Disclaimer: Yeah I know it's been a whole week. This is the contest
chapter all those characters that have been chosen are in it. The Ball is
garenteed to last for a few more chapters with many surprises ahead. Thank
you all for your character ideas, I hope you have fun reading this. Well
here it goes.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
As it was the door didn't have to be knocked down. Ellie, handy as ever, had a key of her own and freed us from the room.
I slept most of the following day, waking around one in the afternoon to have a quick bite to eat and spot of tea, a full bath with hairwashing might I add, then the tortuous process of the previous began again.
Pushed, primped, and pulled, six hours later I could barely walk. Once again my hair was in a simple bun with long strands pouring from it to brush gently down my back.
The perfume was applied to my wrists before they were covered with gloves and behind my ears. The tiniest wiff of it hit me and I was immediately reminded of my room at home, filled with the smell of many candles. There were touch ups of course not that I was really all there. I just wanted it to all be over and done with.
I joined Abberline in the hallway. He glanced and then glanced again, doing one of the quickest double takes I have ever seen. Coming forward he joked, "Nice dress."
"Liar." I smiled.
He had my black velvet cape in his hands, and throwing it around my shoulders he brought me close as he tied it. As he did I peered about the room. I felt like I would throw up. Society, dancing, bitchy women and lecherous men.......why exactly was I going again?
Abberline finished tying the knot and stepped back to view his handy work.
Oh yeah........that was why.
"Alrigh'" he sighed, "this is the last chance we'll have ta back out before it's too late. Do we 'afta go?"
I straightened my gloves, "Yes, unfortunately we do. The only way we can get out of this would be if some gangsters came and shot up the place, then we could sneak out the back."
"I know some guys in the station who I could 'accidently' let out...."
My head shot up.
"If yeh really want to." He hastened to assure me.
"I hardly think it should have to come to that Abberline," I snickered, "But keep them handy just in case the whole thing blows. Come on, lets get this over with." I said taking his arm and pulling him out the door, coming face to face with a very spruced up Dr. Farrel.
"Whoa....ho! Oh, hello Doctor." I scrambled to cover my surprise, "I thought you would be at the charity by now. We were just hurrying along to join you."
Farrel flinched a smile, "I fear you forget that I am to have the honor of escorting you to the event."
"Why so you are." Damn. "Well then we must be going at once before we are anymore fashionably late than we already are. Come along."
Opening the door of the carriage for me, he helped me in. Ha ha, gloves foil skin on skin contact!
"Shouldn't we call a cabbie for your little........pet, my dear?"
I stopped, "Oh no, he must ride with me. The lad needs to be on a very short leash. If he were not he would surely run amok."
"Yes, of course."
Abberline was ushered in taking his place next to me. Getting in himself, the Doctor shot me a suspicious glance at my lack of dignity in sitting next to a street bum.
The carriage lurched and we were off to a ball that no one really wanted to go to.
Farrel coughed, "Well, your little cause seems to have rid himself of his tarnish. I congratulate you, my dear. I thought it myself, near impossible."
Abberline grunted in response.
"Charming." Farrel dryly intoned to me.
"A work in progress, I assure you." I said calmly, "Why in a month from now he shall be even more respectable than you, perhaps."
I made sure my voice carried the cheerful threat.
The doctor only smiled, and I pulled my cape closet as a slight chill crept up my back.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~
The rest of the ride was conducted in silence. And on an hour filled with only silence is nerve wracking. I was sorely tempted to start up a game of twenty questions or I Spy.
The Charity was being held in the near country and about a mile away from our destination the darkness began to be speckled with illustrated paper lanterns every thirty six feet apart.
"Beautiful." I murmured, glancing out the door.
"Your father would have thought so too." Farrel said quietly.
The dear doctor had said something without being cruel. Wonders never cease and I suppose pigs really do fly.
And then we were upon the house, though honestly it could have wrapped around twenty houses.
"Goodness........." I leaned further out the window.
Even from this distance I could make out the soft strains of music coming from the stone giant of a house.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~
Farrel got out first, then helping me out he nearly locked Abberline in the carriage.
"Oh, so sorry old boy. You must try to keep up with us." Smiling disgustingly he offered me an arm.
"Come along there now, Abberline. Do pick up your feet." I said gesturing for him to join me at me side. Farrel lowered his arm, as Abberline stepped up beside me taking an arm for himself.
I threw a painfully patient glance at Farrel, "A short leash, Doctor. I cannot have him out of my sight. He should be in trouble in less than half a minute."
"Indeed." Farrel bit out, "I shall announce us then. Follow me please." Striding ahead he left me and Abberline lagging behind.
My gaze flittered upon the stone arches, magnificent windows, and the light shining from within. I hesitated.
"One foot in front of the other. Tha's it. Like a Wedding March." Abberline said trying to comfort me as we walked up to the massive doorway.
"No, like a Funeral March. They're playing Taps."
"If tha's so you'll dance ta your grave. Come on now." And saying this we passed under the arc.
Farrel of course was waiting on the other side.
"There's a bit of a walk to get to the room, my dear," if he said that one more time I was punching his lights out, "but I think you should enjoy it.
It was an interesting walk. Four rooms of different colors. The first was a brown room, showcasing hunting fear, and firearms. Next was a green room, a library filled with books from east to west, a fireplace crackled in one end and several comfortable chairs sat nearby, waiting for someone to pick up a book, sit in it's lap and spend eternity in the room. Then a blue room, a baby grand or something of its like stood in the corner by a large full length window, a harp, my fingers began to itch at the thought of playing it. I thought I saw a guitar, but whether I was just losing it or not we swept on.
Now we were in a hall, lavished with thick red velvet curtains, and the music was growing steadily louder, and so was the sinking feeling in my stomach. We were stopped before a pair of deep mahagony wood doors where from out of nowhere, men removed my cape. They also shed Farrel of his over coat and top hot, melting back into the air they had sprung from, and only the rustle of the curtains belayed that their presence had ever been.
Farrel turned and catching sight of me so uncovered as it was, it seemed he felt the need to let his eyes wander.
Keep it up and you'll end up in traction in your own hospital, Doctor.
"My........" He stepped closer. I clutched nearer to Abberline. Another step and I set my PET on you. He took a step closer, "Remarkable."
Sic 'im Abbers, Sic 'im!
"Well, shall we?" he asked and opened the door. The music twined around us and pulled us in.
I gasped softly, overwhelmed at the room in front of us. Red curtains, and gold border. The floor was a kalidescope of colors on a polished marble floor. A mosaic. And the music of the waltz echoed off the walls played by nearly a full orchestra in the corner. In the center couples of yellows, blues, greens, and reds, violets and pinks spun in a frenzy. I tried to watch them but could not follow their movements, growing dizzy in a short amount of time. As of that moment I had not seen anything quite as terrifying as that sight.
"Abberline......" My voice shook.
"Doctor Farrel." A loud voice announced to the crowd, "Lady Harlington."
The happy cry was torn from many throats and all but drowned out the last call of "and Guest."
"Go in front of me." I hissed desperately in Abberline's ear.
"Not on your life. I'm not a bloody shield, woman."
"Cassandra, everyone is eager to speak you. We mustn't keep them waiting." And before I could even murmur a protest Farrel had ahold of my arm and was leading me straight into the throng of hungry lords and ladies.
"Abberline!" I cried, "Heel!."
Biting his lip, he followed at my back lending a small amount of comfort to my current situation.
Conversation was quite limited with Farrel taking the words from my mouth and speaking for me. I bet people were thinking, ' since when did Miss Harlington become a mute?' On one hand it was a welcomed relief but on the other hand I was mad as hell. I was figuring to say something about monthly period releases just to embarrass him when Abberline intervened and asked if I wanted a drink. With a grateful look I nodded. Hey if I was lucky I could get drunk and they would have to throw me out.
Just as he had left me at my most vunerable a cry range out in front of me.
"Cassandra!" The hint of an exotic accent caught my ear.
Turning surprised I was just in time to see a young woman of my own age of an olive complexion with luxurious black tresses piled atop her head rush at me before I was embraced firmly.
"Oh it has been simply ages!"
Pulling back slightly unnerved, I took a closer look at the woman in front of me and immediately disliked her if only for the fact that she was drop dead – Catherine-Zeta Jones-ain't-got-nothin-on-me- gorgeous. She had a certain feline nature to her features, her eyes were black like obsidian and glimmered faintly of malice. Of course she blinked and no such expression could be found as her dark red lips spread in a beguiling smile.
"I don't expect you to remember me. We were only little girls when we met." The girl sweetly said through her thick accent, taking my hand in hers.
No wonder I don't remember you.
"It's Olivia, Cass. Olivia Hernandez."
"I'll leave you to your reunions, my dear." Farrel said bowing out. I checked my impulse to give him a black eye.
Instead I nodded to the Olivia, "Of course.......excuse me."
"Oh don't be silly." She smiled charmingly, "You've had a tragedy."
"Yes."
This was a tragedy. Boy was it ever.
"Papa's in town doing business as per usual. Oh, but he was so saddened by your father's passing, as were we all."
"Please........"
"Ah, yes, forgive me. Bringing up such a subject at such a time. But why don't you look just lovely." She said in a thick purr, fingering a ringlet of my hair and the soft material of my gown near where it cut off at my shoulder.
"The same could be said of you." I answered politely.
Looking down at her own gown a sly smile rose once again on those mocking lips. I felt like crawling into my skin. I knew, though there had been nothing but the flash of her terrible eyes to make me think such things, that she was as fake as her smile. She was the kind of girl in middle school I had feared, had made myself small to avoid their superior glares and cutting retorts.
"Do you like it?" I was snapped back as she whispered of her dress, a full gown of black lace.
"Very much."
"Harlington!"
I craned my neck to see two other dark haired girls, clasping hands heading for our direction.
"Harlington!" The call rang out again from the black haired slender whisp of a woman with intent green eyes, "You naughty girl!"
"Wicked indeed!" The other with honeyed brown hair laughed, her smile blinding me even from where I stood.
I was knocked over by the force of their combined hugs.
"Oh it has been beastly dull without your company!" The first sighed.
I could only gape at the two of them.
"Well DO say something, Cass! We've not seen you for over a month and your keeping us in such suspense!" The other pleaded.
"Angelina Winters." Olivia said addressing the black haired girl, "Damara Braden." To the brunette, "You do happen to remember them, do you not?"
"How could I forget?" I murmured softly. Goddamnit! Since when did I discover the fountain of youth and become thirteen again?! Why was I practically cowering before these girls.
"Easily it seems." Olivia smirked pleasantly.
"Forgive me," I said sharply, "I suppose the death of my only father is not reason enough to be out of wits."
Olivia's smile dropped for the barest of seconds, and the anger in her eyes flared up. Just as quickly the mask was firmly in place although I noticed her hand at her side began to pick under her nails as if she wanted to pick out my eyes instead, but the smile was back and so was the unbearable sweetness of her tone.
"Don't be a goose, Cass. I was only teasing."
I smiled then, not one of reassurance or forgiveness but one that plainly said, 'I've heard your shtick before lady and I ain't buying the crap your sellin."
"Now tell us dear, we hear you have a male captive in your estate." The Angelina girl whispered cunningly. "Tell us every little blasphemous......."
"Lina! You horrible girl!" Damara exclaimed.
"Well come one tell us. Are we your confidants or not?"
"You aren't. You'll be whispering every black thought into someone's ear in greased pig minute."
"Speaking of which you know that Madeline girl? She came home late last night in a shape to shock a priest! Dress torn and all the like!"
"No!'
"Yes!"
Oh god kill me now. Come on Abberline where are you with my damn drink? I'm gonna drown myself in it.
"Was she robbed?"
"Oh no.......she was having at it with some stable hand!"
Damara covered her perfect heart mouth with a pale peach hand.
"Only one?" Olivia asked her tone heavy with disapproval and dangerous undertones.
The girls laughed, a sound that for all it's loveliness, grated against my ears like nails on a black board.
A soft touch on my hand, turning I found a glass of yellow buttercup wine next to me, Abberline's hand guiding it to my own.
"Thank you." I sighed. Pulling closer to him I whispered, "You have no idea how much I needed that."
He snorted softly in a chuckle. I returned my gaze to the women in front of me, all of which had gone quiet at Abberline's enterance.
Jesus..........In one back tip of my head I had downed the fragile glass of it's contents.
"Another?" Abberline asked, taking the empty glass from my hand with a raised brow.
"Yes, PLEASE."
"Why Cassandra Harlington, I've never known you to be so rude." Damara reproved, "Introduce us to your friend before you forget your manners again."
Without my knowledge I had unconsciously stepped in front of Abberline as if I were a body guard. Stepping aside I gave them his name.
He nodded his head gently at each lady until Olivia who offered her hand. Rolling my eyes, I tried to miss the barest kiss he laid on her hand, as well as the small smug lift of her lips and the crafty gleam in her eye as he did so.
I suddenly wished for a clear place where I could smash my glass to the floor, stomp my foot and whine like a child. Anything to stop this sickening display.
"So you're the Harlington prisoner?" Olivia ventured in interest of mind and body as she pressed in closer.
Strangely enough, Abberline stepped away, wrapping an arm about my waist. I nearly bit my tongue in surprise and dropped my glass. All I could manage to do was to smile weakly as Olivia's eyes narrowed as the movement was not lost on her.
"She has been treating you well, it would seem." She remarked.
"Quite well. She hardly ever has ta use the whip." He nodded smiling.
Angelina whispered something in Damara's ear, earning a smothered giggle behind a hard smile.
Olivia's naturally arched brow rose, "The whip? Indeed!" Sending a glance at me as if to say ' you dared to try to hide him from me?!' she continued, "I supposed the Rack is used more often?"
"If the Wheel isn't working, yes."
Olivia threw her head back and laughed wickedly delighted.
I wished I had a wheel so I could end my suffering.
"My, what a marvelously sharp tongue you have, inspector."
Abberline shrugged his shoulders as if it were but a trifle, "It comes in handy for a good thrashin'."
More like the better to lick your ass with my sweet, I thought. The man had obviously good acting or really bad kiss up skills.
In all my years, even the two I had earned in my little timetravel escapade, I had never seen such blatant flirting techniques. I felt sick. Just who exactly did he have his arm around? I began to doubt it was me.
Shrugging out of his hold I turned, "Abberline, I'm not feeling too well."
"What a shame." Olivia said clucking her tongue in what seemed like practiced concern and compassion, "because I do believe I hear the beginnings of a waltz." She held out a hand invitingly, beckoning to the man at my side, "Inspector, if you would be so kind?"
A passing manservant with a tray of glasses swept by and swiping a glass I exchanged it for my long since empty one, throwing it back.
I suppose the second helping of liquid ignorance helped to dull the shock that slugged my stomach when Abberline took her and without even a backwards glance at me.
Damara and Angelina were whispering again, making me think I was lost in a darkened forest among dead and whispering trees instead of in a bright ballroom, standing among dozens upon bakers dozens of well dressed people.
"Don't fret, Cass, sweet." Olivia called back over her shoulder, "I'm just keeping him warm for you."
I stood stock still trying to understand what had happened. Damara and Angelina still stayed by my side. Behind their delicate hands, soft whispers and candid gaze they alarmingly resembled the dastardly Siamese Twins in Lady and The Tramp. I turned on my heel and left them to their gossip and left Olivia to sink her claws into my escort.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~
I made my way back through the other rooms, after slipping quietly out of the ball room, until I made it to the library I had taken note of before. A place I belonged and was welcomed. I opened the door.
"Come another step into the room and you shall receive the tail end of one of the Bronte's right between the eyes."
I just cant' win today.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A young girl, younger than I appeared to be at any rate sat in a sette. She had her nose buried in a book and had spoken seemingly without looking up. I stood frozen in the doorway, my hand still on the knob.
"Do I need to make myself any more clear by throwing a Wilde as a warning?"
I cleared my throat, "Not at all. I was only curious as to which Bronte you were referring: Charlotte or Emily?"
The girl continued to read.
"Both if need be." The girl looked up, "Oh..........it's you."
I wasn't sure if that was a 'oh it's you, sorry I threatened you' or a 'oh it's you I think I'll carry out my threat now. I'll give you to the count of ten. One, two, ten. Keep the change ya filthy animal!'
"I thought perhaps you were one of the others."
"Others?"
"The Triplets of Doom. Spawn of Satan.........those three girls you're so often seen with."
"Oh."
"I'm speaking of Her Highness, Hernandez and her two little terriers."
"I understand."
"And you're not insulted? My, death DOES bring about change."
"Why should I be insulted?"
The girl lowered her book to her lap, peering at me with slightly dark hazel eyes,a strand of wavy brown hair fell from her stylish braid. "I was under the impression that they were friends of yours."
"Am I a friend of yours?" I ventured.
The girl shrugged, "We have spoken on occasions but never more than a few words."
I walked in shutting the door quietly, when I turned back she was reading again. I stood awkwardly in the center of the room.
"Do you mind if I hide out in here with you?" I asked finally.
She looked up again a bit perplexed as if wondering why I had not left yet.
"If you wish." She said shortly, then as an afterthought asked, "Exactly who do you desire to hide from at your own party?"
"Everyone."
She looked at me oddly.
"To be specific, the Daughters of Death."
The girls brow rose.
"The three girls I'm so often seen with." I clarified.
The tentative beginnings of a timid smile crept up the girls lips, "Well there's plenty of room inhere for that." She patted the space next to her.
I plopped down, resting my head on the back of the seat, "What a nightmare."
"One would think you didn't want to be at this event hosted in your honor."
"I don't." I moaned.
"We are more alike than I had given note of then. I usually feign a terrible life threatening illness to get out of these horrid things, but I'm afraid I've run out of ideas lately. Father practically had to kidnap me to get me in the carriage. Thank god this place has a library, most of the other balls don't."
I sat up a bit, "Were you really prepared to damage and Oscar Wilde just to drive me from the room?"
"Of course not. I would have used an Atlas of the Olde World."
"May I ask why?"
"It would be heavier and would do more damage than a Wilde. Also, I'm rather fond of his works."
I laughed, "I'm Cassandra."
"Julianne Hunting."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*
I hope this satisfies you for a bit. Next chap we meet our special guest character who might just make Abberline lose it. My what a shocker, A getting his knickers in a twist! Thanks for all the response. Guess what, Pirates Hil is almost finished being written! I'm so hyped, we started that fic a year ago! Enjoy, I'll review as soon as I'm finished writing the next chappie!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
As it was the door didn't have to be knocked down. Ellie, handy as ever, had a key of her own and freed us from the room.
I slept most of the following day, waking around one in the afternoon to have a quick bite to eat and spot of tea, a full bath with hairwashing might I add, then the tortuous process of the previous began again.
Pushed, primped, and pulled, six hours later I could barely walk. Once again my hair was in a simple bun with long strands pouring from it to brush gently down my back.
The perfume was applied to my wrists before they were covered with gloves and behind my ears. The tiniest wiff of it hit me and I was immediately reminded of my room at home, filled with the smell of many candles. There were touch ups of course not that I was really all there. I just wanted it to all be over and done with.
I joined Abberline in the hallway. He glanced and then glanced again, doing one of the quickest double takes I have ever seen. Coming forward he joked, "Nice dress."
"Liar." I smiled.
He had my black velvet cape in his hands, and throwing it around my shoulders he brought me close as he tied it. As he did I peered about the room. I felt like I would throw up. Society, dancing, bitchy women and lecherous men.......why exactly was I going again?
Abberline finished tying the knot and stepped back to view his handy work.
Oh yeah........that was why.
"Alrigh'" he sighed, "this is the last chance we'll have ta back out before it's too late. Do we 'afta go?"
I straightened my gloves, "Yes, unfortunately we do. The only way we can get out of this would be if some gangsters came and shot up the place, then we could sneak out the back."
"I know some guys in the station who I could 'accidently' let out...."
My head shot up.
"If yeh really want to." He hastened to assure me.
"I hardly think it should have to come to that Abberline," I snickered, "But keep them handy just in case the whole thing blows. Come on, lets get this over with." I said taking his arm and pulling him out the door, coming face to face with a very spruced up Dr. Farrel.
"Whoa....ho! Oh, hello Doctor." I scrambled to cover my surprise, "I thought you would be at the charity by now. We were just hurrying along to join you."
Farrel flinched a smile, "I fear you forget that I am to have the honor of escorting you to the event."
"Why so you are." Damn. "Well then we must be going at once before we are anymore fashionably late than we already are. Come along."
Opening the door of the carriage for me, he helped me in. Ha ha, gloves foil skin on skin contact!
"Shouldn't we call a cabbie for your little........pet, my dear?"
I stopped, "Oh no, he must ride with me. The lad needs to be on a very short leash. If he were not he would surely run amok."
"Yes, of course."
Abberline was ushered in taking his place next to me. Getting in himself, the Doctor shot me a suspicious glance at my lack of dignity in sitting next to a street bum.
The carriage lurched and we were off to a ball that no one really wanted to go to.
Farrel coughed, "Well, your little cause seems to have rid himself of his tarnish. I congratulate you, my dear. I thought it myself, near impossible."
Abberline grunted in response.
"Charming." Farrel dryly intoned to me.
"A work in progress, I assure you." I said calmly, "Why in a month from now he shall be even more respectable than you, perhaps."
I made sure my voice carried the cheerful threat.
The doctor only smiled, and I pulled my cape closet as a slight chill crept up my back.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~
The rest of the ride was conducted in silence. And on an hour filled with only silence is nerve wracking. I was sorely tempted to start up a game of twenty questions or I Spy.
The Charity was being held in the near country and about a mile away from our destination the darkness began to be speckled with illustrated paper lanterns every thirty six feet apart.
"Beautiful." I murmured, glancing out the door.
"Your father would have thought so too." Farrel said quietly.
The dear doctor had said something without being cruel. Wonders never cease and I suppose pigs really do fly.
And then we were upon the house, though honestly it could have wrapped around twenty houses.
"Goodness........." I leaned further out the window.
Even from this distance I could make out the soft strains of music coming from the stone giant of a house.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~
Farrel got out first, then helping me out he nearly locked Abberline in the carriage.
"Oh, so sorry old boy. You must try to keep up with us." Smiling disgustingly he offered me an arm.
"Come along there now, Abberline. Do pick up your feet." I said gesturing for him to join me at me side. Farrel lowered his arm, as Abberline stepped up beside me taking an arm for himself.
I threw a painfully patient glance at Farrel, "A short leash, Doctor. I cannot have him out of my sight. He should be in trouble in less than half a minute."
"Indeed." Farrel bit out, "I shall announce us then. Follow me please." Striding ahead he left me and Abberline lagging behind.
My gaze flittered upon the stone arches, magnificent windows, and the light shining from within. I hesitated.
"One foot in front of the other. Tha's it. Like a Wedding March." Abberline said trying to comfort me as we walked up to the massive doorway.
"No, like a Funeral March. They're playing Taps."
"If tha's so you'll dance ta your grave. Come on now." And saying this we passed under the arc.
Farrel of course was waiting on the other side.
"There's a bit of a walk to get to the room, my dear," if he said that one more time I was punching his lights out, "but I think you should enjoy it.
It was an interesting walk. Four rooms of different colors. The first was a brown room, showcasing hunting fear, and firearms. Next was a green room, a library filled with books from east to west, a fireplace crackled in one end and several comfortable chairs sat nearby, waiting for someone to pick up a book, sit in it's lap and spend eternity in the room. Then a blue room, a baby grand or something of its like stood in the corner by a large full length window, a harp, my fingers began to itch at the thought of playing it. I thought I saw a guitar, but whether I was just losing it or not we swept on.
Now we were in a hall, lavished with thick red velvet curtains, and the music was growing steadily louder, and so was the sinking feeling in my stomach. We were stopped before a pair of deep mahagony wood doors where from out of nowhere, men removed my cape. They also shed Farrel of his over coat and top hot, melting back into the air they had sprung from, and only the rustle of the curtains belayed that their presence had ever been.
Farrel turned and catching sight of me so uncovered as it was, it seemed he felt the need to let his eyes wander.
Keep it up and you'll end up in traction in your own hospital, Doctor.
"My........" He stepped closer. I clutched nearer to Abberline. Another step and I set my PET on you. He took a step closer, "Remarkable."
Sic 'im Abbers, Sic 'im!
"Well, shall we?" he asked and opened the door. The music twined around us and pulled us in.
I gasped softly, overwhelmed at the room in front of us. Red curtains, and gold border. The floor was a kalidescope of colors on a polished marble floor. A mosaic. And the music of the waltz echoed off the walls played by nearly a full orchestra in the corner. In the center couples of yellows, blues, greens, and reds, violets and pinks spun in a frenzy. I tried to watch them but could not follow their movements, growing dizzy in a short amount of time. As of that moment I had not seen anything quite as terrifying as that sight.
"Abberline......" My voice shook.
"Doctor Farrel." A loud voice announced to the crowd, "Lady Harlington."
The happy cry was torn from many throats and all but drowned out the last call of "and Guest."
"Go in front of me." I hissed desperately in Abberline's ear.
"Not on your life. I'm not a bloody shield, woman."
"Cassandra, everyone is eager to speak you. We mustn't keep them waiting." And before I could even murmur a protest Farrel had ahold of my arm and was leading me straight into the throng of hungry lords and ladies.
"Abberline!" I cried, "Heel!."
Biting his lip, he followed at my back lending a small amount of comfort to my current situation.
Conversation was quite limited with Farrel taking the words from my mouth and speaking for me. I bet people were thinking, ' since when did Miss Harlington become a mute?' On one hand it was a welcomed relief but on the other hand I was mad as hell. I was figuring to say something about monthly period releases just to embarrass him when Abberline intervened and asked if I wanted a drink. With a grateful look I nodded. Hey if I was lucky I could get drunk and they would have to throw me out.
Just as he had left me at my most vunerable a cry range out in front of me.
"Cassandra!" The hint of an exotic accent caught my ear.
Turning surprised I was just in time to see a young woman of my own age of an olive complexion with luxurious black tresses piled atop her head rush at me before I was embraced firmly.
"Oh it has been simply ages!"
Pulling back slightly unnerved, I took a closer look at the woman in front of me and immediately disliked her if only for the fact that she was drop dead – Catherine-Zeta Jones-ain't-got-nothin-on-me- gorgeous. She had a certain feline nature to her features, her eyes were black like obsidian and glimmered faintly of malice. Of course she blinked and no such expression could be found as her dark red lips spread in a beguiling smile.
"I don't expect you to remember me. We were only little girls when we met." The girl sweetly said through her thick accent, taking my hand in hers.
No wonder I don't remember you.
"It's Olivia, Cass. Olivia Hernandez."
"I'll leave you to your reunions, my dear." Farrel said bowing out. I checked my impulse to give him a black eye.
Instead I nodded to the Olivia, "Of course.......excuse me."
"Oh don't be silly." She smiled charmingly, "You've had a tragedy."
"Yes."
This was a tragedy. Boy was it ever.
"Papa's in town doing business as per usual. Oh, but he was so saddened by your father's passing, as were we all."
"Please........"
"Ah, yes, forgive me. Bringing up such a subject at such a time. But why don't you look just lovely." She said in a thick purr, fingering a ringlet of my hair and the soft material of my gown near where it cut off at my shoulder.
"The same could be said of you." I answered politely.
Looking down at her own gown a sly smile rose once again on those mocking lips. I felt like crawling into my skin. I knew, though there had been nothing but the flash of her terrible eyes to make me think such things, that she was as fake as her smile. She was the kind of girl in middle school I had feared, had made myself small to avoid their superior glares and cutting retorts.
"Do you like it?" I was snapped back as she whispered of her dress, a full gown of black lace.
"Very much."
"Harlington!"
I craned my neck to see two other dark haired girls, clasping hands heading for our direction.
"Harlington!" The call rang out again from the black haired slender whisp of a woman with intent green eyes, "You naughty girl!"
"Wicked indeed!" The other with honeyed brown hair laughed, her smile blinding me even from where I stood.
I was knocked over by the force of their combined hugs.
"Oh it has been beastly dull without your company!" The first sighed.
I could only gape at the two of them.
"Well DO say something, Cass! We've not seen you for over a month and your keeping us in such suspense!" The other pleaded.
"Angelina Winters." Olivia said addressing the black haired girl, "Damara Braden." To the brunette, "You do happen to remember them, do you not?"
"How could I forget?" I murmured softly. Goddamnit! Since when did I discover the fountain of youth and become thirteen again?! Why was I practically cowering before these girls.
"Easily it seems." Olivia smirked pleasantly.
"Forgive me," I said sharply, "I suppose the death of my only father is not reason enough to be out of wits."
Olivia's smile dropped for the barest of seconds, and the anger in her eyes flared up. Just as quickly the mask was firmly in place although I noticed her hand at her side began to pick under her nails as if she wanted to pick out my eyes instead, but the smile was back and so was the unbearable sweetness of her tone.
"Don't be a goose, Cass. I was only teasing."
I smiled then, not one of reassurance or forgiveness but one that plainly said, 'I've heard your shtick before lady and I ain't buying the crap your sellin."
"Now tell us dear, we hear you have a male captive in your estate." The Angelina girl whispered cunningly. "Tell us every little blasphemous......."
"Lina! You horrible girl!" Damara exclaimed.
"Well come one tell us. Are we your confidants or not?"
"You aren't. You'll be whispering every black thought into someone's ear in greased pig minute."
"Speaking of which you know that Madeline girl? She came home late last night in a shape to shock a priest! Dress torn and all the like!"
"No!'
"Yes!"
Oh god kill me now. Come on Abberline where are you with my damn drink? I'm gonna drown myself in it.
"Was she robbed?"
"Oh no.......she was having at it with some stable hand!"
Damara covered her perfect heart mouth with a pale peach hand.
"Only one?" Olivia asked her tone heavy with disapproval and dangerous undertones.
The girls laughed, a sound that for all it's loveliness, grated against my ears like nails on a black board.
A soft touch on my hand, turning I found a glass of yellow buttercup wine next to me, Abberline's hand guiding it to my own.
"Thank you." I sighed. Pulling closer to him I whispered, "You have no idea how much I needed that."
He snorted softly in a chuckle. I returned my gaze to the women in front of me, all of which had gone quiet at Abberline's enterance.
Jesus..........In one back tip of my head I had downed the fragile glass of it's contents.
"Another?" Abberline asked, taking the empty glass from my hand with a raised brow.
"Yes, PLEASE."
"Why Cassandra Harlington, I've never known you to be so rude." Damara reproved, "Introduce us to your friend before you forget your manners again."
Without my knowledge I had unconsciously stepped in front of Abberline as if I were a body guard. Stepping aside I gave them his name.
He nodded his head gently at each lady until Olivia who offered her hand. Rolling my eyes, I tried to miss the barest kiss he laid on her hand, as well as the small smug lift of her lips and the crafty gleam in her eye as he did so.
I suddenly wished for a clear place where I could smash my glass to the floor, stomp my foot and whine like a child. Anything to stop this sickening display.
"So you're the Harlington prisoner?" Olivia ventured in interest of mind and body as she pressed in closer.
Strangely enough, Abberline stepped away, wrapping an arm about my waist. I nearly bit my tongue in surprise and dropped my glass. All I could manage to do was to smile weakly as Olivia's eyes narrowed as the movement was not lost on her.
"She has been treating you well, it would seem." She remarked.
"Quite well. She hardly ever has ta use the whip." He nodded smiling.
Angelina whispered something in Damara's ear, earning a smothered giggle behind a hard smile.
Olivia's naturally arched brow rose, "The whip? Indeed!" Sending a glance at me as if to say ' you dared to try to hide him from me?!' she continued, "I supposed the Rack is used more often?"
"If the Wheel isn't working, yes."
Olivia threw her head back and laughed wickedly delighted.
I wished I had a wheel so I could end my suffering.
"My, what a marvelously sharp tongue you have, inspector."
Abberline shrugged his shoulders as if it were but a trifle, "It comes in handy for a good thrashin'."
More like the better to lick your ass with my sweet, I thought. The man had obviously good acting or really bad kiss up skills.
In all my years, even the two I had earned in my little timetravel escapade, I had never seen such blatant flirting techniques. I felt sick. Just who exactly did he have his arm around? I began to doubt it was me.
Shrugging out of his hold I turned, "Abberline, I'm not feeling too well."
"What a shame." Olivia said clucking her tongue in what seemed like practiced concern and compassion, "because I do believe I hear the beginnings of a waltz." She held out a hand invitingly, beckoning to the man at my side, "Inspector, if you would be so kind?"
A passing manservant with a tray of glasses swept by and swiping a glass I exchanged it for my long since empty one, throwing it back.
I suppose the second helping of liquid ignorance helped to dull the shock that slugged my stomach when Abberline took her and without even a backwards glance at me.
Damara and Angelina were whispering again, making me think I was lost in a darkened forest among dead and whispering trees instead of in a bright ballroom, standing among dozens upon bakers dozens of well dressed people.
"Don't fret, Cass, sweet." Olivia called back over her shoulder, "I'm just keeping him warm for you."
I stood stock still trying to understand what had happened. Damara and Angelina still stayed by my side. Behind their delicate hands, soft whispers and candid gaze they alarmingly resembled the dastardly Siamese Twins in Lady and The Tramp. I turned on my heel and left them to their gossip and left Olivia to sink her claws into my escort.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~
I made my way back through the other rooms, after slipping quietly out of the ball room, until I made it to the library I had taken note of before. A place I belonged and was welcomed. I opened the door.
"Come another step into the room and you shall receive the tail end of one of the Bronte's right between the eyes."
I just cant' win today.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A young girl, younger than I appeared to be at any rate sat in a sette. She had her nose buried in a book and had spoken seemingly without looking up. I stood frozen in the doorway, my hand still on the knob.
"Do I need to make myself any more clear by throwing a Wilde as a warning?"
I cleared my throat, "Not at all. I was only curious as to which Bronte you were referring: Charlotte or Emily?"
The girl continued to read.
"Both if need be." The girl looked up, "Oh..........it's you."
I wasn't sure if that was a 'oh it's you, sorry I threatened you' or a 'oh it's you I think I'll carry out my threat now. I'll give you to the count of ten. One, two, ten. Keep the change ya filthy animal!'
"I thought perhaps you were one of the others."
"Others?"
"The Triplets of Doom. Spawn of Satan.........those three girls you're so often seen with."
"Oh."
"I'm speaking of Her Highness, Hernandez and her two little terriers."
"I understand."
"And you're not insulted? My, death DOES bring about change."
"Why should I be insulted?"
The girl lowered her book to her lap, peering at me with slightly dark hazel eyes,a strand of wavy brown hair fell from her stylish braid. "I was under the impression that they were friends of yours."
"Am I a friend of yours?" I ventured.
The girl shrugged, "We have spoken on occasions but never more than a few words."
I walked in shutting the door quietly, when I turned back she was reading again. I stood awkwardly in the center of the room.
"Do you mind if I hide out in here with you?" I asked finally.
She looked up again a bit perplexed as if wondering why I had not left yet.
"If you wish." She said shortly, then as an afterthought asked, "Exactly who do you desire to hide from at your own party?"
"Everyone."
She looked at me oddly.
"To be specific, the Daughters of Death."
The girls brow rose.
"The three girls I'm so often seen with." I clarified.
The tentative beginnings of a timid smile crept up the girls lips, "Well there's plenty of room inhere for that." She patted the space next to her.
I plopped down, resting my head on the back of the seat, "What a nightmare."
"One would think you didn't want to be at this event hosted in your honor."
"I don't." I moaned.
"We are more alike than I had given note of then. I usually feign a terrible life threatening illness to get out of these horrid things, but I'm afraid I've run out of ideas lately. Father practically had to kidnap me to get me in the carriage. Thank god this place has a library, most of the other balls don't."
I sat up a bit, "Were you really prepared to damage and Oscar Wilde just to drive me from the room?"
"Of course not. I would have used an Atlas of the Olde World."
"May I ask why?"
"It would be heavier and would do more damage than a Wilde. Also, I'm rather fond of his works."
I laughed, "I'm Cassandra."
"Julianne Hunting."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*
I hope this satisfies you for a bit. Next chap we meet our special guest character who might just make Abberline lose it. My what a shocker, A getting his knickers in a twist! Thanks for all the response. Guess what, Pirates Hil is almost finished being written! I'm so hyped, we started that fic a year ago! Enjoy, I'll review as soon as I'm finished writing the next chappie!