Lord of the Rings Fanatics Plaza

@Arnyn
He smiled happily at her words about gaining family. "That is what I've been trying to tell him," He admitted, knowing she'd know who 'him' was. "Anyway.. I'm glad you agree, at least." He smiled and enjoyed feeling satisfied with the fact that someone else agreed that he was right, and his brother wrong. Well, if a person looks at it the right way, anyway.

Hearing her laugh and tease him back about not getting up early, Dragon grinned and shook his head. "No, you're right. That is not likely to happen anytime soon," He admitted with a laugh. "When we have the luxury of sleeping in beds, then I certainly don't like to abandon it earlier than I have to." He shrugged as he figured that seemed logical enough. They spent enough time sleeping on the ground under the stars, in shifts. So why not enjoy the rare times when they were someplace where they didn't have to do that?

He was a bit more curious when she mentioned having been more forthcoming about her personality than normal, but it seemed she wasn't going to explain anything about why. He grew more serious as he listened to the request that she made of him, and nodded. "Of course." He wondered what she might be hiding, but refrained from asking or attempting to guess. At her addition, he laughed lightly. "Apparently so, yes." He grinned, then shrugged at her comment. "Is it required that I answer?" He asked with a little smirk. "After all, you're still keeping things secret. It only seems fair I should get to keep some things to myself, too."

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@Arnyn
Smiling slightly, she nodded in agreement with his words about dancing. "I also enjoyed it," She said, about their dance earlier. She had been nibbling at the items on her plate in between their conversation, and had mostly finished it by now. "Although, it is more fun to dance, than to talk about dancing." She added with a small shrug of one shoulder, and a faint smile toward Golden. Hopefully he would pick up the hint to ask her to dance.

As he asked whether she had any other skills to 'regale a captive audience with', she let out a soft laugh. "Oh, I don't know about regaling," She answered, amused as she debated whether to make up some stuff just to satisfy him. Her smile grew a bit as he declared her to be 'captivating'. An interesting choice in words, but she didn't comment on that. "You have the curiosity of a cat, sir," She grinned. "Be careful.. I hear that can be dangerous." She teased lightly.

@Rillewen

She did know who he was referring to, of course. But she also dared to suppose she understood why his brother found it so difficult. Gwestion was still holding onto hope... and probably thought admitting anyone else felt like a sister was almost like a betrayal of their actual sister - or he figured it meant he was in part admitting to himself that he was giving up on her in some way.
The Fairy thought it was admirable that the Dragon's brother refused to believe that their sister was truly lost. Deep down, she knew she would have the same instinct to cling to hope, however thin the thread might be. Yet, while they had not discussed it at length, she also knew the Dragon's take on the matter. And she understood him, too. Besides, she had found more than once how family could be gained. They did not need to be blood, nor did it make any existing ties any less in value.
This was not the first time she could see the point both brothers were trying to make to each other while passing each other by like two ships on misty seas.

"Now, now," she chided, though clearly in good humour. "You are more creative than that. When you have the luxury of sleeping in beds, and being on vacation - so to speak... If that is what I might assume? Then you do realize you could sleep in that bed whenever you want, right?" she checked, smiling at him. "You could stay up all night, and only go to sleep around noon." She laughed quietly. "Your brother would hate the idea, of course. But that does not mean you couldn't do it anyway. Especially if it means you get to see the beauty of a sunrise over the city. I promise it would be worth it. Especially if you know from where to watch. Though the mornings are rather cold up there, in winter. That much, I will admit."

Pleased with his agreement that she could remain who he knew her as, at least for the evening, she was not inclined to get frustrated at his own recalcitrance at playing all of his cards. "It is not required," she agreed graciously. "If you do not wish to share. However, does that mean that once you learn more about me, you will freely share more about yourself, as well?" she couldn't help but prod with a little grin even as the current song came to an end. Slowing to a stop, the Fairy placed both her hands on his shoulders then and held him at arm's length. "I still cannot believe this is where we meet again, after this long a time," she stated, shaking her head. Grinning, she pulled him in for another quick hug, before letting go and retreating a few steps. "You best make good use of the occasion, Sir Dragon," she suggested, using one hand to gesture at the rest of the dancefloor. "I am sure many a lady awaits to be twirled around the floor." Feigning very ladylike manners, she put her fingers to her collarbone. "Myself, I am absolutely parched. I think I'll be procuring another drink. See you around?" she half asked, half said.

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@Rillewen
If she also enjoyed it, then she might be amenable to another dance, he figured even before she continued - but when she added that dancing itself was more fun than talking about it, his grin faded to a half-smirk. That was as good as an invitation, wasn't it? At her declaration that he had the curiosity of a cat, the half-smirk remained, even through her subsequent warning. With a glance at her nearly empty plate, there was hardly a decision left to make.

Golden Sunbeam rose from his seat and bowed, holding out his hand to her. "Would you do me the pleasure, Lady Cat? I promise not to let my curiosity kill you," he reassured her, turning the common phrase around a bit, even if it might sound a bit dangerous. "I only seek to please." He bowed slightly lower, awaiting her answer.

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@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
"Lady Seashell," Macardil repeated with a half-curious, half-assuming smile. This was the young lady his friend had mentioned, yes? Whoever else could it be? "This evening, I've been dubbed Dusk," he replied with a low nod of his head in response to her question. Macardil raised an eyebrow when Lady Seashell mentioned that she had already hear a bit about him and that she was truly glad to meet him. "Already?" He cast a glance at Lord Hawk.

He smiled relaxedly, though, when the Hawk agreed on the lady's voice. "Indeed, she does." The two men shook hands. "I do not see why she would object," Macardil offered, "though I will not presume to speak in her stead." Ziran showcased her excellent timing, then, as well as her ability to judge a situation in a mere moment. Gravitating around her, he turned toward her as she spoke, and once she had relinquished the glasses, he moved to help her into her chair. "That settles it then. Please, be seated." He would wait until Lady Seashell was also seated before he would claim his own seat. "My Lady Frost," he addressed Ziran, "meet Lady Seashell and Lord Hawk," he introduced with a smile. "The lady's presence is a surprise," he said with a look at Hawk, "But I presume a very welcome one?" A smile cracked through at that as his blue eyes rested on his friend.

@Arnyn @Rillewen
Taking her seat as gracefully as she could manage in the flowing dress, which still felt a bit awkward, Ziran settled with Macardil’s assistance and then tilted her head in a nod of greeting when he introduced Lord Hawk and Lady Seashell. “Pleased to meet you both.” It piqued her curiosity about them that her husband knew the man but not the woman, yet seemed to have some sort of idea about their relationship already.

Remaining quiet to observe as was her wont initially around those she did not know well, she lifted her glass to take a small sip as she waited for them all to be seated and listened for the answer to Macardil’s question. She was always pleased to see him smiling, and remembered now that he had mentioned earlier his recognition of this Lord Hawk. With only mild regret, she acknowledged that she had been far too distracted to follow up his comment with asking who this was to confirm or deny her suppositions.

@Arnyn
"Aha, that is an excellent idea!" He declared with a grin, as Fairy suggested that he could simply stay up all night and then sleep. He laughed lightly as she mentioned what his brother might think of the idea. "He can get over it. As you say, we are on vacation," He grinned. "He's got his own plans of what he wants to do during this time. I've got my own plans." He smiled and listened as she spoke about the beauty of the sunrise. "Is that an invitation to join you sometime?" He did hope so, but he didn't want to just assume.

When she asked whether, when he had learned more about her, if he would share more about himself, he tilted his head as if thinking long and hard about it. This was mostly in jest, however, and soon he grinned. "I suppose I can agree to those terms." He grinned. The grin faded into a lesser smile as the song came to an end. He was mildly disappointed, especially since it seemed that she was taking her leave of him now.

"I know," He smiled as she mentioned how unlikely it was to have reunited here, of all places. He was briefly surprised by the hug, but responded with a smile, although she had already pulled back before he could return the hug. "Of course. Don't think this is the last you'll see of me this evening," He warned her teasingly, grinning as she suggested that he find others to dance with. "And I'm sure there are plenty of other gentleman waiting for a chance to twirl you around the floor," He added sincerely. As she set off to find a drink, he held back a sigh and stood for a moment smiling where he was.

Then he glanced around, realizing he ought to move off of the dance floor before someone bumped into him. He ducked and weaved his way to the 'safe' zone, before taking a look around. He considered going to tell Golden that he'd found out who she was, but he spotted him involved in a conversation with a pretty lady, so he decided not to bother him.. besides, he'd be seeing him tomorrow, right? There were plenty of ladies all around, but which one should he ask for a dance? Taking a slow breath in, he set off to find someone who looked like they might be waiting to be asked out to the dance floor.

@Lantaelen
Spotting one pretty young lady in a white dress, sitting at a table by herself, he thought, why not? She looked a little young compared to him, but she must have come here to dance, so.. perhaps she would not reject an offer if he was polite enough about it. After adjusting his mask, he set off toward that table and quietly cleared his throat. "Good evening, miss." He smiled his friendliest smile to her. "I couldn't help noticing you sitting here alone," He mentioned, trying not to let on that he was feeling a little nervous, this time. "I would be honored if you would dance with me for this next song?" Trying to be properly formal, he offered a bow and smiled again as he waited to hear the lady in white's response.

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@Arnyn
With a little laugh at the way he worded his 'promise' this time, Lady Cat smiled as she took the offered hand and rose to her feet. "I would be delighted, thank you for asking." She smiled, glad he had taken the hint. "Perhaps, the satisfaction of my accepting your offer to dance might keep any danger at bay?" She shrugged, then took a last sip of the drink he had brought for her, then set it down and smiled as she allowed him to lead her to the dance floor.

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@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
"Thank you!" Seashell added, pleased to note that her guess had been correct, when the lady in the blue dress came and joined the man. Their attire did match rather well, and she grinned as she chose a spot to set down her plate. "It's very nice to meet you, Lord Dusk and Lady Frost." She grinned, wondering what their real names might be.

"In that case, we would be delighted to accept the invitation to join you." Hawk declared with a smile toward the lady who had joined his friend, who declared his title to be 'Dusk' for the evening. At the questioning glance from Dusk, he cleared his throat lightly. "I was explaining how I came to be in the city, back with my family and all that.. and your part in helping me get here came up." He explained with a shrug. Then he smiled. "And yes.. it is indeed a very pleasant surprise." He agreed. Observing Lord Dusk helping his wife with her seat, Hawk figured it would be suitable that he should do the same with Lady Seashell. He placed his plate at the spot next to hers and then pulled out her chair for her. "My lady," He grinned at her as he tried to be extra gentleman-like tonight.

She paused briefly before smiling in mild surprise, since such things were not common in her everyday life. "Thank you." She grinned at him before sitting, and held her dress hem up slightly so that the chair legs wouldn't catch on it while scooting up to the table. "As for the singing," She turned back to Dusk with a little smile. "Thank you. I can only take credit for my voice, however. The song itself was all his," She indicated Hawk. "I figured he'd recognize his own song, and as far as I knew, I was the only one who'd ever heard it. So.. it seemed like the best way of finding him in this crowd."

"I recognized your voice, almost before I noticed the words." Hawk mentioned with a small shrug and smile, then took his seat beside Seashell, then smiled at the other two. "So, are you both having a nice evening so far?"

She smiled at him to hear that, then turned back to the others. "Your dress is beautiful, by the way." She told Lady Frost, after Hawk had spoken. "I love the color.. it makes me think of water. It's so flowy and pretty."

@Rillewen

She had to smile but also shake her head at the way he declared her idea of staying up all night was excellent, quickly followed by the statement that if his brother would think it was a terrible idea, he could just get over it. But, seeing as the Dragon agreed that they were, in fact, on vacation - why couldn't the brothers each have their own plans? He was right about that. When he asked if she was inviting him to watch a sunrise together sometime, the Fairy shrugged lightly. "Maybe." If he was still open to it once he found out that Celume was not her real name, and that she had hidden quite a few mention-worthy things about herself, why not? But how could she agree before he knew, and before she knew whether or not it would be a problem, right? Based on what he'd said earlier that evening and on what she knew of him, the Fairy didn't think he would be upset about her secrets. After all, as she had said before - she had not hidden anything about her personality... she had behaved just as the person she really was. Well. She would find out soon enough. Just not tonight.

"Then the bargain is struck," she decided with a faint smile, when he agreed. The smile grew a little when he made it clear she'd see him again later that evening. "When you have a fairy story for me?" She asked, now with a broad smile. "We'll see about that," she waved off his comment about the other men who might want to dance with her. With a tavern full of ladies in their finest, that was hard to imagine.

Heading to the bar, she ordered a glass of water and decided to claim one of the barstools.

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@Rillewen
He could almost feel his chest swelling with satisfaction when she put her hand in his and rose from her chair. When she thanked him for asking, Golden chuckled. She had all but ordered him! Just as she had done with her lack of a drink...

"I would never harm anyone who is not seeking to harm in return," he responded to her question as she finished her drink. He confidently guided her to a spot on the dancefloor with enough room, and starting with a twirl he guided her right into his arms. Possibly - veritably - noticably - closer than their previous dance, even if their bodies were still not touching. "Do you mind?" he asked her, figuring she was the kind of lady who would immediately notice the difference, and quite curious as to what her reply might be.

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@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
Once Ziran, Lady Seashell and Hawk were all seated, Macardil finally sat down himself. He had to smile at the little exchange between his friend and Lady Seashell. He nodded in reply to the question posed to both Ziran and himself. "I believe we are," he replied, looking at his wife. "I know that I am."

Lady Seashell's compliment on Ziran's dress, made him hold back a grin. All that managed to find its way to his face was a muted smile, though he allowed for it to show some satisfaction. He did not need to be on guard here, not in this company. "I absolutely agree," he chimed in. "Though both my lady's attire and my own are not nearly as creative as yours." He briefly gestured at the two. "A Hawk. I understand where both of you found the inspiration," he acknowledged, figuring that might also help Ziran figure out who Hawk was, though she would still have no clue as to the lady's identity.

@Arnyn @Rillewen
Music and hawks, and helping him get to the city. The three combined themes in a friend of Macardil firmed her guess as to Lord Hawk’s identity into certainty. Ziran smiled back at Lady Seashell as the lady mentioned how she figured out a way to meet up with Hawk by using music after being unsuccessful by conventional means. It was creative, and she fully approved.

Nodding after Macardil replied to Hawk’s question and hearing Seashell’s compliment, she tagged on quietly. “Thank you both. I agree about both of your creativity in song and attire. They complement one another well. Aye, I have been enjoying the evening very much. It has been a good opportunity to enjoy the music of the orchestra and dancing together. Have you had the opportunity for dancing as well as singing?” She left the question open to either to answer.

@Arnyn
The twirl right away was a bit unexpected, but lady Cat smiled as her skirts swirled around her and she let him guide her through the twirl. She smiled as she came back into his arms. "Mind?" She rested one hand on his shoulder while the other found his hand. "Why should I mind?" She wondered, smiling at him.

She leaned just a little closer, putting her head closer to one side of his. "If I minded, I would let you know." She spoke softly in one ear, then grinned and returned back to her previous position, letting him lead the dance. "Where did you learn to dance so well, anyway?" She was curious about that, for the setting he seemed to describe as where he came from didn't quite seem to her like the sort of place where such dancing was common.

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@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
"Thanks." Seashell smiled at the comment about her creativity with her outfit, and lightly touched a hand to the starfish on the side of her mask. "I had plenty of seashells for it, 'cause I collect them whenever I'm on a beach. And I was hoping maybe having several of them on my dress and mask would help him notice me," she nodded toward Hawk, "but.." Shrugging, she left that unfinished, as it had already been clear that she'd had to resort to 'drastic measures' for that.

"Sorry." He looked at her apologetically, then back to the other couple. "I can't really take much credit for mine, except for coming up with the idea." Hawk admitted. "My.. sister made the mask and these," he indicated the shoulder things meant to resemble wings, "and my grandmother helped me with the clothing." He wasn't sure about Lady Frost, but the other two ought to know when he said sister, he was referring to a close friend who was as a sister to him.

"Oh, are they both here?" Seashell asked with interest. "I'd love to meet them, too."

"No.. well, not my grandma." He shook his head. "My little brother took her someplace else this evening." He smiled with amusement. "He didn't want to come here, with all the dancing and 'romance stuff'. But the sister is here. One of them, anyway. The one who made these," He added, indicating his mask and 'wings'. "Last I saw her she was heading toward the bar with her.. not quite boyfriend yet.. guy. I don't really know quite what's going on with that, to be honest. Probably best if I wait until she tells me what they are." He shrugged slightly.

"Well, I'd like to meet her later, if we can." She told him, after nodding slightly at the information about his grandmother and brother. So, they were not here, but they were not at their home, either. That was good, no need to be concerned about that, then.

Addressing Lady Frost's inquiry about whether they'd danced much, Seashell smiled again as she turned back to her. "Yes, we have." She answered for them both, since Hawk had started on his plate of food. "Pretty much every moment since we finished singing, actually. We've only just taken a break because I found out that he hasn't eaten yet all evening." She explained, with a smile toward Hawk, before turning back to the other couple. "Do you get to go to things like this very often?" She asked, addressing it to them both. She thought they both seemed much more used to the fancy setting than she felt, although it could have just been how it appeared to her. "It's so beautiful here, I almost can't believe it."

@Rillewen
She nodded concerningly when Foxglove explained that some young boys had remained behind the war. But was Sir Fox one of them? He didn’t seem so. ”It was the same when my home was attacked by pirates. I was evacuated, along with some other young folk, but some of the boys remained behind, to fight and serve as they can.” She explained softly. She too would have liked to have remained behind, to do…something. She didn’t know what, or how, but she just felt she should have been useful somehow too.

She did feel a giggle bubble up when Foxglove agreed to the idea of the game and then reminded Swan that Sir Fox was engaged to dance with both of her friends. ”He better.” She whispered to Foxglove with a coy grin, as Sir Fox and Nymph both returned, looking to have had a good time. She too was curious to learn more, while saving away in her mind a query to ask Foxglove about dancing solo and whatever that might entail.

”Welcome back!” Swan greeted the two dancers as they returned, Nymph helped back into her chair and soon the invite extended to Foxglove. And Swan would be next. ”Have fun!” She beckoned the next two.

When Sir Fox looked back, Swan waved at him. What a good boy. But before she could share all the theories on why he was, Nymph expressed a need for a drink. ”Oh, okay. I’ll be here.” Swan grinned, having to endure a short wait to hear all her friend’s thoughts.

She sat by herself, a happy solitary lonesome, watching the dancers for a moment and envisioning herself in this dance or that waltz, mentally walking herself through the steps and just anticipating how it will be with a most skilled partner. Until one seemed to appear before her, as if summoned by her very thoughts. An older man, in green garb and masque, and Swan was amazed by the sight and stature of him. From that alone, Swan knew this newcomer couldn’t be…him. Much like her father or brother, even with his manner of speech, curt and to the point. Swan’s eyebrows raised high as she was offered to dance. A brief glance showed Sir Fox and Foxglove still engaged in their own, with Nymph off getting her drink still. Her friend would understand, right? Manners were everything.

”Well, I do have an opening on my dance card just now. I would be delighted, Sir.” She said with a sly smile, rising to her feet and offering her hand to be taken and led, as was proper and formal. ”But do tell, and indulge me a little if you might, but are you…an Ent? Perhaps come in human form? I hope you say yes, as it would be entirely in line and theme with the gentlemen I’ve had the honour of dancing with tonight.” She commented about his costume, giving up a childish, foolish grin to the older gentleman. Not everyone though was as silly and carefree as she and her friends though.

@Rillewen
Why should she mind? His lips quirked into a smile. "I did not mean to say that you should mind, but you could," he replied quietly. "Even if I hope you won't." The way she put her head closer to the side of his, made his smile linger. She clearly did not mind. "Noted, Lady Cat," he said when she'd pulled back again and his eyes met hers.

"My parents," he said with a deceptive shrug. "They... used to dance all the time. I took an interest." He fell silent then, and twirled Lady Cat out along his arm before drawing her back in, catching her within his arms with practiced ease.

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@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
"The idea is half the game," Macardil stated on behalf of his Hawk friend with a kind of confidence that would make it hard for anyone to disagree. His sister? Macardil took in the pauldron-like pieces on the Hawk's shoulder. The smith? He smiled as he took a bite of his food. Making the best of connections and resources. Whyever not?

He was pleased, of course, to hear Ziran had been enjoyed herself as much as he had. Even if he had assumed as much, based on her looks and actions... it was always good to hear it confirmed out loud. "It is wise to use an opportunity such as this one," he smiled at Lady Seashell when she said she and the Hawk had been dancing ever since they had sung their song together on stage.

He had to hold back a chuckle at the lady's question. "Do we?" he asked Ziran, clearly amused. They had had the wedding, recently before this event, and then there had been the dance at Lond Col earlier in the year. Midsummer, before that. All of those times applied to Seashell's question, did they not? He turned back to the younger lady. "It has been quite an eventful summer and autumn. And with this dance starting the beginning of winter... who knows? However, this evening has been quite unique. Even if we are not hiding ourselves, most others seem to be. It allows for an interesting dynamic."

"And you are right that the setting is quite extraordinary." His sapphire eyes couldn't resist another sweep around the tavern. "Quite fitting for a joyous reunion such as yours," he said, looking from Lady Seashell to Lord Hawk, and then settling his gaze on his wife. "As well as for a recently wed couple celebrating the beginning of their official lives together," he added more quietly.

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@Karis Ziranphel
Sipping the brandy, she noticed Snowflake and Redman by the bar. Watching them a while, trying to figure out whether Redman was who she would expect given his frame and the fact he was with Snowflake, Kaylin hummed thoughtfully. Going over there and hearing him say something might chase away those last doubts. And if he was who she thought it was, she could tease him about it mercilessly at some point. Always a plus.

"I don't blame you if you're still a little distracted," Kaylin said, her casual tone in sharp contrast with the broad grin on her face. "But let's go say hi to some people," she urged Thûllir, taking half a step forward and seeing if he would come with her. "I know the lady in powder blue by the bar," she smiled, thus indicating where she intended to go.

His arrival was late. He knew as much as he entered the Tavern and handed his cloak to the attendants. The attendants, who almost fell over their own feet in their zeal to assist him as quickly and as politely as they might.

Even if he had no desire for people to recognize him, he also saw no point in attempting to go to great lengths to hide. The dark green clothing and the mask inspired by the forest was not a far cry from what he had been used to for many years, after all, and his was an aura that could hardly be called ubiquitous.

A quick scan around the room with his keen grey eyes told him that his reason for appearing at all, was already engaged in a dance with another man. Slowly but determinedly, he moved through the tavern turned ballroom, weaving his way through the throng of people - though most of them seemed to make room for him without needing to be asked. His gaze lingered on the Lady Amethyst as he walked, and the perceptive observer would note it took some effort on his part not to interrupt her dance with the other man. Yet, he managed.

He approached the bar, and the bartender had poured him a drink almost as fast as he could put in his order.

Well. They were rather efficient. He turned to observe the dance floor, drink in hand.

@Rillewen
“I am definitely in no mood to get injured. But I would be allowed in there just to visit you?” Gilded wondered, supposing that she could do that unless it was a forbidden ground for those who had no business being there.

She then thought back to the previous dance partner with a slightly tilted head and then said: “Yes, come to think of it. He guided me through a twirl. Didn’t seem too difficult.”

For a few moments she looked around at other dancers and then said: “I think you simply have to lift your hand, - and mine, I guess, - high enough so I can pass under as if through the gate. You know? Or I don’t know how else to explain that. After all it was my first attempt.”
Rooster was called back from his distracted looking around and focused again on Orchid properly, a bright smile mastering his features. He found her to be truly pleasant to spend the evening with – as long as he did not have to defend his choices against some aggressive competitor.

“I am not sure anyone has really given me a name for this evening,” he admitted and then shrugged lightly. “I might be some sort of crazy bird. Though perhaps you can come up with a more reasonable name for me?”

@Lantaelen, @Arnyn Amethyst laughed lightly when Cheddar humoured her and joined the silly floor-testing joke. “I would not want to be that lady though; luckily I am dressed in a dark dress,” she added.

The beginning steps were not the most elaborate, and yet much above the simple and uncomplicated ones, she found when her dance partner spun her into a twirl right off the start. “I would say this is rather professional,” she expressed her evaluation, letting him guide her into the movements of his choice.

“I came from rather far, yes,” Amethyst admitted, “A while ago. For my family is here now. And what about you, sir? As far as I can read Gondor, you must be from further down south?”

As they moved along the dance floor, her eyes caught sight of the Forest Green when he passed by to settle at the bar eventually. Her face lit up with joy as she beamed a heartfelt smile his way when their eyes met. She had hoped that he would eventually come, and now felt satisfied that the best part of the evening was yet to come.

However, she did not wish to become impolite to her current dance partner, so she looked back to Cheddar and offered him a smile too, though lacking in that special quality it had carried only a moment ago.

@Arnyn They had amicably co-existed for a good long while, exchanging a light-hearted chit chat. However, when Meadow insisted on discussing their dance partners and comparing their personalities and skill levels, Black Lips could not help but roll her eyes and remark quietly that it would be rather unbecoming of them to engage in such gossip. Meadow gave her a side eye and went silent for a bit, only to return with another more unlikely option.

“You have been sitting here for a good long while, not dancing. I’m sure you’d go on again about how unbecoming it is if I suggested you go and invite one of the gentlemen for a dance,” she set up her attack. “But suppose you would go and start a dance meant for ladies only? There are quite a few sitting around, so you could gather them all up in a line to dance with you.”

“Oh, for crying out loud…” Black Lips sighed. “Go and do it yourself if you want. You’ve been sitting here too, you know.”

“I’m sure you could draw more attention. Or are you a chicken? I dare you!” Meadow did not relent, and then addressed the Fairy who was sitting behind Black Lips to draw support for her idea. “Right, m’lady? What's the fun in behaving so fancy all evening long? And what should we bet on that she can’t do it?”

“Stop it, I tell you!” Black Lips demanded, “I won’t participate. And don’t you pull other people into your silly schemes…” she turned slightly to see whom Meadow was trying to pull into the discussion with a thought of apologising on behalf of Meadow and starting up a different topic of conversation.

@Pele Alarion

The two ladies next to her were conversing rather animatedly. Fairy sipped her water as she listened to the conversation, basically unable not to catch the words. One of the voices sounded... unmistakably familiar. Turning her head minutely to watch the two beside her with a little amised smile, it didn't really come as a surprise when one of them pulled her into the fray. What else could she expect, when she was following along?

"Behaving fancy can be rather fun when you don't usually," she responded to Meadow, using her Dol Amrothian accent again. She couldn't hide her amusement. "You two must be rather close?" she assumed. "To engage in such banter. Yet the evening could do with some shaking up, perhaps?" she agreed tentatively with the lady in yellow and green. "I doubt you are a chicken," she told the lady with the black lips, "for you do not look it. Yet you do not wish to engage in a dare with your companion?"

"Dancing with other ladies is hardly unheard of," the Fairy continued, holding back a grin. "Perhaps the two of you could both prove you are daring enough and dance with each other? If you do, you may dare me to a challenge in return. As long as it will not render me in trouble with the guards or the hosts, that is."

@Arnyn Thûllir’s mask was once more in place when they smoothly returned to the main hall and made their way over to the bar at Kaylin’s guidance. Every line of his attire was impeccable, as he had retied his cravat after stepping outside for a brief breath of crisp night air. He was quite content that Kaylin had chosen to abandon her wig, wear her ring openly once more, and grateful that she had removed the obstruction that had prevented him from seeing her eyes. As pretty as the blond look had been, he thought she looked much more striking with her own hair on display.

He offered no objection to her chosen destination, and merely lifted two fingers to the bartender to indicate a second order to match hers. It had been quite some time since their last drinks at the table, and the water was very welcome before the burn of the brandy. Thûllir observed Kaylin as she observed the other Masquerade patrons, a small and content smile on his face. “Hmm,” he responded initially when she commented on Fairy and Dragon potentially dancing together, letting his gaze follow hers to where the winged Fairy was sharing pastries and discussing something in depth with the man in the dragon mask, not yet stepping out onto the dancefloor. “I do have some idea of who she is, partly because of her response to my search for you, but am not absolutely certain.”

She seemed content to people-watch again after that as they sipped their drinks, until humming thoughtfully and teasing him about his distraction with her. He could see she was practically vibrating with energy again and would thoroughly enjoy socializing with others, and especially the one in a powder blue dress that she mentioned. A grin cracked across Thûllir’s face briefly in response. “Lead on.” He was not averse to accompanying her wherever she led.

@Lantaelen
It seemed he had caught her by surprise, but to his relief, the young lady was rather polite and accepted his offer without much hesitation. This made his smile widen a little, as it would have been rather unenjoyable to have been rejected. But he hadn't! Unaware of the fact that, among proper folk, it was technically considered proper for a gentleman to have gloves on, he did not. But he took her offered hand and did a small bow in gratitude that she had accepted, then started toward the floor with a smile.

The young lady's question surprised him so much that he paused in his stride to glance at her, almost wondering if she was joking. He wasn't entirely sure, since she was grinning as she was. He grinned back and shook his head. "I'm sorry to have to tell you no, miss," He answered. "I am a dragon, see?" He motioned to his mask while smiling. "A green dragon. Incidentally, that is the name of a well-known inn, in the north where I come from." He added with amusement. "And may I ask what I may call you this evening, miss?"

He found a spot on the dance floor and turned to her, gently taking one hand in his, while the other went to her back, to the proper, polite spot, and he began leading their dance slowly. He was very glad for both Lady Butterfly and Lady Fairy assisting him in better learning how to dance, because he felt far better at it by now. Although he knew he was still very much at 'beginner' level, his skill was better than when he had arrived this evening, and so he felt far less nervous about dancing than he had, earlier.

---

@Arnyn
Sir Golden's answer about his parents made her suspect that might be a topic that could potentially lead to sadness. She understood that, and therefore decided to steer clear of it. Thankfully, he provided an excellent distraction by twirling her out away, and then back in toward him. "You've learned very well," She informed him with a soft smile. One of the reasons she had enjoyed dancing with him so much was for the fact he had seemed to be so good at it. And there had been nothing about him which alarmed her, as with the other fellow.

She kept her gaze on his as the dance continued, wondering about a few things which she kept to herself. "Was it your interest in dancing which brought you here, all the way from your beloved forest?" She asked curiously. "Or, was it not so far to go for you?" She tilted her head. "Isn't Ithilien rather large, and divided into two portions? It seems that way on the maps I have seen." She realized she didn't know which part of Ithilien he was from, so perhaps it was rather close to this city.

---

@Pele Alarion
"Well, I don't see why you wouldn't be allowed." He answered with a little shrug. "I mean, probably not if I'm busy doing something important. But I'd think it would be alright to come by and say hello. Maybe.. meet me for lunch?" He suggested. "If you come around midday, and ask for me at the desk, then when I get a break we could go off to eat someplace before I return." He actually rather liked that idea, and hoped that she might do it.

As she mentioned that she had, in fact, done a twirl while dancing with the other guy, Teal listened up to hear what she remembered from that. It did sound simple enough. He nodded when she explained about lifting their hands up. "Alright, well.. let's try it?" He smiled slightly, trying not to appear like he was a bit nervous. He raised up his hand that held her hand, so that she could try a twirl, mainly because he felt bad that she did not have a better dancing partner. Yet, he didn't really want to let anyone else dance with her and hoped that she would be content dancing with him.

---

@Pele Alarion
She smiled, then giggled softly, as the gentleman said he might be some crazy bird. The suggestion that she ought to come up with something, however, made her a little nervous. "Oh.. I don't know," She turned and set her drink down as she studied him, his attire, and his mask somewhat seriously for a moment. "The feathers at the top of your mask do sort of evoke thoughts of a bird." She admitted, thoughtful. "But, I'm not sure what sort of bird." She also did not want to come up with something that might seem offensive, so she had to think about what options might not seem so. "What would you think to call yourself?" She wondered, curious what he might come up with. That might help her think of something.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
Seashell's grin widened as Sir Dusk mentioned her and Hawk's reunion as joyous, which she thought quite a good description. Then she became interested and mildly surprised to hear about he and lady Frost. "Oh, you're recently married? How lovely, congratulations!"

"Ah, yes, I attended their wedding," Hawk mentioned with a smile as he took a break from eating, to comment. "It was very nice." He added, smiling toward the recently wed couple.

"Oh?" She glanced at him. "And who'd you take as your date?" She teased, with mock jealousy.

"Um, my grandmother." Hawk admitted with a little laugh. "Figured she ought to have a chance to attend something like that for once. And I had no idea how to find you, so.." Shrugging, he smiled at her as if challenging her to find a reason to be jealous for that.

"Aww, that's sweet of you, I'm sure she liked that." She smiled.

Hawk shrugged. Then, glancing around, noticed that neither he nor Seashell had anything to drink. "I'm going to get us some drinks," He announced as he stood up, feeling rather thirsty. He looked at Seashell. "Anything in particular you'd like?" He asked her.

"Oh," She thought for a second. "They made this really nice tropical thing for me, when I first got here.. but I don't know what it was called. Maybe you could get them to make me another one?" She suggested.

"I'll see what I can do." He promised, then turned to Sir Dusk and Lady Frost. "Would either of you like anything, as long as I'm going?" He asked, figuring he might as well offer.

@Rillewen
His lips curved into a muted smile as he noticed she wasn't shying away from his look. Not a scaredy cat, this one. "Hmm," he started his reply with a low hum. "I always try and attend functions like these. So that I might dance. But they are not the only draw I have to the city. I come to visit my sister a few times a year. She lives here."

He turned them round and round in a mutual spin. "You are correct," he told her. "North Ithilien and South Ithilien. They are separated by a road, and a river. I live in south Ithilien, near the hills of Emyn Arnen, where Prince Faramir has established his settlement. It is about a day's travel from here. A bit faster when I make good time." Golden twirled her out and into him again, and his smile grew slightly. "Considering a visit, Lady Cat?" he asked her quietly.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
"Thank you," he replied to Lady Seashell's offer of congratulations, though he did not take his eyes from Ziran as he did so. He gave his wife a slow smile as Hawk and Seashell spoke of whom Hawk had taken to their wedding.

Only when Hawk rose from his seat, did Macardil tear his eyes away from Ziran to look up at his friend. "Nothing for me, thank you," he declined with a smile. Ziran had just supplied him with a drink, after all. He quickly glanced at her own glass. It was still rather full as well, but he would not speak in her stead.

"Have you only recently arrived in the city, Lady Seashell?" he inquired of the young lady. It was what he assumed - since she had still needed to find the Hawk at the dance and since she had resorted to singing to seek him out in the crowd.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
The grin on his face and his ready acceptance to follow, turned her smile into a grin of her own. She happily guided him to Lady Snowflake and Redman. "Good evening!" Kaylin announced their presence to the two of them. "I hope we are not interrupting anything?" she asked casually, hardly hiding her amusement at the question. She took a closer look at Snowflake's dress and whistled lowly. "Nice additions," she just said, not explaining to either of the men why she said that.

"What can we call you two this evening?" she wasted no time in asking them. "It seems that we -" she added, indicating Thullir and herself with the hand holding her brandy, "have been dubbed Wolf and Butterfly."

@Arnyn
"See?" Meadow exclaimed jubilantly to Black Lips when she saw that Fairy was not at all opposed to her idea of fun though the support was subtle enough. "It would only make the evening more exciting."

"Oh, we're close enough; that's my sister there who has soured up like curds with too much seriousness," she continued carelessly, explaining to Fairy how things stood. "And she's fancy enough usually, in her own way, though not by means of wearing evening gowns day in and day out."

Meadow's openness earned her a reproachful look from the referred to sister, though the other woman was not bothered by it one bit.

"What?" she shrugged one shoulder, and leaned slightly onto the bar so she could see Fairy better, even as she punched the Black Lips' shoulder slightly in a very unladylike manner. "It's not like people would recognise you behind those layers of black. Relax and have some fun, or else why would you even come here?"

"I was relaxed before you came up with your shenanigans," Black Lips grumbled, and then said to Fairy: "I am not sure I want to do any such dares, the atmosphere of the evening..."

"Is perfect for dancing of all sorts," Meadow interrupted, and replied to Fairy's suggestion. "Also. Could there be even more trouble beyond washing an uppity gentleman with wine and getting away with it? It would be difficult to think of a challenge that would beat that." She laughed heartily remembering the incident, it had slipped her mind and she had not told of it to her sister, but that could still be remedied.

"Come on, let's go!" Meadow took Fairy's suggestion to heart and jumped off her seat. Snatching Black Lips by the arm before the woman could prepare for such an assault, she pulled her off the stool and towards the dance floor. "Why don't you join us now, Winged Lady? The more, the merrier, they say!" she called over her shoulder, while Black Lips tried to rid herself from the steely grip on her arm in hopes of disappearing back towards the bar before she ended up in the middle of the dance floor.

@Pele Alarion

"Your sister. Really?" The Fairy sipped her water, listening to Meadow going on about Black Lips being 'fancy enough, though not in the habit of wearing evening gowns day in and day out'. Privately amused at the wording, the Fairy smiled into her glass. A smile that she had to tamp down when Black Lips seemed to cast a withering stare her sister's way. The Fairy bit the inside of her cheek to keep from smiling too long and too broadly when Meadow punched the other lady's shoulder the way she did.

"Hmm," the Fairy hummed thoughtfully in reply to Black Lips' uttered recalcitrance. As was to be expected, Meadow disagreed. And then referred to the Fairy flicking a glass of red wine at one of the other guests earlier. "True," the Fairy judged when Meadow opinionated that any dare would be hard-pressed to top that. "I suppose that I am rather safe, then," she said with the faintest of smirks playing about her lips.

Amused by the way Meadow was trying to get Black Lips to come with her, and further amused by the latter's unwillingness to participate, the Fairy reacted by slipping off her barstool. What was left of her glass of water was abandoned atop the bar as she linked an arm with the arm Black Lips as of yet had available. "Let's go," the Fairy agreed, helping Meadow 'cart' Black Lips toward the dance floor, as if it was the most commonplace thing to do at a fancy Masquerade.

@Rillewen
Gilded did not reply to Teal’s suggestion of going over for lunch as she ended up more focused on performing the twirl without making both of them topple over in the process. It seemed to her that she did it a bit too awkwardly, watching where she stepped, even to the contrary of what she had been advised during the first dance.

“Oh, if that is an option,” she returned to the topic when she was facing Teal again. “That is, going over to ask for you. Perhaps I could. Have you already managed to explore some the various places where food is served? I haven’t been to that many.” In fact, she had only been eating at the same inn where she had a room.

Then Gilded offered Teal a hearty smile and said: “Why don’t we try another twirl? I was too careful and it came out a bit weird. But then again, it is not so easy to flow with it when not practiced.”
Feeling the scrutiny from Orchid, Rooster squared his shoulders, lifted his chin slightly and offered her a toothy grin as if he was indeed a bird presenting himself in the best light to draw attention.

“I didn’t have any particular thought in mind with this,” he then admitted. “It just looked colourful and bright, so I went for it. You can just call me That Bird if you don’t come up with anything more specific.” His brown eyes looked at Orchid merrily, as he flashed another grin at her.

“There might be other bird-masked folks around, but hopefully none other would have such a general name,” he added. “What do you think, Miss Orchid?”

@Arnyn and also @Rillewen “Wait…” Black Lips tried to object against the rather efficient collaboration between Meadow and Fairy. She felt split between wanting to shake them off angrily at being all but escorted to the dance floor as if she was a criminal being led off to the dungeons, and at the same time she found the whole setup amusing. Besides, it would not do to cause a scene right on the dance floor, so perhaps she should just go along with this? A small lop-sided grin slowly appeared on her masked face as her resistance gradually wore off.

Meanwhile, spurred on by Fairy’s participation, Meadow took to dancing full swing, perhaps too wildly and out of tune with the current music. Even though she seemed satisfied that Black Lips would not escape the moment she would be let go, she still kept the grip on, while glancing around for other likely victims.

Spotting Forest Nymph she thought the girl might be a likely candidate for responding favourably to a general dance-for-all. Waiting for a good moment to catch her eye, she waved vigorously at the girl, inviting her to come and join in.

@Pele Alarion

As the Fairy felt the resistance from the lady with the black lips fading, her half smile grew more pronounced. On the dance floor, Meadow wasted no time in beginning a wild dance of sorts, and the Fairy chuckled audibly. It was a mystery how Meadow was pulling that off while still holding Black Lips' arm - as if the former expected the latter to dart away at any time, like a skiddish deer. And, in the meantime, the woman even succeeded in beckoning someone else over to join them!

The Fairy, though, finally did let go of Black Lips's arm and grinned unapologetically at her before linking Black Lips' right arm and her own left arm together, and starting off in a circle. Meadow, who was still gripping Black Lips' other arm pretty tightly, spun around with them as a result. "This is an evening for fun!" the Fairy explained in her Dol Amrothian accent. "And since people can't even be sure of who you are..." The Fairy leaned in a little. "Make use of the opportunity!"

@Arnyn
"Hm, your sister?" She found it interesting that going to see his sister was a cause for him to come to the city. "That's very sweet. Does she enjoy having you visit?" She wondered, genuinely curious about that sort of relationship.

She smiled slightly as they moved in a circle around each other, keeping her focus on him so not to become dizzy. All the while, listening as he answered her inquiry. North and South, yes, that sounded like what she had heard. So, it sounded as if he lifted in the furthest point from here, she noticed. So, a long way to go. She smiled, glad that he had made the trip to come here and dance. Her smile grew slightly as he twirled her out and back in toward him. "You said, before, that I ought to come see it, sometime, didn't you?" She reminded him with a little grin. "It does sound beautiful, the way you described it. You made me want to see it for myself."

---

@Pele Alarion
He waited, with their arms held up above both their heads, while she attempted her twirl. It did seem a little slow and awkward, but he had no idea how to help her fix that. When she had come back to facing him, he smiled and was going to say something encouraging about it, but she spoke first, going back to his suggestion of finding him for lunch. "I've only done a little," He answered. "But mostly that's because Eryn showed me a few places, or someone told me somewhere I ought to try.. but I haven't had much chance to locate you and see if you wanted to join me." He explained.

When she asked about trying the twirl again, he smiled. "Sure." He nodded, agreeing that it had seemed a bit awkward. Stepping back slightly, he held up their arms to form a 'bridge' and waited to see if she would be able to do it better this time. He wished he knew more about how to help her do it correctly, but he hadn't really learned much about this type of dancing.

---

@Pele Alarion
Orchid smiled back, as he grinned at her. He was funny, and she was glad to have a chance to talk with him. "I didn't really have any thought in mind for mine, either," She admitted. "Actually, my cousin and my aunt mostly picked it out," She mentioned with a little shrug. But she had been dubbed with a 'name', and now she was trying to think of something for him. Red and white. A bird, he said? She supposed that yes, the feathery crest at the top of his mask did somehow seem a bit like feathers. "Hmm, yes. It is bright and showy, but I'm afraid I'm not terribly familiar with a lot of birds."

A soft giggle came then, when he suggested simply calling him 'that bird'. "Really, if that's what you like, then that works." She glanced around. "I know I saw one fellow around here with a brown-ish sort of bird mask. I'm sure he meant for it to be a certain sort of bird." She mentioned. "I'm sure there are some sort of fancy, exotic birds that would fit, but I wouldn't know the name of them." She said apologetically.

---

@Arnyn @Pele Alarion
Going to get a drink took a moment longer than she had anticipated, as she ended up having to wait behind a few others. But before long, she had a glass of juice and happily sipped it. She was starting back toward the table with Swan, but then saw that she was setting off for the dance floor with some fellow in.. was that a dragon? That was neat! She didn't mind her friend going off to dance, but that meant she had little to do. She hummed softly in thought, taking another sip of her drink.

She scanned the dance floor, trying to spot her other friend, Foxglove, or perhaps the girl in pink that she'd met before. Instead, she happened to spot a lady in bright green and gold, motioning eagerly. Nymph blinked and focused on her. It was a trio of ladies, actually. She glanced back to check if they weren't actually motioning toward someone else, but it was evident that it was her that they were motioning to. Now, her curiosity was piqued by what seemed like an invitation to join them.

She took a last drink of her juice, set the glass down, and crossed over to see what this might be about. It looked like they were all doing some sort of dance together, which would be more fun than sitting around waiting for some guy to ask. She grinned as she neared them. "Hi!" She wondered if she knew them at all, but none of them really seemed familiar, at least not at a first glance.

---

@Isolde Alarion @Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
She was quietly talking with Sir Embers while sipping her peppermint hot chocolate, when a 'good evening' made her look up and around to see who had joined them. She smiled as she recognized Lady Butterfly, who was no longer in much disguise. "Hello. I take it your game is over?" She smiled, since she assumed the gentleman in the wolf mask standing with her was her husband, which meant he had found her. Not to mention the fact that she had shed her wig and all that, so it was obvious who she was.

"Oh, thanks." She smiled at the compliment on the things she had added. She was glad that she approved, and wondered if she'd rather the additions be left on, rather than removed before the dress was returned. She decided to ask about that later, but for now, she focused on Butterfly's question. "Well, we have been dubbed 'Snowflake'," The name wouldn't require much wondering for why it had been chosen for her. "And Embers." She smiled slightly toward him before turning back to Butterfly and Wolf. "How is your evening?"

It was good to hear that the two had been enjoying themselves with dancing, and Ziran smiled at their banter, taking the opportunity to eat a few bites before Seashell asked them if they attended such things often. She almost laughed at the amusement in Macardil’s tone when he asked her rhetorically if they did, she inclined her head in agreement before he answered the lady more fully than she might have thought to.

Initially she had thought to add agreement in her own words that, despite having had to host such balls before, this was a rather unique event, when Macardil’s closing quiet words caught her attention. Her hand slowed as it was reaching for her glass, and she glanced over as her fingers closed around the cool stem. The slight smile that tilted her lips as she met Macardil’s gaze was one she reserved for him, and she let him answer once again for them both as he thanked Lady Seashell for her congratulations, although she did break her gaze away very briefly to flash a smile of thanks at the woman. That smile of his. Lifting the glass to her lips finally, she took that sip of her drink as she looked back at Macardil and half-listened to the discussion over who attended the wedding with whom. Ziran fully shifted her attention back to the group when he declined Hawk’s offer of getting them anything. Looking up, she demurred with a smiling shake of her head. “Thank you, but I have all I need.”

Her reverie broken, Ziran took another bite of her briefly forgotten food as Macardil spoke again. She had noted the difference in Seashell’s accent, and gave her interested attention to the woman’s answer, whatever it may be, to Macardil’s question, while she nibbled at another miniature quiche.

@Rillewen
He laughed quietly in response to her question. "For the most part, she does," he nodded with a half-smile. "I'm sure I can get on her nerves a little, too, at times. But those moments are more fleeting. I always enjoy coming out here, and I know she enjoys seeing me too."

"I did say that," he smiled. "And it is beautiful. If you choose to visit Emyn Arnen, you might even meet a Prince and his Lady. Assuming you have not met them already," he added. "Mysterious as you choose to remain." It was not a jab. In fact, it was quite enjoyable in a way to have her dancing around who she was. "I would offer to show you around," he began, "but I've only just arrived in the city a few days ago. I am staying a while before I return." He leaned in slightly. "But the woods hardly need my presence to be as lovely as they are," he promised her with a little smirk.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
"It is," she confirmed about her 'game'. "We both won," she declared with a smirk. Their aliases seemed right, she judged, and they would not be difficult to remember. "Snowflake is apt," she noted, her gaze sweeping along the powder blue dress again, before sipping her brandy. "Could you tell I was myself earlier?" she asked, leaning in toward Snowflake slightly and using a lower tone of voice which would it harder for Wolf and Embers to overhear. "Or couldn't you quite tell who was who?"

After straigthening, her voice regained its regular volume. "Going great," she couldn't help but grin, at present having forgotten about Lady Red and her interaction with her husband and therefore not seeing any reason her mood might still possibly turn. "As you say, we played our game, we won, and now I'm allowed to have more drinks!" It came out quite merrily and carefree, even as the Butterfly leaned gently against her Wolf before smiling at him that way she did.

"How about you two? Have you danced?" she inquired casually, her eyes flicking between Embers and Snowflake. "If so, I can always recommend another one. It won't be long before I drag this one out again," she added, tilting her head to indicate the Wolf. They just needed to finish their drinks first... "And if not, I also strongly recommend a first," she said with a grin. If Embers was who she thought... he definitely needed to get Snowflake out on the floor more than once! Right?
"Do you have any good moves, sir, to show Miss Snowflake?" she asked him, seemingly unambiguous. But if he was who she figured, he would definitely recognize her, and then he'd also know her well enough to realize she was daring him.

---

@Pele Alarion @Rillewen
Well, since she was here... and since this is what she was apparently doing... she might as well commit, right? It seemes as if no one had actually recognized her so far. Other than Gladhron figuring out who he knew her as. Her brother was guessing, but would be deterred from his guess if he spoke to the Dragon. Then again, perhaps it wouldn't be the worst thing if Tercen knew. It might persuade him that she did still know how to have fun. And then maybe the incessant prodding to enjoy herself a bit more would finally end.

She let go of Black Lips, causing her and Meadow to spin around each other a bit, and reached for Nymph's hand instead. To twirl the girl around. For she was young, she saw, and much shorter than the Fairy. "Hello! A masquerade is still a dance," she explained. "Best not to fall short of expectations?" she suggested with soft but clear laughter in her voice.

@Rillewen
“What! You have been busy and yet have managed to explore more of the city than me while I do almost nothing,” Gilded made a remark of mock upset and then laughed merrily. “I should definitely remedy that! Even if all the healers of the city come chasing me.” She supposed she could do some of the exploring on her own, but it was always more interesting with good company to share the experience with.

When Teal lifted their hand up again, Gilded tried to turn around with more confidence – after all there was not much that could go wrong, was there? Teal’s toes were reasonably far away, and there were no tree roots sticking out or anything to make her stumble.

“Think it worked out a bit better, no?” she said turning back at him with a bright-eyed smile.
“Well, even if it was your cousin and aunt picking the outfit, I must say that it is very well picked and fits you wonderfully. I hope you are happy with it,” compliments flowed from him easily for he felt comfortable in this environment and enjoyed Orchid’s company.

“Mmmm, brown would be more commonplace for birds, yes,” he thought out loud. “Perhaps easier to identify by those who know birds very well. But mine… I don’t know any local birds that brightly coloured. Unless…”

He laughed softly and then shrugged, “Unless you want to call me Rooster rather than That Bird. Though perhaps you are creative enough not to go with a bird theme at all?”

@Arnyn and also @Rillewen “Oh, fiiiiiine,” Black Lips drew out her agreement and rolled her eyes slightly, though the lingering smile showed that she was not as opposed to the whole dancing and spinning around as she had been at first, “If this is your idea of how fun should be had this evening.”

Meanwhile, she had a nagging feeling that there was something vaguely familiar about the Fairy though she could not put a finger on it. Perhaps someone she had met in Lond Col? There was something about the voice though, maybe the tone… but eventually she let go of trying to guess for it was true – the evening seemed to suggest that people should be allowed to have some level of anonymity.

While Fairy turned towards the girl who had joined them after Meadow had been waving at her – frantically – Black Lips would say, she turned round and round with her sister, though not lifting her feet up in the same wild jumping manner.

“You are aware that I will likely not invite you for another ball, right?” Black Lips told Meadow with a soft laugh.

“So? This is not like a reception up in Merethrond or something. And I doubt I would ever be allowed in there anyway, so you don’t even need to bother threatening me,” Meadow responded as she kept up the vigorous dancing some more.

@Arnyn
With curiosity, Lady Cat listened as the gentleman spoke about his sister, and how they each got on their nerves, yet still enjoyed seeing each other. "I have never had a sibling," She confessed, explaining her curiosity. "I have always wondered whether I would get along with one." She paused, thinking about that briefly before smiling at him. "It is nice to hear that you get along well enough with yours. Is she the only one you have?"

She tilted her head with further intrigue when he mentioned the possibility of meeting the prince of Ithilien and his lady. "They are something of heroes, are they not?" She asked, thinking back on what she had heard. She considered the rest of his comments, letting that slip off to a back burner somewhere. "So, the fact that you arrived only recently means you cannot offer a tour anyway?" She smiled. "You surely know this place better than I do, for I have never been to this city at all. And I, too, only arrived a few days ago." She explained with a little laugh.

---

@Pele Alarion
He grinned. "I can't believe you haven't done any exploring at all! I'm sorry I was so busy, I should have found you and made sure you weren't just sitting around doing nothing all day." He teased. "I will have to help you remedy that for sure." As she went through the twirl a second time, he smiled to see that she looked more comfortable doing it. "That looked better." He spoke encouragingly.

---

@Pele Alarion
She smiled softly, with a hint of a blush, as he complemented her outfit, saying it fit her wonderfully. "Thank you. I do like the color yellow," She smiled and tucked a few loose strands of hair behind her ear, trying not to jostle her mask too much as she did so.

She laughed as he suggested rooster. "Well," She tilted her head. "I haven't seen a whole lot of them, but I suppose I could sort of almost see that. But would you want to be called a rooster?" She wondered, not wishing to call him something which might potentially offend him. After all, people usually did not like to be called a chicken, right? "Although," She mentioned tentatively, "I have heard that roosters are rather fierce at fighting, so perhaps the name would give the impression that you are, also?" She had no idea whether he was or not, but at least that would justify giving him such a name.

---

@Arnyn @Pele Alarion
As the lady with the pretty fairy-like wings let go of her friends and turned toward her, Nymph smiled as she reached to take her offered hand. As she was twirled around, she laughed and decided that this lady was very fun and nice. "Yes, it is!" She agreed, grinning. "I like your wings." She added, almost wishing she'd done something like that now. But she figured it was probably best that the fairy was the only one with wings, because she looked all the more special and unique that way. "What can I call you?" Nymph wondered, curious.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
As both declined anything, Hawk nodded and set off to get himself and Seashell drinks. Both their hands had been full before, or he would have probably already thought of it. Plus, his mind had been a bit full at the time, too, he thought with a little amusement.


"Have you only recently arrived in the city, Lady Seashell?"

At Sir Dusk's inquiry, Seashell nodded with a little smile. "Yesterday, actually." She answered. "I've been looking for him for much longer than that, however." She hesitated briefly, but decided now was not the best time to get into any of that. Instead, she focused her sky-blue gaze on Dusk for the moment. "He mentioned that you had saved his life.. more than once. I want to thank you for that." She said sincerely. "It's.. a relief to know he's someplace safe, with people who care about him."

---

@Isolde Alarion @Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
Snowflake smiled as Butterfly declared that they had both won. "Good, glad to hear it." She let out a little laugh as the redhead declared with such joy that she was allowed to have more drinks now. She really didn't understand the appeal there, but figured it really wasn't any of her business. "Hope you enjoy." She answered, a little unsure how else to respond to that.

Taking a small sip of her hot chocolate, she considered the question about whether she could tell who Butterfly was. "No, I couldn't." She admitted, without mentioning that she had not really put much effort toward trying to figure it out. She'd been distracted by other concerns. The only advantage she'd had at all, was knowing that either Kaylin or Arnyn were going to be wearing that dress, while the other wore a different one. Now that the red hair was revealed on Lady Butterfly, she knew who was in the other dress.

"Yes, we had a dance," She answered with a little smile. "And then decided we'd see what sort of refreshment was being offered." She raised her mug of hot chocolate ever so slightly, to indicate what she meant. "The hot chocolate is really good. Mine's got peppermint added, and it's delicious." She glanced at Embers when Butterfly spoke to him, asking if he had any 'good moves' to show her on the dance floor. She was mildly amused by the question, but left it up to him to answer that one, since it was not addressed to her.

@Rillewen
"Yes, she's my only sibling. And even if she would protest to hear it, I try and look out for her as best as I can." He smiled at Lady Cat's comment about Faramir and Eowyn being heroes. "Most definitely," he confirmed. "Gondor is lucky to have them."

He slanted his head then, obviously charmed by her suggestion. "If you are staying in the City for a while as well, I could give you a tour." Golden sought out her eyes with his attentively, to see if her laughter might mean she was kidding. "If a lady of your stature would agree to be escorted around by a simple carpenter?" He dipped her a little, not too fast, safely keeping her weight up as he did so, and leaning in. "Perhaps the magic of the masquerade is veiling your eyes?" he said more quietly, before moving them both back up and twirling her around slowly. "We cannot exactly dance through the streets. At least, not if you want any kind of effective or efficient tour," he smirked.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
"He exaggerates," Macardil claimed. "I merely helped when I could." He smiled. "You are kind, Lady Seashell. Thank you for your words." He almost said his friend's name, but held back at the last moment. "Lord Hawk has proven a true friend to me, as well. In that respect, we have both helped each other, I believe." He glanced toward the bar. "Are you staying a while, my lady? If so, he would find much joy in the news." It was almost a request on his friend's behalf, even if Macardil hadn't quite phrased it that way.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen @Isolde Alarion
"I do enjoy it," Kaylin reassured the snowflake. Her friend shouldn't worry in that regard... not that Kaylin thought she was worrying about that. Suddenly thinking that people might not find it necessary for Kaylin to lose any inhibitions or filters - she had few enough as it was - Kaylin grinned. The grin grew when Snowflake asserted she hadn't recognized her. Even if Snowflake knew she had to either be herself or Arnyn, at least it hadn't been obvious, even to someone who knew which dresses to look for. "Excellent!"

Hearing Embers and Snowflake had already had one dance, Kaylin's eyebrows rose behind her mask. "Oh, good," she said with a half-mutter, though still audible. But Embers hadn't... made a move? Or had he? Kaylin blinked before focusing on Embers a moment. It had to be who she though, right? Had he caught the hint that this was an opportune time for him to put the moves on Snowflake?! She couldn't spell it out any more obviously, after all...

---

@Pele Alarion @Rillewen
"Thank you! The wings are quite a hit, as it turns out. I really like your own get-up, though. If we ever have another masquerade, I would be sorely tempted to do something similar," she admitted freely. "I've been called Winged One and Fairy," she suggested. Even if she wasn't the biggest fan of the latter, she couldn't deny it was slowly growing on her. "What about you, daughter of Yavanna?" she returned the question with a broad smile.

@Arnyn
"Hmm, she sounds.. independent." Lady Cat commented, regarding the man's sister. Based on what he said of her, anyway. She smiled slightly in approval. "Like me." She did find it impressive whenever a woman broke through the expectations placed upon women, so she hoped she was not wrong about her assessment, given how little information she had to base it on.

As Sir Golden suggested that he could give her a tour, her smile grew slightly. She was about to say that it would be very nice, or something along those lines, when he added more words as he dipped her slowly, speaking quietly and apparently wondering whether she was genuine. Or at least, that was how she took it. She gazed back up at his brown eyes as she considered how to reply, taking a moment so she did not answer right away.

As he twirled her slowly, she smiled at the 'suggestion' of dancing through the streets, and was still smiling softly as she came back to facing him. "The masquerade does have a certain magic," Lady Cat answered slowly, considering her words as she spoke, resting one hand on his shoulder again. "But what makes you think," Her smile gained an almost challenging sort of look, "that I have any reason to care what anyone thinks about.. anything I choose to do?"

Tilting her head, she waited for a couple of heartbeats before adding, "I am accustomed to completely disregarding whatever society expects of me.. or of women in general. And I tremendously enjoy having the luxury of doing so." She grinned. "I would not object to dancing through the streets, either, with someone so skilled as you. I daresay you could manage to do that and still give a suitable tour." She added, a little teasingly, before growing serious again. "Anyway," She shrugged one shoulder. "I would certainly not call you 'simple', whatever your occupation might be."

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
She shook her head slightly as he claimed he'd 'merely helped where he could'. "More than you know," She said softly. While she didn't know the details yet about it, knowing what she knew, she felt convinced that this man's intervention in helping Hawk's life, in bringing him to the city, had been much more vital to his safety than either of them realized. But she couldn't really tell too much at the moment, and also shouldn't.. this was a time for merriment. Plus, she hadn't even given her information to Hawk, yet, so she ought not talk about it to others. So, she let the matter drop, and smiled as he mentioned that Hawk had been a friend to him in return. "He is a good friend," She agreed, feeling glad she had met him so many years ago.

As the man asked about her plans, Seashell followed his gaze toward the bar, and saw that Hawk was already making his way back with drinks in hand. "I.. don't really know," She admitted, turning back to Lord Dusk with a little smile. "I hadn't really thought that far ahead, to be honest. I've been so focused on trying to find him..." She laughed a little at herself for not even considering what she'd do once she found him.

She propped her chin on her hand, with her elbow resting on the table, thinking. "I'll certainly stay for a while at least. We have a lot of catching up to do, and.. I've got some things to tell him about, and I'd like to meet his other friends, and family, if I can. I've heard so much about them, I feel like I almost know them already. But you're a new one, so I hadn't heard about you before tonight. I am very glad to have met you both," She added with a smile toward both Dusk and his wife, Frost. "Although.. does it really count as having met someone if you don't know their name?" She wondered, tilting her head curiously as she tried to decide about that.

---

@Arnyn
"Oh, really?" Nymph smiled happily to hear that the lady liked her outfit. "Thank you! My mother wanted me to wear something boring that, while it was very pretty, it had no real creativity about it. But, I managed to convince her and my father to let me wear this, so I could express my love of the forest." She grinned. "I made the mask myself!" She added proudly.

As the lady mentioned the two different names she had been called, Nymph considered. "Which do you like better?" she wondered. A little laugh came easily as she was called 'daughter of Yavanna'. That was unexpected! "One lady called me Forest Nymph, and I thought it had a nice sound to it. So, my friends have been calling me Nymph." She answered with a smile. "I guess.. that's sort of almost like a fairy too, isn't it?" She asked, a little unsure about that.

@Pele Alarion
”We will still endeavour to keep yours clean and pristine. A lovely dress it is as well.” He praised her outfit, living up to his moniker. She seemed to regard his dancing as more than just that of a hobbyist and he couldn’t help but grin with her praise. He wasn’t immune to cheese.

It was astonishing to hear how many people were attending this masquerade that were not from Gondor. Peace seemed to be drawing all sorts of visitors to the heart of the Realm and that could only serve to uplift them all with new experiences and perspectives. Unfortunately he himself was not rather well traveled to the various lands of Middle-Earth so he could not rightly guess where she might hail from, based on her speech. His was rather obvious.

”I think us southerners might be in abundance here.” He said at first, pausing as he noticed her gaze went elsewhere, but did not question or query that. There was much here to draw the attentions and mind, some new sight or spectacle or person. Her attention came back and he continued on the same vein of conversation.

For my family is here now. ”Here now in this hall? Mine as well. I’ve come to appreciate their presence after so many years away on duty or task. I do come from the south but my home will be wherever I might find my family. Wouldn’t you agree, my Lady?” He asked of her, before giving her another twirl, holding their conjoined hands high to give her the momentum and space before readorning her in his secure grip for the dance.

---

@Rillewen
The newcomer paused in his lead, making Swan suddenly feel like she may have embarrassed herself too much with her childish joke. But a smile spread on his face, allowing him to see a few lines of age that hinted he was much her senior in years than just a few. He took it all in good stride, figuratively, instead citing himself as a dragon – a green one to be precise. And he was from the north? How far north?

She had so many questions but they would have to wait as Green Dragon pre-empted her with a query of his own. What was her moniker? ”Swan, if you please, Sir. It is what I’ve been dubbed.” She smiled back, allowing herself to be led again, the anxieties of the prior moment already forgotten. So not an Ent. Just something far more dangerous. Or, well, he ought to be, but apparently her knowledge of dragons was wrong. He was too kindly and gentle.

”A dragon from afar, most curious indeed. It’s always been a marvel to me, that fire-breathers dwell in the most cold and northernly of environments. Or maybe that is what allows dragon to survive up there.” Swan mused aloud. If they really did exist, just like Ents. She went serious a moment as she observed them dancing, finding him rather pleasant and not over the top. ”Do they do much dancing at this inn, then?” She inquired, never having been to one, mostly because the atmosphere of drinking and the loose inhibitions it could cause was no place for a Lady such as herself to be in.

@Rillewen
"She is," he agreed. "Although the downside to that, I find, is that she tends to refuse asking for help in any department whatsoever." He smiled lop-sidedly. "Is that a pitfall that you recognize, Lady Cat?"

"I don't know," he answered honestly when she asked why he would think she cared about anyone thoughts about her. "Most people do," he offered. "I do, to some extent. I would not want to be thought of as a degenerate, for example," he chuckled. "For then people might shun me. And I like to be sociable when I can. I have plenty of time alone already, in my cabin in the woods."
Her teasing only amused him, and it showed in his smile. "I agree, I could dance you through the streets. But the streets of this city are only suitable for that when most of its people have returned home. Dancing requires a bit of room, after all... especially if we are to be moving through the street."

"Thank you," he said to her compliment. He stepped back, leading her to take a step back as well so her hand slipped off his shoulder and his hand could hold it. He turned her through one arm then, so he was effectively holding her in reverse, her back to his chest, as he tilted his head down to whisper near her ear: "I appreciate that."

It only took a few heartbeats before he turned her back through his arm to the standard dancing position. "You are positively wonderful company, Lady Cat, either despite or because of the mystery that surrounds you - I cannot tell!" He sounded amused, but that was mostly because he was testing the waters, as it were. "I was trying to build up my dance list, but could not resist approaching you a second time. I wonder if I will even be able to leave your side again this evening?"

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
When Seashell wondered whether you could really meet someone when you didn't know their name, Macardil considered that. He thought it was possible, but he could understand what the young lady meant. After a look at Ziran, he shot Seashell an agreeable smile. A contrast, really, to his more intimidating attire this evening. "We are not exactly hiding from anyone," he told her easily. "My name is Macardil. Pleased to meet you." His smile grew into a grin.

---

@Rillewen
"You have definitely done that," the Fairy agreed when the Nymph said she wanted to wear something to show her love of the woods. She thought it was quite creative of the girl that she had made her own mask. "You did?" she asked. "I wouldn't even be sure how to get started. You really did a great job with it."

"Nymph," she repeated, as if she were testing the alias. "Very well! Then you will be Nymph, and I will be Fairy. As to mythology, as usual I belive opinions are divided," the Fairy laughed lightly. "Some people think nymphs are a kind of fairy. Others believe the two are entirely different creatures. Who is to say? Perhaps it depends on whose story they feature in? Have you heard any of the ones where they have a forest nymph's life tied to the life of a tree?" Those had always fascinated her as a child.

@Rillewen
“Well. As for exploring… I have familiarised myself with every corner of the stables where my horse stays,” Gilded said, when she was back facing Teal again. “Must be the habit from spending so many hours each day taking care of horses for the cavalry.”

She considered asking for another twirl, but then thought it would be better to let Teal decide if he wanted to let her do that again, and maybe it would also be better not to become dizzy and fall down on the floor.

“Should I say that I’ll keep you to your word and go up to see that you don’t sit in the healing houses and forget about being the guide to adventures?” she said, her dark eyes laughing.
Rooster found himself thinking how that slight blush he noticed enhanced her beauty, though he already thought she was beautiful even without a blush. He said nothing of it though, and only smiled.

“I’m sure I could acquaint you with a rooster or two if we do end up touring the Pelennor,” he then said with a laugh. “Not all encounters I’ve had have been pleasant. They can definitely be fierce. And proud without limits. Though I am not sure I have either of those qualities.” His brown eyes looked merrily at her. “And yet I can’t think of any other common bird that would have red on top of their head. Woodpeckers perhaps, but it would not be very obvious like my mask.”

@Arnyn and also @Rillewen Having danced merrily for a while, Meadow slowed down and set about discussing something with Black Lips in whispered tones. Their argument remained quiet, though eventually Black Lips said: “All right, deal. Only if you do that or else… chamber pots for a month. I know where you live.”

“Shhh!” Meadow warned, since Black Lips had spoken loud enough for other curious ears to hear.

Then they both suddenly set about dancing around Fairy and Forest Nymph, shaking her hands up by their shoulders as they sung:

“We’re gonna shake, shake, shake our sillies out” sang Meadow,

“Shake, shake, shake our sillies out,” it was Black Lips’ turn then.

“Shake, shake, shake our sillies out
Wiggle our waggles away*,” they both then sang in unison.

“Come, join us,” Meadow invited the other two. “The words are simple enough, no?”

*A song by Laura E Monopoli / Donald S. Monopoli

@Lantaelen, @Arnyn “Thank you,” Amethyst responded to Cheddar’s compliments. “I am sure no one would notice if there ever was a speck of dust on my dress since it is not white. But I trust you would not let me fall so that the assumption could be tested.”

“Yes. Here now too,” she responded to the whereabouts of her family as she returned from the twirl to face him again. “Though I should say Minas Tirith as such. It is certainly true… if the family holds your heart like my own does with mine.”

“So your duties take you far from home,” Amethyst mused. “Could it be that you are a merchant? Or perhaps rather working with the navy since you are from the south?”

@Lantaelen
"Swan, how lovely." He smiled as she declared the name she had been given for this evening. "Are you enjoying the evening, Lady Swan?" He asked, starting them into the dance. She seemed to be a pleasant young lady, which was a relief. He knew so few people around these parts, he had taken a bit of a risk in asking her to dance, especially with her being.. well, actually.. he'd guess her to be around the age that his little sister would have been. But he locked that saddening thought away for later. Tonight was for being joyful.

"Ah, well, they do not all dwell in the northern, cold mountains. Or, did not, when there were dragons around." He mentioned, surprised. "I suppose if any still live, they may have fled there," He added thoughtfully, wondering about that. "But I should not let myself stray into telling tales," he realized with a little laugh. "If I am going to do that, then it would be best to sit at a table and listen without having to worry about becoming distracted.. I wouldn't want to step on your toes, miss Swan." He smiled, only half joking about that possibility.

When she asked about the inn, he paused to think about that, and let out a little laugh again. "Uhhh, well, to be honest, I haven't ever been there." He admitted with a sheepish little grin, shrugging one shoulder lightly. "However, the Green Dragon inn is located in the region which is inhabited by Hobbits, primarily. And they are known to be very merry folk, so I wouldn't be surprised if there is a lot of dancing there. But.. probably not this sort of dancing," he guessed. "I'd imagine it would be more.. lively and.. bouncy." He was not really sure, but it seemed logical.

"Are you from Gondor, miss? I have only just arrived yesterday, and I've only been here once before, so I am not very familiar with what accents belong to where," He explained. "And so far, it seems like each person I meet who is from this country, has some slight differences in the way they speak." He added, curious about that. It was a rather large country, with multiple fiefdoms, so that would explain it, he supposed.

---

@Arnyn
"Hmm, pitfall?" She tilted her head as she considered that. "I don't know," She answered slowly. "Are you sure it's really a pitfall?" She shrugged slightly. "Perhaps she doesn't ask for help with anything, because.. she simply doesn't need help?" She mentioned as a possibility. She didn't know his sister, of course. But that seemed logical enough for her. "Then again.. there are people who feel that asking for help would be seen as a sign of weakness." She pointed out softly. As for herself, she shrugged slightly again. "I'm not sure whether you would consider me the same." She gave a small smile. "I have people who work for me.. they might be considered 'help'. When I want to learn how to do something.. such as dancing.. or whatever, I find someone who is very good at it, and then arrange for that person to give me lessons so that I may become good at it. Is that considered 'asking for help'?" She tilted her head, curious what he might say to that. "I also did not protest when you offered to get me a drink," She reminded him. Of course, she had also basically 'asked' him to without actually asking, so that might not really count...

As he responded to her about what people thought, she nodded in understanding. Of course, there were things that everyone worried about to some extent, concerning what people thought about them. And that tied in with what she had said about why some people might not want to ask for help. Some people had to maintain a certain kind of public image, also. But she was fortunate in that she was in a city far from where she lived, where no one knew her. She could do anything! Such freedom was wonderful and perhaps, even a little thrilling. A little amused laugh slipped out as he mentioned not wanting anyone to shun him. "Oh.. and have you done something that might give anyone reason to believe you are a degenerate?" She wondered, amused that he would say that. "Or is dancing in the streets so frowned upon, that you worry they might think so of you?" She grinned. "If it worries you so, we can forget the idea."

She let her grin fade back to a regular smile as they continued dancing, with him turning her so that her back rested against his chest. It was almost like a hug, but not quite. She tilted her head slightly over her shoulder, smiling softly toward him as he told her he appreciated her words, saying he was not simple. "Well, it would be a lie to say otherwise," She responded softly. Then she was back to facing him, and she rested her hand back on his shoulder, looking up at him as he led them in dancing.

His next words brought her grin back, pleased to hear him say she was wonderful company. "As are you." She informed him. Something which was rare for her to come by, back home, so she wanted to relish it as much as she could, this evening. Although his last words made her tilt her head in thought. "Are you saying.. that you do not wish to leave my side for the remainder of the evening, or that you do wish to do so, and are trying to find a polite way of telling me so?" She wondered, although with a glint of amusement twinkling in her dark eyes.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
Seashell was a bit surprised when the man offered his true name. She had not really been trying to hint that the other couple give their names. She had only been musing out loud, she supposed. But she grinned in return. "Well, then it's very nice to meet you, Macardil." She answered cheerfully. "I guess you probably already know mine, if he's been telling you stuff about me, but anyway, I'm Renia." She smiled at them both. "You can call me that, or Seashell, whichever you like. I'm not really hiding either," She admitted, laughing lightly. "I mean, the whole point of wearing all the seashells was to try and draw the attention of the one person who does know who I am.. so he would know who I am." Shrugging, she smiled as that one person returned to the table, drinks in hand.

"One tropical drink, as promised." Hawk smiled as he set that down in front of her. "The bartender remembered you, so it should be exactly the same as the one you had before." He set his own drink down and slid into his seat again.

"Thanks!" She happily took a sip and nodded her approval. "Definitely just as good as earlier. Thank you." She agreed. "Now eat your food, so you have enough energy for dancing later." She 'ordered' him teasingly.

Hawk smiled in amusement. "I wouldn't dream of arguing with a lady." He grinned toward Dusk before returning his attention to his plate of food.

Since he had a good amount of food on his plate, and Seashell only had picked up a few small items to nibble on(which she only got so he wasn't eating by himself), she was more interested in in the company. "So, they have a ball like this every year? But not always a masquerade, right?" She asked. "Or is this a new thing they've started doing, since the king's return?" She wondered, as that alternative possibility occurred to her.

---

@Arnyn @Pele Alarion
Nymph smiled happily to hear that she had done a good job with her mask. "I do a lot of sewing." She explained. "I did a little bit of the decorating on the dress, but it was mostly done by someone else. I told them what I wanted, though."

She grinned as Fairy decided that the names fit well. Fairy and Nymph. As for whether fairies and nymphs were related, she had no idea. They seemed like they ought to be, but she had very little real experience with such things.. were they even real? She didn't know. "Yes, I've heard that tale." She agreed, smiling a little. "My brothers used to tell me stories like that." She added, marginally saddening at the mention of them, before cheering up again. "I've got a picture, in my room, that I painted, trying to imagine what they might look like. I really liked how it turned out." She mentioned happily, and briefly described that it showed a very pretty weeping willow tree with its branches all trailing down and forming like a canopy and curtains, then there was a girl in a forest-y sort of dress dancing under it, framed by the trailing branches.

She was distracted from such talk when the other two ladies began dancing around her and Fairy, singing a silly song. Nymph giggled and listened for a moment to get the hang of how they sang it before she joined in with them, laughing a little as she tried to copy them, and hoped that Fairy would also join in.

---

"You could have taken your horse out for a ride and went exploring!" He pointed out with a laugh. "It's a good thing you came to this tonight, I can't believe you have hardly even ventured out of the stables the whole time you've been here." He grinned, teasing lightly. "Don't worry, I'll make sure and find you and drag you off on all the adventures we can find." He laughed. "I'm sure our friends will help."

---

She laughed softly. "Do you know some roosters, then?" She asked curiously, then listened as he mentioned how he'd had unpleasant encounters. "Ah.. are they vicious?" She wondered, curious what would have made these encounters unpleasant. She considered what he said about the roosters being fierce and proud. "Well, I don't know," She answered as he mentioned not knowing if he had these qualities. "Even if you don't, you could pretend to, for the evening." She suggested with a shrug.

"If you are happy with being called Rooster, then I will call you that." She decided. "Unless you prefer Woodpecker," She looked at him with a little amusement. "Though I don't really know much about woodpeckers, except the peck holes in trees."

@Rillewen
"She might not need it, but I think it might be easier on her if she lets the right people in a bit more," he said with a shrug, concerning his sister. He tilted his head at her when Lady Cat wondered if he would harbour a similar opinion concerning her own actions. "I cannot answer that, exactly, without knowing who you are and how you choose to live your life," he pointed out with a little grin. "Though I was not really referencing asking for help when learning a new skill or something as mundane in subtly tasking a man with acquiring a drink for you," he continued, making sure she knew he knew all too well what she had done, earlier. "I was thinking more along the lines of... asking for help when you are... in a rough spot. Instead of insisting to claw your way out of it all alone," he said more quietly.

"But - discussing the topic any further might move us into rather personal territory, and I don't think she would appreciate me elaborating any more than I already have," Golden said with a faint smile. "Which I can understand, from her point of view. I hope you can, as well?" He felt he needed to drop the subject. It wasn't fair to his sister to keep talking about it, without her even being part of the conversation and unable to call a stop to it when she wanted to.

When she asked if he'd done something to have people thinking he was a degenerate, he laughed freely. "Not yet, I believe!"

He had to admit, he was impressed by the way Lady Cat was taking everything in stride. Throughout all the little things like him leaning toward her, him turning her back to his chest - she remained poised. Confident. Seemingly quite unimpressed, herself.

At her last question, he smirked. "I don't know," he teased her. "Would it even be fair to deprive other men from the chance of taking you for a spina cross the floor?" At that, he did spin her, and when he caught her again, he whispered into her ear. "I don't think it would be fair at all. However, I would definitely already put in my request for a third dance with you, Lady Cat." He pulled back. "If you don't find that presumptious."

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
He nodded when she said he probably already knew her name. "It might have come up, once or twice," he said, fighting a grin.

Upon Hawk's return, Macardil gave him a knowing look when his friend said he knew better than to argue with a lady. "Wise beyond your years," Macardil commented drily.

"No, it is not always a masquerade. Which makes it all the more interesting on the rare years that it is, I reckon. At least, for those who enjoy the anonimity and the option for some sort of hide and seek." It didn't matter to him much one way or the other.

---

@Rillewen @Pele Alarion
"You paint?" she asked the Nymph, quite interested in that. After a brief deliberation, she leaned in slightly to add: "I draw." It would explain her interest, she figured, and this girl didn't know her anyway - or at least that's what she assumed. "Do you paint a lot? Or is it more of a rarity?"

When Black Lips and Meadow started dancing around them, shaking their hands but also singing, the Fairy drew in a slow, deep breath. What was this?? She could agree to dancing with other ladies, and being a bit silly, but this was... another few steps up on th eladder of silliness. Enough steps to make the Fairy realize this was quite beyond her comfort zone. Disguise or not. When Nymph joined in, Fairy grunted. "Nooo," she protested mildly, raising her hands defensively with an awkward laugh spilling from her lips. "This is a little too much for me, ladies." If they insisted on keeping this up, she would have to look for an escape route.

@Pele Alarion
”I am glad we can share that sentiment, my Lady.” He replied to the topic of her home, and family being where one’s home and heart were. Like him, she must be a newcomer to Minas Tirith. He wondered where and from what land. Some part of him perhaps wanted to guess that she might be a northern Dunedain like the King Himself was.

She mused about his own presence and origins though, to which he smiled courteously and in welcome of the queries. ”The navy would be more apt to describe. I have also been known to be a knight, on occasion.” He said lightly, for the truth was he was often that almost all the time.

”My duties have taken me to many lands, some very fair and vast. And I have seen many interesting things, my Lady. But even still here in the lands of my kin, there is still new wonders to look upon.” The song was coming to an end, so he concluded with giving Amethyst a polite twirl, before facing her and giving her a short bow of respect for the dance.

”Your flawless countenance is certainly one of those.” He leaned in to add, living up to the moniker he had been given. ”I am gracious for the dance, my Lady. I shall allow others their chance to bear witness to your talents and grace.”

---

@Rillewen
”I am enjoying the evening very much, thank you!” She beamed widely, watching his expression, what she might see of it, and hoping for the same. She hadn’t seen a despairing face yet and honestly that would shock her. He spoke to her about dragons, their way of life and customs, and she absorbed every detail and word with a deep curiosity and fascination. She had so many follow-up questions! She very much would have bothered him for all those tales, until he wisely stated it should be saved for a more sedentary sort of exchange. That made her chuckle and nodded.

”You won’t believe the wealth of questions I have for you then, Sir. A price of bruised toes would certainly be an underpayment on my part.” She jested back, a quirk of her eyebrow to express her light, playful sarcasm. Dragon was an aged and yet charming man. His hands were much larger and engulfed her petite, gloved ones. He was a man who used his hands, rough and firm. It felt comforting. Like her father’s hands, in a way.

When he spoke about the inn, her eyes still held amazement, though her knowledge of taverns and inns was basically nil. But when he mentioned Hobbits, her eyes shot up, and she fell back into her mother tongue by sheer excitement. ”You mean the Periannath?” He lived near their fabled land? Dragons and hobbits and…some part of her was starting to wonder if he wasn’t just stringing her along with tall tales. After all, that’s how Swan even knew of those two races.

His questions about hers, about Gondor’s regional accents and all, reminded her that she had an innate duty as a local to share her homeland’s customs and ways with travellers and outsiders. ”You are correct, the various provinces of Gondor have developed their own regional dialects and manners of speech. Our land is ancient, spanning many millennia, and in each district there was the development of small differences in speech, customs, traditions…it really would take a lifetime or two just to study it all!”

She gave a shrug. She only knew it was a topic of study, not that she was too deeply a scholar in it. ”Stay here long enough, you’ll develop an ear for which accent belongs where. Mine you would call Belfalasian, from the shores of the south. But tell, Sir Dragon, are you getting to stay long in our lovely country? There is so much you ought to see!” Swan inquired, smiling up at him.

@Arnyn @Rillewen
It was obvious to her that Macardil knew who this young woman was from his conversations with Trevadir, and while he had mentioned to her that his friend had a sweetheart, Ziran did not recall ever hearing her name. She found it curious that the woman would state that it was not possible to know someone without knowing their name. Rather than protesting that it was possible from a person’s words and actions without ever knowing a name, she tilted her head in curiosity and slight agreement. Knowing someone fully was easier knowing the name they answered to, but she had a complicated relationship with names at times. Taking a sip, she glanced back at Macardil and smiled quietly at his answer to Seashell.
Before she could add her own name in response to Seashell sharing her name as Renia, Hawk returned. Laughing silently at Seashell’s ordering Hawk to eat so that he had strength for later and the rest of their banter, Ziran’s eyes danced with quiet mirth, although she narrowed her eyes briefly at Macardil for his comment.

Washing down her last bite with a swallow of her drink, Ziran nodded in agreement after her husband answered Seashell. “We do indeed have a yearly ball at Midwinter, but this is much less common to have it as a masquerade. It used to be a military ball that was open to the public, but that has changed since the coming of the King and his queen into something pleasantly different. It is good to meet you Renia, and I hope you enjoy both the city and the rest of the masque to the fullest extent. I am known by a few different names, but most know me by Karis, and my friends call me Ziranphel.” She paused slightly and then decided to ask the question that she had in return. “If you don’t mind me asking, your accent sounds to be from the north, but I have heard a few different northern accents this evening, and haven’t placed yours. Where do you hail from, Renia?”

@Lantaelen
"Good!" He replied happily, genuinely glad to hear that the young lady was having a good evening. He grinned wider as she informed him of a 'wealth of questions' for him. "I will endeavor to answer them as well as I can, but I am by far no expert," He laughed. "I have never actually seen a real dragon," He informed her. "As far as I know, the last of one around here was slain long ago, before I was born. Smaug, of the Lonely Mountain," He added, in case she was unsure which one he meant. "But I have always enjoyed stories of dragons better than any other, and so I have learned all of the best ones." He admitted, grinning as he stepped back slightly and led the young woman into a graceful twirl, then resumed their prior dance position, keeping a respectful distance.

He was mildly surprised to hear her speaking in Sindarin, and answered her in the same language, "Indeed, yes. Periannath as they are called in this tongue, although they call themselves Hobbits." He explained. "In the tongue of my mother's people, they are called Holbytla. It means Hole-Builder, which is very apt, because they do prefer to live in cozy little hobbit holes, dug down into the ground."

Pausing as he realized he was mingling some of the languages just a little bit, Dragon smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry. Which language do you prefer, miss?" He returned to the common tongue for this question, since they had begun in that one. He listened as she answered his question about the accents, and nodded. He was aware of Gondor's ancient history, but not so familiar with its various dialects and accents. "Belfalas, alright." He nodded in understanding. "Interesting!"

He grinned when she asked whether he would be staying long. "I hope to. But I don't know exactly how long. I'm here for a while, anyway.. at least a month, perhaps? I would love to see more of this place. I've only been here once before, and it was very brief. It was also.. not exactly in its splendor at the time." He shrugged. "But this time, there's no enemy troops advancing, no terrifying things attacking.. all the damage seems to be repaired.. Much better!" He laughed lightly. "I'm looking forward to seeing how much more this city has changed since all the battles.. though I think I'll have to try and drag my brother out of the library to see some of it, at some point, before it's time for us to leave." He shook his head, but he was smiling.

"As for how long we are staying, well.. we're here accompanying a lady, who is like family to my brother and me. She has some business with the houses of healing, so however long that takes.. she isn't sure yet. But when she has concluded that, then we will be escorting her back home, to where she lives, near Bree. That is quite far away in the Northwest." He explained.

---

@Arnyn
She nodded as he explained what he meant about the asking for help. Then, smiling faintly, she addressed what else he had said, and not said.. that he knew she'd tasked him with getting her a drink. She nodded as he suggested moving away from that subject, lest it get him in trouble with his sister. "Certainly, I understand." She agreed.

"As for the drink.." She hesitated, tilting her head to one side curiously. "You weren't.. bothered by that, were you?" She asked with a little shrug, trying to gauge whether he was upset about her using a small bit of female manipulation on him. She smiled up at him as they danced. "It seems like an excellent way for a lady to test out whether a man is worth her time... Don't you think?"

She let out a soft laugh as he denied being a degenerate. "Good," She smiled. "I would not wish to be incorrect in my judgement." She grinned teasingly, then she twirled smoothly as he twirled her one last time. It seemed he was preparing to end the dance. She was a little disappointed, for he was quite a good dancer and she was enjoying his company, as well as the conversation. But he was probably right. Perhaps he would like to dance with some other ladies, and perhaps she might enjoy a few dances with other gentlemen. If anyone asked her.

His whisper into her ear brought her smile back. "I would be delighted to save a dance for you, Sir Golden." She declared softly, then her smile increased slightly. "You are truly noble, aren't you? So worried about depriving the others," She grinned, also teasing. "Perhaps you're too generous to your fellow gentlemen."

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

Hawk smiled toward Macardil when he mentioned he was 'wise beyond his years'. Swallowing the food in his mouth, he corrected, "My grandmother taught me well." Shrugging, he listened with mild surprise to hear that their real names had been exchanged in his brief absence. He listened quietly to the rest of the talk for a bit, while he continued working on his plate.

"Hmm, yes, the anonymity certainly made it challenging," Seashell mentioned with a smiling glance toward Hawk, but then turned her attention back toward Dusk and Frost. "It is fun, of course," She added. "I think I made at least one new friend whom I'll probably never see again, however." She laughed slightly. "Who knows. I found the person that mattered most, and now I get to meet you two and later, maybe.. your other friends?" She asked with a questioning glance toward Hawk.

Nodding, he agreed. "Definitely. First chance we get. Two of them are here, but currently.. occupied," He answered. "And the other is out with a friend, so maybe you can meet her tomorrow."

"Great." She smiled and turned back to the other couple as the lady offered her real name. Names, rather. "Those are very pretty, both of them." Seashell answered. "So... which do you prefer that I should call you?" She asked, checking about that. Since she had barely met her, she didn't want to presume she might already be in the 'friends' category who called her Ziranphel, after all.

When asked about her origin, the young woman paused in a bit of surprise to be asked that. "Hmm." She considered that question for a moment. "That's.. um.. a little tricky to answer, actually," She admitted with a slightly apologetic little smile, then shrugged. "It's been a while since anyone asked me that." She took a moment to try to think of place names that people in Gondor might know best, rather than local names. "So, the short answer is.. I don't really know exactly.. but to try to explain that... I assume I'm originally from somewhere way upstream from the Tharbad area, if you know where that is.. but I never have found where. But then I was taken in by some elves who found me, and I lived for a couple of years at a place called Bar-en-Raveara.. that's probably not on any maps though," She realized. "That's um, sorta along the coast between Lond Daer and Lindon." She explained. "But the last five years or so, I've mostly lived at sea among some other sailing folks." She grinned. "You might have heard bits from all of that in my accent.. in fact, I'm kind of impressed you could distinguish my accent as being Northern." She mentioned. "Have you traveled out that way before or something?"

@Arnyn @Rillewen
Ziran smiled at Renia’s response. “You are welcome to use either name, as we have mutual friends.” Many people knew her almost as well or better by the second than the first since her time in the military, but she didn’t feel the need to elaborate on that.

It was interesting to hear a brief synopsis of Renia’s history, and she could see how the coastal imagery would come naturally to the woman. The place names brought back memories both distinct and faded alike, and her face took on a more serious cast when Renia asked if she had traveled that way. “You could say that, yes, although I have not been to the shores in that region.” Ziran paused to figure out how to share without going into depth. “I grew up in Pinnath Gelin and traveled north of the barrier of the Ered Nimrais twice, once as far north as Fornost in winter, and another south of your Tharbad but a distance into the Enedwaith before crossing the Gap of Rohan back into these lands.” Her voice was low and matter-of-fact in contrast to the music and joy, and she lifted a hand to touch her mask briefly with its swirls reminiscent of frost. It covered the faint scar on her cheek that she had gotten from a battle with wolves in that far northern country many years ago. Each of her trips to the north had found her returning with scars, although the latter had started in the south.

Ziran drew a breath and found her smile again although it was a bit subdued, remembering that there were many good things that also came from the north, and they were part of a reunited kingdom once more due to the King’s coronation. Hence these celebrations. “I look forward to visiting again under more pleasant circumstances someday.”

@Rillewen
"Since I knew what you were doing," he replied when she asked if he hadn't been bothered by the way she'd had him fetching a drink for her earlier, "I could have said no," he reminded her with a curl to his lips. "But I had already decided I wanted to accommodate you, so it was irrelevant." He let out a brief, quiet laugh.

He hummed thoughtfully at her statement about his being generous. "Perhaps I am too generous, yes. But I can assure you I am decidedly not too noble." With a little smirk, he stepped out of the dance and lifted her hand while he bowed slightly. "Where would you like for me to escort you, my lady?"

@Arnyn
She smiled as he told her that he had known and yet still chose to do it. A true gentleman, it seemed. Lady Cat was pleased that he was taking that so well, and might have mentioned something else, but the dance seemed to be wrapping up. She was mildly disappointed the song had not lasted longer, but she had enjoyed the dance as much as the conversation. This evening was certainly turning out to be more fun than she had anticipated, and for that, she was very glad!

At his smirk and comment that he was not too noble, she raised a curious eyebrow. What did he mean, exactly? That he was not a Nobleman, or that he did not think himself to be noble of character? She suspected he meant the former, while she had really been referring more to the latter. But she decided not to comment on that. Not now, anyway. If he did, indeed, return for another dance with her, maybe it would come up again. "Back to the table, please." She responded, with a graceful curtsy in response to his bow.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

"Alright, thanks." She smiled as she was informed that she could call her by either name. Seashell always liked making new friends, and it somehow seemed impressive to her, to have more than name to use. She nibbled on a little pastry while she listened to the other woman respond to her question, and speak a bit about herself. Some of the place names that she mentioned sounded familiar, and she nodded slightly as she tried to picture their locations on maps.

Seashell took a sip of her drink to wash down the pastry before speaking again. "Most of those places, I've only seen listed as locations listed on maps, and haven't seen in person.. but I do know where they are. I'm much more familiar with the harbors and villages along the coastline." She admitted. "Do you enjoy traveling, then?" She asked, as Ziranphel mentioned hoping for a chance to visit under more pleasant circumstances. She also couldn't help wondering what circumstances had brought her there, if they weren't pleasant, but given the way her smile looked like it had faded a bit, she decided not to ask about it.

"As for me, I love to explore new places.. find adventures," She grinned at Hawk, remembering some of the fun adventures they'd had on the occasions when they got to spend time together. "Meet new friends." She added, smiling back toward Dusk and Frost. "I've never been to Minas Tirith before, so I'm eager to get a chance to explore around here, and see the Pelennor I've heard so much about."

"We will definitely be doing that.. tomorrow if you like." Hawk assured her with a smile. Feeling satisfied now that he'd eaten, he slid his plate aside, finished eating now. He hadn't realized how hungry he'd been until he started. He adjusted his mask slightly, unsure whether it might have gotten out of place while he was eating. "I owe you a new hat though." He told his lady with an apologetic glance. "Sorry."

Glancing at him, she gave him a long look. "What did you do to my hat?" She asked in a mock chiding tone, folding her arms as she frowned at him.

"Umm, I didn't do anything to it, actually.. but, well it gave its life to a good cause, I promise." He glanced toward Macardil, then back to Seashell. "Maybe a story for another time though."

"You.. killed my hat?" She stared at him for a few seconds in disbelief. "What did he do to my hat?" She asked, turning back to them after catching the way Hawk had glanced at Macardil. She was trying not to give in to amusement, trying to keep up the act of pretending to be upset for a bit longer.

@Rillewen
“I could have, suppose,” Gilded agreed, smiling. “I did take Sugar out for a bit of exercise, but not too far, just out the gate this way and that along the main roads. But then again this…” she nodded towards the decorated tavern. “This is a whole different adventure.”

She looked down again for a bit to see where she stepped and then lifted her brown gaze back to Teal. “Won’t mind any other adventures too, but you already know it, right?”
“Oh, Miss Orchid,” Rooster said and then laughed. “Should I tell you of the few times I’ve gone apple-stealing as a little lad just to be chased by a rooster? There was this farm… Let me tell you – it is not nice to feel rooster pecking or kicking, or wing flapping at your bare legs.”

He shook his head when Orchid suggested that he should pretend being proud and fierce this evening. “I rather prefer simply enjoying the evening and letting people assume what they will about my outfit and character. No?” he laughed. “Don’t care much about woodpeckers, so you can safely call me Rooster if you like, and I will respond.”

@Arnyn and also @Rillewen Black Lips and Meadow circled a bit more, and sang the verse again, seeing that Nymph joined them. However, Fairy seemed to be more self-conscious and refused to join them. Eventually Black Lips decided that enough was enough and came to a stop with a swift step outside of the orbit of the circle so that Meadow and Nymph would not run into her.

“Should we return to our drinks then, ladies? Or?” Black Lips asked with a hearty laugh. “I am not sure I am up to many more silly actions myself.”

“What do you mean by silly? Mostly just fun,” insisted Meadow. “Don’t you think so?” she asked, turning towards Nymph.

“Come, let’s move off the dance floor,” Black Lips urged, “We are in the way.”

@Lantaelen, @Arnyn “It sounds like you hail from Dol Amroth, to be more specific, if you mention knighthood,” Amethyst guessed, wondering what it meant to be a knight on occasion, since she had understood that it was more of a status than a temporary occupation. Yet, she decided against discussing it while dancing.

“I certainly hope the wonders to be discovered would not end very quickly,” she commented, following through with the twirl and then responding to Cheddar’s bow with an appropriate curtsy.

“Thank you for the dance, Sir,” she said kindly. “May your evening be filled with more wonderful dances as well.”

@Arnyn @Rillewen
A slight murmur of vague assent was all Ziran could summon when Seashell spoke of the area and asked her if she liked traveling before immediately segueing into describing her own love for exploring new places and having adventures…like exploring the Pelennor that she had surely at least partially crossed on arrival. It wasn’t that Ziran didn’t like traveling. She had enjoyed the voyage south and west as usual.Given that all of her travels beyond visiting her family and fulfilling her duties in the military had involved captivity before this last trip to Dol Amroth, Ziran wasn’t quite sure her experiences were ones this young woman would relate to given the tone of hilarity and mock outrage at a hat. Yet she didn’t want to quash their mood by pointing out her old woes. The topic was not one she wished to speak of here, and she would rather supplant bad memories with good ones.

Pushing her empty plate away and leaning back slightly in her seat, she took another drink and studied the two over her glass for a long moment before glancing at Macardil. Knowing just a little of Hawk’s story and through observation, she gathered that he had seen some difficult things over the years, and perhaps it was the same for Seashell, yet there was also a bright sense of naivete and carefree joyful exuberance present in their manner that she did not want to tarnish even if she could not share in the same. The joy she had found was despite those cares, and sometimes because of them. Her gaze lingered on her husband, and she tilted her head in question. It appeared that Seashell thought he knew what had happened to this hat of hers that had been destroyed. Would he answer and elaborate on that assumption?

@Rillewen
"The table it is," he agreed goodnaturedly, holding out his arm for her. Once she took it, he walked her back to the table. Like a proper gentleman. He found it extremely easy to behave as such this evening, given the setting. "I hope to see you again, later, Lady Cat," he told her, and he was genuine with the sentiment. He was feeling less and less inclined to fulfil his bachelor's purpose here this evening, which was to dance with a good number of the unattached ladies present. It wasn't often that he encountered a woman who held his attention for long. Perhaps that was also due to the setting. And that beautiful lace mask... on top of that gorgeous looking face.

Anyway.

Unabashed, he lifted her hand with one of his, and lightly pressed a kiss onto the lace glove she wore. "Later?" It was a promise on his part, a question on her's. But before she could answer, he smiled as he gently let go of her hand and then turned to walk away.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
He didn't miss the narrowing of his wife's eyes at him when he'd called Hawk a smart man. Nor did he mind. His lips curled up into the hint of a smile, in fact. Nothing more, though. As the conversation turned toward northern areas, he noted the change in Ziran's expression, and subconsciously the movements of his utensils slowed as he watched her as she spoke. The tone of her voice. The way she touched her mask for that tiny, little moment. Her last sentence confirmed it for him. They needed a change in topic. Would it come naturally?

Seashell, or Renia, did not pick up on those smallest of cues. Of course... how could she? His Ziran was excellent at composure. Some pride swelled in his chest as his hand found hers atop the table when Renia asked her if she enjoyed travelling and he heard that little murmur. There was little need for intervention, however, given that Seashell and Hawk had no trouble branching out to a whole new topic - all by themselves. Macardil looked sideways at his wife then, offering her his silent support.

When Seashell seemed to address him in regards to Hawk's hat, Macardil took a slow, deep breath, his eyes resting on Ziran a moment longer, before he looked back to Seashell and tilted his head thoughtfully. His free hand lifted his drink almost all the way to his lips, but before he took a sip, he gave her a little grin. "He sacrificed it for a good cause," he lifted a tiny tip of the veil, before finally taking a drink. When he put the glass back down, his blue eyes flicked to Hawk. "You must supercede your feelings of discomfort concerning that," he advised his friend. "Why would you not tell your lady friend?" He almost smirked. "I am sure she would appreciate such bravery."

---

@Rillewen @Pele Alarion
Grateful for Black Lips' intervention, the Fairy soon weaved her way out of the circle now made by Meadow and Nymph, taking up a spot on Black Lips' other side. "I approve of that idea," she supported. "Dancing with ladies apparently makes me even more thirsty than dancing with men," she jested lightly. In an entirely different manner than before, she linked her arm with that of Black Lips and started them off, back toward the bar. "Just in case those two would otherwise drag us back into that circle," she entrusted to the other woman. "We must make our escape while we can." Despite her words, though, she was smiling.

Back at the bar, the Fairy ordered a glass of water. Perhaps some people watching was in order?

@Pele Alarion @Lantaelen
When it seemed that Lady Amethyst was wrapping up her dance, his head tilted. Soon, his drink was empty, its container left alone on the bar. He, himself, no longer to be found nearby.

His clean, soft leather boots were already crossing the floor, his objective singular. The gentleman who had just danced with his wife was still standing in front of her, having just bowed politely. The man in green came to a standstill next to him, bowing to Lady Amethyst in turn. "My Lady," he addressed her, with the utmost respect, and a deep caring his tone could not belie.

With the slightest turn of his head, he assessed the masked man next to him. His lips tilted in a slight smile. "Ahh. Dimaethor." He had made it his business to know the lords of his lands, after all - and this particular lordling, even though he was an heir and not the chief lord as of yet, was easily recognizable by his hair. Especially since he had just caught the lady speaking of knighthood. Quite brave of him, to have asked his Elven Queen for a dance. "Might I cut in, now?"

@Rillewen @Arnyn

He watched her place her order and when asked for his own he ordered a simple cider. The bartender wasn't gone long and before he knew it they had their drinks in hand. He watched her enjoy her hot chocolate as he took his first drink of his cider. Before he could take another they were greeted by a what he assumed was a couple but as they approached he noticed the Butterflies red hair and he almost grinned to himself as he recognized the hair and he looked over to the Wolf.

He gave them both a nod of welcome as Snowflake spoke to them. He took another sip and had to swallow it hard when asked if he had any "good moves." He lowered his glass. "I don't know if they're good, I'll let her be the judge of that." He motioned to Snowflake with a smile. He looked back at the couple and noticing the look he was getting from Kaylin aka Butterfly, it took him a moment to figure out if she just needed another drink or if she was covertly seeking some information from him.

He wondered to himself what information she might want, what could he tell her? He nearly scratched at his head when he noticed her seeming to be curious about, he and Snowflake. His right brow arched in questioning thought. He went to take another sip of his cider then it dawned on him. She was asking about he and Snowflake. He coughed lightly as he nearly choked on the revelation. "Pardon me, I guess that means I've had enough cider for now. " He offered Snowflake a small smile as he put his glass down.

He turned back to Butterfly and Wolf. "If you'll excuse us, I hear a slow dance is about to start. If Snowflake has no objections, I'd like to push her around the dance floor once again. Maybe see what she thinks about my moves?" He grinned at Butterfly shortly then looked at Snowflake, offering his arm to her. "May I have this dance Snowflake?"

@Arnyn
As the gentleman escorted her to the table, she had to smile. She'd only danced with two men tonight, and one of them twice. Perhaps she'd dance with a few more, but as he said that he hoped to see her again later, she found herself thinking about how she hoped to see more of him this evening, also. She wasn't entirely sure what it was about him that she liked so much, but he seemed like pleasant company, and he was certainly charming.

Her lips curled into even more of a smile as he raised her hand and kissed the back of her glove. "Yes, later." She answered with a lingering smile, after he had turned, but before he would have gone too far to hear her. Smiling slightly, she reclaimed the seat she had abandoned, and was pleased to find that the table was still available. While she was taking a little break, she reached one hand up to check that her lacy cat ears were still sitting straight, then settled back in her seat to observe the dance floor while she rested her feet.

---

@Pele Alarion
With a smile, he nodded. "Yes, a whole other kind of adventure," he agreed. "I am glad that you came. I don't know if I already said that, but.. I am." He laughed lightly. He looked toward the musician stand, then back to her with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "You said you don't mind other sorts of adventures?" he asked. "What if I dare you to sing a song? Would you do it?"

---

@Pele Alarion
Hearing about times he had been chased by roosters, because he was stealing apples, she laughed. "Well, I suppose a person could just get a rooster to guard their property, then." She mentioned in amusement. "You shouldn't have been stealing apples, maybe." She grinned, shaking her head slightly. "I know someone else who would've done that, however. She loves apples, and I do believe she would've fought the rooster for an apple." She grinned slightly, thinking of that friend of hers.

She sipped her drink with a little smile as he spoke of enjoying the evening and letting people assume whatever they liked. Nodding, she agreed. "That sounds fair enough. And thank you," She added. Then she wouldn't have to worry about calling him Rooster, and possibly offending him by doing so. "What else do you enjoy doing, sir Rooster?" She asked curiously, and then with a hint of teasing, added, "Besides robbing apple trees?"

---

@Arnyn @Pele Alarion
It seemed that two of their group were not quite prepared to let loose and be totally silly, but that was alright. Having joined the two for a round of silly singing, she waved when Fairy and the lady with black lips decided they were going back to the bar. But she was quite happy to stay where she was for the moment, and turned to Meadow to answer her about whether it was fun. "As long as we don't make a scene," She giggled, with a quick glance toward the tables where her parents were sitting off to the side with Swan's. Lowering her voice to a whisper, she leaned closer to Meadow, "I don't want my parents to come over and scold me, or anything like that."

---

@Isolde Alarion @Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel
She smiled at the way Kaylin became so happy at the news that Snowflake hadn't recognized been able to tell which was which, even knowing what dresses she and the other candidate were wearing. Sipping her hot chocolate, Snowflake smiled softly and enjoyed the deliciousness, along with the cooling hint of peppermint mingled in with the rich chocolate.

At the talk of 'good moves', she smiled in amusement. "I think you're very good at dancing," She assured him, although she was probably not the best judge, as she hadn't spent much time dancing with very many people. But the one brief dance that she'd had with him had been nice.

She glanced with some concern at him when he choked a bit. "You alright?" She asked, but he did seem to be fine, though he set his drink aside. She glanced toward the musicians when Embers mentioned a slow song starting, then turned back to him with a small smile, albeit a bit amused at the way he'd worded it.. push her around the dance floor. "Of course," She answered him. She was nearly done with her hot chocolate by now, so she finished the last little bit and took his offered arm. Briefly turning back to the other two, she offered a smile in parting. "Please excuse us, I hope you both enjoy the rest of the evening." She said, then went along with him to the dance floor.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

"Bravery?" Her eyebrow rose in curiosity, glancing at Hawk once his friend had mentioned that. Now she was dying to know!

"Um, yeah.. I'll tell you about it later," He promised her, with a small shrug in reply to what Macardil said. He wasn't really opposed to telling it, he just wasn't sure this was the best time for such a story, as he didn't want to come across like he was boasting about something he had done. "Anyway.. the point is, the hat's beyond repair.. but I'm sure I can get you another one."

"You know was teasing you, right? I don't even care about the hat." She almost rolled her eyes, then she shook her head in amusement. "I'm just glad, whatever happened.. that you're alright." Smiling, she took his hand with a light squeeze. "And I guess I'll survive until you decide to tell me." She sighed dramatically before turning back to the other members of the table, trying to convey an apologetic look for getting so distracted from what they had been talking about. "Sorry, I'm.. very excited, and I've never been to anything like this, and it's just so.. amazing. I might be talking a little too much.." She added with a soft, nervous laugh.

Hawk couldn't help but smile at her comment of concern for him being alright, and he happily squeezed her hand in return. What could be seen of his face seemed amused as she went on to apologize for being so excited. He could understand that. The place was beautiful, and the fact that he'd found her here, against all odds, was delightful all by itself. "I'm a bit surprised they didn't ask you to play with them," He mentioned to Macardil, with a little nod toward the musician stand. "He was part of the musician band for the midsummer festival," He added to Seashell, to explain his reason for saying that.

Golden caught Lady Cat's words as he walked away, and smiled to himself without looking back. Pleased he seemed to have caught the lady' s interest.
He retreated to a place off to the side of the food tables, yet near enough to the dancefloor to people watch for a while. When he caught sight of Lady Amethyst standing on the dancefloor with not one man, but two, his eyebrows lifted behind his mask. He assessed the men, and had to take a very deep breath when he saw the very tall man in dark green. That... Hardly anyone was that tall...

Red drew up beside him, her hands clasped almost demurely in front of her. "Trying to decide which lady to dance with, next?" she asked, her voice quiet and low, but audible enough.

Golden gave her a sidelong glance. "Not just yet."

She turned toward him then, with a coy little smile. "Were you so offset by my earlier..." her brown eyes lifted upward to the side, as if she was trying to think of the right word.

"Performance?" he finished for her.

She hummed, still wearing that little smile. "You shouldn't let that deter you." Her eyes found his, and her smile - it... Golden wouldn't say that it deepened, but its quality had changed. It warmed something inside his chest, heated up his neck. Red noticed, and she slanted her head in one of the most sensual ways he had ever seen. "I could make a cold night warm for you," she promised.

She seemed to be promising that to everyone, in one way or another. Golden smirked. "Doubtlessly, you could. I must decline, however. I can avoid a cold night if I wished, without having to resort to a... professional. Thank you. But - no, thank you." He left her where she stood, and he skirted around the dance floor, all the way to the musicians' stage.

Red sighed. She had grown bored with watching the Fox dancing with little girls. Hopeful that the man in gold and white might entertain her for a while, perhaps take her out on the dancefloor for a dance. He moved well. But it seemed that she had overplayed her hand. Again.

---

@Karis Ziranphel @Rillewen
He shook his head slightly at his friend's continued recalcitrance at telling the story. (Even though he had probably done something similar if he had been in Hawk's position.) He shook his head a second time when Seashell apologized. "Do not apologize for your effervescence, lady Seashell," he said kindly. "It is certainly not out of place, this evening." For it truly was not. Besides, it had helped change the topic that had been making Ziran uncomfortable.

Hawk's words made him frown slightly. "I was not surprised," he countered. "I only played at Midsummer because I was recommended to the organisers. I do not believe the organisers of this particular event would have liked to have me on their musicians' list." Being pardoned by the King for a crime was not the same as being welcomed as a paid musician - or even a volunteer. "Besides - the musicians playing are exquisite. I could not have played any better than the violinists they have up there currently. Not to mention that, even if I had been asked, I would have turned them down. This time." He looked at Ziran. "Tonight is not for playing music. Tonight is for being with you." He did not really care that Hawk and Seashell could hear his words.


@Karis Ziranphel @Isolde Alarion @Rillewen
She almost couldn't believe neither Embers nor Snowflake was picking up on what she'd meant by 'good moves'. Kaylin shot a sidelong glance at Thûllir, her grey-blue eyes shouting: 'Can you believe these two?!' At least, once he'd spoken up, she knew beyond a doubt who Embers was.

When Embers finally seemed to catch on a little, Kaylin grinned at him unapologetically as Snowflake showed concern for his wellbeing. Looking on with amusement and approval as Embers asked Snowflake to dance, the Butterfly grinned right back at her former fellow soldier. "Bring your best," she advised him, without further explanation. To Snowflake, she nodded with a softer smile. "Of course. Enjoy the dance."

Shaking her head as she looked at the Wolf, the Butterfly sighed audibly. "He'd better have caught the barely disguised hints," she half-complained. "I really think she'd be a good influence on him. If he can get her to put up with him," she added, with a lopsided grin. "How about you, hervenn? You almost done with that drink? This song does sound deliciously slow to dance to," she said, smiling as she gently bit her lower lip.

@Pele Alarion @Arnyn
He inclined his head at Amethyst’s guess, indicating that he was indeed of Dol Amroth. Or rather, lived in it’s relative shadow, geographically speaking but it was all the same, their customs and traditions hardly different. At her farewell, he took her hand as a final gesture and kissed it politely, just as another individual stepped forward. A rather…imposing individual, dressed in green hues, who first addressed the Lady, then regarded Cheddar with a very piercing look. As if reading Cheddar’s mind, he spoke, naming him.

Ah, Dimaethor…

His eyebrows shot up in shock and he had only a heartbeat to still his jaw from falling down in absolute surprise. He recovered and his own brow furrowed in intense scrutiny. Who was this man? How did he know…? He looked at the man’s stern grey-eyes that seemed so familiar and all knowing and full of wisdom as deep as the sea. He was tall, more so than Cheddar. He looked with realisation from him, back to Amethyst then back again. A small smile formed on his lips. Oh really?

”Of course, my Lord. She is an utmost delight to dance with.” He said, unable to think of anything more…graceful, and performed a short bow before hastily beat his retreat.

Did that really just happen to him? Was he really dancing with…the Queen? And now the King knew his name, his face? His heart was beating with excitement and exhilaration as he walked away. Wait until he told his father and his mother and his sisters. Oh, the envious look on her face was going to be priceless!

Star-struck, bewildered, but strangely understanding, as the new song would begin and new and old couples filled the floor, Cheddar made his way to the edges, seeking out another round of drinks as was his routine after each dance. He couldn’t let this get to him. It was just a harmless dance, right? He would just play it off, keep his cool, keep doing what he was doing, because there was nothing wrong with it at all. Perfect time to scope out another prospective partner.

---

@Rillewen
It was not disheartening to hear that Green Dragon had not actually seen a dragon. But he had been around where they were common and existed prior. Though, she also became keenly aware that while figures of legend and lore, dragons were also decidedly dangerous and fatal to the world of men. Smaug, the very name just conjured smoke and fire in Swan’s mind. A reminder that the world isn’t all dreams and fairy tales as a young girl like her might so often be told by the fireside.

But when Green Dragon so flawlessly switched to Sindarin, her smile was alight again. ”Hobbits,” she repeated the word, finding it so very unique and pleasing. Hole-Builder, but the image wasn’t of nasty holes with mud and worms, but seemingly quaint and familiar. ”And you met these?” She inquired in the same tongue. His accent when speaking Sindarin was unlike any she ever heard. She recalled hearing her brother or father say something similar about the King’s manner of speech too, how his Sindarin was different and yet so…refined.

”For tales and stories, I prefer the high language. It is how I am used to hearing them, from my own parents.” She answered in sindarin. ”But about fun, I prefer the common tongue. After all, fun and joy should be common for all, yes?” She said, giggling at what she thought was a wise statement from herself, not that she had ever been considered wise by anyone around her. She listened to him talk about home, and staying or going. He had been once before, before the War, and hope it hadn’t effected his life as terribly as others here.

”My brother too, having served here before and after the War, is very keen of the changes. It is like a whole new City to him.” She answered at first. ”I envy your brother, I would spend long hours in the library here if I might. The knowledge goes back centuries, even millennia. My father says this city is three thousand years old. More, even!” She said, finding herself swept up again with the lore and the tales.

”You will find no better care than the Houses of Healing here, unless elvish medicine is truly a thing. But our King knows some of that too, supposedly.” She said, before her eyebrows again lifted at hearing about this strange new place. ”Bree.” She repeated, quite curiously. What an innocent name for a place. Bree. ”Would you tell me more about it as we danced? How far it is, what manner of folk dwell there? Is it the fabled homeland of the Periannath, whose Prince they say came to fight for the old Steward and the City during the War?” She repeated, hearing some tall tales she heard from sailors back home.

@Lantaelen
When the young lady asked him whether he had met any hobbits, Dragon smiled. "Yes, a few." He answered. "They're generally nice enough folk, as I recall. Some can be a bit suspicious of us.. Big Folk, as they call us," He grinned at the term. "Mostly, the 'Little Folk' are just like any group of people. Some friendlier than others, some are shier, or withdrawn, and so forth." He shrugged.

It seemed that him responding in Sindarin so smoothly had brightened her spirit, and for that he was glad. As she answered his own question concerning the language, he smiled bigger, switching back to the common tongue. "I agree, fun should be enjoyed by all!" He added, in response to her words about the common tongue. "I did recently tell a tale in Rohirric, but that was for a reason... usually I stick to Westron for stories, depending on the audience's ability to understand the elven tongue, or not. He explained, before listening to her reply about Minas Tirith and its changes. "Ah, your brother is right. There are many changes.. and all for the better." He smiled as he carefully guided the Lady Swan through a twirl, feeling like he did a pretty good job of it.

After the twirl, he had to fight not to laugh at the young lady's words about envying his brother. He somehow managed to hold back a snort of amusement, and instead merely smiled. "You sound like our young friend, who is actually primarily responsible for dragging him down into the depths of the library." He explained with an amused smile. "Perhaps, if you are going to be in the city for enough time, you could visit the library at some point. But it seems to me that there are a great deal more exciting things to do and see.. besides a lot of dusty old books." He really didn't get the infatuation, but he did smile at her words about the houses of healing. "Ah, she is not seeking healing, but rather.. a sharing of information, I think." He explained. "She is a healer, come from the Breelands so that she might add to her knowledge of healing, by learning from the healers here."

When she asked about Bree, he took a few seconds to consider how to explain it. "Bree is a sort of.. blended town, where both Men and Hobbits live in relative harmony. And other kinds pass through there, sometimes." He added. "Dwarves, even elves at times.. mostly on their way to the Grey Havens, however." He shook his head to the question about the Periannath prince. "No, Bree is sort of.. on the border of their homeland. It is called the Shire. I don't know a great deal about it, really. Only what I learned about it during a brief period some years ago when I was living near Bree. Well.. more like staying there for a time.." He shrugged. "But the place is certainly no fable. It is quite real, I assure you. And I heard tell of quite a battle the Little Folk had against some bandits who tried to move in and take over their land."

---

@Arnyn
As she settled into her seat, Lady Cat's eyes followed the rather noticeable white suit that he wore. He was quite charming, and she liked the way that he looked at her. She would've been fine with dancing with him through the rest of the evening, but she also tried to be alright with parting ways for a while. He had practically promised another dance, after all. After the first dance with him, she had been left with the impression that he was a bit put off by all her mysteriousness, perhaps a bit miffed that she refused to share anything about herself, while asking much about his forested home. So, it had been a surprise when he came up and asked for a second dance. A pleasant surprise.

A tiny frown flitted across her face for a brief moment as she observed that woman in the stunning red dress approach him. Almost imperceptibly, her eyes narrowed at the other woman's back. She had observed that woman, off and on during the evening, and she wasn't so sure that she liked seeing her talking to him. Not that she had any right to be jealous or anything, because it wasn't like they were any sort of couple. But still, she felt.. well, almost as if that woman could easily make him forget all about that other dance he'd asked Kitty to save for him. And she wasn't sure she liked that.

Therefore, when he walked away from her, Cat's expression shifted into a satisfied little smirk before she turned her attention toward where Golden had been looking, curious about whatever had drawn his gaze before the woman in red approached. From where she sat, she wasn't quite sure at first he had found so interesting, but she noticed that a rather tall man had arrived. She hadn't seen him before now, and she had spent a while watching the dancers and other people in attendance, earlier. Oh, and there was lady Amethyst, with him. She idly wondered if the brief conversation they'd had would count as having made a friend... it didn't really work that way where she came from, but perhaps things were different here? They had gotten along well enough, anyway. Whatever the case, her gaze lingered on that couple for a moment, curiously, as she observed them. People seemed to be moving out of their way.. as if they somehow knew that they were very important people.

Her curiosity was piqued. It couldn't be.. could it? She glanced around, wondering if she was reading something into that scene that wasn't there, but.. they did seem like the most likely to be that particular couple. How many others would fit that description? And there had been a rumor that the king and queen would be present tonight... could it be that she had actually spoken to the elf queen?

---

As the song came to an end and shifted into a slower one, Fox led the young lady back to her seat and helped her with scooting her chair in a little.

"Thank you sir, that was a lot of fun!" She smiled happily, glancing around in curiosity. Where did her new friends go? She was dying to talk to them again! Also, she wondered if any other gentlemen might ask her to dance, because that was a lot of fun and she hoped to have more dances.

"You're welcome," He smiled back at her as he took his own seat again. He was a tiny bit disappointed to notice that Lady Swan was not still here.. in fact, he spotted her dancing with another fellow. He had hoped to dance with her next, so that he could speak to her. Maybe she was still upset.. he wasn't really sure. He also noticed that Nymph was not here. It took him a moment to spot her, and then smiled to see her having fun, dancing with a lady in green and gold. Well, now what? He decided to chat with Foxglove for a bit while they waited for one or both of the other two to return to the table.

@Kaylin Thûllir had been content to stand and sip his brandy after a nod and slight bow to both Snowflake and Ember. He tried to conceal his grin behind the glass and below the muzzle of his mask as his Butterfly pressed the issue of having good moves. He well remembered the nerves involved in his first dances with Kaylin both in reality and in the intricate dancing of words as they learned more about one another. While Kaylin’s words could be as innocuous as indicating the first, Ember’s swallowing wrong seemed to indicate that he at least took another meaning. Thûllir’s eyes danced with mirth, and he returned a “and the same to you both, lady Snowflake” after Kaylin’s reply.

He grinned at Kaylin when she gave an exaggerated sigh and elaborated on her thoughts about the two before indicating she was ready to head back to the dance as well with that delicious way of biting her lip. He agreed on both counts, and he wished the two as much joy together as he had found with Kaylin. “It does indeed, hervess.” Abandoning his glass on the bar, he took her hand to lead her back out to the dance floor in the wake of the others.

Reaching the edge, he turned to draw her into his arms, settling his right on her low back and lifting her right in his left up close to their shoulders as they swayed into their first steps to the song. “Still burning bright as ever.” His words were a murmur by her ear.
Macardil’s hand was an anchor that steadied her and slowly filtered through a sense of peace when he covered hers with his own. Her lips lifted in a small smile as she listened to the continued exchange, noting his continuation of the story by prompting Hawk to tell of his bravery. She tilted her head slightly in surprise when Hawk asked in turn why Macardil was not playing this night. Perhaps Macardil had not shared how infrequently he played for a large audience. Besides, this night was different, despite her sincere belief that he was one of the finest violinists of the city, and by far her favorite. It was their first large public event hosted by the Royal couple that they were attending as newlyweds.

Macardil’s words confirmed that as he turned them to her, and reaffirmed that he cared less for appearances than presence, despite the pomp of Dol Amroth months past. Ziran’s smile gentled and broadened as she met his gaze behind the dark mask. “For both of us, to enjoy the music with dance. We make music often, but this is special to be able to dance together to well-played music.” Her words were clear but softly spoken in reply. It was nice to rest and listen as well, but there was a particular joy in moving together across the floor.

@Pele Alarion
It didn't take too long before he tired of just watching. So Golden soon angled himself toward the bar, walking down the length of it. And it didn't escape his attention that Fairy had found her way back to it, as well. He looked for Dragon, and found him dancing with someone else. Then Fairy had probably not been his Celumë. Which also meant she was his sister, as he'd suspected.

And his sister was standing with a lady he hadn't yet had the pleasure of dancing with. He figured Arnyn wouldn't be too upset if he asked the other lady for a dance... Right?

"Greetings, ladies," he said with a low nod of his neck. "And hello again, Lady Fairy. If your companion agrees... would you mind if I wisked her away for a dance?" When Fairy smiled with some amusement, shaking her head to indicate she would not mind, he turned his light brown eyes to Black Lips, with a friendly smile. "Then the matter is entirely in your hands, Mysterious Lady. Would you flatter me with a spin on the dancefloor?"

---

@Karis Ziranphel
She was glad to abandon what little was left of her own drink as well, once she saw him moving his glass onto the top of the bar. She did so love it when he jumped at the chance to just be around her, clasping his hand without hesitation as he led her out to the dancefloor. When he pulled her so gently into his arms, her heart sighed. He'd pulled her in close, closer than any of the other dancing couples she could see from her current position. She approved.

At his murmur by her ear, she smiled. "The best fire is the one we build together," she murmured back. Not her own. Not his, either. Theirs. He could have referred to any of them. But she wanted to draw attention to only one of them. Some amusement hit her, then. Ziran had told her and Thûllir about the silly expectations and limits she'd been subjected to in Belfalas upon her visit to Lond Col. "Do you think any of those stick-in-the-butt Belfalasians are here? And if so, if they'd balk at you for holding me like this?" She grinned.

@Arnyn “Aye.” The word was a soft rasp of his voice as he agreed whole-heartedly with Kaylin’s comment about the best type of fire. Short swaying steps had them moving in a circular pattern towards the middle of the floor and before they would curve back out again, and he was content to enjoy the sweep of their movement to the music. Thûllir took a moment to answer the grin he heard and saw below her mask, as a slow smile lifted his lips. “I’m sure there are some here. Let them swoon and titter if they will. I care not.”

A gleam lit his eyes. “Some will get something to gasp about when they get home, and the others may be jealous they didn’t think to do so as well. Still others may be brave enough to follow our example. What do you think is most likely?”

@Lantaelen
After a moment of thinking, Lady Cat stood up from her table. She took a look around, then abandoned the table she had been occupying. Instead, she made her way toward the bar. She wondered if that one bearded fellow was still lurking around the area. Reaching the long bar counter, she paused, however, upon noticing two bearded men, dressed identically, at various points along the length of it.

She rested a hand lightly at the edge of the bar, looking thoughtfully down the length of it before turning to consider whether she actually wanted a drink. Ultimately, she requested a glass of fruit infused water. After taking a small sip, she turned to take a curious look to her other side, and noticed a gentleman with an orange sash, not far away from her. She recalled seeing him practically flee from Lady Amethyst and the newcomer in green. Interesting.. a perfect opportunity to try and gain information.

"Excuse me, sir." She smiled, stepping a bit closer to him, then glanced toward the couple in question. "I have to ask.. weren't you dancing with that lady in purple, just a moment ago?" She looked back at Sir Cheddar. "Are they.. who I think they are?" She asked, widening her eyes with wonder.

---

@Arnyn @Karis Ziranphel

"Ah, right." Hawk nodded as Macardil explained the difference between the settings, and the fact that he wouldn't have wanted to play tonight, anyway. He smiled, hearing the words he said to his lady, and turned to Seashell. "He's very good, though." He told her with a little smile. He took a sip of his drink, smiling slightly as he thought about the fact that he could show her around the Hall of Song now that she was here in town, and it would be exciting to be able to share that with her.

"I'm sure." She smiled, sipping her drink, enjoying the current music that was playing. It would make sense that sir Hawk would have befriended another musician, so she wasn't terribly surprised about that. Then, as she noted Ziranphel's mention about them both making music, she became curious about that. "Do you play an instrument as well?" She asked, curious. If so, then that meant she was actually the only person at the table who did not play an instrument, although she did sing.