DMaster: You go down your hallway, her arm in yours and make your way up the stairs around the corner, through the hallway, dining area and into the entrance way. You see a woman with a crown, in the far corner chatting with the King.

Chance: Looking around as we are walking along, smile at Ara. Kind of hoping the king don’t see me.

DMaster: Other guests are waiting at the door. It is about a half hour into the ball. There are probably 30-40 people in the entrance way. Kind of a big blur right now as you get in line. You nod at a few people that you don’t know. But you stand in line.

Chance: just quietly stand there and try not to squirm too much. Look over at Ara every now and then

DMaster: She is looking around with a big smile on her face. She points out a few people to you, but you are nervous so you don’t really notice or remember many. You make it through the double doors and it opens into a sub-chamber that has two staircases going up to a 2nd level. The maitradee guides you to the left and you start walking up. Everything is well decorated, spring-like obviously. Some music is being played by a few bards below.
ARA: This is the nerve racking part
She shivers a bit.

Chance: Chan: why is that?
Looking at her.

DMaster: ARA: We walk down the stairway with everyone watching. So, don’t fall… Or trip… or pick your nose or anything.

Chance: Chan: well could say the same of you
Lean in and give her a wink.

DMaster: She nods and you two reach the top. A man hands you a card and you walk over to a table.
ARA: Put both our names on it.

Chance: Put our names on it and go back over to Ara

DMaster: You two walk to the glass double doors on the 2nd level and the guy opens the door and you walk through. You notice the Cryer. who is down your hallway every morning except Sunday. He yells out some names and the next couple goes down the stairs.

Chance: Chan: I can see why this would be so nerve wracking

DMaster: Once you get to the edge of the steps: You are about 20 feet high, the room has to be 200 ft X 300ft. To the right you see a place to put coats, a huge elegant bar and to the far in the right corner there are stairs leading to what you think is the balcony. To your left you see very elegant dining tables on what can be called a diaz, what seems to be a dance floor and farther against the wall are more dining tables. It also looks like there is a stage of sorts to the far left, and some bards setting equipment up.

Chance: Chan: Shall we then?
Wait for our names to be called.

DMaster: The cryer looks at you and takes your card. About 60-65% of the people down at ground level is looking at you and Ara
CRYER: I present Chance Axion and his guest Ara Thelana.
You two walk down the stairway… slowly, but it seems like a year, You hit the bottom and you are greeted by Xavier and a very elegant woman. He swipes a bit of lint off your coat and looks you over. Nodding his head with a proud grin on his face.

Chance: grin back at him
Chan: Ara says thank you by the way.

DMaster: WOM: Oh don’t let him fuss over you too much, you’ll be here all night
Smiling and smacking his arm a little.
XAV: Oh, Chance this is my Wife Riley, Riley this is Chance and Ara.
Leans over to Ara.
XAV: You’re welcome.
She smiles real big and chuckles.

Chance: Chan: A pleasure to meet you Riley

DMaster: She nods and smiles
XAV: Chance once you get settled, Captain would like to see you, if you can find her in this mess.
RILE: Must you talk shop Xavier.
Giving him a scolding look. Xavier leans over, kisses her cheek and says something in her ear. She smiles and blushes.
ARA: Lets go find our table.

Chance: Chan: yes let’s. thank you again for all the help Duke. Lead on, since you said you would show me the ropes. So you couldn’t think of another way for me to repay you.
whispering into Ara’s ear as I lean down, smiling a bit.

DMaster: She dips her head a bit, takes a quick glance over to you with a disappointed look. Then as though she shakes it off, she grabs your hand and leads you through people.
ARA: Nope.
You go through a few tables and find your spot. She puts her glittery pouch down.

Chance: pull out the chair for her.

DMaster: She looks at you, shakes her head.
ARA: I’m not sitting yet.

Chance: Chan: and just what are we doing then?
looking around still kinda in awe.

DMaster: You see a beautiful woman walk your way, dark flowing hair, glittery gown and very well endowed. It’s Captain Harlow.
HAR: Chance, glad I caught you before…
She finishes her glass of champagne and puts the glass down, looks at the empty flute.
HAR: You know.
She laughs a little then is rifling through her pouch, and pulls out a ring.

Chance: Chan: Captain.

DMaster: She hands you a somewhat larger ring, black with engravings on it.
HAR: Wear this at all times, never take it off.
Ara grabs it and then grabs your hand.

Chance: Chan: is this a way to say I am with the Black Ward?

DMaster: The Captain is taken back a little by Ara. The little elf places it on your middle finger on your right hand
ARA: That’s the right finger right?
Looks back at the Captain. Harlow is looking at the short blacksmith with an inquisitive look. Smiles.
HAR: Yes, yes it is.

Chance: Chan: I didn’t expect to see you here, then again I don’t know who to expect to see.

DMaster: A man walks up behind her and puts his hands around her waist. The dark haired woman lets out a satisfied sigh.
HAR: Its like the only times me and my husband get to see each other.
Looks back and the man kisses her on the cheek and with his other hand brings a rose out. Hands it to her. She melts, turns around and they start kissing. Ara’s eyes get real big.
ARA: OK, that is our cue to move and leave them alone.

Chance: Chan: Agreed.
looking at the ring on my finger.

DMaster: HAR: Ohhh wait.
Laughing a bit.
HAR: I’m sorry, this is my husband Trent.
You two shake hands.

Chance: Chan: a pleasure Trent. You two shouldn’t be bothered with business tonight, enjoy each other.

DMaster: They both smile at you and then look to the stairs. Ara starts to giggle.
ARA: Enjoy each other? That sounded kind of dirty. (quietly)
You hear some horns and the music starts to play.

Chance: look to the stairs as well.

DMaster: ARA: Oh we have to get over there, the royal party enters.
The four of you head over to the edge of the massive crowd at the base of the stairs.

Gallery of the Royal entrance

DMaster: CRY: The Duke of Camerondale; Xavier and his wife Riley Hendrix!
Everyone claps. The two look like they came out of a fashion magazine.
CRYER: The Baroness Cassandra Hendrix Arqulone.
Everyone claps.
CRYER: Prince Buzzuto Roche and Princess Affinity Arqulone.
Everyone claps.

Chance: thinking to myself; hopefully the Princess is to busy to notice me and just clap.

DMaster: CRY: King of Camerondale Jeramiah Mallette and Queen of Vermeer Hylora Roche.

Chance: clap with everyone else.

DMaster: The King walks the queen down and they go to that really ritzy area and drops her off. He walks over to the stage where the Bards have finished setting up. There is a megaphone type thing. A big smile on the rulers face.
KING: Welcome! Welcome everyone to the Spring Ball, Year 348, third era, etc etc.
He rolls his hands playfully while saying that and everyone claps a bit.

Chance: clap as well, trying to keep my nerves in check.

DMaster: Ara grabs your arm again and snuggles up to you a little.
KING: As I look around the room, I see some of my oldest friends…
Getting interrupted by a heckler of sorts.
XAV: HEY NOW!
Everyone laughs a bit, The King pauses and smiles, giving the Duke a playful scolding look. He then chuckles.
KING: My friends I have known the longest.
He tips his hand to Xavier.
KING: And I see new ones. In this celebration, let’s remember, even the coldest winter ends in spring, rebirth and hope. Leave your worries at the door and enjoy this night.
He went to leave then stopped.

Chance: Thinking, maybe its time to drink?

DMaster: KING: Oh, we will eat in about 30 minutes, so get your drinks now!
He is handed a mug, and he holds it up with a wink. The royal party has a place that has two steps so it is like 4-5 feet higher. People start to head to the bar and/or grab a waiter. Someone taps you on the shoulder.
WAIT: Sire, what can I get you?
ARA: (under her breath) heheheh sire… hehehe.

Chance: Chan: hey now.
Giving her a quick look.
Chan: What would you recommend Ara?

DMaster: The short elf smiles and points at a golden champagne bottle. The Waiter smiles and hands you both a glass of champagne. He puts the bottle on your table
WAIT: If you would like anything else, please let us know

Chance: Chan: we shall, thank you.
Looking at Ara.
Chan: would you prefer something else to drink Ara?

DMaster: ARA: Oh wow, this is so good!
She takes a few gulps. A large foreboding man walks up to you, in pretty slick clothing, accompanied by a flamboyant short / stocky woman with blonde hair and a bright pink dress.
KILL: Hey Kid
He doesn’t look thrilled being here, but is putting on his best happy face.

Chance: Chan: Hey Killian
Give him an odd look, like what are you doing here?

DMaster: What an odd looking couple. Killian is 6’7″ and this stocky woman is about 5 foot tall

Chance: Chan: so when you gonna stop calling me kid?
Lifting eyebrow.

DMaster: KILL: (huffs) When you get older than me. Chance, Ara, this beautiful woman is Tucla, my wife.
The vibrant woman looks the two of you over,
TUC: What a handsome couple. Hi! Nice to meet you!
Ara nods in agreement, holds your arm a little tighter.
ARA: I know (smiles) Nice to meet you as well!

Chance: Chan: a pleasure to meet you, Tucla.
Giving her a bright smile.

DMaster: Killian started to feel awkward when he double takes at your hand, your ring. His eyebrow raised

Chance: Chan: I was guilted into this by someone.
looking over at Killian.

DMaster: You faintly hear Ara sigh a bit.
KILL: I see you have been, branded.
A bit of concern washes over his face. Tucla then takes notice and looks at your hand.
TUC: Oh my.
Softly talking to Killian.
TUC: He looks so young!
KILL: Yeah, its why I call him Kid.
Smirks at both you and his wife.

Chance: Chan: yeah just remember this kid can fight.

DMaster: Ara pours a little more champagne in your glass and she fills up her glass. Killian is nodding.
TUC: Oh hun I am going to go get us a drink, you want your ale?
KILL: Yes my dear.
She heads off into the crowd. There has to be 200 people here by now.

Chance: Chan: so branded?
Looking at Killian.

DMaster: Killian nods
KILL: Yeah, you can now get in where only the Black Ward is allowed, get messages and draw some attention.
Killian looks around and sighs.
KILL: Kill me… kill me now.
Ara starts to laugh a little.
ARA: uhhh, why?
KILL: My Wife, I love her, but I detest these things. Not my bag but she loves them. Since I am away all the time, I have to go to these in payment, so to speak.

Chance: Chan: I know someone else who likes these things.
Looking at Ara and smirking.
Chan: I am so out of my element here Killian.

DMaster: Killian is nodding looking over the crowd.
KILL: Bigger one than last year.
Ara is sipping her champagne.
ARA: I love it too.
Ara squeezes your hand a bit.
ARA: You don’t like the champagne do you?

Chance: Chan: not really, I don’t like the taste.
Scrunch my nose.

DMaster: ARA: I’ll get you something else.
She smiles and starts to walk away.

Chance: Chan: thank you, appreciate it
Watch her walk away in that dress.

DMaster: Killian looks at her walk away, then at you in the corner of his eye, then back at her.
KILL: Ah, to be young again.

Chance: Chan: well being young does have its disadvantages. Like nerves and things coming up when the wind changes, and… well… anyways.

DMaster: Plugr and a brown haired woman are walking over to you.
PLUG: Hey Killian, Chance…
You three exchange handshakes.
WOMAN: I thought we saw you over here.
Looks way up at Killian, laughs and winks.

Chance: hoping Plugr doesn’t notice the ring. Smiling and say.
Chan: how could you miss Killian he is the biggest man in the room?

DMaster: Killian laughs loud.
PLUG: Chance this is my wife Victoria.
She looks at you eyes widen a bit.
VIC: Oh this is Chance, that I have heard, um, so much about?
She shakes your hand. You notice behind them staying a bit away is Talia and Quinton. Quinton seems annoyed, Talia seems, well like Talia. Mad.

Chance: Chan: I know we briefly crossed paths out in the training area of the Castle, but it is nice to officially meet you now. hopefully you have only heard good things about me?
Raise an eyebrow knowing I am in the dog house with Talia.

DMaster: VIC: Oh… um… well.
Kind of nods her head unconvincingly. Quinton grabs Talia’s hand and walks over to you
QUI: Hi chance, nice to see you again.
You two shake hands.

Chance: shake his hand.
CHA: Nice to see you again, Quinton.

DMaster: Needless to say, Talia is not making eye contact with you right now. Quinton looks back to Talia and he leans in and says something.
TAL: (forced) Hi… Chance.
Victoria rolls her eyes and sighs.

Chance: Chan: Hi Talia, you look very nice.

DMaster: She fakes a smile, grabs Quintons hand and they walk away. A look of a little embarrassment and defeat washes over both of them.
PLUG: Sorry Chance… she is…
VIC: (interrupting) Something else. It was nice to meet you.
Victoria grabs Plugrs hand and they walk away. Killian looks like he is in another world and also somewhat awkward.
KILL: Well.
Playfully frowns a bit.
KILL: That… wasn’t awkward… at all.
Chuckles and shakes his head.

Chance: Sighing again.
Chan: No… no. Not at all.

DMaster: Tucla, Ara and another girl are walking towards you with drinks in their hands. A sultry red head, green eyes that light up the room and the dress, that black dress is barely keeping everything in. Killian’s eyes lights up with Sakine’s dress. He gulps, loudly. Ara’s dress is pretty sexy too but this, this, sticks out like a sore thumb.

Chance: Can’t help but look a little as well.

DMaster: The three arrive already in conversation.
ARA: I have never had Dwarven Spirits, do they taste good?
Killian grabs his ale and the shot glass.
KILL: No. Tastes like the wrong side of a dairy cow.
Tucla scoffs and giggles.
TUC: Oh Killy…
Everyone laughs.

Chance: just shaking my head a bit.

DMaster: Sakine notices you, eyes light up and zero’s her gaze to you.
SAK: Oh Chance.
She walks over and runs her hands across your shoulder.
SAK: I did, not, expect to see you here.
Ara’s eyes bulge a little.
ARA: Hey Red, hands off!

Chance: Chan: oh hey, Sakine, is it?
Blushing a little.

DMaster: Ara hands you a mug of beer and a shot glass of clear liquid.
SAK: Easy there she-elf, just looking over the goods.

Chance: Chan: now now, ladies there will be none of that tonight.
Bust out laughing.
Chan: so do I drink these both at once?

DMaster: The sultry redhead raises her glass.
SAK: Here is to a fun night… lets eat, dance and get properly fucked up!
Killian furries his brow a bit and takes the slug.
TUC: Oh dear.
She looked a little shocked by the swear word.
TUC: Down it goes, teeheee.

Chance: take the ale, shot and downit. Then take a swig of the ale.

DMaster: TUC: I think this is my cousins brew (laughs).
ARA: The drink burns, doesn’t hurt, but it takes your breath away.
You’re a champ, don’t even flinch, hell, even Killian flinched.

Chance: Chan: hey that’s not half bad.

DMaster: Everyone is like… oh! coughing a bit & they look at you funny. Ara looks at you with a bewildered look.
ARA: Oh, THIS, tastes good but not the 10 gold champagne?
She shakes her head.
SAK: I like a man with a strong palette.
Bounces her eyebrows and has a slight growl.

Chance: Chan: I would drink this over that stuff any day.
Get a big smile on my face.
Chan: so Killian are you and Tucla gonna be sitting here with us or you just making your rounds.

DMaster: You hear a bell sound.
KILL: Sorry kid we are over there with the Cap.
TUC: Ohhh, time to eat.
She grabs Killian’s hand and they head off.
SAK: Oh looky here… I am at the same table with Chance… or I mean Ara.
Gives her a slighted glance, Ara walks over to you, grabs your hand – she has the death stare going at Sakine

Chance: squeeze her hand a little.
Chan: relax Ara (quietly) we are here to enjoy.

DMaster: She leans in a bit to you. Quinton walks up to you both.
QUI: Chance, I am sorry, Talia is in a mood.
Looks somewhat defeated.

Chance: Chan: it’s okay, she wasn’t much happy training this morning either.

DMaster: QUI: I will try and cheer her up… we are at the same table.
Then stops mid sentence and looks at you.
QUI: Not happy this morning? Wat?
Sakine sits heavily and is loud, interrupting.
SAK: Great we have weepy mcweepy pants at our table
Quinton with rage in his eyes snaps his head to the red head.
QUI: Sakine, stop!
She shrugs her shoulders and slugs a bit of ale. She has an amused look on her face.

Chance: take another swig of the ale.
Chan: I just hope she can snap out of it and enjoy this beautiful gathering.

DMaster: There is another couple you say hi too. Your table consists of you, Ara, Quinton, Talia, Sakine, and the other couple. Ara sits in between you and Sakine, You are directly across from Talia. A red headed woman dressed in priestess robes heads for the stage. The Priestess starts the prayer to Animax and everyone calms down. She finishes and out comes 20-30 waiters with food. You eat and it is amazing. Ara and you have some small talk. Talia seems to cheer up a bit after eating. Sakine is sipping from a flask. Ara glances over to her, and Sakine shrugs her shoulders.
SAK: I mean what the fuck, the bar is closed.

Chance: smirking a bit.
Chan: I can see why you made me come to this.
Looking at Ara.
Chan: Here I was just gonna show up and then leave as quick as I could. Have to admit this is all pretty amazing.

DMaster: ARA: (munch munch) I know right?

Chance: Chan: Funny, I am use to being on the serving end.
Chuckle a little.
Chan: Not the one getting served.

DMaster: Talia perks up
TAL: Oh yeah, I remember that. You were what, a Cabana Boy?
In a condescending voice then Quinton shoots her a glance.

Chance: Chan: I guess you could say that.
Nodding my head, taking a bite.

DMaster: SAK: What is a Cabana boy? Does it involve you being naked?
Ara gives Sakine a half confused, half angry look. Then back to you.
ARA: What do you mean?
Talia leans forward.
TAL: About a month ago, Chance worked at an Inn as what a… maidservant?
She looks at you with a sly smile. Then under his breath,
QUI: Talia… stop.

Chance: Chan: I guess you could call it that. My official title was lead janitor. But I did everything there.
Sigh a little, think.
Chan: It’s okay Quinton, I remember where I come from and won’t forget it. Kind of miss the simpler life really.

DMaster: Ara looks a little surprised.
ARA: Wow, so you had humble beginnings, and now you are rubbing elbows with the most powerful people in the realm.
SAK: Yeah powerful… the only thing powerful is the piss I am going to take in a minute.
Quinton practically spits out his food.

Chance: Chan: You know, I would gladly go back to being a, maidservant, if it meant certain people were still alive.
Grab my ale.
Chan: Maybe my path led to it, led to Ferellus’s death.
Raise my mug in honor.
Chan: Yeah, I miss you too, buddy.
Take a glug, then bury that shit deep before I start to tear up.

DMaster: Talia stops eating, looks at you. Her shoulders start to slump. Then shakes her head.
TAL: I… I… I didn’t mean too, oh Chance…
Tears in her eyes, she gets up and runs for the bathroom. Quinton throws his napkin in the air.
SAK: BAM! weepy mcweeperpants… I called it didn’t I?
The couple at your table are wide eyed and uncomfortable.

Chance: Look down, keep burying it.
Chan: Quinton, go to her please, she needs you.

DMaster: Quinton shoots Sakine a sharp glance and gets up and heads after Talia. Ara puts her hand on yours.
ARA: I’m sorry, who is Ferellus?
She looks at you concerned.

Chance: Chan: My best friend. He was like a brother to me, someone we lost in the battles that took place on the Isles.

DMaster: Sakine wipes her mouth, throws her napkin on the table, looks around… huffs.
SAK: He’s the lucky one…
She gets up and heads to the bathroom. Ara hugs your arm.
ARA: I’m sorry. There were, battles on Summer Isles?

Chance: Nod my head look down.
Chan: Not exactly dinner conversation but there were some crazy events that happened on the Isles that I am sure I am not privy to talk about.

DMaster: She pats your arm and nods her head. You finish the dinner and dessert. It was amazing.

Chance: Chan: So have I told you how amazing you look tonight? I guess I should say; I am honored to be here with you.

DMaster: She double takes, blushes and smiles. She finishes her dessert, leans over and gives you a kiss on the cheek. As you look back you notice the Princess was staring at you when Ara did that. she looks down and then back to her dessert.

Chance: Chan: will you excuse me? I think I need to go get another shot. I am still a little nervous.

DMaster: ARA: (giggles) well, good luck the bar is closed until after dinner. Hey give it a shot… hehehe get it…

Chance: Shake head playfully.
Chan: by Animax.

DMaster: ARA: give it a shot…
She looks sheepishly down and giggles.

Chance: Chan: I guess I will just have to drink some of that, nasty…
Pointing at the champagne.

DMaster: ARA: Nope. Sakine drained it a half hour ago.

Chance: Shake head playfully.
Chan: by Animax.

DMaster: ARA: Speaking of powerful (giggles) I have to powder my nose. I am sure everything will come out ok.
Ara giggles as she walks by you and runs her hand across your shoulder.

Chance: kinda gazing down at the ring on my hand now.

DMaster: Sakine sultry-like walks up to you, avoiding the short blacksmith elf.
SAK: Hey stud
Sakine sits down next to you
SAK: What the hell are you doing with Ara?
Raise an eyebrow.

Chance: Chan: she guilted me into coming for what I did to her armor. It was brand new.

DMaster: Her eyes widen.
SAK: Oh… really? So you are, not a couple or anything. I was going to say, you work fast, my well built friend who smells like Strawberries.
Leans in and takes a deep breath. You can smell perfume and the booze on her. With your darkvision, you can see clear down her dress. You see her belly button and you are not sure she is wearing panties.

Chance: try to remain calm.

DMaster: She looks down her own dress and smirking.
SAK: I know, I do it on purpose. I like the attention…
She looks around the room, talks in a sultry voice.
SAK: I stick out like a sore thumb.
Nodding her head, the red head pushes up her boobs to settle better in the dress.

Chance: Chan: well I would say you do.
Look at her titties, then at her with a smirk.

DMaster: She runs her finger along your arm to your hand…
SAK: Maybe we can hook up later…?

Chance: Give her a “really” look.
Chan: you better hope Ara doesn’t catch you.

DMaster: She looks up, then stands and walks away. Probably because she saw Talia and Quinton heading your way. The Bards are warming up.

Chance: breathe a sigh of relief, then stand up.

DMaster: Talia walks straight for you and gives you a fierce hug.

Chance: hug her back, kiss her on the top of the head.

DMaster: TAL: I’m sorry Chance. I can be a real bitch sometimes.

Chance: Chan: it’s okay Talia, we are all under some kind of pressure and it can get to us, you know?

DMaster: She backs up, nods her head.
TAL: I know what Ferellus meant to you. He was the bravest person I have never met.

Chance: just hug her a little more, kinda fighting back some tears.

DMaster: Quinton has a big smile on his face. The King is on the stage.
KING: Every spring ball we like to acknowledge someone who brings hope and rebirth to the realm. This year, and this is way overdue…

Chance: take a seat and listen.

DMaster: XAV: Here here!
KING: Xavier – must you always.
Saying playfully. Everyone laughs a bit.
KING: Captain Harlow, can you come up here.

Chance: smiling a bit at them.

DMaster: You see her, she looks like a deer in headlights, looking around. Stands up and slowly heads to the stage. Everyone in the room stands up and cheers. It is really loud.

Chance: stand up and clap as well.

DMaster: Trent has the biggest proudest smile on his face, probably clapping the loudest, next to Killian. She gets to the stage and the two of them hug.
KING: You have served us for… how long?
The Captain is choking back a few tears.
HAR: Years are not important, really
Laughs a little, As does everyone else; chuckles. The king then puts his hand on her shoulder, looks her in the eyes.
KING: Truly, you have been a beacon of hope to this city, this realm.
The King puts this medal around her neck.

Chance: smiling. Still looking around while all this is going on.

DMaster: KING: Your loyalty never wavers and you always put yourself before others. People of this fine City, I present to you, this years: Medal of Hope recipient!
Everyone cheers and claps, etc It’s loud.
CROWD: Speech speech speech!

Chance: clap and cheer.

DMaster: She rolls her eyes are she is trying to compose herself.
HAR: Thank you M’Lord, and thank you everyone. I’m not good at speeches, unless its to scold my Ward members…
The crowd giggles a bit.
HAR: I am honored to accept this award, but I never needed an award to know that Camerondale is special. The City, the lands and most importantly the people. I look forward to serve you, and keep us all safe.
She waves and everyone cheers and claps.
KING: OK… BARS OPEN!!!
Everyone cheers.

Chance: Chan: Talia, do you or Quinton want anything from the bar?

DMaster: The band starts to play a very regal tune. Talia’s eyes are big and so are Quintons… they are looking past you.

Chance: turn around and look.

DMaster: Cassie is walking towards you.
CASS: Chance, you are my partner for this dance.

Chance: Stand up and turn to her, smile.
Chan: Oh am I?

DMaster: Grabs your hand and leads you to the dance floor. Everyone’s eyes are on you. Only the Royals are dancing. The King with the queen, Xavier with Riley, Affinity with the Prince but Cassie didn’t bring a date so she chose you. Ara arrives back at the table and is looking around like WTF.

Chance: Chan: Really? Cassie nothing like putting me on display (quietly)

DMaster: You go to the floor, and everyone is watching. The Princess almost falls over seeing you with her mom. You and Cassie clasps hands and she fondles your finger. You are dancing and she lifts your hand up and looks at the ring. She smiles and leans in.
CASS: Congratulations. That’s some powerful hardware you are sporting.
Squeezing your middle finger.

Chance: Chan: oh that, yeah, thank you.

DMaster: you two are dancing, its a regal stiff dance. Cassie looks gorgeous, and it wanders into your mind that she has these deep beautiful blue eyes, while her daughter has those piercing green ones. She chuckles a bit.
CASS: Her father.

Chance: Look down at her.
Chan: Wat?

DMaster: CASS: Her father had green eyes. That is where she gets them and…
She blushes,
CASS: Thank you. You look amazing as well.
She giggles a little, then looks you over.
CASS: and yes, I have had a bit to drink.

Chance: Chan: well, your brother helped, a lot actually.
Blushing a bit.

DMaster: CASS: I am getting the stink eye from a few girls, it is kind of fun.
She leans back a bit and looks at you in the eyes

Chance: Look into her eyes.
Chan: god, you are beautiful.

DMaster: Her face flushes and a smile washes across her face. She seems flustered.
CASS: Uh, Thank you… again.
She then leans into you, dancing pretty close now. You glance around and you see the King has spotted you, goofy but warm look on his face.

Chance: keep my thoughts focused and on dancing, since she can read minds.

DMaster: OK, you keep your mind pretty focused, as well as it can be with some drinks in you.
CASS: So what are you hiding chance?
She says softly with a playful tone – leaning in even more.

Chance: Chan: what do you mean? Hiding? Me?

DMaster: Xavier and Riley are dancing so beautifully.
CASS: I am not sensing anything other than… your feet… a shot of dwarven spirits?
She starts to giggle, then surprisingly Cassie leans her head back and laughs out loud, Everyone kind of looks over, eyes big.
CASS: The Kings… goofy face?

Chance: Blush a little, lean in.
Chan: Well, it was kind of goofy…
Keep dancing.

DMaster: She says quietly in your ear.
CASS: Yes, yes it was.
The song ends, and she gives you a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

Chance: hug her back and blush a little.

DMaster: She grabs your hand.
CASS: That ring is an extremely powerful thing.

Chance: Chan: well, I hope to do it proud, my Baroness.

DMaster: She looks directly into your eyes
CASS: Just…
Squeezes your hand.
CASS: be careful. It is also dangerous.
AFF: Mom! Hitting on Chance!
Smiling playfully. You look over to see the Princess standing next to you.

Chance: Chan: M’lady.
Bow a bit, nod my head. Trying to keep my thoughts focused.

DMaster: Cassie looks you both over, and has a little sharp look.
CASS: You should officially meet the Prince.
Just then the Prince walks up close to you and shakes your hand. He leans in,
PRINCE: We, will talk later.

Chance: Shake his hand.

DMaster: Gives you a look and walks away. Affinity is dumbfounded and looks at her Mom. Both her and Cassie are like WTF.
CASS: (quietly) He doesn’t shake hands… barely at all.
AFF: That was the first time I saw him do that with a non royal.

Chance: Chan: I didn’t think he liked me very much, guess I was wrong.

DMaster: You hear Sakine from across the dance floor.
SAK: Chance, get your sweet ass over here… someone wants to bite it.

Chance: Give the Baroness a pleading look.
Chan: save me, save me… please?!
Chuckling.

DMaster: The music picks up and people are starting to dance, the bar area is pretty full. She smirks and heads up the diaz to her table, both her and affinity. You get to the bar grab a few drinks and head back to the table.

Chance: Sit back down.

DMaster: Ara is standing there sipping on more champagne.
ARA: Well that was interesting, if not awkward.
The group nods a little
TAL: I’d say, I thought you and Cassie were going to make out for a second.
Sakine has 6 shots in front of her. Quinton and Talia are holding shots.

Chance: Chan: might I make a toast?

DMaster: QUI: Aye!

Chance: Chan: to new friends and those we love.

DMaster: They all raise their glass and down the hatch it goes. The music is very festive.

Chance: Chan: would you care to dance Ara?

DMaster: Ara puts her glass down, clasp hands and walk out to the dance floor. You start to dance. She is pretty good, in fact really good. You are awkward to say the least.

Chance: pull her close.
Chan: this is real nice, isn’t it?

DMaster: Ara snuzzles in the lower part of your neck, then looks up at you as you are whirling around.
ARA: I have questions…

Chance: Chan: Oh?
Keep dancing.

DMaster: She smiles, then stops dancing and grabs your hand. The beautiful little elf leads you to the far stairway, up the stairs and out onto the balcony. Its gorgeous out, mid 60’s not a cloud in the sky, both moons visible.

Chance: Looking out over the balcony, sighs a little.
Chan: Questions?

DMaster: ARA: OK, so what’s the deal with you and Cassie? More importantly the Princess?

Chance: Look around to make sure no one is in ear shot.

DMaster: It is pretty empty right now.

Chance: Chan: well, (chuckle) Cassie has had too much to drink it seems. And… the Princess. That is a whole other story.
Look over to Ara.
Chan: Long and short of it; You could say, I might of saved her life back on the Isles.

DMaster: Ara was about to scold you and she stopped mid breath.
ARA: You … what?
She tilts her head, big eyes and raises an eyebrow.

Chance: Chan: yes, back on Summer Isles. I don’t know how much I can say because of the Politics and personal reasons. I am here now because of that reason, and for helping out Cassie and Plugr a few times. Otherwise I would be still on the Summer Isles.
Glance over to her and then back out over the balcony,

DMaster: Ara stands there in deep thought.
ARA: No, that actually makes a lot of sense.
She grabs both your hands. That explains the awkward encounters in the throne room, and the rush to get you into the Black Ward… and the fondness that Cassie has for you.

Chance: Chan: I guess so.
Shrug shoulders.

DMaster: Ara looks past you, is a little spooked and lets go of your hands, then gets startled by the King.
KING: Chance my boy!

Chance: Chan: M’lord.
bowing slightly.

DMaster: Ara stumbles back a bit and bows.
KING: Chance, Ara this is Queen Hylora. She is visiting from the Great hold in Vermeer.

Chance: Chan: M’lady.
Bow a bit deeper for her.

DMaster: HYL: So good to meet you finally.
She holds out her hand. You grab her hand and kiss it. She looks at you oddly and then looks at the King. He looks back at her inquisitively

Chance: Chan: sorry M’lady dealing with royalty is new to me must forgive me.

DMaster: The Queen takes your hand and looks at your ring. She shows the King. His eyes widen and he smiles.
KING: That’s my boy!
Hylora lets your hand go.

Chance: looking up kind of smiling

DMaster: HYL: We owe you a great debt of gratitude my young Chance.
KING: (eyes Ara) Yes… we do.

Chance: Chan: M’lord and M’lady it is I who owe you gratitude for giving me a chance to prove myself here in Camerondale.

DMaster: ARA: I take my leave of you M’lord, M’lady.
She bows and walks away. The King nods and then walks over to the railing with his hands behind his back. Hylora is looking at you thoughtfully. You see two guards at the entrance of the balcony.
HYL: So young.
She squeezes your shoulder as she walks over to the King. A servant walks out and hands something to the Queen.
KING: Ahh, ok, there it is.
The Prince bursts out of the entrance, and walks out onto the Balcony. He walks up to you, grabs the wrapped package from his mother, somewhat rude like. He opens it up and there is a black leather bracelet with a pure platinum head, that has a diamond in the middle, ruby / onyx inlays. A shield like design in the middle. The body of the bracelet is the finest black leather.
PRINCE: We wanted to thank you for your service to the Princess.

Chance: Chan: M’lord, no need to thank me.

DMaster: He grabs your hand and places the bracelet on your wrist… it is exquisite. It’s got to be worth a fortune.
KING: You deserve it. The work you’ve done so far, the actions you took on Summer Isle. The bravery and skill we have been told about. We need more young people like you leading the way.
PRINCE: Yes. A lot more.
The Prince is still looking at you down his nose, kind of irritated by you in some way.
HYL: Thank you Chance. May you always be Affinities protector.
The Prince shoots his mother a sharp look.

Chance: kind of looking down, try not to smirk, nod in respect.

DMaster: The Queen and the Prince walk off the balcony together. The King puts his arms around your shoulder.
KING: Now, you said something about a drink…?
He laughs a little.

Chance: Chan: yes, M’lord, I did.
Smile at him.

DMaster: The King looks up and stops.
KING: Ohh… nuts. A drink for me at least, I will see you back in there.

Chance: See why the King stopped, fidgeting with my new bracelet.

DMaster: The King walks off alone. Affinity walks out and meets you at the railing of the Balcony.

Chance: Chan: M’lady.
Bow yet again.

DMaster: She looks back at the entrance, its a good 20 feet.
AFF: We are alone Chance, you know you can call me Affinity.
She is fidgeting with her corsage looking out over the gardens.

Chance: Chan: Shouldn’t we still keep up appearances? At least here, who knows who is listening…

DMaster: She is quiet for a bit. Nods her head a little.
AFF: I am tired of keeping up appearances and you know. This is just… talking anyways, right?
She looks over to you, puppy dog eyes.

Chance: Looking at her, smile softly.

DMaster: Your eyes meet. Like usual your heart starts to beat faster, your breath gets shallow. It’s apparently by the look on her face, it is doing the same to her.

Chance: Chan: I don’t think I will ever get used to, this. The way you affect me.
Shake my head, give her a smile again and look out over the gardens.

DMaster: She looks down then back up at you, meets your gaze when you look back to her and steps back a bit. She breathes deep.
AFF: I know. My heart is going to beat out of my chest.

Chance: Chan: my heart is as well.

DMaster: She is shaking a bit.

Chance: Chan: It’s ok, we are just… talking (teasingly)

DMaster: A small smile forms and a tilt of her head. She looks over to the entrance.

Chance: Chan: expecting someone?

DMaster: She looks back at you with disappointment.
AFF: My two mothers are beckoning me.
She says sarcastically.

Chance: Chan: You better get back to them, you don’t want to be sent to bed without, dinner… or dessert, or, hell, a midnight snack?

DMaster: Glancing over you see the two ladies in waiting arguing with the guards. Affinity giggles a little.

Chance: Chan: or maybe you can stay with me just a little longer?

DMaster: Affinity grabs your hand for a moment and looks at you as if to say she would love too. Then squeezes and cuts off her two ladies in waiting by meeting them in the middle of the balcony. They stride past her instead.
ERIK: Affinity… we… (looks at you) Oh Hi Chance!
Birgetta comes over to you and gives you a little hug.
BIR: Hey Chance

Chance: Smile and hug back.
Chan: Hello Birgetta, Erikka.

DMaster: Erikka comes over and hugs you too.

Chance: hug her as well.

DMaster: ERIK: (softly) Glad you could make it.

Chance: Chan: Yeah, me too. At least I have a shirt on this time.

DMaster: Erikka bounces her eyebrows and smiles. As if a memo was sent to all the Royal party, Cassie walks out…
CASS: Girls, get inside, people want to say goodbye!
Cassie is looking at you with an eyebrow raised. They leave as do the guards.

Chance: Chan: no raising eyebrows at me, Cassie.

DMaster: She chuckles a bit then guides her women down the stairs

Chance: walk back inside and head for the table.

DMaster: You head back in. lots of people still dancing. You see Ara, Talia and Quinton standing at the edge of the dance floor with drinks.

Chance: Chan: sorry I was gone so long everyone.

DMaster: ARA: OK. What the hell was that all about with the King, Queen and apparently the Prince to?!
TAL: Oh I am sure they were complimenting him on his rock hard ass.
Quinton looks at Talia, and Talia starts laughing, shrugging her shoulders. Seeing Quinton look at her, she takes a deep drink of ale.

Chance: Chan: umm what? I don’t think so.
Laughing at her.

DMaster: Ara puts her hand on her forehead and laughs
ARA: OK, OK, No more hanging out with Sakine.
SAK: Whooaaa… Chansh you gotta cashh up!
She spills some ale out of the mug and hands it to you.
TAL: Drunk bitch!
ARA: What did you just say???
Both laughing at her as you lean over and grab the mug.
SAK: Fuck yeah!

Chance: Chan: I really think you ladies need to slow down on the drinking.
Giving them a playful scolding look.

DMaster: Sakine gives you a glare.

Chance: glare back.

DMaster: ARA: I think Chance needs to tell us what the hell went down on the Balcony?!
SAK: Wait WHAT? Who went down on Chance on the Balcony?
Quinton spits out his drink, Ara burst out laughing and Talia looks confused but giggles anyways.

Chance: showing off the bracelet.
Chan: Just a little thank you from the Prince.

DMaster: They all stop and look at the Bracelet.
ALL: Whoooaaaa
ARA: They wanted to give you jewelry?
SAK: For what? going down on someone??! What the fuck am I misshing? I’ll suck a dick for a brashlet!
The entire group is in near tears laughing.

Chance: Chan: just keep drinking Red, just keep drinking.
Laugh as well.

DMaster: Quinton has the giggles and Sakine is not helping. His face is rosy.
TAL: Well, why did you get the bracelet?

Chance: Chan: for saving the Princess’s life, and the ladies… I guess.
Look down at the bracelet again.

DMaster: Quinton and Sakine stop and look at you. Saking swaying a bit, confused at what she just heard, looks down in her drink.
SAK: Damn, what’s in this stuff… did he just say?
Talia and Ara are nodding their heads. There is a rushing sound next to you, your hand gets pulled and you are on the dance floor. It’s Erikka and Birgetta.

Chance: Chan: hey ladies

DMaster: You start dancing with them, Sakine, Ara and Talia join in, Quinton just plops into the chair.
BIR: Oh my God Sakine, you are lit.
Looking at her sister trying to dance and slurring her words.
SAK: And it feeeeels shoo good.
You really have to hit the head so you see Quinton heading in that general direction and meet up with him.

Chance: Chan: Wait up Quinton, I have to pee too.
Catch up to Quinton.

DMaster: SAK: (yelling) Don’t shake it more than 3 timeshh!!!
TAL: Otherwise your just playing with yourself.
Squeeks, laughs and giggles. Quinton laughs and shakes his head.
QUI: Sakine… is a bad idea. She just drinks and drinks.
You drain it and head back, the music slows down, A love tune.

Chance: Walk to Ara, touch her shoulder, holding out my hand.

DMaster: She grabs it.

Chance: pull her close as we dance.
Chan: Thanks for coming with me.

DMaster: You two are dancing slow, you have your arm around her waist to her back and she has both arms up around your shoulders. Her head is on your chest. Then she looks up to you with her glittering green eyes.

Chance: Take her in and her beauty and smile, softly in her ear.
Chan: You are beautiful.

DMaster: She quickly smiles, and puts her head back on your chest. After a few minutes of slow dancing, the music speeds up and more people head to the dance floor. You two walk over at first hand in hand. She smiles. You sit and she sits on your lap.

Chance: Take a sip of Ale and look back over to the girls, see if they are still on the dance floor.

DMaster: They have dispersed, but there are still a lot of people dancing, some standing around drinking and talking laughing. The Princess has caught your eye. You both exchange glances across the room.

Chance: Chan: how about you sit over here Ara.
Patting the chair next to me.

DMaster: She sighs, shoulder slump a little. Then gets up and just walks away towards the bar. Quinton and Talia are at the table, he is sitting she is on his lap and they are making out.

Chance: Chan: Oh, get a room you two.

DMaster: Birgetta and Sakine come over and grab you as the music really picks up. People are jumping around and dancing.

Chance: Chan: must you two always pick me?
Laugh a little, head on in.

DMaster: You hit the dance floor and you are dancing with them, Talia and Quinton joins shortly after, Ara makes her way in too. There are like 100+ people just dancing, music is loud. You all dance for a while. Then Ara, Talia and Quinton head over to the table and look like they are drinking water. Sakine grabs you as the music slows down
SAK: Jush one dansh chansh.

Chance: Chan: Of course. Do I need to hold you up?
smirking at her.

DMaster: She also snuggles in and puts her head on your chest.
SAK: Maybe.

Chance: Chan: OK, well no funny stuff, we wouldn’t want some one to bash you now.
looking back at the table

DMaster: Ara looks at you blankly and shrugs her shoulders. Birg, Erikka and Affinity are dancing in a group. Cassie and Xavier are and talking and laughing

Chance: look if I can see where the Prince is.

DMaster: He is on the Diaz with a man dressed in rich garments look to be in deep conversation. The bards announce a 15 minute break and another hour of music. She was practically asleep dancing.

Chance: Chan: You awake Sakine?

DMaster: She grabs your ass and then walks off to the bathroom… stumbles more like it. You decide to head over to the Balcony. Head up and enjoy the cooler air. Thoughts of Affinity, then Ara and even Sakine’s sweet sweet titties. You try and refocus.

DMaster: After a few minutes alone, someone walks up to you.
ARA: Is this seat taken?
She walks up and leans up on the railing.

Chance: Chan: Nope, not at all.
Smile at her.

DMaster: ARA: Beautiful out…
Breathes deeply.

Chance: Chan: very beautiful out. I figured I would come out here and enjoy it.

DMaster: ARA: Yeah, it was getting warm in there.
She turns around and leans her butt on the railing next to you, seems a bit nervous and fidgety.

Chance: Chan: so is this ball like the last one?

DMaster: ARA: Kind of, I went to the MidSummer Days Ball, about the same. Just different decorations.
She is looking at you in the corner of her eye. She seems to be getting fidgety.

Chance: just quietly keep looking out over the balcony.

DMaster: After a few awkward minutes, she tilts her chin down.
ARA: I guess I’ll go back in then.
She stands straight, smooths out her dress and looks at you.

Chance: Look at her and shake my head a little.
Chan: Ara I have so much on my mind right now, I will be back in shortly.

DMaster: Ara sighs, nods and then walks in.

Chance: looking over to see if the other couples are still there.

DMaster: No… they have left But, there is one person. Captain Harlow is leaning against the railing and smelling her rose

Chance: Chan: Hello Captain.

DMaster: She looks startled, turns around and looks at you.

Chance: Chan: did you need a break from inside as well?

DMaster: She is wiping tears away.
HAR: Oh chance, sorry, just um, catching my breath.

Chance: Raise my eyebrow and walking over.
Chan: its more than just catching your breath.

DMaster: She looks down…
HAR: Just a little overwhelming. I didn’t expect that award and when me and Trent have time together its so good… I am truly blessed.
Flings her hair back.

Chance: Chan: Treasure what you have Captain, you deserve it… including that award.

DMaster: She smiles, and looks at her rose. You see another side to this hard woman, and it makes you want to fight for her even more. You hear the music start back up again. Her husband pokes his head out.
TRENT: Hun, they are playing your song.

Chance: Chan: go get your boogie on!

DMaster: She squeezes your arm a bit and walks in with Trent. You head back inside, go for another few drinks and head back towards the table. The floor is pretty filled including the King and Queen cutting a rug. A few more people talking and sitting at tables. Sakine is laying across your table passed out. Talia and Quinton are laughing at her. Ara is at a table alone sipping on some water.

Chance: down my other shot and walk over to Ara put out my hand.

DMaster: She is twiddling with her fancy bag and looks at you. shrugging her shoulder she takes your hand. As you head for the dance floor, like on cue, the music turns slow. You reach the floor.

Chance: Try to pull her close, see if she will put her head on my chest.

DMaster: She stays a bit apart from you, dancing normally. Its a dance, and it feels awkward. The song finishes and it picks up, some festive dance. She backs off, is looking down and walks back over to the table.

Chance: go over and sit down next to her.

DMaster: She is just kind of sitting there, and listening to Talia and Quinton go back and forth chatting, playful banter. Sakine is still snoring.

Chance: Chan: Ara want to take a walk?

DMaster: She shrugs her shoulders and gets up, grabs her pouch.

Chance: Take her hand and lead her out to the balcony.

DMaster: you can start to feel the drinks, light headed. She avoids the hand hold and just follows you. The balcony is packed, about 25 people out there drinking laughing, enjoying the cool fresh air.

Chance: Chan: do you know somewhere a little less crowded?

DMaster: She looks around, shrugs her shoulders.
ARA: Not that I know of, why whats up?
She has a blank stare.

Chance: Chan: I know I have been acting a bit weird through out the night. I have a lot going on. Hard to sort it all out. But this should be about you…
touch her face.

DMaster: She grabs your hand before you can touch her face. Her eyes then focus on you. Talks maybe a bit too loud.
ARA: No. I don’t know if I am sobering up or what, but I think I made a mistake. I should of never “guilted” you into this.

Chance: Chan: Ara, no. I mean…

DMaster: She interrupts you.
ARA: No, you mentioned it plenty of times now already, as though to drive home the point.
She looks down, lets your hand go and steps back.
ARA: You are right, you have a lot going on right now. I get it, but the whole hot and cold thing you are doing is a huge turn off and I am not one for games.

Chance: Nod my head.
Chan: I like you, I really do… but…

DMaster: She scoffs a little.
ARA: Yeah, But?

Chance: Chan: but my heart belongs to someone else.
Looking down.

DMaster: Ara fiddles with her pouch, looks over the balcony and see’s you two have an audience of sorts. Feeling beyond embarassed by your statement, she turns back blushing. Everyone is now quietly looking on. She shakes her head then leans over gives you a kiss on the cheek and walks off the balcony. A few people have heard you and are kind of watching. You even heard someone call you a dumbass.

Chance: Leave the balcony and get out of the eye sight of everyone there. Head to the table.

DMaster: You head back inside grab another drink, then back to the table. You are real fuzzy now. Talia and Quinton are goofing off at the table, Sakine is still snoring. You remember talking to some people, music playing loud. Then you see Talia looking around.
TAL: Where is Ara?

Chance: Look around as well.
Chan: oh by Animax ,did she leave?
Shake my head.
Chan: I think I made a mess of things.

DMaster: Talia: shocker.
Quinton looks at you and shrugs his shoulder.
QUI: She walked up the stairs to the exit, I think she left.

Chance: Chan: I just had to be honest with her.

DMaster: TAL: Honesty…best policy.
Talia says, her index finger up, playfully.
QUI: Can we define Honesty as a policy though?
The couple exchanges glances, smiles.
TAL: Good question hun.

Chance: Chan: How do you tell someone who really likes you, someone else has your heart.

DMaster: TAL: Oh brother…
QUI: Sorry Chance I’m pretty sure you just pinpointed the reason why she left. I’m not sure she was looking for a marriage proposal. You guys seemed flirty and close most of the night. might of been giving off wrong signals.
TAL: I’m not sure you even know what the signals are?
QUI: Think there should be sign language for the signals, just for back up, like, I really like you…
He distorts his hands around and Talia laughs giving him a warm smile. You see Plugr and Victoria come over, smiling seeing the couple having fun.
PLUG: Ok Kids behave, We are heading home.
VIC: Talia dear are you staying over Quints?
Plugr gives Talias fiance a quick glance.
TAL: Yes momma.
Victoria turns to you.
VIC: Nice to meet you Chance.

Chance: Stand up and smile, shake Plugrs hand.
Chan: nice to meet you as well Victoria.

DMaster: You notice, Plugr looks like he wants to get home and… Talia looks at Quinton and puts her index finger out. Her eyes big and scolding.
TAL: Not a word!
QUI: I mean the look he gives her, he almost gave me a pleading look, like, hey take care of my little girl while I…
Talia interrupts.
TAL: GROSS!

Chance: Chan: Something you two should think about too…eh?

DMaster: Their eyes grow big and look past you, they stand and bow.

Chance: Chan: Oh brother, what now.
look back.

DMaster: AFF: Can I have the last dance? Chance?
TAL: (giggles) That rhymed…
Quinton giggles too. She has puppy dog eyes and it is like she almost ready to cry.

Chance: Chan: uh, why of course, you can M’lady.
Bow to her, and take her hand.

DMaster: She takes your hand and you walk on the dance floor. The music starts and the connection now is intoxicating. Her soft skin, the smell of her perfume and those damn green eyes. You two start to dance.

Chance: Chan: M’lady you know the Prince isn’t going to like this.
Looking around a bit.

DMaster: After a moment, Affinity trying to get herself in order.
AFF: He left, a while ago.
She glances up at you.
AFF: I see your date left as well.

Chance: Chan: Oh, you noticed that too.
Frown a bit, glancing back at her.

DMaster: She smiles and pulls herself a little closer.
AFF: It appears we are dateless, my Cabana boy.

Chance: Chan: Yes. I am not your warrior, or your protector, I am mearly your…
hoping she doesn’t feel how fast my heart is beating right now.

DMaster: AFF: Cabana boy.
She giggles, pulling herself even closer. Slowly looks around a bit, breathing a bit deep.
AFF: We are… just, dancing. That is all.
Now avoiding your gaze.

Chance: Chan: Dancing, yes. Just dancing. Close, hearing our breathing, feeling our hearts…

DMaster: She stops briefly from that statement, interrupting.
AFF: Just dancing… Cabana boy.

Chance: Chan: Not sure that is working…
Say softly and playfully.

DMaster: You end the dance, practically in a hugging position. It takes a moment for you both to step back.

Chance: Chan: you better go before we cause a scene.
I take her hand, kiss it, bow and release it.

DMaster: Affinity looks up and your eyes meet. She takes a deep breath and steps back, looks down trembling and walks towards the diaz. You see Cassie looking at the both of you, shaking her head, a bit red faced to boot. Birgetta comes over to you with somewhat of a disgusted look on her face.
BIR: That was great Chance, you guys were a brisk wind away from making out, dammit.
She stands there, hands on hips. Erikka is over to the Princess who is now getting yelled at by her mother, quietly it seems.
BIR: Least you can do is make yourself useful and help me with Sakine.
The ball room is quickly emptying out.

Chance: still kinda looking at affinity.
Chan: Fine, Fine.

DMaster: You two walk over to the table and grab Sakine. It appears you woke her up in the middle of a dream.
SAK: The arrow is pink and smells like… wat?
Birgetta’s scowl, turns to a smile seeing her sister and hearing her.
BIR: Its me you drunk bitch.
Sakine wipes the drool off her chin. You two help her walk up the stairs and you struggle a bit, you are a bit tipsy too. Birg leads you over to the doors to the right. Going through them You are in the Royal area, it’s gorgeous, ornately decorated. Birg opens a huge room, and you drag the drunk girl to the edge of the bed. Sakine is standing, swaying, birgetta holding her up, eyes looking like she will fall asleep. She just unclasps something and her dress drops.
BIR: Oh great, a cocktail and a show, wonderful.
She pushes the redhead into the bed.
BIR: Thanks Chance, you can quit drooling and leave.

Chance: Chan: uh, you are welcome.
Look down, smiling.

DMaster: SAK: Wait, shansh is here? where he go?
Birgetta starts pulling off her boots.
BIR: He’s gone. If your feet smell I’m kicking you into the pond out back.
SAK: (mumbles) Get bent

Chance: head back out the way I came.

DMaster: You head out of the doors and you are the entrance way of the ball room. Erikka comes up to you.
ERI: I think Cassie is looking for you, night Chance.
She has a look of apprehension on her face.

Chance: Chan: oh by Animax, night Erikka.
Go look for Cassie.

DMaster: Xavier is talking with a servant and he notices you. As you are trying to clear your thoughts he directs you to the balcony. You walk across the messy floor of the Ball Room. Bards are putting equipment away, servants cleaning. Head up the stairs and out to the Balcony.

Chance: Walking out.
Chan: you wanted to see me Cassie?

DMaster: Cassie is out of her dress and just in leather pants and a blouse. She is drinking a big glass of wine looking out over the gardens.
CASS: Yes, Chance, come hither.

Chance: lean on the rail next to her.

DMaster: She looks down at your new bracelet, smiles.
CASS: Damn… That is a nice bit of Jewelry, among the other bit of jewelry you got tonight.
She sighs a bit.
CASS: Just wanted to talk to you about that ring you are wearing and what it truly means.

Chance: Nod my head.
Chan: Alright.

DMaster: CASS: It comes with a lot of responsibility. A lot of sacrifice. A lot of danger.
She sips her wine
CASS: Are you truly ready for that?

Chance: Chan: Yes I am.

DMaster: She softly nods her head, begins to talk.
CASS: Every step we take as a Kingdom. There is something fighting back, putting us right back on the edge of the sword. There is Thorngate to our south, missing agents, the Volcano erupting again, and the Great Temple of Animax is going to get buried… again. Weird apparitions, super fast thugs; it never ends. Even with all of that…
She pauses and sighs, probably reading that you are working on some kind of mental defense, but failing at it. Focusing your thoughts is useless right now, you are half in the bag. She puts down the Wine glass. The Baroness puts both her hands on the railing.
CASS:but with all that gnawing at our gates do you know what the biggest threat to our Kingdom is right now?
She looks over to you, meets your gaze

Chance: Look confused and shake head.

DMaster: CASS: It’s you Chance… it’s you…