Of Wyverns and Brands

Chapter 31

I hold in my stomach as I struggle to close the white dress shirt. I've lost a lot of weight since coming here. I've also gained some back, but mostly in muscle from all my training. So why did they have to pick out such tight clothing for me? The Senators get baggy, flowing robes, but not me. I get tailor made dress clothes. On the flip side, though, I guess I do feel more comfortable in these than I would dancing in a robe.

Sothe looks just as nonplussed beside me as he attempts to fit into his set of clothes as well. "I'm supposed to be an errand boy," he repeatedly mutters as he fastened the various buttons. "Why do I have to dress up?"

Seeing that he had missed a few buttons, I help out, just a bit more familiar with formal clothing than our team's thief. "Hey, you're not the one dancing in front of everyone at the beginning," I remind him.

The comments makes him smirk. "You do got me there. Good luck out there."

I sigh, already resigned to my fate. It was time for the ball. An event for dancing and socialization, this would be Elincia's best chance to sway the higher-ups into supporting us. Dress clothes were provided for us, and though I'm used to dress shirts, these were more like ruffle filled tuxedos that took half an hour to put on. And we got the better end of the stick there, since the girls have been preparing for hours now.

Having over a week to mentally prepare for this thing, though, I had thought I was ready. It was just a ball. I would try and hide off to the side on some chair like I did with all social activities growing up and make away from the event without having to dance at all. I just tended to avoid attention naturally…on Earth, anyway.

Then Elincia shattered my perfect plan.

As the guest of honor, Elincia would start off the dancing with her partner for a few minutes before the rest began. Her partner for that dance would be with that of her retinue. And since I was the only one of high enough rank…that meant me.

I was going to have to dance.

In front of everyone.

With just Elincia.

Right about now, the rest of the mercenaries are enjoying the blistering heat of the desert and the simple dance of death with laguz. How I envy them.

And so I spent all of yesterday attempting to learn to dance. I don't know how to dance normally for my generation, let alone ballroom waltzing, but as everything is now depending on my learning ability, I didn't have a choice.

Elincia taught us the most common of waltzes here, a simple three step dance. But while it was simple, it wasn't that easy to learn. I lost focus easily and then would end up missing a step, Sothe couldn't step within the rhythm, and Mist couldn't stop staring at her feet the whole time. Titania actually knew how to dance, and was simply a little rusty from not having done so for a while.

While I say I lost focus easily, it was more that I got self-conscious too easily as I practiced with Titania. The most contact I had had with a girl before this outside of family was a handshake and, more recently, sparring. And knowing that I'd be dancing in front of everyone was only making my nerves worse. At least Sothe's snickering ended after his first few blunders.

I spent so much time practicing, I didn't even have time to think about the recent changes, such as making up with Ike or, something definitely needing some contemplation, that glaive. I just made it through two awkward social encounters, and now I would have to face perhaps the most staggering one yet. Even my sleep has been restless since I found out.

And now that the day is here, I am quite close to panicking. "Do I look alright?" I ask Sothe as I finish helping him fasten up.

Sothe gives me a quick look over and shrugs. "You look like a perfect target for a pickpocket," he remarks.

"As if I could fit anything in these pockets," I mutter. I am practically wearing tights right now, and not the comfortable kind.

"Wait!" Sothe exclaims, bending over real quick. I wince, expecting all of his clothing to tear instantly, though it thankfully doesn't. Sothe comes back up with his knife in hand. "Where do I put my knife now?! I can't fit this under these clothes!"

I rub my chin, actually agreeing with him. If something were to happen at this event, a weapon on hand would be quite comforting right now. At the moment, Volke would be our only protection, and that would be if he even could get in. We hadn't had any attempts at assassinations since the one, but I am sure Lekain isn't finished yet.

"If only we had dresses," I mutter, not seeing any possibilities on our getup.

Sothe looks at me incredulously.

"Well, we'd be able to tie it off on our legs without anyone being the wiser," I explain.

Sothe lights up at the suggestion. "I'll ask the girls when I see them."

You know what? I'm gonna let him, too. He's got to learn tact somehow.

With our appearance hopefully up to snuff, we head out and sit in the common room, waiting for the girls. They started a long time ago, but they're still preparing. We pass the time with twenty questions while we wait, which is a lot harder and more informative when dealing with a completely new culture. Apparently there are no leopards or elephants on Tellius, according to Sothe at least.

Sothe is already working out a rather legitimate plan to escape going entirely when the girls finally finish and come out. And do they ever know how to dress up. Elincia is dressed up in a jeweled, green-tinted ballroom dress, with the large bell-shaped bottom and everything. The thing is quite gaudily covered in sapphires and rubies, which takes attention away from her face and done up hairdo. A small tiara with emeralds in it adorns the top of her hair, perfectly accentuating her claim for Crimea.

Titania is wearing a white ball dress, much less gaudy, but still covered in expensive pearls and quartz. At least I think they're quartz, as I don't actually know much about gems. A small, blue flower piece adorns her done up hair. She actually gives off the appearance of a young, well-to-do noble lady now, rather than that of a motherly figure of mercenaries.

And Mist…isn't wearing a ballroom dress? Instead, she's wearing the dress we got in the market earlier, the formal cream dress looking much plainer next to the jeweled dresses next to it. Her hair was done up as well, though without a hair piece to adorn it, instead wearing a small, white corsage. She looks as if she's going to a completely different event, really.

We both stand up as they enter, Sothe's eyes already locked on the expensive gems throughout the clothing. I've never had a prom date, but my mother made sure I would know how to treat one, and I guess this is sorta like that?

"You all look beautiful," I compliment, with a slight bow, trying my best to stay composed and not be self-conscious about it. And the girls look quite pleased at the compliment, too.

"Alright, why does Mist not have to dress up!?" Sothe questions, not caring for politeness.

"I'm afraid I made an exception for her, my lord Sothe," Elincia states, covering for her immediately even as Mist moves behind Titania slightly.

"An exception?" Sothe quips, crossing his arms. I would bop the back of his head if it weren't for all the time it took to fix his hair.

"My lady Mist did not desire to wear the dress prepared for her by the Empress' servants, and I did not wish to impose upon her," Elincia explains.

"We will mainly be standing to the side, so we figured it'd be alright to let her slide," Titania adds.

Mist decides to throw grease on the fire and sticks out her tongue at Sothe.

"What!? What!? I want to wear my clothes then, too!" Sothe declares, turning to run to our room.

I quickly grab the back of his collar, stopping him in mid-motion as the tight neckline stops airflow immediately. "Sothe, you don't own any formal clothes," I point out. "And we wouldn't have time for you to change anyway."

"Just give me five minutes," Sothe states, holding out a splayed hand. "I'll have more changes of clothes to switch into than the Empress herself." Obviously he's never seen a rich girl's closet.

Elincia is quite confused as well, though for different reasons. "I do not believe one can attain such an amount so quickly at this hour. Most of the markets would be winding down about now." I don't think he means to buy them, princess.

Titania grips his shoulder with a very chilling smile. "This only for tonight, and then you won't have to wear it again, okay? So behave yourself, Sothe. Am I understood?"

Sothe slumps in defeat, then shoots a glare of envy over at Mist. "Yes, ma'am." Hmm. I'm impressed that he used ma'am. Maybe my constant lessons lately were rubbing off on him as well.

"Now, I believe you two cleaned up quite nicely," Titania comments with her regular smile, her voice returning to normal.

"I must agree with my lady Titania's statement," Elincia agrees. "My lords Drake and Sothe would make fine nobles in any court.

I preen a bit, compliments to my appearance being quite rare. Sothe grumbles a bit, but doesn't look displeased at the comments either.

"Now, shall we be off?" Elincia asks, looking excited. At least one of us were.

I swallow nervously, not nearly as calm as Elincia. Stepping forward, I offer her my elbow, Elincia taking it in kind, and I lead us off toward the ball upstairs.

The ballroom is actually on the second floor of the Apostle's tower, Mainal, and people had been arriving for it all day. It seems like all the upper-class, or Sainted, were invited to the ball. And while the other three headed toward the normal double doors that led into the room, Elincia and I peeled off toward the special entrance. As the guest of honor, Elincia's entrance was to be grandiose as well, entering from an upper floor and descending down a set of stairs for all to see.

Reaching the appointed spot, we see two servants standing at a pair of double doors, ready to open them when her entrance began.

"So this is where I leave you for now," I state, lowering my arm. My job was to meet Elincia at the bottom of the stairs.

"I'll be waiting for you, my lord Drake," Elincia says with a smile and a small curtsy.

I rush off back down to the regular entrance. There was probably still a bit of time before Elincia's entrance, but I don't want to risk being late anyway. I'm nervous as is.

The servants nod to me as I arrive, opening the doors for me to enter. The ballroom is quite a large chamber. The ceiling is at least two stories high, with candlelit chandeliers lighting it. An overblown décor, really, as the light from those candles wouldn't reach this far down, but most things here in the sainted district has been overdone. Most of the light comes from the huge stain-glass window that depicts a woman, most likely Ashera.

What I don't expect is the lack of furniture. There are no tables or chairs around the chamber from what I could see at all. Everyone was standing and talking, which meant that I'm going to have to stand the entire time after dancing. It's a lot easier to be bored while sitting.

Though the room boasted many different pictured scenes along the wall, the main feature was the large staircase directly across from the window. Those would be the stairs that Elincia would be coming down. I move through the crowd until I'm standing near the cleared area by the stairs. I pass a servants carrying trays of appetizers and wine, so there was food, but I ignore them for the moment. I don't think my stomach can handle anything yet.

I try to appear as normal as possible as I stand alone, not part of any of the gathered cliques nearby. As usual, I feel completely out of place in such a social event. I look around for the others, but don't catch sight of them in the large room, though I do finally catch sight of the musicians in the corners of the rooms. Most of them seem to have stringed instruments that they're preparing to play.

After a few minutes, all the conversations around me suddenly hush as if planned. Everyone's eyes travel to the large double doors at the top of the staircase as they slowly open. Elincia steps out to the top of the stairs, looking the perfect picture of poise and calm. And for the first time it really sinks in that this really was a trueborn princess. It was one thing to always refer to her as 'the princess' and such, but here and now, she seems to lay claim to that title as her own as she slowly descends the steps toward us.

…I feel like I'm going to be sick. I've never felt this nervous in my life! Oh, geez. Air. Air. Breath. In, out. In, out.

I haven't calmed at all by the time Elincia reaches the bottom of the stairs. Moving into the middle of the cleared area in front of her, Elincia locks eyes with me and gives a slight smile. Which means it's show-time.

Now.

Like, right now.

Move your legs, Drake!

I take a deep breath, then force my shaking legs forward, completely conscious of everyone's attention moving to me. I vainly try to block it out and focus on my mission. Elincia holds out her hand as I reach her. Taking it, I bow and place a light kiss on the back of her hand.

I clear my throat a bit and try to recite my line loud and clear. "My liege and lady Elincia Ridell Crimea, it would honor me greatly if you would allow me the pleasure of a dance." Okay, I think I got that right. So far so good, then.

"The honor is all mine, my lord Fayre," Elincia replies, her voice much stronger and steadier than mine.

With our lines out of the way, the musicians begin a slow intro piece signifying the start of the dance. I take Elincia's left hand in mine as I place my other on her side, the nerves from being watched actually distracting me from the fact that I'm so close to a girl right now.

Elincia smiles gently at me as we wait a moment for the start of the actual song. "You're doing fine, my lord Drake," Elincia quietly encourages. "Just focus on the music."

The rest of the stringed instruments join in as the first song for the night begins. I fall in step with Elincia. All my focus goes to my feet as I try my best to stay in step with the dance while keeping my eyes up on Elincia. My nerves lessen as I find it much easier to move with an actual instrumental playing, as practice had simply been a clapping rhythm. I might actually be able to do this.

Focusing back on my partner as we waltz, I see that she's smiling widely, apparently without a care despite all the attention around us. "I love this song."

And it is a nice, simple melody. The instruments blend well, and it… Wait a second. I… "I know this song," I state, surprised. I never forget a song, and I definitely have heard this, just with a bit different collection of instruments. Where…

"My mother used to play this to me when I was younger," Elincia says. "She was quite talented on the violin."

Elincia's theme! I remember now. This song is none other than the tune that plays in the game for Elincia. Of all the songs to be played, too. And yet, I can't be more thankful for it. With something familiar to latch on, I finally begin to calm down.

We waltz by ourselves for a while until the song ends. No fancy moves, but at least no slipups, so at least I managed to do my part to the end. I let out a shaky breath as the crowd claps around us, cheeks flushed.

"You did quite well, my lord Drake," Elincia comments.

"I'm just glad I didn't mess it all up," I reply.

"Excuse me," a voice interrupts. I turn and find Seriphan there, dressed in formal, tuxedo-like clothing as well. And it wasn't even that gaudy to boot. "Your dance was a beauty to behold, and though I must admit that I am a bit bold in asking, but may I have the hand of this lovely lady for her next dance?" Do they never get tired of all this 'polite' speech?

I'm bit irritated at the fact that he directed the question at me, too, when Elincia is her own person and higher ranked and whatnot, even if I'm most definitely finished dancing for the evening. Or in general. "If my liege and lady so wishes," I reply, trying to sound both formal, and yet give Elincia the opportunity to choose.

"I would be most honored, Duke Persis," Elincia answers with a curtsy.

Nodding to the two of them, I slowly make my way to the closest wall, trying to avoid all contact on the way. Others were now joining in the dancing within the expanding 'dance space' as the next song began. Elincia and Seriphan begin to waltz as well, their dance appearing much more refined and intricate than the simple three-step I learned, which is oddly getting on my nerves. Huh.

I stand by the wall, lazily watching the dancers and grabbing the occasional, tasteless appetizer to settle my now ravenous stomach. I'm beginning to realize that this is going to be a very long night. This part is actually just like I remember prom night. Stuck standing by the wall with too much peer pressure to leave too early.

Getting bored quite quickly, I look around for the others for at least the possibility of conversation to pass the time. I still don't see Mist, but I do catch sight of Sothe. Sothe passes not too far by, not noticing me as he goes for another appetizer off of a server's tray. Another, as in his skin-tight pockets are visibly bulging with food sticking out. I cringe at the sight, knowing exactly what my mother would have done had I tried to pull something like that. Though, even her scolding would be welcome after being away so long…

Shaking my head from the depressing thoughts, I then find Titania on the dancefloor, her striking red hair standing out among the blondes and brunettes of the sainted. And she's actually dancing with one of those said blondes, too. It's a strange sight, for instead of appearing like a hardened mercenary veteran, right now she appears for all the world to be a simple, eligible, young noblewoman enjoying a fine evening of dancing. And the man she was dancing with wasn't that bad-looking either.

I continue to scan the crowd before my eye catches a young raven-haired woman off to the side. I…don't think I know her, but maybe it's the purple dress that's caught my eye. Even among the jeweled up nobles stuffed in this room, that was one outlandish dress. I think there's enough gems on that thing to finance a small country.

My peel my eyes of such a horrible taste in style long enough to see her conversational partner and finally realize what really caught my attention. Even without all his armor on, I would recognize that blonde's hairdo anywhere. Grinning to myself, I make my way over to him, ready to do some recruiting. And halfway to them, I manage to see past the dress and changed hairstyle to recognize his victim as well, and my grin only grows. Maybe I'll even get some ribbing in on him as well.

The two turn as I reach them, pausing in their talk. "It is a fine night to meet your acquaintance, my lady Astrid," I say, giving a slight bow.

Astrid's eyes go a bit wide. "M-my lord Fayre! It is a honor!" Astrid replies, giving a slightly clumsy curtsy and looking a bit flustered. Huh. She knows who I am.

I inwardly face-palm as I remember that everyone was watching me just a bit ago. Of course she would recognize me.

"Can we help you?" Gatrie asks, looking irritated. …He doesn't recognize me, does he?

"Yes, can I help you, my lord?" Astrid asks excitedly, her expression one of eagerness. Well, that's different from what I expected. Where's the shy archer I remember from the games?

"Gatrie, it's me. Drake. The rookie, remember?" I prompt, waving my hand at him.

And the lightbulb slowly blinks on above his head. "Drake!" he exclaims, his previous irritation gone as he pulls me in to an unexpected and crushing hug. "It's been, what, months now? How have ya'll been?"

"You know each other?" Astrid asks, surprised.

"Well, yeah," Gatrie says as if it's obvious and thankfully lets me go. "We worked in the same mercenary company for a while. One of the rookies that I helped teach and everything!" He puffs his chest out in pride, though one, you never trained me, and two, you didn't even recognize me a few moments ago!

"To think that you knew my lord Fayre all this time!" Astrid exclaims. There's something strange in that look of hers I can't place.

"That's right! What's with all this 'lord' stuff? I didn't know you were of Crimean nobility," Gatrie inquires.

"Well, you know, you learn stuff when you stay with the group and all." I guiltily feel a bit of satisfaction when he flinches at that. Yeah, I know he was supposed to leave according to plot, but he still left the others behind.

"So is it true, my lord Fayre?" Astrid asks, missing Gatrie's reaction.

"Just Drake is fine," I respond, not wanting yet another party member using titles around me. "And is what true?"

"I've heard all about your escapades," Astrid explains. Well this is going to be good. "After casting aside your rank and lands, you valiantly flew in and rescued your liege right out of the clutches of Daein's hands. They say you gathered a group of heroic warriors to protect the Crimean princess, and have even went so far as to lay your life on the line to quell the king of Gallia when they betrayed you. And now, here you've come, risking all to bring your liege to the safety of Begnion to mount an entire campaign against Daein."

I just stand there, dumbfounded, even as Gatrie covers his face with his hand, unable to hold the laughter in. "I think that's all been a bit…exaggerated." Is that what everyone's been saying about me? Even I can't make this stuff up!

Astrid ignores Gatrie's laughing fit altogether as she continues to stare at me steadfastly. "Surely not, my l- er, Drake," Astrid stubbornly says, at least addressing me by my name. "There were many who saw your bout with our greatest general, Duke Cador. Our general has never been defeated in combat, no matter the number of opponents, yet you, a young noble who only recently took up the blade, almost bested him in single combat. That must testify to your noble abilities!"

I…I…I don't even know where to start on that statement. Who is this Duke Cador? Does she mean the Black Knight? I wasn't even close to winning that match!

Gatrie is now starting to cry a bit from laughing so hard. And I can't disagree with the sentiment. If the outlandish rumors weren't so shocking, I'd probably be laughing that hard as well. It also hasn't passed my notice that while I came over with the intent to laugh at Gatrie's expense, the very opposite is now happening.

"My- I mean, Drake," Astrid continues, grabbing up my left hand in hers. "You have been an inspiration to me. Your paragon of virtues and nationalism has made me realize that I, too, desire to fight for my country and turn it around for the better. And though this may be rather bold of me to ask, would you consent to allowing me the honor of a dance with one so great as yourself?"

Oh, yeah. Astrid was wanting to escape the noble life, and I guess a story like that would-

Wait.

What was that?

I look back into Astrid's pleading eyes as her question finally sinks in. Gatrie's laughter dies off as it dawns on him as well. She…wants to dance…with me. But…I'm already done! I mean, I danced with Elincia like I was supposed to. I fully planned to stay off on the sidelines for the rest of the night. I am done with dancing!

Astrid's excitement slowly dies as I don't respond. "I…I mean…I…forgive me, I know that one such as I should stay in my station. And you're probably already have a line of woman waiting...and..."

Shoot. Why do you have to look so miserable!? Oh, don't cry! Arggh! "I a-apologize, lady Astrid," I stumble out, unable to reject her now. Why? Why did I have to approach someone!? "I was simply caught off-guard by your sudden request. It would be my honor to d-dance." I can't believe I just gave in.

Astrid let out a large breath, looking relieved, happy, and giddy all at the same time. "Are you for certain, Drake?" she asked, a bit hesitant this time.

"For sure," I reply, trying to will confidence into the statement somehow.

"B-but my l-lady-!" Gatrie stutters out, looking hurt and distraught. Hey, I'm the victim here!

"Oh, thank you, Drake!" Astrid exclaims, my hand now fully clasped in hers. She then heads toward the cleared dancing area, leading me away. I cast a half apologetic, half help-me look back toward Gatrie before getting swept off into the crowd.

With another melody just recently begun, we take our position and step right into the rhythm. Astrid falls right in line with my simple waltz, as if we'd practiced this all before. I am much more conscious of Astrid than I was of Elincia. Maybe the pressure diverted my attention, or maybe it was the fact that I had gotten to know Elincia over some months, but now I was much more aware that I was dancing with a girl, and one that seemed to be pressing a bit too close to me despite the space her dress created between us.

Once again I found myself dancing around people I didn't know, though at least not alone this time. Astrid seemed to enjoy the dance the entire time as she smiled at me the whole way through. Twice I almost stepped on her foot, which would have been mortifying, but she somehow pulled back just in time without comment, as if knowing when I'd misstep.

The song seems to last even longer than the one I danced to with Elincia as we swing around the room. My nerves are pretty much frayed by the time the instruments fade down and we stop dancing. I am so done now! That was two dances just now! And I promised one! So there you go, Begnion! Drake out!

"Thank you for the dance, my lo- Drake," Astrid says, smiling sheepishly at her slipup. "That was quite an enjoyable time, and it will be the highlight of this night for me as well."

Well, maybe I can at least try my hand at recruiting that the ice has been quite. Thoroughly. Broken. Maybe my dance won't have been for nothing.

"You're welcome. You mentioned that you were inspired about taking action and trying to make things better, though. Maybe, if you want, you could hire on with our mercenary crew."

Astrid's eyes gleam as she excitedly goes to answer, but we're interrupted as a large man suddenly makes his presence known.

"Ah, my lord Fayre," Lekain says, sounding quite unpleased. "I see you have met my fiancée, lady Astrid of House Damiel."

Fiancée? Now I remember! Astrid was running from her arranged marriage! That was the real reason behind her leaving Begnion. But this means that…oh. Of all the people to be engaged to. She really does have a good reason to run off.

"M-my lord!" Astrid exclaims, looking nervous. "You are acquainted with Dr- my lord Fayre as well?"

"You could say that," he replies, not quite glaring at me. "I hate to intrude, lord Fayre, but I would like to request the hand of my fiancée for this next dance."

"Of course, Duke Gaddos," I reply, bowing slightly before backing off. I actually feel sorry for her now.

"So, my lovely, how do you like the dress I-"

Their conversation fades away as I swiftly exit to the safety of the wall once more, as if heading to base in a game of tag. With my back against the wall once more, I let out a large breath that I didn't even realize I had been holding. The light is now beginning to lessen as the evening draws closer, but the dancing was still going strong. How much longer would this last?

Sothe passes by again, still focused on snatching appetizers for some strange reason. I still cringe as I notice that his already too full pockets are somehow even more stuffed with food. And he isn't going unnoticed, either, as the occasional noble he passes gives him a disdainful look. He doesn't have a care in the world, does he?

Elincia and Titania are still dancing, surprisingly. Maybe Titania has noble blood in her somewhere. But as I look around, I finally find Mist leaning back against the wall and staring at her feet. Even for someone as clueless as me, I can tell she's depressed for some reason.

With nothing else to do, I head over and lean against the wall next to her, staring at the several dancers on the floor. "Hey."

"Hey," Mist replies, sounding rather disheartened.

"Is something the matter?" When she doesn't answer, I look over and see her fidgeting with her dress now. "Mist?"

She gives a small sigh. "I just…kinda wish I wore the other dress now."

"Why didn't you wear it before?"

Mist's voice drops to a conspiratorial whisper. "I don't think they're very pretty."

I chuckle at her confession. "I think they're all pretty gaudy as well," I reply, joining in the whisper.

Mist sighs again, though. "But now, no one will dance with me. Someone even thought I was a servant and asked me to go fetch wine! So maybe I should have worn that yellow dress they gave me."

"You didn't look that enthusiastic about dancing when we were practicing," I point out, trying to think of a way to cheer her up.

"Well, yeah, but…" Mist bites her lip for a moment as she tries to think of what to say. "Well, it's a ball," she finally states, gesturing widely with her hands. "Everyone always dreams of going to a ball and dancing with all sorts of people while wearing a beautiful dress. Then the girl would find her prince, and they would fall in love, and…" Mist's cheeks flush from embarrassment as her voice trails off. "Plus, I was practicing with Sothe, and he can't dance at all!" Mist adds on, vainly trying to cover up her previous statement.

"Sothe does have two left feet," I comment, remembering his complete lack of coordination.

"I guess I'm just acting like a little kid still," Mist mutters quietly, her gaze traveling back to her feet.

So she's just being a girl at heart and wanting to enjoy a fancy night at the ball. I rub the back of my neck, already realizing what I'm about to give in to. But I couldn't just stand here and let her be all depressed, either.

Making up my mind, I push off of the wall. Taking Mist's right hand in mine, I bend over and kiss the back of her hand, just like Elincia's. "Well, then, my fair maiden. Would you permit me to escort you to this fine ball tonight? I would be greatly honored to be the one to receive your first dance of this evening," I say, a bit surprised that I managed to say all that on the spot. Maybe I do have a knack for this flowery speech.

Mist looks at me in surprise, but then look backs down and weakly tries to pull her hand back. "You don't have to do that, Drake. I know you really didn't want to be here and stuff."

I hold her hand, still, though, and press on, not willing to stop now. "Would this fair maiden truly reject me, now of all times? For with truth did I ask, though my duties did call before. But…anon this request did I do so…of my own accord," I say, my 'noble' speech halting at points as I tried to think of 'higher-born' words that fit.

Mist takes a moment to piece together what I meant before giggling a little, her mood at least lightened a bit. "You should talk like that more often. It's funny to listen to." I shall take that as a compliment, since I don't wish to seriously talk this way normally. "Are you sure-sure, though? Or are you just being nice?"

"Of course, Mist," I answer, giving up on the noble talk. "I might not be able to fulfill all of your ballroom dreams, but at least I can take you to the dancefloor. And for the record, I think your dress is much prettier than the rest out here."

Mist smiles and finally relents, allowing me to take her out into the middle. I can't believe I'm back out here again. And willingly this time, as well. Maybe I don't hate dancing as much as I keep telling myself. ...Nah.

We fall in step with the others, staying mostly on the fringe with our simple waltz. Unlike with Elincia or Astrid, I feel much more comfortable as we dance together without the pressure of expectations and such. I manage to stay in step and even smile along with Mist as we sway with the music.

The fading light of lowering sun highlights the room; the stringed instruments play a low, soft melody; and the first time tonight, the evening feels like an enjoyable time with friends, and not some uppity social event. I guess dancing doesn't have to be so bad.

Finally, as the setting sun's rays signified the wrapping up of the ball, we stopped. "Thank you, Drake," Mist says, looking much better now. "I would curtsy, but I don't really know how," she adds with a smile.

"Well, as your Prince Charming for the evening, I shall hold you to no such standard. Though I guess Cinderella's night is at an end, huh."

Mist gives me a confused look.

"Er, never mind. Cultural reference thing," I say, waving it off. "Let's head back to the quarters."

The other nobles seemed content to linger even as the music and dancing ended, but Mist and I were only too happy to exit stage right and head back to Elincia's rooms. Sothe is already there as we enter, his condition even worse than when I last saw him.

"Hey guys. Did you get enough to eat? I brought some back to snack on," Sothe says cheerfully, gesturing to the mess of the expensive clothing he was wearing. Each of the pockets, probably there just for looks, was jammed full of appetizers. Crumbs and smears covered his clothing as he somehow lounged on the couch casually munching on some, his hands full. I don't see how he can lounge like that without tearing the clothing, but on second thought, he probably did rip something and didn't care.

"Why did you even go to the ball?" Mist asks as she slips off her heels and sits down.

I sit as well, my feet just starting to throb from the constant standing and dancing. Plus, these shoes are tight and uncomfortable.

Sothe rolls his eyes. "I didn't want to go, remember?"

Mist sighs. "Well, I enjoyed it, at least." Well that's good to hear.

The door opens and Titania and the blonde man appear. Their happy conversation trails off as their eyes alit upon the disaster that is Sothe. After an awkward moment of silence, in which I wanted to laugh so very hard, the man clears his throat. "Well then, my lady Titania. This night has been quite a pleasant evening. I hope to be seeing you again some time."

"Yes, I hope so as well," Titania replies with a smile. The instant the door is shut behind him, the smile disappears. "What in the world did you do!?" Titania asks, trying not to be too loud as she turns on Sothe.

"What?" Sothe asks with a blank expression. Only the fact that Titania is quite scary when she's mad is keeping my laughter at bay right now. Still, I am definitely going to laugh at him later for this.

Titania takes a really, really long, deep breath and lets it out slowly. "Drake, I need you to escort Sothe to the tailor. Try to get them to salvage as much as possible before we return these clothes." Titania rubs her temple, a headache already forming.

And I guess I should know where this tailor is? Oh well. Best to get him out of sight quickly. "Got it."

The door opens again and Elincia comes in, looking more happy and content than I had ever seen her before. "This was a wonderful evening, al- Oh!"

I literally turn away from Elincia's surprised expression to keep from laughing. The shocked expression was too perfect. Mist is struggling to hide her face as well, while Sothe is still looking lost as he gets up.

"We'll be back," I state, once I was sure I could speak straight. Grabbing Sothe by the arm, I pull him along out of the room.

"I'm so confused," Sothe admits as we walk.

"I don't think those pockets are meant to actually be used," I state while quietly laughing now that we're away. "And I don't think they'll appreciate the stains, the tears, or the wrinkled mess that is now you." My chuckles begin to turn to regular laughter as the distance from the room grows.

"This is why I like baggy clothes," Sothe states, putting his hands casually behind his head as we start to pass by some servants.

"Excuse me," one of the servants suddenly say, stopping us. The group of five men are pushing silver covered trays with them. "You are with the Lady Crimea's party, yes?"

"Oh, is that food?" Sothe asks, excited.

I sigh and nod. At least they're not shooting us dirty looks for our appearance like I expected all of the sainted quarter to do.

"We have come with a meal for your group. Please, let us follow you back that you may enjoy it as well."

Huh. Never had a whole meal brought to our rooms before. Though this is rather soon being right after the ball. The girls are probably just beginning to change as well. "Actually, we were heading to the tailor to try and salvage what we could of this poor outfit."

"Oh, no, no," the servant insists. "We have a grandiose meal prepared for all of you, and we would hate to allow any of you to miss it. We shall even take care of the clothes ourselves while you dine."

A bit pushy, but I guess it does save me having to find said tailor. Though this is the first that a servant has told us what to do so far.

Sothe reaches out for the tray, but the servant quickly stops him. "Let's get to the room first. Besides, you seem to have more than enough to keep you at least that far."

"Come on, Sothe," I state, turning him around and heading back to the rooms. The servants fall in step behind us.

"I'm going to have to make room," Sothe mutters to himself, patting his pockets with a grin. Scooping out a few handfuls of his appetizers, he then proceeds to dump them in a very expensive vase nearby. In front of everyone. "Alright, ready to eat again."

I sigh and look back at the servants, ready to apologize for him, but none of them seem to pay it any mind, passing the vase without comment as they usher us on. That's…strange. Usually even the servants here are uptight.

I slow my pace forcefully to match the lead servant. "So what will be on the menu tonight?" I ask, beginning to feel uneasy now.

"Our chefs have prepared many exotic, yet homely foods for a delicious and enticing meal," the servant replies, not technically answering my question.

Now that I'm focusing on it, though, I now realize that I can't smell anything, despite the man's boast. Something's not right here. An unplanned meal suddenly appears, with pushy servants who aren't all uppity, and food that can't be smelt at all.

I stop, causing all the servants to stop as well. Sothe has to come back after he realizes we're no longer walking. "I'm sorry, but may I inspect this meal before we get there? I would not wish my lady to receive any dishes that would not be to her liking."

"That just means more for us," Sothe inserts. He must be going through that growth spurt of his.

"Please, sir, let us do that in the room. I would not wish the food to be cold before we got there," the servant insists, impatiently waving me on.

I may very well regret doing this, but...

I reach out quickly and tilt the silver cover for the tray back toward the man. The servants are instantly making a ruckus, but there, in the center of the tray and displayed around some leaves of lettuce, is a sharpened knife. And not one for the kitchen, leaving my instincts justified.

I quickly reach in and grab the knife while bringing the lid up into the fake servant's face, forcing him backward. Jumping back next to a startled Sothe, I can see the rest of the men have dropped the act and have drawn blades from the other trays as well, their intentions now laid bare. Five against two. Not really good odds.

"Alright, Sothe," I say, handing the knife over to him. "Let's see how good your knife work really is." I drop into a defensive stance with my impromptu shield and grimace as my pants tear a little. Man, these are tight clothes.

The men begin to rush at us. I swing the lid widely at the first to force one man back, before bringing it over to stop another man's blade. These men are no amateurs as they fall into step with each other, pressing the advantage as I vainly try to block both of them. I can't even spare a glance to see how Sothe's doing as I focus all my attention on them. I barely notice in time as the man I had stolen the knife from comes from the side to try to grab me. I bash him heavily in the face with the tray once more, sending him reeling to the ground, but receive two slices on the arm as both men take advantage of the opportunity.

This isn't going well. The men are pressing me back quickly, their attacks seeming to be aimed more at making me move or making small cuts rather than a solid stab. When my back hits the wall, I know I need to do something immediately. I thrust forward with the lid, moving between the men as they dodge to either side. I twist quickly, but still feel the sting of blades grazing both my back and stomach as I make it past them.

Despite my attempt, my situation quickly becomes as it as before, as the two begin to press in on me once more. If I don't do something else soon, things aren't going to end well. Gripping the lid tightly, I make an almighty lunge forward, actually managing to crack one of the men in the side of the face. The satisfying crunching sound is quickly overridden by a sharp pain in my side as the other man sinks his knife in up to the hilt.

I instinctually grab at the knife and bring the bent up lid back toward his face. The man jerks back, letting go of the knife in the process and slipping away. Pulling the blade out, I quickly advance on the retreating man, not letting up on my assault as I swing both shield and dagger at him. The instant he's almost against the wall, I rush forward with the knife. He realizes his lack of space too late, and I manage to spear him right in the stomach.

I hold the blade in for a moment, bile rising in my mouth as I feel his blood covering my hand. Once his movements slow, I finally pull the knife out and let out the breath I'd been holding. One down. Four to go.

As he slumps to the ground, I turn to see how Sothe is doing, only to find one of the assailants right in front of me, knife poised to strike. I bring up the lid on instinct, but the man's eyes suddenly shoot open, before he collapses to the ground. Standing in his place is a familiar, brown cloaked man.

"Volke," I croak out, feeling some of the adrenaline fade away just at the sight of the professional.

He doesn't even nod as he moves on to the other man I had bashed upside the head. Looking around, I see the rest of them finished off already. Sothe is leaning against the wall, pressing a few cuts, but otherwise not looking too bad off thankfully. Health-wise, at least, since his suit is now unrepairable. In fact, despite several minor cuts and the stab wound, I'm not feeling too bad either. It feels more numb than painful.

You know, all things considered, I think we did pretty good. No weapons against a group of assassins. Me and Sothe, two wannabe's finding our way in the fights. Yeah, right. If I'm being honest, it's almost as if they weren't trying that hard. More like they were sparring than fighting-to-the-death.

Volke is just finishing knocking out the last guy when Sothe suddenly screams out. The long, agonizing scream fills the hall as he falls to the ground, curling up in a ball as if to ward off the pain.

I start to rush toward him when the numbness from my wounds suddenly flare up in pain. I lose focus on everything as my entire body feels as if it's on fire.

Burning! Everything is just burning! Make it stop!

And then the floor rushes up to meet my face.

-o-

AN: Alright, so a more serious cliffhanger this time around. Don't say I don't try to pull those strings everywhere. Anyway, this chapter is my longest so far, reaching past 8k. The Begnion arc is starting to draw to a close now.

On another note, I've changed the story cover to a personally drawn one during my time away. Not the greatest drawing as I'm not the greatest artist, but having something more personal for the title change seemed more appropriate.

So R&R, and thanks for all those that are still reading even after that break!