Chaperone

"May I enter?" Regis' voice sounds from the open door. His tone is smooth and dignified with a high caliber of elegance that he so desperately tries to imitate. He always reminds me of his stubborn old grandfather when he speaks, and I find myself amused by this more often than not.

"Of course." I slide my glasses from my face and fold them neatly between my fingers. "You look so serious. Whatever could it be?"

"I want to speak to you about Seira."

I fold my hands in front of me, elbows on my desk, and with a nod, I motion for Regis to go on. For a short moment, Regis' confidence falters. I see it in the way he glances to the side, but then he suddenly raises his head again. A quick recovery, faster than I expected. Regis really has grown up since he arrived here. He's looking directly at me now. His shoulders pull back as he lifts his chin in a display of confidence, and he makes a point of meeting my eyes. I nod again, both for him to continue and as a confirmation of my assessment. He truly has grown.

"Suyi has invited Seira to a gala." His hands shift behind his back, and his feet are planted squarely on the floor in a stance that is formal even for him. "She plans to attend." Here, his eyes fall again but only for a moment. He takes a deep breath and releases it slowly. "She doesn't have a chaperone."

So that is the reason Regis came here. I could make it easy for him. I know which gala he is referring to since I also received an invitation to it a few days ago. As headmaster of the most famous school in this part of Korea, I am invited to many events, not that I bother to attend most of them. After a few hundred years there is nothing new to experience.

"I have heard of the gala. It is in two weeks, isn't it?" I ask innocently. Regis reminds me too much of his grandfather to miss this opportunity to tease the child.

"Yes, that is correct." His shoulders relax a little, and the words are coming more easily now. "It would be inappropriate for her to attend without a chaperone. I have tried to discus this with her, but she has refused my offer to stand in."

"Even if she had accepted, you would be unable to accompany her." I lay my glasses on the desktop. He's watching me intently, anxious for an explanation to my words, and I prolong the wait to increase his suspense. "Such things are by invitation only."

He blushes a little in a way that is purely his. I suspect his grandfather has never shown such an emotion before him. Regis takes a small step forward. "I did not mean to demand an invitation for myself. I was merely concerned about Seira."

"As a clan leader, she should be educated well enough to participate in such events, and no human is able to harm her." I raise my eyebrow in mock astonishment. Of course I know that this isn't what Regis is worried about, but the child is so easy to tease.

Emotions flash over his face for a brief instant, surprise followed by understanding and an almost hidden annoyance. "That is not what I was getting at."

The accusation that I know exactly what he wanted to say is unspoken. He isn't hiding his resentment as well as his grandfather, but I don't want to provoke him too much. Unlike his grandfather, Regis would be hurt if I took this too far, and I won't hold his lineage against him. The problems between Gejutel and me should stay between us. And so I give in. "You wish to ask if I will be Seira's chaperone for that evening?"

"Yes." The answer comes immediately and is filled with relief as well as suspicion. He has noticed my teasing.

I slide open the desk drawer and search through my correspondence for the invitation. I find it instantly and pull the card from the envelope. I haven't been present at one of these events since I reunited with my master, and I have no desire to attend one now. Regis is staring at the invitation earnestly as I answer the RSVP, and with that simple act, Seira has gained one of the most influential chaperones in Korea.

[-] [-] [-]

After the children leave for the evening, I find Seira in the living room and ask her to accompany me to my study. A glare keeps Regis from following, and he obediently returns to picking up the trash that the children left on the coffee table. How could four human beings create such a mess every day? I would kick them out, no, I wouldn't even let them in if not for Master and…

I shake my head to refrain from such futile thoughts and close the study door behind Seira and me. If she is curious, she is hiding it well. I know her well enough to understand that she will not ask. She would patiently wait for the reason behind this meeting without complaint, and so I speak up instead of prolonging her wait. "I have heard that you were invited to the gala by Suyi. Did she talk to you about a dress?"

Her face remains composed with a constant tranquility, and her eyes are focused on mine. She makes no noticeable motion, but the hand at her side softly brushes against the hem of her skirt. This is the first time that the thought occurred to her.

"I happen to be in need of a new tie. Perhaps you would like to accompany me?" I lean against my desk rather than sit behind it and allow her a moment to consider what I mean. Unlike Regis, she is impossible to tease, and she takes every word with an unbreakable soberness.

"I would like that." The answer came a little more slowly than her usual promptness, but I can see that she is pleased by the offer. After all, I am a man of fine taste, and she has no comprehension of current fashions. I would never let someone from my household out without suitable attire.

"Shall we, then?" I open the door for her as I drape my suit jacket over one arm, and with a slight smile, she walks through the doorway.

We take the car to a boutique in a high class shopping district. I, myself, tend to buy my suits here, and I know that the clothes are of an exceptional quality. They would be fitting for Seira as a clan leader and as guest of my master alike.

We are welcomed by the shop owner himself in a healthy mix of servility, earnest joy and civil pleasantries. I don a smile and offer my own greeting. "I appreciate being given an appointment on such short notice."

"Not at all. It is always a pleasure to see you." His words are meant to be taken kindly, but I am aware that he knows me. He counts on a good commission, and his eyes started calculating the increased profit as soon as he saw a young woman with me. At least I know to stop all rumors beforehand.

"I would like to purchase a dress for this young lady. She is under my care while staying in this country, and she was invited to an upcoming gala."

"It would be not be becoming to let her participate without first making sure that she is the most beautiful girl in the room, would it? Well, that should be an easy task."

I don't know if Seira understands the flattery she received, but the vendor doesn't wait for an answer before he invites us to a part of the shop where I can see a forest of evening gowns. Each one is magnificent as it cascades from the mannequin to the ground.

Seira bypasses all of them without so much as a glance and immediately searches through a tie display. The clerk doesn't know what to say. Any girl from an opulent family would have been breathless over the dresses. He looks back at me in confusion, and I step in before he has a chance to misspeak. "Seira, I will select my tie after you find a dress."

"And rightly so. Ladies first as they say." The man quickly takes his cue and strokes his fingers along the skirt of one of the dresses, pulling it out to exhibit the fabric. "You cannot simply have a beautiful dress. No, that will not do." He drops the material as he murmurs to himself, and it falls gracefully against the mannequin. "No, it must be exquisite. Something that accents your figure but still holds an elegant mystery. And charming, yes. Someone of the Lee household must be alluring. Your dress must be as captivating as yourself. The two must complement each other."

There's an excitement in his voice, and I know this will cost me more than I have ever spent here before. I don't even consider the price tag. A dress, no matter how expensive, wasn't even worth thinking about. Seira seems to be pleased, and so I allow the man to flutter around her, showing her dress after dress only to discharge them himself because they don't fit his imagination of the perfect one for the young noble.

I sit down in one of the comfortable armchairs, and an assistant brings me a cup of coffee. This could take a while. I nod reassuringly as one uncharacteristically questioning glance meets mine, and I think I see an avid gleam in Seira's eyes before she turns back toward the vendor. The next dress is already in his arms.

The salesman ushers her into one of the dressing rooms, and here an assailant of attendants flock in after him. He returns a moment later with empty hands, and we both wait as the attendants assist Seira. He is too nervous to make small talk, and I prefer the silence. One of the attendants peeks out of the dressing room with a smile broad enough to convey the unimaginable success of their mission. She moves out of the way, and the other two attendants draw back the curtains.

The salesman dashes to their sides, and I hear him gasp as he sees her. "Stunning. Simply stunning." For once, his words are more than mere flattery.

The first attendant dims the lights, and I can tell that she is proud enough of the outcome to make a show of revealing it. My curiosity is starting to grow, but I wait patiently as she gives Seira a simple introduction. The salesman offers Seira his hand as she ascends the small step to the raised platform. He centers her on stage and backs away as the attendant flips a switch. Instantly Seira is flooded with light, and I can see her for the first time. Mirrors circle around her, reflecting perfect images of herself, but her eyes are not on her dress. She looks back over her shoulder at me.

I take my time to view the dress. The dark green color complements Seira's light hair and skin and adds an interesting contrast to the red in her eyes. Slim straps rise from the neckline and tie behind her neck. Embroidery sweeps down the formfitting cut, and the skirt widens from her knees downwards. The silhouette of the dress puts Seira's perfect figure into perspective, but it retains her natural elegance. Not many human males would be able to keep their eyes from her, and as her chaperone, I know I have my work cut out for me.

I nod slightly to show Seira that it is suitable for a gala in the human world. She is accustomed to other patterns, shorter skirts, and less revealing necklines as accustom to the formal attire of Lukedonia as well as her school uniform. Both are like that. I am not surprised that she subconsciously touches one strap. Perhaps I should buy her a scarf, too, that she can drape around her shoulders? Apart from that, Seira seems inclined to at least consider this dress as she smiles tentatively. "I like it."

"It suits you well." I answer, and take a matching green tie from the display case. The salesman is already counting our expenses, and he is grinning as he hands me the bill.

[-] [-] [-]

I pull the tie around my neck and twist it into a Windsor knot with practiced grace. Regis' eyes are filled with that look of admiration that he always gets when he thinks he has seen something truly elegant, and I have to wonder at how easily he is impressed. It is a common thing among men to be able to tie a tie. After a few more twists, I tighten the knot against my throat, and the tie lays perfectly against my shirt.

"Shouldn't you go to the gala with Suyi and Seira?" Regis now wears an earnest expression, and the childlike adoration is long gone.

"That wouldn't be proper." I see Regis scowl as he tries to figure out why, but he doesn't lose his patience with me as he does with M-21. To preempt the question that surely is to come, I explain, "Seira is Suyi's guest at the gala. I received an invitation of my own. If we arrived together, it would give the wrong impression of our relationship."

Regis understands my meaning and looks a tad indignant. "That is not what I meant."

I fasten the vest over my shirt and clip cufflinks to my sleeve cuffs. Finally, I shrug on my suit jacket and complete the look with a pocket-square in my breast pocket. "Chaperones have become uncommon in the modern world. I cannot simply whisk students off to exclusive events without someone taking notice. I will watch over her from afar, and even she does not know that I will be her guardian for this."

Regis seems displeased, but he doesn't voice any further objections.

[-] [-] [-]

The stage for the gala is in one of the most luxurious estates in this city. Of course it is nothing compared to the mansion in Lukedonia, but the old fashioned style of the building somehow reminds me of it. As I stroll into the elegant and light ball room, there are many people I recognize, and many who in turn recognize me. They prance about in their gowns and suits, taking hors d'oeuvres and exchanging business cards. I can not see Seira, but her presence is approaching from behind me. And at once I hear Suyi's voice calling out my name.

I turn slowly and smile at both of them. "Good evening, ladies."

Seira remains expressionless, but Suyi is excited enough for both of them. "I didn't know you were coming."

"It is a good way to establish contacts."

Suyi nods to my words since she, as an idol, understands how important it is to keep certain relationships alive. I don't know if Seira believes my reasoning, but I don't leave the girls enough time to ask. Instead, I compliment them lavishly. "Both of you are simply beautiful tonight."

Seira blushes, and I have to smile. It's unbelievable how she can remain completely stone-faced until she receives even the smallest amount of praise, and then it all unravels.

Suyi's used to such things and continues the conversation with out noticing her friend's reaction. "This is Seira's first gala, but you must have been to several of these."

"Yes, I have, and this is..." Soft music of sways through the room, enticing couples to the dance floor, and Suyi's attention has drifted from me to a group of young men. It is time to set them free. I clear my throat softly. "If you would like to go enjoy the party, don't let me hold you back."

Suyi's head snaps back toward me, and her face is crimson. "I didn't mean..."

"It's alright," I reassure her. "You two go have fun."

Both girls send me a last glance, and I nod to show them that I will be fine on my own. They take their leave, Suyi whispering something into Seira's ear while gazing at the young men. The group is looking right back at her, and I fear that my work as chaperone is going to be much harder than I anticipated. But I don't have much time to linger on those thoughts as someone approaches me.

"Ah, Mr. Lee. It is so nice to see you participating at this gala. You haven't shown yourself much lately and…" I inwardly sigh. This was one of the reasons I don't attend these kinds of events. The empty small talk with bootlickers is never interesting. Hardly anyone here has a sharp enough mind to entertain me, but that doesn't change the fact that I need to play along. I prepare myself for an evening full of drab conversations.

[-] [-] [-]

Suyi's dancing with a young man who does not have the skill for it, but she's enjoying herself too much to notice. They twist and turn in a manner more fitting a club than a gala of this prestige, but the motions fits the music. I can tell that she has danced like this before. Seira, on the other hand, is standing perfectly still. A collection of gentlemen surround her like a moat, and it will be difficult if she accepts any of them. Her style of dancing must be too formal and outdated compared to Suyi. I keep an eye on them as I make useless chatter with a dull man who is too influential to ignore.

"Yes, indeed," I answer automatically to his rambles. He seems to be content to have my "attention" and doesn't notice as I once again glance back at the young clan leader. There is a new addition to the group of men with her. I remember him. He was one of my students a few years ago. He wasn't especially bright, but he had an ego as big as the moon. As arrogant as he is, it is understandable that he doesn't seem to notice the rejection in Seira's behavior as he forces a glass into her hands. Or perhaps he notices it and isn't bothered by it. The other young men take note of his aggressiveness and like the brave souls they are, flee without aiding her.

I'm growing increasingly irritated, and the man blathering next to me has noticed my distraction. I should focus on the conversation, but the boy slips his hand around Seira's waist. If I don't step in now, it will be too late. Seira is a very rational woman, but she is young. If that man would go too far, even she would turn to more efficient methods to keep him at bay.

"I insist upon a dance," is the first I hear from the boy. His voice is harsh and full of conceit, and I can't stop myself from glowering at him.

Seira easily steps out of his reach. "I decline."

"You say that so flatly. You think you're better than me?" He steps in so that he's inches from her, and he looks down at her arrogantly. "Is that it?"

Seira doesn't move away this time. She stands her ground and meets his eyes. "You are not my type."

Up untill now his countenance had only shown annoyance at her declination to the dance, but at these words, anger flashes over his face.

"Miss Seira, I recall you promised me a dance?" I lie without batting an eye, cutting in before the young man can do something that I would make him regret.

"I would love to." She accepts my outstretched hand, and I lead her a short distance away before I look to the dancers.

The dance floor is both crowded and sparse. The dancers are huddled close together near the stage as they awkwardly bop to the music. Their movements are chaotic and lack skill and tact. We both stop at once, and Seira looks up at me in a rare moment of uncertainty. I clear my throat, but her eyes don't leave me. Whether she is hesitating because she does not want to dance with so little finesse or if she doubts that I would disgrace myself in such a manner, I am unsure.

To prove her assumption wrong, I bow perfectly in front of her like the gentleman I am. I can't help the amused smile as Seira's eyes slightly widen in surprise. She catches herself in an instant and gracefully she accepts my hand. For a moment, I fear that we won't dance the same dance since I don't know what they teach the young nobles today, but nothing has changed. Seira is not only able to follow my lead, she is moving elegantly to the beat of the music, the fabric of her skirt billowing behind her.

Her hair floats in the air as she spins and leans back until she is fully supported by my arm curved behind her back. I pull her out of the dip, and we glide forward, swirling around the dance floor with insurmountable grace. The dance is formal, but it is far from rigid. Each step is painted with beauty, and we are breathtaking. The other dancers have fallen aside, ashamed of their feebleness or drawn in by our movements, and for one fleeting instant, every eye is upon us. The music fades, and we are standing still on the dance floor. Seira has to feel the many eyes on us, but she is ignoring them as am I. If she is uncomfortable, I can't tell.

"It was a pleasure to dance with you." I bow to her and now she blushes lightly.

I can't say whether my actions were appropriate or not. As a chairman, I should not have danced with my student. As a father, I should have danced with my daughter. However, neither of these concern me right now. Instead, I am considering the consequences of my actions. Seira is a very fine, lovely girl, and she is sure to draw attention. I am a very impressive man, and I have just showcased her talents far beyond any other man could hope to aspire. I have made her too unattainable. No one will dare approach her for the rest of the night. Then again, perhaps this is exactly what she wants, and it is my duty as her chaperone to meet her desires.

"Would you care for a refreshment?" Her face doesn't betray her thoughts, but I can see a slight hint of relief flash through her eyes. We are standing in the middle of the dance floor and most of the humans' gazes still linger on us. Is she feeling insecure? I'm not surprised as this is is an unusual situation for her. She isn't in front of these people as clan leader but as a girl with nothing for herself other than her good looks. And so I lead her over to the buffet where we would be a bit more out of the focus.

Secretly, I am relieved as well. I would much rather spend my time with Seira than with those babbling dolts that strive for my attention only to shove their business cards into my hands. I am starting to enjoy myself beyond the fabricated surface of fake smiles and forced laughter. We carry our refreshments to a distant table, and Suyi soon finds us, dragging along the boy with no skill for dancing. Her eyes are blazing, and I know what she will request. The boy also knows, and he respectfully asks me for a few tips before she has the chance. And like that, the evening passed in the company of children.

[-] [-] [-]

It is late in the evening as Seira and I return home. For a noble and myself, it isn't that far into the night, but Suyi had been blinking her eyes and yawning as we made sure that she would return home safely. I open the door and, with a bow, I let Seira enter before me in a playful mockery of the formalities of the evening. She blushes again, but smiles as she retreats to her room. As I walk down the hallway, I see light under the door, and I wonder what he is doing there. Normally, he would be in bed by now.

I enter my office and wait. Sure enough, the door creeks open, and Regis peeks into the room reluctantly. He hesitantly tugs at the sleeve of his shirt, then as if remembering himself, he straightens with all the elegance and dignity his star pajamas will allow. "How was the gala?"

"I enjoyed myself," I admit as I loosen my tie, and I smile to myself because it is true for once. The evening was splendid. "And I believe Seira did as well. Although," the smile twists into a smirk, and I turn away, fussing with my tie, before he notices it. He is acting far too proper not to tease. "There was an incident with a boy."

"A boy?" I turn in time to see the anger and concerned hued in Regis' eyes. I admit that my drive to tease him is a bit inhibited by the open show of worry but not enough to actually stop me from doing so. The kid is far too uptight.

"Yes, a boy. He wanted to force Seira to dance."

His eyes flashed crimson with a look that is needlessly protective. "What happened? You stopped him, didn't you?"

"I did my duty as her chaperone." I reassure him with a nod, and then let my aura slip until a dark presence fills the area. "I took care of that boy personally."

"Good." The sole word shows how content Regis with the outcome and, I am rather pleased with the brat. He has faith in me to handle it, but then again his brows furrow. "You didn't kill him, right?"

A knock sounds at the door, and we both fall silent. It's Seira, I know, and I motion for Regis to open it. She is still wearing the green dress I bought for her. Regis is flustered. He moves out of the way and has enough sense to remain silent. Stumbling over his words now would only reveal our agreement.

"Miss Seira," I suavely draw her attention to me, "what can I do for you?"

"I wanted to thank you before I retreat for the night," she says in her collected and serene way. Inwardly, I furrow my brows since I don't know exactly for what she is thanking the two of us. She clearly included the younger noble into her words. That much was certain from the way she looked from him to me. Before I can start to ponder at that question, she speaks again. "Even though I would have been able to deal with the invitation alone, I appreciate your efforts as my chaperone."

She smiles, bows slightly and leaves the room. I should have said something, anything, but for once I'm am left speechless. I look to Regis, who is, mouth agape, staring at the closed door in wonder. Finally he whispers the words that are also burning through my thoughts. "How did she know?"