how long he could monopolize her presence nor her talent upon the floor, and was sure that after her stunning entrance upon the floor, there would undoubtedly be dozens of others desiring to take her hand for a song or two. For that was, after all, what this night was for: a night of revelry, a night of celebration - a night for bonds to be made, and potential friendships sought and solidified. And so, though he regretted having to leave someone of her calibre to the clutching hands of another, Tristan found himself excusing himself from the ring of dancers at the song's end - but only after escorting the Lady Thwitch to the side, as well. One did not, after all, leave an infirm to fend for themselves; that would be cruelty beyond meaning, even for a vampire. But after he had seen her well and safely seated along the side, he would then proceed to escort himself
01:07:41 [Seraphin] to the nearest table that bore refreshments; for, although his throat was neither parched nor his stomach empty, he had found that periodic hors d'ourves went a long way towards maintaining one's stamina and energy upon the floor. Not to mention, it allowed him to cut a stylish figure along the side of the room - since he supposed he might need to do a little more work in choosing his next companion than simply picking the one who had sat next to him at the banquet table. Unfortunate though it might be, of course. Ah - but was there not a Council meeting to be held, later? Perhaps...perhaps he would look for one of the other members, and seek to solidify his position in that way. Through a dance or two, of course. To ask for anything more would be...inelegant. And he couldn't have that, could he?
01:27:38 Emiliana_Dimitri was being pursued, it would seem. Not a counil member but the leader of a fledgling Coven in southern Italy, had come after the belle. He wanted not only a dance but to make an impression. That was his aim for the masque; secure himself a wealthy and land owning bride by romancing her out of all her sensibilities. Emiliana was at the very peak of his list, the well dowried Ivy Luthor following, along with a few other maidens. The Russian however, was the jackpot. The sole heir to her fortunes, the leader of her own coven and a council member at that, she was the choice pick compared to the younger sister of Ivan Luthor who held no council favor at all. Nevermind that though, for he was heading straight for Emiliana. Apparently, still unaware of her game of cat and mouse, merely following after the femme he assumed to be very intent on getting somewhere as fast as she possibly could. The belle in question had spotted him, and whilst in her hurry to get away, and giggling all the while, the usually >
01:28:02 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < graceful Emiliana wasn't quite navigating her path of escape. It was for that reason, upon an illtimed glance over her shoulder that she nearly ran into Sir Seraphin, entirely! Lucky, she'd caught herself in time and merely faltered in her step before a dainty hand jutted out for his elbow. The appendage itself was childishly small but held a firm grip. The action had caught her balance and secured her an escape all at once. Clever, as always. A particularly mischevious but always charming smile found itself at her rose lips. "Sir Seraphin." Her voice was almost sirenous, but sweeter. Angelic in her own right, despite a list of sins that would last her an enternity. "I am delighted to see you this eve!" Genuine, of course. She was, wasn't she? The alternative was taking a dance with that horrid wretch who was sure to leech and cling to her for the entire night. Mind you, he was alot less pleasing to look at, too! Momentarily put off his course of action, the man shifted his stride, heading instead for Ivy Luthor.
01:56:27 [Seraphin] The little chase that was happening just a little distance away would catch the attention of one Tristan Sèraphin, though he would make little move towards either of them - because it didn't seem like it would be necessary, given that the pair seemed to be arcing towards him. What opportunity for...something awkward. And yet - it didn't turn out to be that way, given that the one of the two wearing a gown managed to reach him and claim some sort of sanctuary in the form of a hand upon his elbow, his name upon her lips. A dip of his head would follow the enunciation of his name, though a single eyebrow would quirk in response. "I did not realize I merited the title of 'Sir', Lady Dimitri." A jest, to be sure - but if not for his odd sense of humor, what else was Tristan known for? A slight bow would be made in her direction, before he would attempt to take the hand she had placed upon his elbow and raise the back of it to his lips for the barest of brushes.
01:56:32 [Seraphin] "The pleasure, I am sure, is all mine - have you come to grace the floor and put us to shame, then?" A tiny quirk of the edges of his lips would follow, a noticeable spark of amusement bright in his eyes. "I am, of course, quite honored to be your savior from a brute or two - but would you do me the honor of accompanying me for one dance?" His grin would grow wider still, before he finished. "I daresay I have found opportunity to improve since we last met." Was that the subtle hint of a challenge? Nonsense. Couldn't be.
02:08:33 Emiliana_Dimitri grinned slightly. Sir, Lord? It was all the same. Truth be told, the Russian was far too busy learning philosopher's theorems to bother committing the correct title of each and every member of society. That was just boring and yet, some ridiculous women of her class knew it all by heart. It was as if their life was lived solely to adhere to popularity, and their one and only goal above all, was to be admired. Bah? Had none of them even had the notion that perhaps they could change the world? That perhaps, there were things to learn? Emiliana's fickle attention span had her time sectioned off into several works, thesises and experiments. None were anywhere near to their conclusion. Lucky she had all eternity to finish them, no? "Bah! Tristan, my dear. Titles are but a waste of time.. time wasted that could be spent..." She mulled over his next words. "Dancing!" It seemed a better alternative to explaining her latest educated guess in regards to a most interesting experiment involving the human movement in >
02:09:06 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < in relation to force in itself of which- She shook her head, as if having an inward argument with herself. Emiliana would have to hold that thought. Excitable as ever, she most daringly and scandalously grabbed for his hands and leaned forward as she noted. "I have crowned you as my champion for the event. I daresay you'll have to save me again." Now her tone lowered to even quieter of a whisper. "Especially this event. Viktor has plans regarding matches, the joining of covens and neighboring lands." With a purely decadent smirk she added. "In fact, a little.. most tiny darling of a bird told me that you, my dear, are first on the chopping block." Playfully, her poised index extended, giving him a gentle prod to the chest.
02:09:39 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < That said, Emiliana gave a wink and noted. "Perhaps, I'll have to save you too?"
02:20:27 [Seraphin] For a moment, Tristan had quite prepared himself to look shocked if the Lady Dimitri had decided to utter the word - or words - that so many others would have said in her place - but she did not, and so he was saved the effort Effort which he was forced to expend moments later in the pursuit of blanching, inasmuch as a vampire could blanch; which, due to their natural state of being somewhat lacking in blood, was rather muted in comparison to what a full-blooded human might achieve. And yet, he was certain that she would register his reaction, and know it for what it was meant to be; she was, after all, he suspected, his elder. In vampire years, at the very least. "I-" Ahem. This would need to be worded very carefully indeed. "Am extremely honored that you have chosen me for this position, Emiliana -" She'd addressed him by his first name, which meant he could do the same, no? "-And I do but hope I can live up to your standards." He would allow himself a
02:20:37 [Seraphin] small, discreet chuckle here. "But..what is this about joining of covens and lands, Emiliana? -" But with that, the musicians had picked up their instruments once more, and struck the first notes of their next song, alerting all those who would venture out onto the floor that another dance would begin soon. "-Ah. If the Lady would?" With the slightest inclination of his head to the side, Tristan would indicate in the direction of the floor, pulling her ever-so-slightly towards it with the hand that she hadn't poked him with. "There...ahem." A pause. "There is much I would like to know about this...this..chopping block I am, apparently, on." He would try his very best to not look discomfited. Viktor had his reasons, he was sure - but why would Viktor arrange such a thing without informing him first? Strange, indeed. "But if you are to be my savior, then I have little room for complaint, indeed."
02:43:53 Emiliana_Dimitri blinked. Simply, blinked. After a moment her head came to a articulate tilt and those almond shaped occulars narrowed with concentration. Was he ill? Upon finally understanding his reaction, the belle's eyes widened. "I was...making a jest." Champions? How dreadfully old fashioned! "What I meant was, I was simply going to.. seek out your partnership for a dance whenever less savory offers arise." Now that was saying it better, wasn't it? Ever trite, the woman would have preferred to simply say; 'When I am being chased I will use you an escape. Thank you, and good eve.' Unfortunately, that was most certainly inappropriate. And she'd already scared the man half to death. A flush arising to her own cheeks by fault of the misunderstanding, she allowed herself to be lead over to dance. She went through the motions, as graceful as any of the social butterflies who spent every moment of their free time practising such elegance which only came naturally to her. Her body lowered in a slow, artful curtsy, head >
02:44:19 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < slightly bowed whilst her gaze kept on his. Her piercing emerald orbs peered up from behind lowered lashes, whilst a smirk lined on her lips. Back in her element, she rose to her feet and placed her hands in the appropriate positions before waiting for him to take the first step. As for gossiping? It was hardly so. Viktor had given her permission to speak about such topics, and it was most important that he hear before everyone else did, at t the council meeting. "Viktor wishes to strengthen the ties of the council members. He wishes also to surround lands of human nobles and to bring more wealth to our people." There was no amusement in her tone, for her speech had become soft and soothing. Emiliana wasn't mean at any rate and if this man hated the idea of marrying one of these creatures as much as she did, it would be a delicate topic. "As you know, you are one of the few bachelor council members. It is for this reason you are, to be dealt with first." As if she expected him to be a little disheartened, >
02:44:34 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < the hand that was on his shoulder drummed her fingertips against him gently. "It isn't all bad. You have your choice.." Emiliana paused breifly to think of whose lands surrounded Tristan's own. Whilst Viktor's main lands were here, he did have a large portion close to his. "The Luxors. Whilst he has no female relatives, there are always his charges? He treats them as kin." And Lord knew he had too many. Viktor, the dear, seemed to pick up strays wherever he went. "Mmm. The Luthors. Ivy or, Patricia." Patricia most definately seemed for suitable. She would have gone on had he not spoken again. "Saviour." An airy giggle escaped her lips before she confided most regretfully "Unfortunately I attend as few of these events as possible. I daresay I wont be here to be your champion..-ess?"
20:52:34 [Viktor`] - nodded to his dining partners. Kaira and Beckett on his right, and Luz and Tristan on his left. Rising to his feet, he shared a glance with a few gentlemen who'd had the same idea. Something along the lines of 'escape the women and retreat for a quick cigar or two before the ball.' Unfortunately for them, Viktor hardly liked them any better. All these men were capable of speaking about were horseflesh, land and age-old fueds. Subjects while, held mild interest for him, became droll and desperate when heard time after time. Viktor exchanged mere greetings with them before shaking his head; no, he would not be joining them. Instead he hurried ahead of everyone through a maze of extravegant halls to come to the Grande Ballroom. Gilded and lit as it was every night, opera-boxes overhead and refreshment tables lining the majority of the large French windows. A ridiculous waste of money if you'd asked him, but a ballroom was needed to hold The Masquerade. Seeing as the event was the most important -
20:52:54 [Viktor`] -regarding the politics of those immortal, he'd had no choice but to conform and install the greatest one these foolish, dullard nobles had ever seen. Voila! There it was. Skilled musicians who were as every bit undead as he began a quiet festive tune upon first sight of the master. They'd continue the little melody as guests began to enter, and only pick up in a waltz when Viktor decided to take the first dance. It was tradition, after all. Though Viktor barely paid them any heed, many of the fifty or sixty odd guests began filtering in, their bodies littering the grand ballroom that could have housed quadruple their size, or more. Habitually, a hand came to brush at his brow whilst he suppressed and inward sigh. Another tiresome night of society.
20:53:10 Ivy_Luthor exits from this room
21:07:28 Seraphin will not rise until the ladies have done so - will wait for Luz to post before starting his.
21:07:55 Ivan_Luthor Seeing as he was already dressed for the main ball Ivan made no side trip to his room like some. Instead he shifted from his place at the dining table offering a brief glance to Adaloura before leaving the dining room and with the mass crowd, entering the Grand Ball room. Emerald irises glanced over the ballroom before promptly strolling to take a perch against one of the walls less populated by others dancing. Ivan hated balls, dancing, and most usually women as well. Pulling out a small silver case Ivan soon opened it to remove a cigarette form the case placing it back on the inside of his jacket promptly after. Lighting the cigarette shortly after with a nearby candle Ivan again would take long slow drags off the cancer stick finding solace in the soothing rushes of nicotine that polluted his undead vessel. Here he would remain until someone bothered him, which wouldn’t be too long after he was comfortable. From his room the only servant he had brought with him soon navigated through the heavily <c>
21:08:14 Ivan_Luthor <c> populated ball room to Ivan handing him a letter. Quirking a brow at this Ivan took the letter opening it with a few careless tears and soon skimming over the words. A the conclusion a roll of the eyes would be his reaction a low groan of frustration soon following such as his place against the wall would sulk some. It seemed by the letter that his elder sister Patricia was back in the region, and though likely missing this pre-ball of sorts…she would certainly be able to accept her invitation to the Masquerade. How lovely.
21:08:18 [Ivan_Luthor] Doesnt care))
21:15:24 Kaira had eaten more than she'd liked to... It made her sick to think she was eating simply to make her blood richer for Viktor when he chose to feed, but she needed to keep her strength up if she wanted to survive in this terrifying environment. The second he'd grown bored of her, or didn't care for the taste of her blood any longer, was the day he fed her to the wolves, so to speak. So, reluctantly, she rose from the chair and shuffled into the ballroom with everyone else. Nothing had really been said to Luz or to Viktor either... The girl had chosen to withdraw into herself and not socialize with any of the monsters surrounding her. Beckett had been ignored as well. Once again, she ignored the strange looks and occasional sniffs she recieved from those she passed by, quick steps bringing her to the elegantly dressed Viktor's side. "Do I have to stay for the ball? It's late and...I'm getting rather tired." Truthfully, most of these people terrified her and the thought of being made to dance with those
21:16:36 [Kaira] charming, sadistic males caused shivers of fright to run up her spine. "I-I'll stay if I can...um...stay by your side." Quite a conundrum that... Her only choice was to stay by the side of her captor, of the man that fed off her, because only there was she safe from the other monsters attending this gala.
21:29:54 Luz had continued to eat her food, just as she had--even as that pea or bean was flicked across her line of sight. She didn’t see it, and wasn’t really paying attention enough to hear it either. Not to mention the noise of chatter, eating, and dishes meeting silverware were filling up her head. Feeling the light squeeze against her shoulder Luz would lower her fork from her mouth and look in the direction of the touch, tipping her head slightly to focus her hearing upon the man’s words. “Oh. . .no. . .” she whispered, setting the fork down into her plate along with the knife she had so blindly used to cut up everything upon her plate. “It’s quite alright.” Luz would find herself saying, not knowing anything more polite than to assure him everything was fine. Oh, she was such a shy girl at times---pity the albino was given moonlight instead of shadow to wrap herself in. Luz hadn’t seen Viktor’s nod, but she did hear his throne shift, and did happen to hear a ---
21:30:25 Luz few other chair shift across the floor. That was her signal to rise. Standing up slowly and making sure her chair didn’t tip back while she did so, Luz held her fingertips against the back while stepping out from between chair and table. Using the touch connected with the chair the blind one would cautiously step around her seat, her other hand tentatively searching the air in front of herself. All in effort to keep from bumping into people, or perhaps further an embarrassing evening by tripping over a chair and landing heels up on her face. However, despite all the slight mishaps from the fork to cutting her food Luz would think it was a lovely evening. Even more so as the music from the ball room had started to leak through the walls and fill the caverns of her mind with tasteful melody. It brought her back to her days as a music student. Luz sighed----Oh, such memories.
21:37:57 [Seraphin] With nothing more than a simple nod and a few steps, Viktor threw the room's complacency into a furor - for where the host went, the guests were sure to follow. Well - everywhere save the vanities and bedrooms, at least. Unless he missed his guess, Tristan expected that Viktor intended to begin the real festivities of this event and lead them all to the Ballroom where they would, in all likelyhood, spend the next few hours. Truth be told, he was rather excited about the entire endeavor - an interesting twist on the age-old waltz had just been recently introduced: the Viennese waltz. Quicker, snappier, and apparently far more interesting for the female partner, it had already begun to spread through the European aristocracy. And where better to debut such skills than at a gathering such as this? With a grin, he'd push his plate away from his place setting, crossing his utensils over each other before looking towards the young lady who..had been seated at his side. She'd already seen fit
21:38:02 [Seraphin] to stand, which meant he could as well - and if his flicked pea hadn't proved his point, her mannerisms now would demonstrate just how blind she was. Was there no other gentleman here to lead her to the ballroom? A pity. He'd simply have to do it himself - and so, pushing his chair back, standing, and pushing his chair back in first - he'd make his way easily to her side, to take one of her searching hands in his own. If she allowed him to do so, he'd not only take her hand, but take it and place it on his upper arm, after threading it through the nook created by elbow, armpit, and side. "Allow me to be your escort to the ballroom?" The words were phrased as a question, but it would be beyond a doubt that she would fare better with him at her side than without - but even still, he was more than prepared to release her if she so desired it. He could hear the music starting, but nobody had begun to dance just yet - which meant that Viktor had yet to step onto the floor. There was time yet.
22:03:17 [Adaloura] frowned a little to herself. Ivan had but ignored her whisperings, only to leave without even offering his escort. She scolded herself inwardly; it would do no good to attract any suspicion but still, as he had been her dining partner it would have been perfectly acceptable. Forcing another endearing smile to full, cupid bow lips the femme rose to her feet. She still wore her pink satin gown and was indeed quite the vision as she went about moving as gracefully as she could to the ballroom. A rather involved task, given her pained body. Upon entering, orbs of deep emerald scanned their gaze over the vicinity. The room in its entirety was draped with ladies and gentlemen of higher calibre than herself, whilst she had been of a respected family, it was only because Viktor had sired her and taken her in as a companion, that she was allowed to be present. Juniper, one of the few freinds she had, was evidently absent. A little morosely, she sidled off to the wall and stood there, rather content to watch.
22:28:46 Luz would never have asked for help---never. However, that didn’t mean she wouldn’t accept help if it were offered to her. Feeling a hand envelop her own she turned in the direction of the touch, recognizing the feel; knowing it belonged to the same being who had touched her shoulder earlier, also being the man she’d stabbed with her fork. Luz curled her fingers around the stranger’s arm---not knowing his name as of yet. “If you would be so kind. . .” she said, her voice delicate and soft, almost lost under the voices and music swirling about the room. Half-lidding her eyes and turning towards the music she would pull her lips into a sweet little smile. Once the stranger stepped off in the direction of the ball Luz would follow, tipping her head from one side to the other as if admiring something she couldn’t see. In fact, she was doing that. Simply enjoying what the rest of her senses picked up. The sensations, smells, sounds, and even tastes ---
22:29:18 Luz that dared to venture across her tongue. “Sir---” Luz suddenly would say, pausing in her step---hopefully her escort would do the same. She turned her body to face him slightly, gazing just over his shoulder while assuming she looked to his face. “I haven’t had the pleasure of hearing your name.” It would be nice to place a name with the voice. The voice was this man’s image to her. Just as Viktor’s voice was his, Jonah’s was his own, so on and so forth. Perfumes could be changed at any given time, jingly jewelry, and clothing as well. But a voice---a voice remained the same; even if one tried to place a mask upon their words. Luz would wait for the stranger’s response, swaying lightly upon her feet with the music’s rhythm.
22:29:27 [Viktor`] finally sprung to attention. He spied both Luz and Seraphin, and breathed a sigh of relief. So unaccustomed to the belle's company, he had all but forgotten her blind state and the fact that he would have needed to escort her to the ballroom. What was done, was done. It was then that his little lamb approached. He smirked a little, apparently amused with her fear. These were foppish, ridiculous men. Hardly frighteneing at least, not his eyes. "I request that you stay." As for him staying by her side? "Wait here, sweet lamb. I will return to you in a moment." There was a dance to be done. Despite the nagging desire he had to roll his eyes heavenward, he kept his peace. Why these ridiculous people needed him to dance before they dared do the same, he did not know. At least the disruption allowed him time with his charge. That said, he but strode forth for Adaloura and bowed low. "I have seen very little of you lately, mon cherie." was his husky greeting, cut short by his quick movement. In but a moment he had -
22:29:46 [Viktor`] - whisked her to his side and begun to escort her to the gleaming dance floor, upon which he bowed to her once more, smirking as his gaze took in her figure. "You are a vision." With that, the musicians delved into a waltz and as they did, Viktor took the first few intricate steps; proceeding to lead Adaloura along.
22:38:01 Kaira didn't like his smirk... All that meant was she had amused him in some way and he could use her own fears to make this night miserable. Her heart sank when she heard his "request" knowing to take it as such and decline it would only bring about anger. He was most likely going to be annoyed and irritated what with having to entertain all these guests and be the host to every single one of them. He loved the woman he went over to, but he didn't love her... She was nothing but a pet to him, a toy, something to be fed off of at his leisure. No way was she just going to stand there unaccompanied. Once his back was turned, she took off into the thrall of people, easily hid due to her petite stature. Unfortunately, it was only a matter of time before her pungeant human scent and her rapidly beating heart tickled at he senses of the blooddrinkers, urging them to seek out the source of the arousal. Viktor was the only one that made her feel safe and, without him, she felt like she needed to be surrounded by
22:40:00 [Kaira] a group of people to avoid being singled out by just one. They were cultured beasts, thankfully, so she was counting on them ignoring her presence and instead turning their attention to the conversations they were enthralled in as well as the dances that had broken out all over the ballroom floor. Hopefully...hopefully no one snagged her around the waist or grabbed her wrist to pull her into a dance. It would be nice to dance, of course, but she was convinced Viktor would punish her for allowing it to happen and allowing another vampire to touch her.
22:42:15 Seraphin would, of course, pause when the young woman at his side did - it would be uncommonly impolite to do otherwise - and turn towards her, expecting that she had something to say to him. He was well rewarded for his guess with a question - one he had been expecting. "Ah! My apologies, for not having introduced myself earlier - but if you would, I should think that titles are rather unnecessary, no?" A pause, and he would smile at her, the expression surely finding its way into his voice. "My name is Tristan, milady - Tristan Sèraphin." If she were privy to such matters as the identities of those who sat upon the council, she might have perhaps heard of him; and if not, then he would be what he wished to be - another name to another face, able to come and go as he pleased. His voice was, as far as vampires went, uncommonly gentle - likely due to the courtly manners that had been instilled into him while he was still mortal. With unending age came the option of lengthening one's patience -
22:42:37 [Seraphin] a possibility that he mourned to see wasted by so many other vampires. After all, they had years upon years to live yet - wherefore, then, would be the need to be rude to one another? Old lives bred older grudges - and a dispute between vampires was never a pretty thing to settle. "I am, I assure you, of quite little consequence - but you, on the other hand..." A pause, and he'd quirk an eyebrow that she'd be, unfortunately, unable to see. "You grace this floor and all those here with your presence. Whom do I have the honor of escorting this evening, might I ask?"
00:46:35 Luz allowed her smile to grow a little while the gentleman introduced himself. Of course, Luz had not the faintest clue who was on the council--the minor mentioning’s of the event were all she knew of it. Jonahs hadn’t told Luz anymore than she needed to know. In this case, nothing. Same as when he brought her along on a little trip, that turned out to be a kidnapping or disposal of a werewolf. She couldn’t remember what had happened after the creature was thrown in the trunk of the car. Pressing her lips tightly together and sweeping her left foot behind her right she gave Tristan a shallow curtsy. Make no mistake, Luz wasn’t being rude, simply cautious of her surroundings. Unlike most here, Luz couldn’t see what may be but an inch from her forehead or a step behind her. “It is a pleasure, Tristan.” she said, righting her posture and stance. With one hand she pressed a hand to her chest, turning her head to the side and --
00:47:02 Luz and offering Tristan a half-curled smile that formed across her lips with innocence. Oh my, the man was too sweet---that is, what she thought at a least. Luz could hardly believe she graced all those here with her presence…But, she did grace Tristan’s leg and hand with her fork, that was for certain. Luz allowed a light, feathered chuckle escape her lips, “You flatter me so. I am Luz Thwitch.” she would say, dropping her hand away from her chest and placing it at her hip where she gathered an inch of her skirt from it’s low dangle above the floor, making sure her feet wouldn’t fumble with the hem. Her name held little importance. She wasn’t known by any far and wide. Despite her strikingly ghostly features that caused her to stand out. Luz was young, holding not even a century under her belt of age. Not much time to make much history at all.
01:08:45 [Seraphin] "It is, milady Thwitch, only flattery if it is incorrect, is it not?" A pause and chuckle, and he would move to take her elbow in his once more, before continuing on with his words. "But rest assured - the pleasure is all mine." Due to the movements of the crowd in all directions around them, it would be more trouble than it would be worth to try and continue standing in one place - and so, if she allowed him to lead her, he would proceed into the ballroom, with her at his side. There would be no herald to announce their arrival, nor would they be noticed by anyone important, Tristan suspected - especially since Viktor had taken the floor with his beloved Adaloura. For a moment, he pondred a moment's envy at their relationship, then decided against it; as delightful as it might be from time to time, he enjoyed his freedom too much to risk having himself hampered by the presence of another. A manor as grand as this one was interesting enough from time to time, to be sure - but permanently?
01:08:53 [Seraphin] The idea was rather disagreeable. Thoughts for another time, nevertheless; for sometime or another, the two of them would have arrived, by Tristan's guidance, along the edges of the dance floor. Wherefore did one attend a masquerade, but to set one's feet to the music in the air? To but sip and nibble at the dainty treats on the tables along the sides? Nonsense. Here, there was dancing - and so, they would dance. He would await the completion of this first song before even suggesting to his current companion that they strike out onto the floor themselves - but when the notes of the current tune faded and began to give way to another, she could be sure of hearing from him once more. "Would you do me the honor of yielding your first dance to me, milady Thwitch?"
22:08:18 Luz simply let her smile continue to glow while she stood there. Of course, when Tristan started to lead the way once more she did follow without hesitation. Luz did, however, walk with the beat of the music already playing, dancing within her mind. The girl was very oriented in the ways of music, even after her rebirth she held a passion for if. Luz momentarily paused the dance in her mind to think---she really should send for her cello. That is. . .if it was still in one piece back at her last place of residence. Clenching her jaw slightly Luz would toss the thought of her battered instrument out of her head and replaced a small look of concern with an honest smile. Pausing when Tristan did she lifted herself up onto her tip-toes, then swayed back down again---looking onwards with blind eyes as if she could see the dancers. In her own way she could. Listening to their feet step across the ballroom floor, along with the sweep and rustle of women’s dresses as they were spun about. --
22:08:35 Luz All light conversation being exchanged between the couples just added to the effect--forcing an almost dreamlike picture form within her mind. People--vampire---the human form, looked like something a young child would perceive. For that. . .was all she could ever remember. Luz was pulled back from her mind as the song ended, looking to Tristan with a nod of her head. “But of course. I shall try not to step on your toes.” Luz said that with a subtle hint of confidence that lingered within the lace of her voice. She wouldn’t step on anyone’s feet---she could dance. Viktor knew she could, and soon Tristan would as well. To be led and honor the melody with graceful movement was something woven together perfectly by Luz.
22:33:04 [Seraphin] "And I shall do my best to keep your unharmed." A genial nod in her direction would go, unfortunately, unseen - but it was the intention that mattered most, no? Once the first dance was completed, and Viktor and his date given a moment's reprieve, the musicians would allow them a small break before beginning to play once more, the opening notes of a stately waltz stroked from their fingertips. Delightful. With a grin towards everyone - and nobody in particular - Tristan would take a single step forward, announcing his intention to take the two of them out onto the floor - and then promptly wait there for her to follow him. The touch of his hand on her wrist - when had he changed positions? - would be firm enough that she would know what he wished, but would hover just on the edge of insisting. In this, as with all things, it was the lady's perogative as to dance or not - and though he doubted she would decline, the gesture was still as much a matter of courtesy as anything else.
22:33:08 [Seraphin] "The First Dance has finished, milady Thwitch - the floor is, I believe, open now to all. Shall we make our entrance?" Tristan was not, in contrast to the other members of the Council, a vampire of great standing or age or power among one of the smaller covens that had formed here and there; and in all truth, the invitation to join the small, select group, had come as a surprise. The years of his mortal coil had been spent basking in the reign and glory of the Sun King - which made him much younger than some of the elders who sat in Council seats as well. But where the Sun King had failed to continue the pursuit of excellence, Tristan had continued the search, aided by the years of undeath. Once a minor courtier, now a member of the Council - but perhaps along the way, somewhere, he had learned a thing or two. Such as how to dance - there would be little stumbling, it seemed, on the floor this evening.
23:09:01 Luz pulled her attention from the dance floor towards that slight tug at her wrist. Blue eyes gazed down towards her own hand. A light smile pulled at her lips and she took as step forward, following Tristan onto the dance floor. “Lead the way.” Luz replied. Her free hand dropped her skirts but for a moment, reaching up to brush a few ghostly strands of hair away from her neck, sweeping them behind her shoulder for safe keeping. Once she felt him pull her further onto the dance floor Luz would reach the free hand out towards Tristan, for him to take of course--and guide. As of now, she knew only where one of his hands were located. Although she was unable to see his feet, Luz was able to keep them in front of herself and not across his own; hiding under the safely surfing hem of her skirt. Ah, the stage was set so beautifully. If only she could see the way that sapphire looked against her eyes, twinkling madly under the warm orange glow from the chandeliers above.--
23:09:46 Luz Really she hadn’t a clue as to what her colours were. Only that her favors were blues and cool purples--soft and delicate colours, just as herself. Anything dark struck against the spirit-esque aura. Tonight, however, she was dressed to awe--rather than kill.
22:37:08 [Seraphin] On the other hand, Tristan's wardrobe had little need for colors that were soft and delicate - enough questions were raised about his sexuality without the aid of such pigments, he thought. This evening, he sported a royal blue waistcoat, breeches, and cravat, with dark green accents that would shimmer slightly, the shades seemingly alternatively blending and standing out at will. As the Lady Thwitch followed him out onto the floor, Tristan would join the other couples who found the nerve to dance the second dance of the night as well, forming what would be the inner circle, if enough dancers took up the call to form yet another outside of their ring. The innermost part of the room would be left empty out of respect for the host of the evening - at least for the first few dances. There, it was supposed, the host and whomever he chose could spend however long they wanted, in the center of it all, with couples swirling and turning all around them. And yet - after leading her to the floor, she would
22:37:59 [Seraphin] find his hands suddenly dropping away from hers, after a parting squeeze, of sorts; for at that moment, the musicians, having noticed that the number of dancers making their way to the floor had dwindled, would pause in their playing for a scant few seconds. The que to greet one's partner. It was now that each dancing couple was expected to either bow or curtsey to their companion, before joining hands again - and the musicians would, of course, give them the time to do so. The first measures of the song had been played to announce the type and tempo of dance that would be expected - but the dance had not started just yet. His hands would be gone from hers for but moments - but should Luz extend her hands once more, whether she curtseyed or not, his would be there. It would be completely and utterly impolite to do anything but - and Tristan was, first and foremost, a gentleman. In death, and beyond.
23:01:28 Luz felt a soft squeeze to her hands as she took her position on the ballroom floor. Once Tristan’s hands had dropped away from her own she swept her skirts back and slipped one foot behind the other. Only a light dip was given--as her normal fear of what might lie beyond two inches of her nose forced her to never lower any further. Rising up and dropping her skirts she reached out, hopefully gaining hold of Tristan’s hands on the first pat of her fingers. If not, she would continue to seek until they were found---they shouldn’t have been too far off, were they? Luz kept her feet as they were from the curtsy until she felt Tristan take the first step off and lead them both in dance. When doing so her toe lightly glided around to take that first step, assuming either direction from that stance was easiest. My, my, Luz couldn’t recall the last time she had danced so often. Just the other night Viktor had taken her for a spin around on the dance floor---Twice, might I add. --
23:01:38 [Luz] Oh to be treated like a woman again. . .what a treat. It truly was. She wasn’t just a piece of arm-candy taken along for an evening stroll, or that ghost seen haunting dark halls. No, the last couple of evenings she was a Lady. The very thought caused a rather warm smile to appear. Tristan my not know what she was thinking while they danced, but she was enjoying herself---It helped hide the embarrassment she’d encountered earlier in the dining hall.
23:23:35 Emiliana_Dimitri had taken the liberty of tending to her evening meal in her private suite. She wasn't one for gossip and senseless banter; no, the belle simply preferred the company of novels, volumes and scrolls alike. This wasn't to say she was in any way bookish or bland though, she did appear a good bit studious as she sat at her writing desk examining an age old volume on philosophy, a simply childish pout at her rosebud lips that seemed to breath 'concentration'. She was unable to dwell on her particularly thrilling train of thought in that moment for, it was then that her most trusted friend interrupted. "Emilia.." was all she said, her tone warning and scolding all at once. The maid in actual fact wasn't treated any lesser than Emiliana herself. She believed not in the heirachy of snobbish households and was more than pleased to indulge in the playful friendship she had with Marta. Though much younger than her mistress, the woman had an air of age about her. In fact, one could say that with Marta's ever youthful >
23:23:56 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < lips pursed as such, she was but a mother chastising her child. Exasperated, Emiliana could only exclaim with her dainty arms thrown up with emphasis "Marta! I was in the middle of a revolutionary thesis, and you have spoiled it!" She rose from her chair and, as ridiculous as it was, stamped her slippered foot on the ground. And with that, she threw herself face down onto the overly extravegant bed. With a low chuckle, Marta stood her ground. Eyes rolled heavenward and she clicked her tongue reproachfully. "Emilia, you have completely missed the banquet and if you keep this up, you will miss the ball!" Like Emiliana cared. Knowing this very well, Marta came to sit beside the mock-upset mistress, cooing to her with a few friendly prods at her shoulders. "Come on then, if you miss the ball you know you cannot attend the council meeting.." Marta could barely contain the urge to laugh, but managed enough to bait her further. "And if you don't, none of your ideas will be heard." Suspiciously, the scarlet haired>
23:24:15 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < Russian peeked up. This was true. With a groan, she rolled onto her back and swore, "Jesu." Dainty hands that told tales of many nights spent with books rather than needles and embroidery, writing rather than leisurely rides through the park, rose up to cover her eyes. "Fine. But you shall have to dress me!" Emilia supressed a grin. Society would never allow one such as Marta to partake in such events, no matter how intelligent, well spoken and demure she was. More ladylike than the mistress, herself. It was for this reason her friends utmost pleasure came from selecting gowns and helping Emiliana dress for the galant events that she herself, did not appreciate. She was even allowed to wear the great ball gowns Emilia had little care for. At least, whilst in the confined space of her rooms. With a cherub like giggle, Marta set to work. She selected for her mistress a gauzy maroon gown, detailed and lined with gold. For her neck was a teardrop of ruby on a gold chain, with matching earbobs. Long >
23:24:30 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < locks of deep scarlet were allowed to hang loose, the low barrel curls creating a picturesque mane that reached almost to the small of her back. It had taken no more than ten minutes for the skilled ladies maid to be done with her masterpiece and in no time at all, Emiliana had become a vision. It was time with a ball. Bidding her friend adieu, she exited her chambers and made her way through the maze that was Viktor's household and entered the Grande Ball as discretely as possible. Not an easy forte given her striking her, and catlike almond shaped eyes of deep emerald. Piercing as they were they scanned over the room, searching mostly for council members. She counted off the most influential and important before noticing Seraphin and.. who was that? Not being one to gossip and tattle, she knew very few of the guests save for those in the council.
23:57:26 Seraphin would, of course, be there when Luz came out of her curtsey - shallow though it might be, excusable still because of her slight infirmity - with one hand open to take her hand in his, and the other sliding forward to cup her shoulder. In a few mom- ah, it had started. She'd feel the urging of the first step in the grip of his left hand, and so the dance would begin; one graceful step after another. Up and down, up and down; with every third step, the couples would come together slightly and then draw apart just as slightly on their way down, in the exact same rhythm as all the other couples that were on the floor as well. Contrary to popular opinion, dancing was not the realm of the male to display his talents; for though it was he that took the lead, it was for her to perform. It was the female half of the dancing couple that made the dance beautiful - the only position that belonged to the male was to give her the opportunity to express herself. To identify what it was that she
23:57:36 [Seraphin] she enjoyed most, the positions and flairs that she could perform most smoothly and then display them to the best of his ability - that, above all else, was the duty of the man. And somewhere in there, he likely ought to avoid stepping on her feet, too. Rather unfortunately, Tristan would be unable to mark Emiliana's entrance into the ballroom, since his attention was, and correctly so, taken up by his monitoring of the floor - and his partner. The song still had some time left, but for the time being...he intended to make the most of it. And he sincerely hoped that the Lady Thwitch would, as well.
00:52:51 Emiliana_Dimitri had made her way to Viktor who, after his first dance with Adaloura, had departed the floor. Whilst he didn't exclusively love dancing, he did love dancing with her. He simply preferred to do it in private. This, Emilia was well aware of. Other than his charges, she was the only woman he tolerated. Like a sister, she was. Nevermind that though, for she had approached him and spoken in hushed tones. He'd had an idea and that feline-like gaze of hers had widened in both astonishment and animation. It was a good idea, at that. Something that could benefit them all if only all parties played their respective parts. Nevermind that though, for the latest number had just ended, leaving the striking Emiliana on the sidelines and without a partner. Lush features screwed up into a pleading pout of which, Viktor ignored with a smirk. Damnation. He was decidedly not going to save her. Ever the excitable miss, a dimpled smile found her lush features, cupid bow lips even releasing a musical giggle or >
00:53:15 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < two. The sound itself was cherub-like, and enchanting. She'd certainly captured the adoration of society, gentlemen and scornful ladies, alike.It was for but her slight obscurity and disinterest in betrothal did they cry 'A shame indeed.' Dainty hands took up handfuls of her gown, raising it just so that she could weave nimbly between guests, avoiding at all costs any eligible bachelors or even, the taken men who had somehow decided she wanted a duty dance. Off in her own world, and without a care for properiety, she continued in the game. There was nothing better to do, no?
22:33:04 [Seraphin] "And I shall do my best to keep your unharmed." A genial nod in her direction would go, unfortunately, unseen - but it was the intention that mattered most, no? Once the first dance was completed, and Viktor and his date given a moment's reprieve, the musicians would allow them a small break before beginning to play once more, the opening notes of a stately waltz stroked from their fingertips. Delightful. With a grin towards everyone - and nobody in particular - Tristan would take a single step forward, announcing his intention to take the two of them out onto the floor - and then promptly wait there for her to follow him. The touch of his hand on her wrist - when had he changed positions? - would be firm enough that she would know what he wished, but would hover just on the edge of insisting. In this, as with all things, it was the lady's perogative as to dance or not - and though he doubted she would decline, the gesture was still as much a matter of courtesy as anything else.
22:33:08 [Seraphin] "The First Dance has finished, milady Thwitch - the floor is, I believe, open now to all. Shall we make our entrance?" Tristan was not, in contrast to the other members of the Council, a vampire of great standing or age or power among one of the smaller covens that had formed here and there; and in all truth, the invitation to join the small, select group, had come as a surprise. The years of his mortal coil had been spent basking in the reign and glory of the Sun King - which made him much younger than some of the elders who sat in Council seats as well. But where the Sun King had failed to continue the pursuit of excellence, Tristan had continued the search, aided by the years of undeath. Once a minor courtier, now a member of the Council - but perhaps along the way, somewhere, he had learned a thing or two. Such as how to dance - there would be little stumbling, it seemed, on the floor this evening.
23:09:01 Luz pulled her attention from the dance floor towards that slight tug at her wrist. Blue eyes gazed down towards her own hand. A light smile pulled at her lips and she took as step forward, following Tristan onto the dance floor. “Lead the way.” Luz replied. Her free hand dropped her skirts but for a moment, reaching up to brush a few ghostly strands of hair away from her neck, sweeping them behind her shoulder for safe keeping. Once she felt him pull her further onto the dance floor Luz would reach the free hand out towards Tristan, for him to take of course--and guide. As of now, she knew only where one of his hands were located. Although she was unable to see his feet, Luz was able to keep them in front of herself and not across his own; hiding under the safely surfing hem of her skirt. Ah, the stage was set so beautifully. If only she could see the way that sapphire looked against her eyes, twinkling madly under the warm orange glow from the chandeliers above.--
23:09:46 Luz Really she hadn’t a clue as to what her colours were. Only that her favors were blues and cool purples--soft and delicate colours, just as herself. Anything dark struck against the spirit-esque aura. Tonight, however, she was dressed to awe--rather than kill.
23:26:45 [Seraphin] On the other hand, Tristan's wardrobe had little need for colors that were soft and delicate - enough questions were raised about his sexuality without the aid of such pigments, he thought. This evening, he sported a royal blue waistcoat, breeches, and cravat, with dark green accents that would shimmer slightly, the shades seemingly alternatively blending and standing out at will. As the Lady Thwitch followed him out onto the floor, Tristan would join the other couples who found the nerve to dance the second dance of the night as well, forming what would be the inner circle, if enough dancers took up the call to form yet another outside of their ring. The innermost part of the room would be left empty out of respect for the host of the evening - at least for the first few dances. There, it was supposed, the host and whomever he chose could spend however long they wanted, in the center of it all, with couples swirling and turning all around them. And yet - after leading her to the floor, she would find his
23:26:50 [Seraphin] hands suddenly dropping away from hers, after a parting squeeze, of sorts; for at that moment, the musicians, having noticed that the number of dancers making their way to the floor had dwindled, would pause in their playing for a scant few seconds. The que to greet one's partner. It was now that each dancing couple was expected to either bow or curtsey to their companion, before joining hands again - and the musicians would, of course, give them the time to do so. The first measures of the song had been played to announce the type and tempo of dance that would be expected - but the dance had not started just yet. His hands would be gone from hers for but moments - but should Luz extend her hands once more, whether she curtseyed or not, his would be there. It would be
01:07:35 [Seraphin] With this last dance, Tristan bid the Lady Thwitch adieu at long last, to their mutual - or so he felt - relief; he wasn't entirely sure how long he could monopolize her presence nor her talent upon the floor, and was sure that after her stunning entrance upon the floor, there would undoubtedly be dozens of others desiring to take her hand for a song or two. For that was, after all, what this night was for: a night of revelry, a night of celebration - a night for bonds to be made, and potential friendships sought and solidified. And so, though he regretted having to leave someone of her calibre to the clutching hands of another, Tristan found himself excusing himself from the ring of dancers at the song's end - but only after escorting the Lady Thwitch to the side, as well. One did not, after all, leave an infirm to fend for themselves; that would be cruelty beyond meaning, even for a vampire. But after he had seen her well and safely seated along the side, he would then proceed to escort himself
01:07:41 [Seraphin] to the nearest table that bore refreshments; for, although his throat was neither parched nor his stomach empty, he had found that periodic hors d'ourves went a long way towards maintaining one's stamina and energy upon the floor. Not to mention, it allowed him to cut a stylish figure along the side of the room - since he supposed he might need to do a little more work in choosing his next companion than simply picking the one who had sat next to him at the banquet table. Unfortunate though it might be, of course. Ah - but was there not a Council meeting to be held, later? Perhaps...perhaps he would look for one of the other members, and seek to solidify his position in that way. Through a dance or two, of course. To ask for anything more would be...inelegant. And he couldn't have that, could he?
01:27:38 Emiliana_Dimitri was being pursued, it would seem. Not a counil member but the leader of a fledgling Coven in southern Italy, had come after the belle. He wanted not only a dance but to make an impression. That was his aim for the masque; secure himself a wealthy and land owning bride by romancing her out of all her sensibilities. Emiliana was at the very peak of his list, the well dowried Ivy Luthor following, along with a few other maidens. The Russian however, was the jackpot. The sole heir to her fortunes, the leader of her own coven and a council member at that, she was the choice pick compared to the younger sister of Ivan Luthor who held no council favor at all. Nevermind that though, for he was heading straight for Emiliana. Apparently, still unaware of her game of cat and mouse, merely following after the femme he assumed to be very intent on getting somewhere as fast as she possibly could. The belle in question had spotted him, and whilst in her hurry to get away, and giggling all the while, the usually >
01:28:02 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < graceful Emiliana wasn't quite navigating her path of escape. It was for that reason, upon an illtimed glance over her shoulder that she nearly ran into Sir Seraphin, entirely! Lucky, she'd caught herself in time and merely faltered in her step before a dainty hand jutted out for his elbow. The appendage itself was childishly small but held a firm grip. The action had caught her balance and secured her an escape all at once. Clever, as always. A particularly mischevious but always charming smile found itself at her rose lips. "Sir Seraphin." Her voice was almost sirenous, but sweeter. Angelic in her own right, despite a list of sins that would last her an enternity. "I am delighted to see you this eve!" Genuine, of course. She was, wasn't she? The alternative was taking a dance with that horrid wretch who was sure to leech and cling to her for the entire night. Mind you, he was alot less pleasing to look at, too! Momentarily put off his course of action, the man shifted his stride, heading instead for Ivy Luthor.
01:56:27 [Seraphin] The little chase that was happening just a little distance away would catch the attention of one Tristan Sèraphin, though he would make little move towards either of them - because it didn't seem like it would be necessary, given that the pair seemed to be arcing towards him. What opportunity for...something awkward. And yet - it didn't turn out to be that way, given that the one of the two wearing a gown managed to reach him and claim some sort of sanctuary in the form of a hand upon his elbow, his name upon her lips. A dip of his head would follow the enunciation of his name, though a single eyebrow would quirk in response. "I did not realize I merited the title of 'Sir', Lady Dimitri." A jest, to be sure - but if not for his odd sense of humor, what else was Tristan known for? A slight bow would be made in her direction, before he would attempt to take the hand she had placed upon his elbow and raise the back of it to his lips for the barest of brushes.
01:56:32 [Seraphin] "The pleasure, I am sure, is all mine - have you come to grace the floor and put us to shame, then?" A tiny quirk of the edges of his lips would follow, a noticeable spark of amusement bright in his eyes. "I am, of course, quite honored to be your savior from a brute or two - but would you do me the honor of accompanying me for one dance?" His grin would grow wider still, before he finished. "I daresay I have found opportunity to improve since we last met." Was that the subtle hint of a challenge? Nonsense. Couldn't be.
02:08:33 Emiliana_Dimitri grinned slightly. Sir, Lord? It was all the same. Truth be told, the Russian was far too busy learning philosopher's theorems to bother committing the correct title of each and every member of society. That was just boring and yet, some ridiculous women of her class knew it all by heart. It was as if their life was lived solely to adhere to popularity, and their one and only goal above all, was to be admired. Bah? Had none of them even had the notion that perhaps they could change the world? That perhaps, there were things to learn? Emiliana's fickle attention span had her time sectioned off into several works, thesises and experiments. None were anywhere near to their conclusion. Lucky she had all eternity to finish them, no? "Bah! Tristan, my dear. Titles are but a waste of time.. time wasted that could be spent..." She mulled over his next words. "Dancing!" It seemed a better alternative to explaining her latest educated guess in regards to a most interesting experiment involving the human movement in >
02:09:06 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < in relation to force in itself of which- She shook her head, as if having an inward argument with herself. Emiliana would have to hold that thought. Excitable as ever, she most daringly and scandalously grabbed for his hands and leaned forward as she noted. "I have crowned you as my champion for the event. I daresay you'll have to save me again." Now her tone lowered to even quieter of a whisper. "Especially this event. Viktor has plans regarding matches, the joining of covens and neighboring lands." With a purely decadent smirk she added. "In fact, a little.. most tiny darling of a bird told me that you, my dear, are first on the chopping block." Playfully, her poised index extended, giving him a gentle prod to the chest.
02:09:39 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < That said, Emiliana gave a wink and noted. "Perhaps, I'll have to save you too?"
02:20:27 [Seraphin] For a moment, Tristan had quite prepared himself to look shocked if the Lady Dimitri had decided to utter the word - or words - that so many others would have said in her place - but she did not, and so he was saved the effort Effort which he was forced to expend moments later in the pursuit of blanching, inasmuch as a vampire could blanch; which, due to their natural state of being somewhat lacking in blood, was rather muted in comparison to what a full-blooded human might achieve. And yet, he was certain that she would register his reaction, and know it for what it was meant to be; she was, after all, he suspected, his elder. In vampire years, at the very least. "I-" Ahem. This would need to be worded very carefully indeed. "Am extremely honored that you have chosen me for this position, Emiliana -" She'd addressed him by his first name, which meant he could do the same, no? "-And I do but hope I can live up to your standards." He would allow himself a
02:20:37 [Seraphin] small, discreet chuckle here. "But..what is this about joining of covens and lands, Emiliana? -" But with that, the musicians had picked up their instruments once more, and struck the first notes of their next song, alerting all those who would venture out onto the floor that another dance would begin soon. "-Ah. If the Lady would?" With the slightest inclination of his head to the side, Tristan would indicate in the direction of the floor, pulling her ever-so-slightly towards it with the hand that she hadn't poked him with. "There...ahem." A pause. "There is much I would like to know about this...this..chopping block I am, apparently, on." He would try his very best to not look discomfited. Viktor had his reasons, he was sure - but why would Viktor arrange such a thing without informing him first? Strange, indeed. "But if you are to be my savior, then I have little room for complaint, indeed."
02:43:53 Emiliana_Dimitri blinked. Simply, blinked. After a moment her head came to a articulate tilt and those almond shaped occulars narrowed with concentration. Was he ill? Upon finally understanding his reaction, the belle's eyes widened. "I was...making a jest." Champions? How dreadfully old fashioned! "What I meant was, I was simply going to.. seek out your partnership for a dance whenever less savory offers arise." Now that was saying it better, wasn't it? Ever trite, the woman would have preferred to simply say; 'When I am being chased I will use you an escape. Thank you, and good eve.' Unfortunately, that was most certainly inappropriate. And she'd already scared the man half to death. A flush arising to her own cheeks by fault of the misunderstanding, she allowed herself to be lead over to dance. She went through the motions, as graceful as any of the social butterflies who spent every moment of their free time practising such elegance which only came naturally to her. Her body lowered in a slow, artful curtsy, head >
02:44:19 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < slightly bowed whilst her gaze kept on his. Her piercing emerald orbs peered up from behind lowered lashes, whilst a smirk lined on her lips. Back in her element, she rose to her feet and placed her hands in the appropriate positions before waiting for him to take the first step. As for gossiping? It was hardly so. Viktor had given her permission to speak about such topics, and it was most important that he hear before everyone else did, at t the council meeting. "Viktor wishes to strengthen the ties of the council members. He wishes also to surround lands of human nobles and to bring more wealth to our people." There was no amusement in her tone, for her speech had become soft and soothing. Emiliana wasn't mean at any rate and if this man hated the idea of marrying one of these creatures as much as she did, it would be a delicate topic. "As you know, you are one of the few bachelor council members. It is for this reason you are, to be dealt with first." As if she expected him to be a little disheartened, >
02:44:34 [Emiliana_Dimitri] < the hand that was on his shoulder drummed her fingertips against him gently. "It isn't all bad. You have your choice.." Emiliana paused breifly to think of whose lands surrounded Tristan's own. Whilst Viktor's main lands were here, he did have a large portion close to his. "The Luxors. Whilst he has no female relatives, there are always his charges? He treats them as kin." And Lord knew he had too many. Viktor, the dear, seemed to pick up strays wherever he went. "Mmm. The Luthors. Ivy or, Patricia." Patricia most definately seemed for suitable. She would have gone on had he not spoken again. "Saviour." An airy giggle escaped her lips before she confided most regretfully "Unfortunately I attend as few of these events as possible. I daresay I wont be here to be your champion..-ess?"