|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2024 6:05 pm
Calix didn’t know how to feel about finally attending one of the larger events hosted by local nobles. While his family had a charity ball every year that he had started to attend, this was the first time he had actually ventured out on his own to an outside event in place of his father who had been tied up with work outside of Sulburi. The manor felt smaller than his own home, the ballroom full of grand buffets with food and drink for many, but still not enough to truly give the space that Calix would prefer for the dancing bodies that moved with the music being played from a small stage set up in the corner. His aunt was somewhere in the mess of people, having escorted Calix until he had branched away for some fresh air away from the crowd. It was kind of stifling to be introduced to so many people, a bit too much when the mothers started to realize who he was and approached with their very single daughters, and he couldn’t take it anymore. Thankfully Alinta had realized that and allowed him to get away for a few moments, giving Calix the approval to leave while she handled the growing circle of interested nobles and continued entertaining them. “Thank On’os for a breeze.” He whispered, adjusting the embroidered silk jacket that layered over his outfit of deep crimson and indigo that blended together like a sunset. The movement allowed him some relief from the restricting clothing especially as a breeze cooled his flushed skin. The Oban style had so many layers with the sash wrapped tightly around his waist with a golden robe for a decorative piece with gemstone ornaments woven into it to show off his family’s status and wealth. He much preferred his simple layers and outfits that he wore casually around his home, not caring for this display even though it was important to maintain his family image with it. It made him wonder if his father was just trying to avoid such a display this time by having work now that Calix was older and needed to begin socializing as the family heir.
Could his aunt endure things a bit longer? He truly dreaded going back inside. Calix let out a soft sigh as he backed up against a pillar, the hybrid outlined by the flickering torches set along the pillars that circled an outdoor pavilion by the garden. Not that he was terribly impressed by it all considering his home gardens, a highlight of their Sulburi manor thanks to his grandmother’s adoration of plants that had encouraged so many foreign varieties and new designs to be brought into the gardens surrounding his home. He would much rather be there, sitting by his favorite fountain with a book in hand than here at the moment. But responsibilities were not to be ignored, correct? Qaisan already did plenty of that and Calix had to make up for his brother’s antics, as frustrating as it was. So he would return back to the ballroom after another moment of enjoying the fresh air, as much as it dismayed him to do so.
[Calix 1]
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2024 3:39 pm
Deidameia 1 Aikaterini skillfully guided her niece through the sea of people, looking with experienced eyes for the notable families with which to introduce the young lady to. It was Deidameia's first time being in such a large gathering of noble families, all of different social class, that it was the least she could do to help acclimate her to the battlefield that was a bunch of noble's gathered in one place for hours on end. The gossiping, the snide remarks, and all the flirting could be quite overwhelming for a fresh noble, though she was quite surprised to see how well the younger Oban was handling it all. If someone made a comment towards her, she was quick to shoot back with someone. If a young man got a bit too forward, she kept her politeness and managed to shake him off as quickly as she could without offending his family. Deidameia had been strictly trained for this life and it showed. Only Aikaterini would be privy to the slight shaking of the young woman's fingers when she put her own hand over the fingers that gently linked around her arm, patting them to give reassurence. She would always be rewarded with a grateful smile and a slight nod of the head to continue moving around the crowds.
But after hours of dancing and dodging flirtatious young nobles, the strain was starting to truly show on Deidameia's face, the girl's lips almost a line and her eyes wary. She gave another giant sigh, one of many the past 30 minutes.
"There's so many people," Deidameia whispered, leaning close to her aunt's ear so that the older gentlemen close to them wouldn't hear. Her pale eyes flicked across the room, settling on a pair of open doors into a darker setting. The outside. Just what she needed. "I think a bit of fresh air would do some good. You sit. You must also be tired, chaperoning me all night."
"Yes," the older woman agreed, unlinking their arms and giving into the exhaustion she did feel. She was getting far too old for this.
Finally free of her suffocating aunt, Deidameia sighed in relief and stepped out into the cool night air. She breathed in deeply, her hands placed over her stomach, oblivious to the fact she still wasn't quite alone. When she did notice, she gave a little start, taking a single step backwards as if she'd been right in his face instead of still a respectful distance away. "My apologies. I thought no one else was here." Should she strike up an introduction now or wait a bit? She really didn't want to give up her spot of fresh air now that she had it, so she certainly wasn't going to offer to turn back around. Instead, she decided the best course of action was to affix a small smile on her face. "I don't think we were acquainted yet. I am Deidameia." She added a bow of her head, all polite and proper manners. And that would be one more off her aunt's list and another step closer to finally being able to enjoy the party without having to talk to so many strangers all at once.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2024 5:54 pm
Calix had gotten quite accustomed to the feeling of the pillar behind his back by now, the teen still delaying his return to the ball as much as possible. Would he truly be missed now? He had already been introduced to quite a few families, his aunt doing her best to remain courteous even though he knew that even she preferred spending time with her military drills to this nonsense. Though it was unfair to expect her to continue holding the fort while he stayed out here in the darkness away from it all. Or rather what he had assumed would be away from it all, something he had miscalculated when another joined him out in the cool night air. At first he had thought the flickering of the torches and the approaching shadow was simply an illusion created by the desert breeze, but the soft voice that followed proved otherwise. It was hard to suppress a sigh of frustration, Calix reminding himself that he was representing his family here.
Though speaking of etiquette, while the girl presented herself with proper manners it was hard not to be wary. So many others had already approached with their manners tonight, especially after hearing his introduction. It was hard not to make the assumption that she was just like the rest, but one who had managed to see him sneaking away from the festivities. “Well, this is not quite the ideal situation for introductions.” He began finally, his golden gaze turning to stare towards her in the flickering torch light with only the stars and moon giving more subtle light for their scene. Her voice wasn’t familiar, at least from what he remembered of the blur of introductions tonight, so he did at least give her the benefit of the doubt that they had truly not been introduced yet. “It would have been more proper to at least give me the chance to reenter the ballroom before coming all the way out here if you wanted to meet.” Calix frowned and glanced back out towards the gardens. Was he truly not even allowed a moment to breathe out here? He had yet again lowered his guard and now another of the young ladies had managed to track him down. Despite his slight scolding for her approach, Calix realized it was best to just get things out of the way since they were already out here. It wasn’t as if he could easily slip away and act as if they had never met, after all. If she was like the others then surely she would be having some female relative introduce her soon enough either way. “Still, I suppose I should indulge you since we’re already here. My name is Calix.” As she probably already knew. Or at least she knew of his last name, the very reason he had already attracted too much attention for his liking tonight.
[Calix 2]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu Jan 18, 2024 3:38 pm
Deidameia 2 The young woman gave a little start, hardly expecting that kind of an attitude to her trying to be polite. Though the shadows outside were great, Deidameia didn't need to see his face to tell the way he was probably looking at her. Such arrogance in those words, she could clearly imagine the disdain he must feel at her presence. Because of her or because she had interrupted his thoughts? Eh, what did it matter in the end. Just one more noble off her list for later.
Affixing a new smile on her face, whether it could be seen or not, she answered with as much cordiality as she could muster. "My apologies if I have disturbed you. Though you couldn't really think you might be the only one who might want to look at the stars for a moment." Okay, maybe not as polite as she had intended. Breathing out a long breath as quietly as she could, the young noble tried to expel all the irritation she was feeling at this encounter already. No one had been quite this rude so far. At least not directly to her face. "It would have been less proper to simply ignore you, though I suppose I could do that if you'd rather." And she turned her body so her shoulder was facing him, her hands now clasped very lady-like in front of her as she looked up at the stars, a small smile of triumph on her face. Okay, still not a very polite response. If her aunt had seen her, she would have been moritified. In her defense, he started it by assuming she had followed him out here. There was no other reason to insist she wait for him to return to the ballroom. No one was going to talk down to her. No one.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Jan 20, 2024 8:33 pm
At first Calix had nodded, accepting the apology when he had expected something akin to it. Who would expect anything else, especially if she was trying to make a good first impression with him? It was what everyone else had been doing tonight by introducing their daughters to him and hoping a pretty smile could sway his heart. It was only natural that this girl had similar expectations and playing nice was the best approach for many. Then as soon as the thought crossed his mind Deidameia crushed it with her remark. Had…had she just called him out for assuming she had followed him outside? Calix’s gaze widened, the young noble thankful that the shadows hid a good amount of his features, and he had to take a moment to regain his composure. “Is that so?” He managed after a moment, reflecting upon her words. “How coincidental that others do not appear to be interested in the stars currently. I suppose the appeal of the party is too great.” At least this time his accusation was indirect, Calix still not willing to simply believe she had no ulterior motive for coming outside like this.
Did he dare to test her resolve? Calix frowned slightly, his expression shifting as he swore that for a moment there had been something of a smile on her lips with those words. Shouldn’t he be happy that she wanted to ignore him? It was just so strange though to hear something like that after all of tonight’s flattery from so many others. It truly baffled him and he found himself frozen in place, the teen standing there for a long moment until he finally shifted to look away from the girl and back towards the sky. “As it is I suppose it is a good night to stargaze.” He replied stiffly, trying to avoid the ignore comment for both of their sakes. As much as he didn’t want to be bothered, it would be more awkward if they simply stood out here in silence. What if someone stumbled into them and didn’t hear anything? It could possibly leave a bad impression, a quiet rendezvous under the night sky was not gossip that he wanted at the moment. Still, he also didn’t want to go inside just yet. The feeling of being overwhelmed by the crowd lingered with him, Calix wishing he could just retire for the evening and go back home to his study even though he knew that wasn’t an option. “The crown of Essd is out tonight.” If she even recognized constellations that was. Calix was curious though to see what type of reaction he would get with that one, the girl making him surprisingly wary with her attitude.
[Calix 3]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 21, 2024 4:40 pm
Deidameia 3 The smile on her face never wavered, though her light eyes did turn slightly in his direction, focusing on something far off in the distance. A slight flickering of either a star around the corner of a building or the light from another manor house, it was difficult to tell. Perhaps someone else having a gathering, those who didn't want, or could, attend this one. Or even a rival party, competing for guests with this one. Who really could tell when it came to nobles and their pettiness. It wasn't as if she was an experienced player in this dance to know all the mighty families or how many should be here tonight.
Deidameia looked back up at the sky, tilting her head just slightly to look up at the moon. "How indeed," she answered, feeling somewhat amused by the conversation, despite the rudeness of his words. It wasn't as if he were the only one this night to try to talk down to her. Only he was doing it in a much less subtle way, away from the prying eyes of the other nobles. Why hold back all of her feelings? "If only they knew of the charming company that was out here to be had."
The soft sound of movement, seemingly so loud with the party right behind them, caused the young woman to turn her head, regarding her companion with some curiosity. So he wanted to talk now? Or was there some other reason? This Calix certainly didn't seem all that interested in talking to her. He'd made that perfectly clear. Regardless, she raised her own eyes to the sky, searching out the constellation he had mentioned. "So it is. I can imagine it looking beautiful over her head." She paused, deciding to pay a little game of her own. Just long enough for her to imagine how his mind would be coming to the conclusion about how simple she was. Just a silly little noble pretending to be something she was not. "I imagine if we could see behind us, we would be able to see the brightest star in the sky all year, shining among the others off of Drach's belt as if the stars are raindrops."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Feb 17, 2024 9:32 am
Was she mocking him? Calix had been intrigued by what sort of response his indirect accusation would have brought forth, but truly he was baffled by it. It almost felt like some sort of facade, a new way to gain his attention when he lowered his guard. His brow furrowed as he tried to ponder it, Calix once more thankful that the lightning wasn’t the best out here in the gardens. “Then the party would be in the gardens instead. Let’s hope to enjoy the stars for another moment before they become aware.” He replied finally, acknowledging those that had been chasing after his favor ever since his aunt had introduced him tonight. Calix was just hoping that she had come up with some sort of appealing cover, perhaps a chance meeting with a mentor or the like, and not something more embarrassing to explain his absence from the ballroom. He could just hope that others assumed he was with the gathering of heirs in the private study upstairs, some deciding to discuss future plans instead of simply dancing the night away. Not that dancing was completely innocent considering many of the ladies wanted to test out partners and gain the attention of said heirs so that they could join families together. So why would this lady be out here and not inside to catch a suitor unless she knew about him? Was she actually an attendee of the party or did servants become extra opinionated as of late? Based upon how she was speaking though he doubted she was a servant. She definitely felt as if she came from the party, at least. Calix found himself taking one step closer, hoping to catch a better look in the flickering torchlight to cure his curiosity despite his previous wariness.
Ah, so she did recognize constellations. His gaze brightened in the flickering torchlight for a moment before his gaze went back to the sky, Calix focused on something he truly enjoyed. “As poetic as that sounds, one should be careful.” Corrected Calix with a wry smile as he pondered the statement “While the hilt of Nerad’s blade only shines once a year some argue that it surely is the brightest, you wouldn’t want to upset the king of the gods by saying otherwise. Even if you had more interest in Drach, most would be trying to gain the king’s favor.” A star for Nerad’s blade that only showed up during the festival of the gods in the summer, a reminder that Obans could go to war as necessary while keeping the blade sheathed for the rest of the year since it was a time of peace. Still, Drach’s belt was the brightest star otherwise and Calix had to appreciate the knowledge. He also felt more inclined towards Drach, feeling that without rains to keep the deserts thriving there would be no kingdom for Nerad to rule over. It made him think of the Cyrillus, how their powers kept things going without wanting the crown for themselves. “Though I’m sure any additional poetic statements could soften the judgment, no? I’ve heard plenty of such statements tonight to appease others. You must also be an expert in them.” He had his fill of them, at least of those that were just pretty words without true meaning behind them. Empty flattery could only get one so far with him, especially with how much Calix had already witnessed since joining Oban society. It made his smile disappear once more, Calix frowning as he glanced back over towards Deidameia and caught sight of silks in the flickering lights. From the looks of it she definitely was dressed for the party, probably hoping to impress someone just like all of the others who had been moving throughout the ballroom tonight. Maybe if he had met her at another place with this type of discussion over the stars...well even then he wasn't certain. Calix turned his body away slightly, keeping space between them just as a courtesy and to also avoid any issues should anyone else appear.
[Calix 4]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Feb 21, 2024 12:19 pm
Deidameia 4 As still as a statue she remained, head still turned away and towards the lights in the distance, both flickering and shining in the sky. Despite the rude beginning, Deidameia didn't find herself feeling all that upset over it. Maybe it was the fact this was one of her first events and she hadn't yet had the pleasure of growing bitter over all the nonsense and arrogance that nobles could present to each other just yet. Maybe if they kept meeting in the future and he kept speaking to her in this way, she would eventually grow bored of it. She certainly didn't know how those back in at the party could spar with their words as they did on a daily basis. Always making subtly snide comments to each other and veiled insults. It looked so exhausting.
"That wouldn't be ideal, would it?" she agreed, the amusement still tinting her voice at the interaction. She imagined she could almost hear his thoughts. Clearly he was intelligent and clearly, at least to her impression, he was assuming her not to be. Or testing how much she was. He would be surprised, if he kept pushing. Unlike most ladies her age, Deidameia had been tutored almost like a prized heir to a large fortune. She knew how to handle herself around a dance floor and knew the language of the fans, just as any young woman should. But she also knew her way around a ledger and had even directed parts of her father's estate herself. And, while she wasn't particularly interested in the stars, she knew about those, too. Was he surprised? It was hard to tell. She almost felt bad for intruding on his quiet. "The crowds do quickly becoming tiring to manage." Even for her, it could be a minefield. Those young nobles who didn't mind the debt or thought her desperate enough to take whatever offer they gave her, even if it wasn't exactly for marriage. They were always mistaken. She was not afraid to be poor or alone. Better than an agreement of any sort that wasn't forged with love and respect.
But it seems she did strike something. He suddenly seemed more willing to talk to her. So he liked the stars, did he? She didn't even mind that he moved a bit closer. So long as he didn't keep moving forward. She trusted that anyone of his assumed intelligence would know not to approach a lady too closely when in view of others so easily, at least. "Of course. My mistake. I guess I'm not most people." Was he inviting her to show off more of her knowledge? Either way, she would bite. It was a much more enjoyable conversation than the shallow ones she had been having so far back in the ballroom. "I also find myself quite fond of Ubeli's veil. Particularly during the colder months, when it seems to drape over the moon itself when it's positioned just right, as if she were shy."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed May 15, 2024 8:28 pm
“For me, it would not be ideal at all. For them, perhaps. It feels as if you also would not want the party’s attention out here even though I’m not certain about the reasoning.'' Acknowledged Calix quietly, his gaze narrowing with disdain as he thought about others in the party. Though he couldn’t properly judge his current companion at least she had kept her distance and not tried to impose herself on him as of yet. Was it simply to keep an air of mystery or because she didn’t want others getting in the way out here? Though if she had followed him to try to get closer she was doing a good job of hiding it. If anything she had made him feel as if he were invading her privacy, something that Calix was not accustomed to ever since being introduced at these social events. Others would have been delighted at his approach, as much as the thought soured his stomach since he knew it was purely for his family’s wealth more than anything else. At least the Matori blood was faded enough that most could attempt to overlook it where he was certain his father had suffered more for his teal hair and other mixed traits.
And then there was that tinge of sympathy in that statement. Calix pressed his lips tightly together, thinking about his options and trying to piece together his stance in this matter. It was easier to just stand in the darkness for a while yet, where he could avoid the one gaze far more easily than dealing with numerous ones in a crowded ballroom. “Is that so? A bold statement to declare yourself like that.” Calix mused with interest, the tilt of his head barely visible in the flickering torch light as he kept to the side, hugging the shadows once more. Was she truly just interested in the stars and their lore, not as much about trying to appeal to another power that was not the king? Either way it was a fierce statement to declare herself as different from most, at least in this society and he wondered if being in such a secluded place helped bolden the bite of her words or if she recognized how such a position could offend others who were currently dancing about in the ballroom.
“Different from others and yet fond of Ubeli’s veil, as if you relate to such shyness.” Calix actually let out a quiet laugh, his tone hard to read as if he were either simply amused or condescending of her words. “I admit that you do seem to know your lore about the constellations, which I appreciate, but there seems to be some contradictions. You seem too bold for shyness, unless you’re simply desiring attention while we’re out here away from the rest.” He gave a shrug, the wariness making him prickly once more even though he had for a moment slipped and enjoyed the discussion of the night sky. And it was probably for the best that he was prickly once more, Calix taking a few steps back as he heard movement from the edges of the courtyard as servants walked along the path to bring more refreshments for those inside. Perhaps that was a sign that his excursion into the gardens would be over soon enough, as much as he loathed the idea of going back to the party.
[Calix 5]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun May 19, 2024 10:42 am
Deidameia 5 "I see." So he didn't know, or could guess, at her reason for wanting a bit of peace and quiet herself. By his voice, she could already tell he was not someone she had been introduced to, so he wasn't yet aware he was talking to the daughter of one of the most hated nobles in the city. So full of debt, there was no way but with a marriage to get him out of it. She so disliked having all that out in the open, hanging between her and anyone she was speaking to. But it was all most people saw when they approached her. So he wouldn't be able to recognize her by voice. "I guess we shall leave each other a mystery, for now. I'm sure someone will solve it for us later." Maybe he would by sight, had his friends or family or whoever he was here with had whispered her name to him from across the floor. Thankfully, there was little light out here. Even her hair would be shadowed, pulled up into its tight bun as it was, the small curls framing her face tickling her cheeks in the slight breeze.
Deidameia shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly, a gesture probably lost in the darkness. "Does one always have to relate to something in order to enjoy it?" she challenged softly, turning her head just slightly in the direction of his voice, just being able to see his silhouette against the night. Not that she was all that curious to see what he looked like. Despite seeing him might help her identify him more. Than again, this was the most fun shed had all night, aside from a dance. She so did detest flirting. "But you are correct. No one would hardly call me shy. Perhaps a little too bold with my words." She couldn't help chuckling a little, raising a hand to brush aside a wandering strand of hair from her face. "You seem to be implying I followed you out here. I could defend my case, but you'd never know if I was lying or not. What do you think is the answer?" she couldn't help challenging once more, quickly proving her previous statement about her boldness. She enjoyed hearing the opinions of others.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun May 19, 2024 1:11 pm
“You truly have no idea who I am?” Despite himself, Calix couldn’t help the question that burst from his lips at the idea of remaining a mystery. He was truly baffled if that was the case. It was strange to think that out of a party where his aunt had been parading him around where others viewed him as some sort of prize for all the eligible bachelorettes, that someone had slipped through without noticing him. Then again it was fairly dark outside and perhaps his mysterious companion truly didn’t recognize him nor had followed him in the first place. That would mean his assumptions were potentially wrong, though it would hurt Calix’s pride to admit that he had perhaps made an accusation without evidence first. And if he was wrong and it was a misunderstanding about her intentions, would he correct things and risk revealing himself? There was part of him that didn’t want to reveal the truth of his identity for fear that something would shift in the moment. Perhaps they could just enjoy this for a bit longer, On’os willing.
And then it was from one question to the next. Calix frowned thoughtfully in the darkness at the challenge. Did one have to relate to enjoy it? “Having a lack of full understanding of a situation or feeling would make me wary of it, unable to fully enjoy what I do not truly understand. Could one who was shy appreciate it like others who may label such expressions adorable while they only feel frustrations for not being able to express themselves? Or would they secretly enjoy the attention that their shyness indirectly attracts?” Calix mused, understanding his words could be taken in various ways while even he did not fully know what his intention was other than pondering the complexity of emotions and desires. He had felt similar frustrations as a child who was always hidden behind his brother's much more outgoing nature, as rebellious and troublesome as it was. Now here he was having to endure the spotlight when he would much rather enjoy a book than dance at some formal affair.
Then there was that chuckle. While Calix couldn’t see the girl who was speaking, that noise did seemingly light up the darkness of the garden around them. It wasn’t awful at all, in fact it was quite the opposite. As it was…the fact that she was more amused by his observation instead of denying it or offended by it brought a small smile to his own lips. “I see. I’ll have to keep that in mind then, I’ve felt a bit of that boldness already tonight.” He did grow quiet for a moment as he thought about everything that they had discussed so far. Despite his initial hesitations she had kept her distance, not even taking advantage of the passing of servants where she could have easily yelled or something to try to ensnare him into some form of trap. Calix was torn between keeping his wariness and opening up a bit more, the tangled mix of emotions and logic keeping him in place as he stayed there in the shadows. Even if she had tried to make a commotion he was in a place where he could quickly back through the darkness towards where his aunt hopefully was waiting for his return at the party. She was quick witted enough to cover for him should anyone dare make any type of accusations, that much helped his confidence in lingering a bit longer in the gardens. So such was his answer as he finally opened his mouth once more. “As it is, you haven’t made any commotions yet nor gotten close enough to touch me. Unless you’re patiently waiting for something I’m unaware of then I’ll have to assume that you truly don’t know who I am and simply wanted a moment of peace in the gardens the same time I did.” And if she broke that trust he was currently giving to her? Well, that would be something for Calix to sort through later on if so. "Though that does not answer what we should do in the moment, if the peace of the gardens is all you want then we can stand here in silence or perhaps study the constellations more before we're forced to return to that dreaded ballroom."
[Calix 6]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu May 23, 2024 4:01 pm
Deidameia 6 "No," she answered truthfully, her voice sincere and not mocking. "I cannot see you too well in the shadows and your voice isn't familiar to me, so clearly we haven't met, yet." She regarded the space where she knew him to be for a few moments, her head tilted slightly to one side. Maybe she should have, had she been able to clearly see this Calix. Or remember his name being spoken in her ear, but there had been so many names thrown at her tonight. "My apologies if I should have. I do not mean to be rude. Even if I should know your name, this is my first party and I am finding it difficult to remember everyone." Curiosity surged through her. She was sensing he must be someone important indeed. Or else he just had that large of an ego. Either of which wouldn't surprise her, after their brief encounter. Still, she wouldn't ask him to move more into the light. Even she wasn't that bold. The darkness lent them enough mystery that she felt much more at ease out here than she did underneath all the lights, feeling as if everyone was judging her based off her father's actions. Waiting for her to snatch at the first rich bachelor to save their money problems. Wouldn't they all be surprised that all she wanted from this party was to have a few good dances. A person's status was such a fickle thing, not worth the time or energy.
Than she found herself laughing, again, as he gave his answer to her question. "Or perhaps you are just over-thinking it." Deidameia couldn't say she was disappointed in the answer, though. It was filled with intelligence, quite different from some of the previous conversations she had been having tonight. "But true. Someone who is frustrated in their shyness might not want to surround themselves with things that are also seen as shy, a constant reminder of something they themselves struggle to overcome. And it can be quite a struggle. Not everyone, I've found, enjoys a more direct approach." She was, of course, talking about herself. A fact that she was sure wouldn't be lost, considering Calix had also agreed to her own boldness. The last thing she wanted to be seen by someone, however, was deceitful. Something she had probably grown into as a result of her father's own deceit when dealing with other nobles. She merely dipped her head at the comment, a small smile on her slightly painted lips. "I could say the same."
"Why would I try to touch you?" she suddenly asked. her head rotating around towards his silhouette with surprise, staring full at him now, eyes slightly wide. She had had to deal enough with that herself, mostly from those trying to help her situation. "Even I am not that bold," the girl continued, turning her head back to stare at the flickering torches in the other manors. "It is clear to me you value your personal space, as do I mine." The sounds of the party behind her seemed extra loud in her ears all of a sudden, and she stepped forward a little to put more distance between it and herself, resting her hands on the bannister and leaning forward slightly. She gave another soft laugh. "I assume dancing is not an interest for you. Not like the stars." Glancing back up, Deidameia picked out the brightest one and focused on it. "I admit to enjoying our conversation. If you'd like to continue talking about the constellations, we could. If you don't find my boldness too unappealing, that is." There was a hint of amusement in her voice.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Aug 20, 2024 10:03 pm
Calix opened his mouth and then closed it after a moment, the teen shaking his head despite knowing that she could barely see him in the surrounding darkness. Eventually he finally responded with honesty rather than his usual sharp tongue. “Perhaps it is better that you don’t know. If anything I suppose I misunderstood you and I apologize.” It was a rare moment for him to apologize, but he felt it was necessary considering how much he had assumed about the stranger in the garden. Admittedly, her own voice was new to him and did not remind him of any of the young noblewomen introduced earlier this evening at the party. She did speak like someone that was in attendance, not a servant and there was part of him that was curious despite his hesitation to reveal himself.
And then there was that laugh again which both intrigued and flustered him. Was he that amusing to her? He had actually put a lot of thought into that response! She truly wasn’t afraid to express herself, that much was for certain. Was it courage fostered by the darkness and the mysteriousness of her companion? Even if so, Calix didn’t know quite how to feel about it. It was rare that anyone outside of his family laughed at him like this, if ever, and he was finding himself at a loss. “There’s no harm in truly contemplating an idea.” He protested, his tone only softening as she added something akin to agreement after the initial statement. “Exactly. So you do see reason in my response, if not seem to truly experience such feelings for yourself.” So she hadn’t belittled him? Or she had but then turned around things within a few moments? Calix pressed his lips together in frustration. It was truly an adjustment from all of the honeyed words he had dealt with earlier from those seeking his approval. “Is that so?” Despite his earlier frustrations and confusion at this situation the teen did smile at her words. “I suppose we can blame the darkness of tonight this time.” There was no need to worry about formalities when both of them were hiding from one another, the pair simply just enjoying a conversation together with the shadows casting a mask across their features. Even the starlight seemed to add to the glamor, the faint sparkles of light causing their attire to gleam at random without revealing much save for a flash of color when the clouds moved accordingly. They might as well have been attending a masquerade, the very thought making Calix even more amused as he realized it. He didn’t mind though. If they didn’t find out about each other then perhaps the illusion could last as a fond memory.
“Agreed.” Calix let out a soft chuckle. “As I said there was a bit of misunderstanding on my part earlier. Others would have tried to take advantage of finding me outside. We are, after all, part of a rather judgmental society.” He gave a slight shrug, the motion more out of habit than necessarily for her benefit since he knew she couldn’t see him well. “As long as we’re in agreement then we can keep to our opposite sides of the path and simply enjoy the stars. Dancing would ruin that, no?” Calix added after a moment with some amusement. “Unless we both close our eyes and simply stumble around with each other, I would prefer to keep the mystery that we have tonight. It’s rather enjoyable, even with the boldness.” A slight tease, something that surprised even Calix considering how stoic he normally was in public spaces. “You are rather knowledgeable about the constellations. Did you study astronomy with a mentor or are you simply well read in such matters?”
[Calix 7]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2024 4:14 pm
Deidameia 7 Mm? Well, wasn't that an interesting response. Deidameia turned her head towards Calix's voice, tilting it slightly with curiosity. Was he someone of great importance, than? Difficult to say. All sorts of nobles of varying status were here tonight. The fact she had been invited was proof enough of that. He could be someone important or he could just as well be someone with a low reputation. Neither option impressed or scared her. Even if his family was looked down upon as hers was, she couldn't feel any kinship towards him over the fact. Status meant little. It didn't give you the full measure of a person. "I admit, you intrigue me with that answer. But I will not pry, if you desire to keep your secret. I hope your opinion will not change much when you are to learn about mine."
Staring at someone she couldn't quite see wasn't much fun, so the Oban girl turned back to watching the mix of flickering stars and distant torches. "No, there is not. It is a great way to pass one's time. When there are not parties to attend," she added with a slight tease, starting to clearly get the picture that her companion might not enjoy them as much as she did. It was a nice break to get out of the house every once in a while. So long as she wasn't having to endure the flirtations of other noble's who thought her some easy prey. Dancing and good conversation was all she was after. "I do not mind if you wish to speak your mind. I always found it refreshing."
"Indeed," Deidameia agreed, with a nod of her head and a sigh at the reminder of everything that was now behind them. So many people doing mental dances around each other, even while they were participating in actual dancing. So perhaps he was someone of importance. Interesting. "I am still sorry for interrupting you. It was not my intention. I'm sure we could both agree it can get a bit stuffy inside." She than gave another little laugh, rising her hand to demurely cover her mouth, as if someone were directly watching her and would see. She quickly lowered her hand. Even she was too much in shadow for it to matter. "It might be a fun challenge, though. Trying to dance blindfolded, without stepping on our partner's toes." Ah, back to the stars, she thought. Not an unwelcome topic, but she thought it rather adorable how insistent he was to talk about them. "Well read, I suppose. I like to learn about different subjects. My mother really loves anything to do with the night sky, so I've received more than my share of knowledge on it."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2025 2:09 pm
“Is there a reason that it should change?” Inquired Calix, the teen unable to hold his tongue once the mysterious lady gave such a response. He would have been more inclined to believe that she was someone after his wealth if she knew who he was and not a random acquaintance to discuss various topics with in secrecy. Would revealing herself make him change his opinion? The very thought made him frown, Calix not wanting to think that he would be a bigot in such regards. He was admittedly guarded against others, but Calix fully believed that he had good reason for his behavior. How could he not when his own family members had endured so much in the past because of their name in this society?
Calix made a face, thankful that the darkness hid his grimace at the reference to parties. Whether she intended to or not it was a firm reminder that he shouldn’t linger much longer and that his time away from the bustle of that nearby ballroom was growing short. “There are perhaps a thousand ways to enjoy the passage of time which do not involve these larger social gatherings.” He acknowledged firmly, not fully hiding his disdain for parties. At least he could contain his temper better than his twin, his brother quite capable of causing the stir at such events hence why Calix was alone for this particular occasion. “Is that so? I’ll keep that in mind.” Sometimes it felt that most only appreciated his opinions to gain favor and sometimes he could tell the topic shifted slightly afterwards, the masks worn in society something that Calix was still learning to navigate.
The little laugh made the corner of his mouth twitch ever so slightly upwards, Calix giving a small nod. “No need to apologize, I suppose. This estate is open to all guests and I am simply a visitor myself.” Another laugh made that smile cross his lips again, the very idea amusing him indeed. “I suppose that would be a challenge, perhaps a bit messy in the end though if you tripped.” He wouldn’t be foolish enough to try. Even if they were alone for the moment, Calix couldn’t afford to do anything that could potentially harm his family’s image at such an event. It made him want to retreat again, his gaze going back to the stars even as the conversation shifted again. He was thankful though that she did indulge him on the topic, Calix realizing how socially awkward he could be while others found him colder and less inclined to talk. Books were much easier than socializing, that much was for certain. “I see. There’s quite a collection at the imperial library, if you ever ventured inside. Their astronomy tower is very insightful.” He was by no means a prince, but at least nobility and scholars could visit there after approval from the monarchy and advisors.
But that was where his commentary lingered. Calix realizing that there was a shift in the ballroom, the teen more aware that his presence would be missed soon enough. “I suppose though that viewing the stars can’t last forever, can they? We’ll have to venture inside soon enough.”
[Calix 8]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
